Lee Andrews, lead singer of the '50s doo-wop group, Lee Andrews and the Hearts, and father to musician Questlove, has died at 79.
The Roots' band leader broke the news via Instagram on Wednesday in a moving tribute to his dad, whom he cited as a major influence in his life.
"The Greatest Teacher in my life, my dad Lee Andrews June 2nd 1936-March 16 2016. I love you," Questlove wrote. "For every backstage experience. For every drum lesson. For giving me your tireless work ethic. For our father & son record binging expeditions. For our arguments over the summer I discovered #ItTakesANationOfMillions."
"For the look on your face when I told you 'imma give this rap thing a try' (I waited til our 2nd album to have this convo btw)," the message continued. "For the look on your face 5 years later when I told you 'You don't have to work no more.' For the look on your face when a year later I was like 'Seriously dad, you don't have to work anymore!'"
The end of Questlove's tribute hits a somber reflective note, alluding to relationship that was clearly strengthened through its ups and downs.
"For bringing my mom & my sister into my life. For the years we fell out. For the years we put it back together," Questlove concluded. "But really, for the last 2 conversations we had. I understand why you were so hard on me praying I didn't succumb to a fate not meant for a teenager in west philly in the mid 80s. I didn't understand it at the time. But I appreciate it now. I hope Donn & I do you proud."
A video posted by Questlove Gomez (@questlove) on
Andrews' group the Hearts achieved popularity in 1957-58 for their hits, "Teardrops", "Long Lonely Nights" and "Try the Impossible." Questlove and the Roots, meanwhile, have earned 3 GRAMMY Awards and 14 nominations, and currently serve as the house band on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
