Al Roker did suffer yet another loss

Thom Bell, a pioneer of Philadelphia soul music who created a number of classic songs that helped establish a name in the music industry, went yesterday at the age of 79.

Bell’s music had a huge impact on numerous artists, from The Stylistics’ Betcha By Golly Wow to The Spinners’ Rubberband Man to The O’Jays’ Backstabbers.

Bell’s lawyer, Michael Silver, confirmed the news of his death to the Philadelphia Inquirer, saying that the prolific songwriter and producer passed away at his Bellingham, Washington, home. It is unknown what caused the death.

Al Roker, the longstanding host of the Today show, who has recently dealt with personal troubles, is among those who were profoundly saddened by Bell’s passing.

Al posted a message of sympathy on Instagram. “Thom Bell, a great Philadelphia producer, went away at age 79,” the host said alongside a picture of Bell. My life had a soundtrack thanks to his songs. His instantly recognisable “Sound Of Philadelphia” contributed to the musical era that included Elton John, The Spinners, The O’Jays, The Delfonics, and The Stylistics. I will never forget what you did.

Al’s supporters voiced their sorrow over Bell’s departure in large numbers.

Bell grew up listening to classical music because both of his parents were professional musicians. He gradually added instruments like the celesta, sitar, oboe, bassoon, cor anglais, and bells to his rococo arrangements as he became more and more involved in the music-making process.

I didn’t plan it out to be different or set out to accomplish what hadn’t been done before, he once claimed in reference to the criticism he was receiving for the way he blended instruments. Just what I happened to hear was all that I did, naturally.

“I would always just answer, ‘I don’t do R&B – I make music,’ when other producers and musicians would complain that my sounds were strange for R&B.”

Bell received three Grammy nominations and took home the award for Best Producer of the Year in 1975. In 2006, he was admitted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

For Al Roker, who just lost his sister Patricia, Bell’s loss comes at a particularly trying time. He has also been having health problems since he was hospitalised a few weeks ago for blood clots in his lungs, but he is gradually getting better.

Al has been keeping his followers informed on his health. He recently wrote, “It’s been challenging. I won’t make the same errors again. I’ve had more surgeries than I can count before this one, but this has been the most challenging.

He expressed his gratitude to his followers and friends for their encouragement and support.

“There are countless people and things for which I am grateful and incredibly appreciative. This is especially true today after receiving numerous prayers and messages of support from viewers who took the time out of their busy schedules to do so. It is really important to me.

 

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