Songwriter LaShawn Daniels Dead at 41
The music industry is mourning the death of LaShawn Daniels.
The Grammy-winning songwriter-producer, whose nickname was Big Shiz, has died at the age of 41. Daniels penned hits for music’s biggest artists including Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, and Destiny’s Child.
His publicist JoJo Pada told CNN that Daniels died as a result of injuries from a car accident. His wife, April Daniels, also shared the news in a statement on social media.
“It is with deep sorrow 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,” read the statement. “A Grammy-award winning producer and songwriter, Daniels was a man of extraordinary faith and a pillar in our family.”
Friends including Kehlani, Dawn Richard, Tank, Ari Lennox, and Victoria Monét took to social media to pay tribute and offer their condolences.
“He was one of the best of us in every category you could think of,” said Tank, while Kehlani added, “Your legacy will never be forgotten! this shit crazy!” Ari Lennox tweeted: “LaShawn Daniels is a legend. Thank you for creating some of the most powerful songs ever. Rest in Heaven KING.”
Daniels, who worked closely with Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, was an acclaimed songwriter. His résumé includes hits like Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine,” Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name,” Michael Jackson’s “You Rock My World,” Lady Gaga and Beyoncé’s “Telephone,” and Jennifer Lopez’ “If You Had My Love.”
He most recently attended the 2019 R&B/Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta on Aug. 29 where Brandy was honored with the BMI President’s Award.
Read some of the heartfelt tributes below.
we was supposed go crazy next week… appreciate you for fuckin wit me OG.. your legacy will never be forgotten! this shit crazy! RIP Lashawn Daniels 💔
— Kehlani (@Kehlani) September 4, 2019
LaShawn Daniels is a legend. Thank you for creating some of the most powerful songs ever. Rest in Heaven KING.
— Ari Lennox (@AriLennox) September 4, 2019
Yooooo I’m lost. Lashawn Daniels died?!!!! I’m stuck. 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.
— DAWN (@DawnRichard) September 4, 2019
LaShawn. Thank you for putting that smile on my face, caring, believing, being a part of my journey and just being a great human being. May you cross over peacefully into Paradise. #RIPBigShiz 🕊💛💫 https://t.co/tAXcEt1gts
— Shontelle Layne (@Shontelle_Layne) September 4, 2019
In this Industry we all know how hard it is to come across talented & genuine people. Lashawn you were one of them homie! Wish we had more words but it was always love❤️Sending prayers out to your wife and kids. This is tragic but your legacy & spirit will live on 🙏🏾 @BIGSHIZ pic.twitter.com/3BaHldF46L
— Mario (@OHYESMARIO) September 4, 2019