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Home • Interviews • Writing A Song • Menu International Songwriters Association ISA Hall of Fame Obituaries Honouring the Songwriters and Composers who have been inducted into the International Songwriters Association Songwriter Hall Of Fame Click here for the ISA's Hall Of Fame home page Khalil Fong Khalil Fong Tai Tung was born on July 14, 1983, in Kauai County, Hawaii, USA, to an American-Chinese father, a professional drummer, and a Hong Kong mother, Liang Rulan, an English language educator. At the age of five, Khahil moved with his family to Shanghai, China, where he began his formal education. His upbringing was marked by a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, providing a rich foundation for his future musical endeavors. In his early teens, Khahil's family relocated to Guangzhou, China, where he frequently accompanied his father to various music venues, immersing himself in diverse musical styles. By the age of 14, the family had settled in Hong Kong, and Khahil began composing music for his mother's English language education company, contributing over 100 tunes to their audio learning resources. At 15, he taught himself to play the guitar, and by 17, he was actively submitting demo tapes to record companies. Despite initial setbacks due to his young age and industry dynamics, Khahil persevered, writing songs for established artists such as Andy Lau and Jacky Cheung. His dedication culminated in a recording contract with Warner Music Group in 2005, marking the official launch of his career as a singer-songwriter. Khahil's debut album, "Soulboy," released in 2005, showcased his unique blend of R&B and soul, drawing inspiration from artists like Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind & Fire. The album received critical acclaim, establishing him as a fresh voice in the Chinese music scene. He continued to build on this success with subsequent albums, including "This Love" in 2006 and "Wonderland" in 2008, each reflecting his evolving musical style and deepening artistry. In 2009, Khahil released "Timeless," his fifth studio album and first cover album, featuring songs in both Mandarin and English that had inspired his musical journey. The album's success led to a series of concerts at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, further solidifying his reputation as a dynamic live performer. Despite facing health challenges, including multiple hospitalizations due to pneumothorax in 2010, Khahil remained committed to his craft, releasing the album "15" in 2011 to commemorate the age at which he first learned guitar. This period also saw him embark on his first concert tour, "15 Khalil Khahil," spanning multiple countries and garnering widespread acclaim. In 2013, after his contract with Warner Records concluded, Khahil signed with Gold Typhoon and embarked on the "Soulboy Lights Up" concert tour. He released the album "Dangerous World" in 2014, earning his third Golden Melody Awards nomination. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Khahil launched his own music label, FU MUSIC, in 2016, and released the album "Journey to the West," which earned him four Golden Melody Award nominations and his first win for Best Male Artist. Khahil's creative pursuits extended beyond music; in 2018, he authored a series of bilingual children's graphic novels titled "Emi The Dream Catcher." He also released an extended play of the same name, reflecting his versatility as an artist. Throughout 2018 and 2019, Khahil continued to release singles, including "Dear Ocean," "Fake Monk," and "White Hair," the latter earning him accolades at the Global Chinese Songs Chart. In 2020, he released the extended play "Home Sweet Home," featuring the song "Noodles," which won him a Golden Melody Award for Best Single Producer. In 2021, Khahil expanded into film production, contributing to the science fiction romance "Guidance," directed by Neysan Sobhani. Despite facing health challenges, he remained creatively active, drawing inspiration from his experiences to produce new music. On October 18, 2024, he released his tenth studio album, "The Dreamer," a testament to his enduring passion for music and artistic expression. International Songwriters Association Hall of Fame Member. At the age of 41, on the 21st February 2025, in Dali, Yunnan, China, having battled an unspecified illness for more than five years. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane Chris Jasper Christopher Howard Jasper, born on December 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, embarked on a distinguished musical journey that left an indelible mark on the R&B and funk genres. From a young age, he exhibited a profound passion for music, beginning classical piano training at seven. This early dedication led him to pursue formal studies at the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, followed by a Bachelor of Fine Arts in music composition from C.W. Post, Long Island University. During his time at C.W. Post, Jasper studied under jazz pianist and composer Billy Taylor, further honing his craft. The Jasper and Isley families shared a close bond, residing in the same Cincinnati apartment complex. This connection deepened when Jasper's sister, Elaine, married Rudolph Isley. As teenagers in Teaneck, New Jersey, Jasper, alongside Ernie and Marvin Isley, formed "The Jazzman Trio," with Jasper on keyboards. This ensemble laid the foundation for their future collaborations. In 1973, Jasper officially joined The Isley Brothers, transitioning the group from a vocal trio into a self-contained band. His expertise with keyboards and synthesizers became a cornerstone of their sound. Over the next decade, Jasper played a pivotal role as a songwriter, producer, and arranger. He contributed to numerous hits, including "For the Love of You," "Between the Sheets," "Fight the Power," "Harvest for the World," "Groove with You," "Let's Fall in Love," and "The Highways of My Life." These tracks not only topped charts but also influenced countless artists across genres. After the group's disbandment in 1984, Jasper, along with Ernie and Marvin, formed the trio Isley-Jasper-Isley. In this new formation, Jasper took on lead vocal duties and continued his role as a primary songwriter and producer. The trio achieved success with the hit "Caravan of Love," a song Jasper wrote and sang lead on, which later gained international acclaim through a cover by The Housemartins. In 1987, Isley-Jasper-Isley disbanded, prompting Jasper to embark on a solo career. He established Gold City Records and released 17 solo albums, including the #1 R&B hit "Superbad" in 1988, a track emphasizing the importance of education. Throughout his solo endeavors, Jasper remained committed to themes of love, spirituality, and social consciousness. His work continued to resonate, with many of his compositions being sampled by artists such as Whitney Houston, Aaliyah, Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z. Jasper's contributions to music were recognized with numerous accolades. As a member of The Isley Brothers, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. In 2022, his songwriting prowess was further honoured with an induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. International Songwriters Association Hall of Fame Member. At the age of 73, on the 23rd February 2025, in New York City, New York, USA, of cancer. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane Jerry Butler Jerry Butler, born on December 8, 1939, in Sunflower, Mississippi, grew up in Chicago, Illinois, where he would later earn the nickname "The Ice Man" for his smooth and cool vocal style. His early life in Chicago exposed him to gospel music, and he began his musical journey singing in church choirs. Butler's professional career started when he joined a group known as The Northern Jubilee Gospel Singers. However, his career took a significant turn when he became a member of a rhythm and blues group that would eventually become The Impressions. In 1958, Butler co-wrote and recorded the song "For Your Precious Love" with The Impressions, a track that would become a landmark hit and is considered a classic of the soul genre. This song, marked by its emotional depth and Butler's rich baritone voice, played a crucial role in defining the emerging Chicago soul sound. Shortly after this success, Butler decided to embark on a solo career. His departure from The Impressions allowed Curtis Mayfield, his friend and band-mate, to take the lead in the group. As a solo artist, Butler's career flourished throughout the 1960s. He became known for his heartfelt ballads and smooth delivery. His hits included "He Will Break Your Heart," co-written with Curtis Mayfield and Calvin Carter, which reached number one on the Billboard R&B chart in 1960. The song showcased Butler's ability to convey vulnerability and emotion, solidifying his place in the pantheon of soul music. Other notable songs included "Only the Strong Survive," which became one of his biggest hits in 1969. The song, produced by Gamble and Huff, emphasized themes of resilience and strength in the face of heartbreak. Butler also scored hits with Hnery Mancini’s "Moon River," "Never Give You Up," and "Hey, Western Union Man," all of which further established his reputation as a leading figure in soul music. Throughout his career, Butler collaborated with a range of prominent artists and songwriters. His partnership with Curtis Mayfield was especially notable, and they worked together on several compositions that became soul standards. Butler's style was marked by his sophisticated delivery and lyrical themes that often touched on love, heartbreak, and perseverance. His smooth vocals and refined stage presence earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim. In addition to his musical accomplishments, Butler also ventured into the political arena later in life. In 1985, he began a new chapter by being elected as a Cook County Commissioner in Illinois. His transition from music to politics was motivated by a desire to serve his community and address issues affecting residents of Cook County. Butler served in this role for over three decades, dedicating himself to public service and earning respect for his commitment and integrity. He worked on various initiatives related to health care, criminal justice reform, and economic development, demonstrating the same dedication and poise that characterized his musical career. International Songwriters Association Hall of Fame Member. At the age of 85, on the 20th February 2025, in Chicago, Illinois, USA, of Parkinson’s disease. International Songwriters Association Hall Of Fame Member Obituary, courtesy of Jim Liddane The Earlier Obituaries January 2025 to Today July 2024 to December 2024 January 2024 to June 2024 July 2023 to December 2023 January 2023 to June 2023 January 2020 to December 2022 January 2018 to December 2019 January 2011 to December 2017 January 2004 to December 2010 Obituaries Prior To 2004 ISA • International Songwriters Association (1967) internationalsongwriters@gmail.com Cookies Policy • Privacy Policy • Copyright Legal Notice This site is published by the International Songwriters Association, and will introduce you to the world of songwriting. It will explain music business terms and help you understand the business concepts that you should be familiar with, thus enabling you to ask more pertinent questions when you meet with your accountant/CPA or solicitor/lawyer. 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