The musician, best known for working with Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones, lost his battle with brain cancer on Tuesday. It is said that James Ingram had fought with the disease for a lengthy period. Reacting to the sad news, actress and choreographer Debbie Allen said: ‘I have lost my dearest friend and creative partner James Ingram to the Celestial Choir. ‘He will always be cherished, loved and remembered for his genius, his love of family and his humanity. I am blessed to have been so close. We will forever speak his name.’
James was nominated for 12 Grammys and won best R&B performance by a duo or group for his duet with Michael McDonald, Yah Mo Be There and R&B performance for 100 Ways.
The songwriter famously co-wrote Michael’s classic hit PYT, which was released in 1982 and featured on the King of Pop’s iconic Thriller album. Many noticed James’s absence at a tribute concert for Quincy in Los Angeles last September, with Patti Austin performing their chart-topping duet, Baby Come To Me, without him. James earned a second number one hit in 1990 with his single, I Don’t Have The Heart.
He also participated at “We Are The World”
Rest in Peace James Ingram.
