Amp Fiddler has died

The legendary Detroit musician passed away on 17 December aged 65.

Parliament-Funk collaborator and prolific funk, soul and electronic musician Joseph Anthony Fiddler – aka Amp Fiddler – has died. News of his passing was confirmed via social media yesterday (18 December). “We face the insurmountable responsibility of sharing the passing of Joseph “Amp” Fiddler,” a statement from Tombi Stewart reads. “Our beloved “Amp” Fiddler, Detroit’s own world renowned ambassador of funk, soul and electronic music, keyboardist, producer, Afro-futurist and guiding force of light for so many, has transitioned at the age of 65. After an extensive and noble battle with cancer, he now gracefully rests in peace and power.”

The Detroit born and raised musician formed part Enchantment and then went on to play keys in George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic, touring with the band for over a decade and playing with the group on Prince’s We Can Funk. Over the years, Fiddler also collaborated with the likes of Seal, Primal Scream, Basement Jaxx and Theo Parrish.

Fiddler also acted as a mentor to J Dilla and is credited with introducing the hip-hop luminary to Q-Tip and to Dilla’s signature sampler, the Akai MPC. Additionally, through his music production school Camp Amp, the soul legend tutored Dilla as well as Waajeed and Andrés.

Alongside the news of Fiddler’s death, a fundraiser was shared to honour Fiddler’s passing and cover funeral costs. Donations to this have been paused as the goal was met and exceeded with additional funds being used toward additional memorial costs. In light of the news, tributes have been shared to the late musical great.

 

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