Grammy-winning musician and songwriter Bernard Belle, brother of Regina Belle-Battle, dies
He was not on the list.
We are sad to inform SoulTrackers of the passing of Bernard Belle, Grammy winning multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, and brother of soul singer supreme Regina Belle-Battle. Bernard died of congestive heart failure. He was 57. Regina posted today on social media:
The smartest part of me has passed on. My brother, Bernard Belle was brilliant. Please help me to shine from heaven! I love you Bernie. #RIH
The Englewood, New Jersey native first came to national attention as a guitarist with the same legendary group, the Manhattans with which his sister performed in the late 1970s. But he is perhaps best remembered for his work as part of the famed New Jack Swing era, often with producer Teddy Riley. He co-wrote Michael Jackson's smash "Remember The Time," and produced or wrote for such luminary acts as Today, Guy, Bobby Brown, Whitney Houston and Glenn Jones. And of course he was heavily involved in many of the biggest songs and albums of his sister.
After dedicating his life to Christ in 1994, Belle turned more to Gospel, working with Doc Powell, Shirley Casesar, Donny McClurkin, Marvin Sapp, Yolanda Adams and many more notable Gospel stars, and regularly appearing on the BET hit series Sunday Best. He also attended seminary, receiving his certification from Bradley Bible College
During the past seven years, Bernard Belle suffered two strokes, causing his family to rally around him and work to help him as he attempted to recover. Regina chronicled that effort in a video she recorded for AARP.
Bernard Belle was an immense contributor to both the R&B an Gospel communities over three incredible decades, and his body of work will stand as a testament to a life well lived. Rest in peace.
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