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Andre Harrell

Andre Harrell (1960–2020), Uptown Records founder discovered Diddy

by Kirk Fox

Andre Harrell was a hip-hop and R&B visionary who started Uptown Records and discovered Sean “Diddy” Combs.  

  • Died: Thursday, May 7, 2020 (Who else died on May 7?) 
  • Details of Death: Died at the age of 59, details unknown. 
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Uptown Records

Harrell started Uptown Records in 1986 in New York City. His label quickly became a leader in the hip-hop and R&B scene, releasing debut albums for Heavy D & the Boyz, and Al B. Sure!. Diddy started as an intern at Uptown Records and moved on to become a renowned rapper and record executive. Mary J. Blige was the first successful solo artist for Uptown.  

What they said about him

Full Obituary: Los Angeles Times

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