British songwriting genius Rod Temperton, famed for writing Michael Jackson’s global hit single “Thriller,” has passed away. He was 66 years old.
According to the Daily Mirror, Temperton died after battling cancer.
“Rod Temperton, British Composer and Musician, died last week at the age of 66 in London following a brief aggressive battle with cancer,” announced Jon Platt, Chairman & CEO of Warner/Chappell, via a press statement.
While “Thriller” was his biggest hit, Temperton’s songwriting benefited the careers of who’s who of artists including Quincy Jones, The Brothers Johnson, George Benson and many, many more.
Temperton also wrote Jackson’s “Off The Wall,” “The Lady In My Life” and “Rock With You.”
See some of the tributes pouring in from fellow legends like Nile Rodgers, Chaka Khan and more via Twitter below and on the following pages.
Rest in power Rod Temperton.
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Photo: AP Photo
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