The Cape Town music scene is bidding farewell to a much-loved artist with the passing of 34-year-old Larnelle Gordon, a well-known drummer and Groove Master. Beyond only sounds and melodies, his unannounced departure leaves a hole in the local music scene exacerbated by his exceptional rhythm and creative contributions. We pause here to remember the life and legacy of this vibrant musician whose passion for music affected many people.
Reason for Death:
Larnelle Gordon was a valued member and skilled musician. The Tabernacle of Praise International Church hears the sad news of her departure with heavy hearts. This bright spirit, 34 years old, who was a Groove Master and drummer of fantastic skill, has left an indelible vacuum in the close-knit community.
Larnelle Gordon had many challenging obstacles, yet she never gave up in the face of hardship. His health and mobility were permanently altered at the age of 13 following a near-drowning event that left him dealing with the consequences of acute tophaceous gout and epilepsy. Larnelle embodied a spirit of purpose that inspired everyone who knew him, and he refused to allow his circumstances to define him, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Larnelle’s everyday life was severely restricted by the combined burdens of epilepsy and phaceous gout, which left him confined to a wheelchair and in need of constant medical attention to control his symptoms. Despite his physical infirmities, Larnelle never let them stop him from pursuing a whole life. He was adamant about his profession and love of music, even in the face of suffering.
Larnelle just had surgery on his right hand in an unwavering pursuit of healing and restoration; this shows how persistent he is in looking for ways to get better, even in the face of obstacles brought on by his medical issues.
Frequent private examinations and uric acid drainage treatments, performed without the safety net of medical assistance, highlighted his stubborn will to face his health issues head-on, exhibiting a fortitude that disregarded the constraints placed upon him by his ailments.
Sadly, the illness’s unstoppable course remained unabated despite his brave fight and ceaseless efforts to control his symptoms. Larnelle’s sickness finally took his life, and there was no hope for recovery. He left a legacy of bravery, resiliency, and unshakable perseverance in the face of hardship.
Who was Larnelle Gordon?
Larnelle, a 34-year-old Goodwood native and musical genius, has performed with some of the most renowned artists in the country, leaving a lasting impression on the South African music landscape.
Because of his extraordinary talent and collaborative attitude, he could share the stage with several well-known musicians, including Jonathan Butler, David Kramer, Lady Zamar, Alistair Izobell, Karen Kortje, Salome, and Loyiso Bala.
Larnelle’s ability to drum prompted him to join the Take Note Band at 18, where he shared the stage with the effervescent Emo Adams. In addition to showcasing his musical skills, this early partnership positively indicated the direction his career would follow.
Larnelle’s early contributions to the SAMA-nominated band Blackcurrent, where he played drums, further cemented his place in the South African music scene. This collaboration, which included well-known musicians like Tye Platinum and Clinton Viljoen, showed Larnelle’s adaptability and capacity to fit in with various musical styles.
Professional Career:
Larnelle’s name became a byword for skill and brilliance in music throughout his career. His participation in critically praised projects and partnerships with notable figures in the business demonstrated his technical mastery and his profound and dynamic ability to connect with other artists.
Honors:
- “Rip Larnelle GrooveMaster Gordon,” as Hilton Dickenson put it, is depressing. I am grateful for all you have done for me, personally and in drumming. You’ll always be my drum hero. I’ve looked up to you much ever since I heard you perform. My buddy, please rest easy. I will miss you.
- Alistair Ruwayne Dourie wrote the following: “Rest Easy Larnelle GrooveMaster Gordon bro, I will miss you all the good drum conversations with you and Alistair Gibbs, always making me relaxed in your presence, brother you a real legend and inspiration to me will miss you, boy.”
- “Larnelle GrooveMaster Gordon, you and your family are in my prayers,” commented Arthene Bell. Growing up in my home with my children, you were like my own child. I ache when you hurt. We are proud of you and your Uncle Albert’s belief in you. Son, never lose hope—this too shall pass.
While the South African music scene laments the passing of this gifted drummer and Groove Master, Larnelle’s legacy is honored by his outstanding solo performances and the magical collaborations he forged with a host of legendary musicians. His contributions to the South African music scene, both on stage and in the studio, bear witness to his lasting influence.
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