(April 26, 2022) We are sad to report the passing of uber-talented keyboardist, producer and songwriter Allan “Grip” Smith, at the age of 61. Smith’s passing was announced on social media by The SOS Band, for which he served as a keyboardist.
The Pittsburgh native was virtually a lifelong musician, beginning at Beckom Freeman School of Music, and he was a fixture in his region as he grew to be one of the top keyboardists around.
Over the years, Smith wrote and produced for a who’s who of R&B artists, from Keith Sweat to TLC to SWV, Xscape and Dru Hill. He also served as music director for Sweat, Xscape and Jagged Edge, and played on projects by countless other artists.
The musical world is just a bit dimmer today, as we mourn the passing of this very talented man.
By Chris Rizik
