Chuck Negron, a founding member of the rock band Three Dog Night, passed away on Monday at 83 in his home in Studio City, California. His family was by his side.
Negron was the voice behind popular songs like “Joy to the World,” “One,” and “Easy to Be Hard.” His unique sound helped the band achieve great success in the late ’60s and early ’70s, with 21 top 40 hits.
In his later years, Negron faced serious health issues, including heart failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Despite these challenges, he remained passionate about music. He once shared how innovative glasses helped him manage his breathing during performances, allowing him to continue singing without the audience noticing.
Three Dog Night formed in 1967 with Negron, Danny Hutton, and Cory Wells. Initially, they faced criticism for not writing their own songs. However, they became famous for covering hits from renowned songwriters like Nilsson and Randy Newman. Their first major hit, “One,” led to their rise in the music world.
Negron’s talent was evident from the start. He recalled that “One” was recorded in a single take, a moment he cherished deeply. The song not only marked a pinnacle in his career but also helped define the band’s legacy.
Their debut album went platinum, followed by several more successful releases. However, by the mid-70s, personal struggles, including Negron’s battle with addiction, led to the group’s eventual disbandment. Over the years, Negron found success as a solo artist and even began giving back by sharing his story and encouraging others to seek help.
Interestingly, despite years of estrangement, Negron reconnected with Hutton last year, which brought them both peace. Hutton expressed relief over their reunion, emphasizing the importance of letting go of past anger.
Co-founder Wells passed away in 2015, leaving Negron and Hutton as the last original members. The legacy of Three Dog Night lives on through their timeless music, which still resonates with listeners today.
Negron’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of music. He leaves behind a rich legacy through his family and the unforgettable songs that defined a generation.
For more on Three Dog Night’s influence in music history, check out this Rock Cellar interview.
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Chuck Negron,Three Dog Night
