It’s with a heavy heart that I report Chucky Thompson has passed away.
The Grammy-nominated multi-platinum producer reportedly died after suffering COVID-related complications.
Thompson’s publicist Tamar Juda confirmed the news to Okayplayer, via email, writing:
It is with a very heavy heart that I can confirm the passing of Chucky Thompson… To anyone in his orbit, you know how generous he was with his energy, creativity and love. Both the music industry, and the world has lost a titan.
Young Guru took to social media to grieve the death of his mentor and “big brother” writing:
There is nothing I can write that will take away this pain. I have to say RIP to my mentor, my big brother, the man who changed my life forever. You were the kindest person the world has ever seen.
You were the most gifted musician I have ever been around. You treated me like family from day one. You made a point to the labels that I had to fly to New York with you on every session. You put me in rooms with Biggie.
I will forever be in your debt and I will forever be your little brother. This one hurts so bad I can’t even explain it. RIP @chucklife365 there will never be another you!!!! ????????????????????
See his original post below.
A native of Washington, D.C., Thompson got his start on congas in go-go music legend Chuck Brown band, The Soul Searchers.
The once aspiring artist manager became a founding member of Diddy’s in-house production team at Bad Boy Entertainment, The Hitmen.
Thompson was responsible for singles like The Notorious B.I.G.‘s “Big Poppa,” Craig Mack‘s “Flava in Ya Ear,” Total‘s “Can’t You See,” and Faith Evans‘ “Soon As I Get Home.” The skilled musician would also work with Nas, Raheem DeVaughn, Jennifer Lopez, Snoop Dogg, Frankie, Emily King, and TLC.
Chucky had evolved from producing music to film.
Prior to his untimely passing, he was working on a documentary about his life.
He told Grammy.com:
“Chucky Thompson Presents D.C. Go-Go.” It’s not the go-go music story; it’s my story with go-go music. A lot of people don’t understand the music.
They don’t even know what it takes to make a go-go record. I got a segment based on the music: another based on the movement where it’s been deemed the official music of the city, that process, and how it got there.
The music industry lost a titan.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to the Thompson family and all who knew and loved Chucky.
May he rest in peace.
