LaShawn Daniels, a Grammy-winning songwriter who penned hits for Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Beyonce, has died.
“It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, family member, and friend LaShawn Daniels, who was the victim of a fatal car accident in South Carolina,” his wife, April Daniels, said in a statement on Sept. 4.
She added that he “was a man of extraordinary faith and a pillar in our family.”
According to CNN, JoJo Pada, a spokesperson, confirmed that he died due to injuries sustained in a car crash. He was 41.
He won a Grammy Award for the 2001 Destiny’s Child’s hit single “Say My Name,” which helped launch Beyonce’s career.
He also wrote a number of popular R&B tracks for the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Janet Jackson, Lady Gaga, Brandy, the Spice Girls, Toni Braxton, and more.
“The entire music community is feeling the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it,” gospel singer Kirk Franklin said on Twitter. “LaShawnDaniels…we just stood together a week ago. No words.”
Singer Ari Lennox described Daniels as “a legend,” adding: “Thank you for creating some of the most powerful songs ever. Rest in Heaven KING.”
James Fauntleroy wrote on Twitter, “LaShawn Daniels changed my life and if I changed your life he changed yours too.”
The entire music community is feeling the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it….. LaShawnDaniels…we just stood together a week ago. No words……
— Kirk Franklin (@kirkfranklin) September 4, 2019
LaShawn Daniels is a legend. Thank you for creating some of the most powerful songs ever. Rest in Heaven KING.
— Ari Lennox (@AriLennox) September 4, 2019
Lashawn Daniels changed my life and if I changed your life he changed yours too.
— James Fauntleroy (@fauntleroy) September 4, 2019
Daniels’s wife also thanked people for “the continuous outpouring of love and sympathy,” before asking for everyone to “respect the privacy of our entire family during this difficult time.”
