Fans of doo-wop music were saddened this week to learn that iconic singer Larry Chance died at the age of 82.
Chance's death was announced on Tuesday by bandmate Bobby T. Tribuzio in a post to a Facebook page belonging to the late singer's fan club.
"Larry asked me that when he goes to heaven to tell his fans that he has sung his last song. It is with much sadness that I have to tell you this: He passed away this morning peacefully in his sleep, September 5th, 2023," the statement read.
"He loved performing to all the people who loved to hear him sing," Tribuzio recalled before adding, "His legacy will live on forever."
"There will be a quiet family service in Florida for Larry, and perhaps a memorial service sometime in the future in New York," he explained.
Tribuzio concluded by saying, "I will miss my friend and partner in music for almost 60 years, and may his soul rest in peace. "
Chance's obituary noted that he was born as Larry Figueiredo in the Bronx but grew up in Philadelphia after moving there as a child.
After returning to New York City, the singer formed a musical group known as The Hi-Hatters at age 17 but it was later rechristened as the Earls. He also changed his last name to Chance.
The band's first hit came in 1962 with "Remember When" which was followed by such singles as "Never," "I Believe," and "Life is But a Dream."
Tributes to Chance quickly appeared on social media, including from fellow Grammy-winning musician and producer Billy Vera.
He tweeted, "My dear friend since 1963 Larry Chance passed away this morning in his sleep. This past year we finally got to make this wonderful record together. Rest in Peace my brother."
My dear friend since 1963 Larry Chance passed away this morning in his sleep. This past year we finally got to make this wonderful record together. Rest in Peace my brother.https://t.co/UyeQOk1S41 pic.twitter.com/g0wC46orQc
— Billy Vera (@billybeater) September 5, 2023
Actor and singer Arnie John Runge spoke up as well, expressing his "deepest condolences to the family for Larry Chance." He added, "Heaven just got a beautiful person with a beautiful voice!"
My deepest condolences to the family for Larry Chance. My friend, whom TheSatin Dukes opened for many years ago in NY and NJ has passed.
RIP Larry. Heaven just got a beautiful person with a beautiful voice!
Rock On! pic.twitter.com/zXpceErtlF— ArnieJohnRunge (@ArnieJohnRunge) September 6, 2023
