Neo Soul Vet Dominique Trenier Has Died
Trenier served as D’Angelo’s manager and producer during his Voodoo period.
The neo-soul movement is in mourning today following news that producer Dominique Trenier has died. According to Okayplayer, Trenier, who was best known as D'Angelo's former manager, was found dead in his Los Angeles home on Friday morning. The cause of death remains unknown.
A 20-year veteran of the music industry, Trenier worked with D'Angelo on Voodoo (which he executive produced) and served as the creative force behind the neo-soul artist's iconic "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" video. Prior to working with D'Angelo, Trenier co-produced the 6x platinum Space Jam soundtrack alongside R.Kelly in 1996.
After Voodoo, Trenier launched his own record label, Cheeba Records, signing funk and soul singer Nikka Costa. He also produced Mark Ronson's 2003 debut studio album, Here Comes The Fuzz. Late last night, Ronson shared a touching tribute to Trenier on his Instagram, calling the late producer "my musical mentor, my most trusted set of ears, and my earliest champion." Check out the two-part open letter below: