A Grammy-winning songwriter who penned “literally every perfect pop song” has died aged 41.
LaShawn Daniels was behind hits including Lady Gaga’s Telephone and You Rock My World by Michael Jackson.
He also worked on tracks by the Spice Girls, Alicia Keys, Whitney Houston and Jennifer Lopez during a career that spanned close to 20 years.
Daniels was affectionately known by fans as his nickname Big Shiz, and broke into the industry in the early 1990s.
Working with producer Rodney Jerkins – also known as Darkchild – he was awarded the Best R&B Grammy in 2000 for the Destiny’s Child track Say My Name.
He was later nominated for seven further awards from The Recording Academy.
His most recent nod was in 2013 for his work with Tamar Braxton on the song Love And War.
Latterly, Daniels was a reality television staple with recurring roles on series including Braxton Family Values and Tamar And Vince.
In a statement on social media platform Instagram, Daniels’ wife of almost 20 years April wrote: “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.”
The news of Daniels’ death was met with tributes shared online from across the music industry.
Singer Victoria Monet, who recently released a single with Ariana Grande, wrote: “I can’t even process that you’re gone.
“I learned everything I know about harmonies and vocal production and songwriting from you at day one straight outta (Sacramento) into your arms and coaching.”
RIP LaShawn Daniels, who wrote literally every perfect pop song pic.twitter.com/ENTEAoe0s3
— ryan (@ryanhemsworth) September 4, 2019
Dawn Richard, a member of bands Danity Kane and Dirty Money, said: “This man took my vocal ability to new levels while working in Dirty Money.
“One of the funniest people with the best heart. A rare talent and a beautiful soul.”
She added: “God bless his family and friends. I send my prayers to them.
“Stay Strong. Know he will always be loved.”
Record producer Ryan Hemsworth tweeted: “RIP LaShawn Daniels, who wrote literally every perfect pop song.”
Daniels is survived by his wife April and three sons.
