Known for his collaborations with different music icons and his dedication to music education, Fiddler leaves behind an extraordinary musical legacy.

Photo credit: Amp Fiddler – Facebook

Joseph Anthony Fiddler, widely known as Amp Fiddler, a highly regarded figure in Detroit soul music and a respected music educator, has sadly passed away at the age of 65.

The news of Fiddler’s passing was announced by Faith Fanzine on December 18th via their Twitter account, describing him as “the leader of the new era of Detroit soul.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Last December, Fiddler had launched a crowdfunding campaign to support his recovery and return to the stage following an undisclosed illness. Two fundraising events were held in Detroit at Marble Bar and Spot Lite in the past week. A GoFundMe campaign was also set up to cover funeral costs, which has already surpassed its $9000 goal.

Amp Fiddler leaves behind an extraordinary musical legacy. Starting his career as a member of the soul group Enchantment in the 1970s, he later joined George Clinton’s Parliament and Funkadelic groups as a keyboardist. Throughout his career, Fiddler collaborated with numerous music icons, including Prince, Jamiroquai, Moodymann, Theo Parrish, and J Dilla, whom he even taught how to use the Akai MPC drum machine. His music was released on esteemed labels such as Mahogani Music and Sound Signature. His final release, a collaborative single with Luke Solomon titled ‘Come On Over,’ was released in June.

Not only was Amp Fiddler a talented musician, but he was also a dedicated music educator. In the 1980s, he established the music production school Camp Amp in Los Angeles, which he later brought back to Detroit. He always encouraged local kids to get involved in music, and his mentorship influenced artists such as Dilla, Waajeed, and Andrés.