DETROIT – The Detroit music scene has lost a giant with the passing of Amp Fiddler.
According to a post on his Instagram page, Fiddler passed away after “an extensive and noble battle with cancer” at the age of 65.
Recommended Videos
“It would be impossible to encapsulate the gravity of his energy, global impact & contributions. His life’s work, legacy, & most importantly…his LOVE…will far exceed his earthly presence. How blessed are we, to have experienced Amp Fiddler in this lifetime,” the post said.
Fiddler had been raising money to help cover medical expenses following a surgery in 2022.
Fiddler played the keyboard for George Clinton in Parliament-Funkadelic, and worked with acts including Prince, Jamiroquai, Maxwell and others.
Fiddler also worked closely with fellow Detroit music legend J Dilla. He’s credited with introducing Dilla to the Akai MPC, a sampling drum machine.
Fiddler also released eight of his own projects, including most recently in 2017′s “Amp Dog Knights.”
Many in the hip hop world have been paying tribute to Fiddler, including Roots legend Quest Love, who said: “Rest easy brother Amp. For all those talks during the Pfunk tour. For all the music. Especially of course mentoring the one who mentored us (Dilla)——thank you brother.”