LaShawn Daniels death: Grammy-winning songwriter hailed as ‘beautiful soul’ after fatal car crash
Songwriter wrote and produced a number of hits by artists including Destiny’s Child, Whitney Houston, Brandy, Lady Gaga and Toni Braxton
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Your support makes all the difference.Singers, fellow songwriters and musicians are paying tribute to Grammy Award-winning songwriter LaShawn Daniels after his death aged 41.
Daniels, who was also known as Big Shiz, worked with artists including Whitney Houston, Brandy, Toni Braxton, Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson and Destiny’s Child. He was a regular collaborator of producer Rodney Jerkins, aka Darkchild.
His wife April said he died in a car crash in South Carolina. In a statement, she said: “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.
“A Grammy Award-winning producer and songwriter, Daniels was a man of extraordinary faith and a pillar in our family. We would like to express our sincere appreciation for the continuous outpouring of love and sympathy.”
A number of Daniels’ former collaborators, fans and peers have expressed their shock and grief at the news of his death.
Singer Ciara wrote: “I am crushed to hear about the passing of LaShawn Daniels. I had so much fun working with him on my Evolution album. He had a big heart and was always making me laugh.
“It was some of the best times in a studio session. If you met him, you wouldn’t forget him. Praying for his family at this incredibly tough time. Rest in Paradise LaShawn.”
Dawn Richard tweeted: “Yooooo I’m lost. LaShawn Daniels died?!!!! I’m stuck. This man took my vocal ability to new levels while working on Dirty Money. One of the funniest people with the best heart. A rare talent and a beautiful soul.”
Producer Ryan Hemsworth shared a list of some of Daniels’ best-known songs and wrote: “RIP LaShawn Daniels, who wrote literally every perfect pop song.”
“Your legacy will never be forgotten!” singer Kehlani tweeted.
“LaShawn Daniels is a legend,” Ari Lennox tweeted. “Thank you for creating some of the most powerful songs ever. Rest in Heaven KING.”
“RIP to LaShawn Daniels,” British artist MNEK said. “He’s only co-written/vocal produced literally all of our favourite records – this is so sad.”
Daniels is survived by April, his wife of almost 20 years, and three sons.
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