North Carolina native Clarence Avant helped shape the careers of legendary Black singers including Bill Withers and Sarah Vaughan as well as politicians, sports figures, and actors. The famed record executive, manager, and entrepreneur known as “The Black Godfather” passed away on Sunday at the age of 92.
WFDD’s David Ford has this look back at his legacy. He spoke with Piedmont Blues Preservation Society executive director Atiba Berkley and began by asking him about Avant’s most lasting contributions. See audio above.