Chris Jasper, Key Member of The Isley Brothers & Isley-Jasper-Isley, Passes Away at 73

Source: Raymond Boyd / Getty

We are sad to report that Chris Jasper, a singer-songwriter who played a key role in crafting the sound of The Isley Brothers and Isley-Jasper-Isley, passed away at the age of 73.

A family statement shared on Jasper’s Facebook page confirmed that he passed away on Sunday, February 23, following a cancer diagnosis in December 2024.

Born on December 30, 1951, the Cincinnati native started studying classical piano at an early age. While attending Teaneck High School in New Jersey, Jasper formed a band with two of the younger Isley brothers, Ernie and Marvin. After performing together in the New Jersey area, the three began touring with the older Isley Brothers (Ronald, O’Kelly, and Jasper’s brother-in-law Rudolph) and played on the earlier recordings.

Bringing a new sound to the original trio, Jasper and the younger Isleys officially joined the band with the release of the 3+3 album in 1973.

Jasper’s musicianship (specifically, his use of keyboards and synthesizers) and songwriting would become a cornerstone of the Isley Brothers’ success during the 1970s and 1980s when the group was a self-contained band. Jasper was instrumental in writing, arranging, and producing the Isleys’ signature hits, including “Between The Sheets,” “Fight The Power,” and “For The Love of You.”

In 1984, following the group’s disbandment, Jasper once again linked with Marvin and Ernie as a trio. As Isley-Jasper-Isley, the group released three albums on CBS Records. Their biggest hit was 1985’s “Caravan of Love,” which peaked at #1 on the Billboard R&B charts.

Embarking on a solo career in the late 1980s, Jasper would record seventeen R&B albums and four gospel albums while also forming his own record label, Gold City Records.

His contributions to music were recognized with numerous gold & platinum certifications, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Jasper leaves behind his wife of 42 years, Margie, and three sons, Michael, Nicholas, and Christopher.