Rod Temperton, the songwriter behind a number of Michael Jackson’s hit songs including “Thriller” has died at the age of 66 after battling cancer.
“Thriller” producer hired Temperton to write or co-write “Thriller,” “Baby Be Mine,” and “The Lady in My Life.” He also wrote “Off the Wall” and “Rock With You.”
Temperton won a Grammy in 1990 for Quincy Jones’ “Birdland.” He was also nominated for two Oscars for Color Purple.
He described his songwriting, “The first criteria is write something you love first, and once you feel those hairs standing up on the back of your hand, you can go to the world.”
Rod Temperton was a legend in the music industry and he will be sorely missed.
Jackson’s sister La Toya remembered Temperton:
A brilliant prolific #songwriter Rod Temperton may you #RIP one of my favorite #songs Rock With You #Thriller #legend #Music #MichaelJackson pic.twitter.com/nSgtVDYRRC
— La Toya Jackson (@latoyajackson) October 5, 2016
As did Mark Ronson:
so devastated to hear that Rod Temperton has passed away. a wonderful man & one of my favourite songwriters ever. thank you for the magic x
— Mark Ronson (@MarkRonson) October 5, 2016
Rod Temperton = Off The Wall. Stomp. Lady In My Life. Thriller. Boogie Nights.
Give Me The Night. Ain’t No Half Steppin’. Rock With You…— Mark Ronson (@MarkRonson) October 5, 2016
my love and thoughts go out to Kathy, all his family and loved ones. we'll miss you Rod
— Mark Ronson (@MarkRonson) October 5, 2016
Chaka Khan also honored the songwriter:
Thank u 4 your superlative songwriting @RodTemperton. U will always Live in Me. Rest in power. https://t.co/uVcYuBzCcG
— Chaka Khan (@ChakaKhan) October 5, 2016
We pray for Mr. Temperton’s family and thank him for bringing joy to our lives. Rest in Peace!
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H/T TMZ