Gerald Levert was a talented singer-songwriter and producer who rose to fame as a member of the R&B groups LeVert, LSG, and Black Men United. He was also the son of Eddie Levert, the lead singer of the legendary O’Jays. Gerald had a successful solo career as well, releasing nine albums and several hit singles. He was known for his soulful voice, charismatic personality, and passionate performances.
However, Gerald’s life was cut short on November 10, 2006, when he was found dead in his home in Cleveland, Ohio. He was only 40 years old. The cause of his death shocked many fans and friends who admired him. According to the coroner’s report, Gerald died of acute intoxication caused by a fatal combination of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The death was ruled as accidental.
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What Drugs Did Gerald Levert Take?
According to the coroner’s report, Gerald had a cocktail of drugs in his bloodstream at the time of his death. These included painkillers like Vicodin, Percocet, and Darvocet, as well as Xanax and two antihistamines. The coroner said that the drugs had a synergistic effect, meaning that they enhanced each other’s potency and toxicity.
Gerald was taking these drugs to cope with the pain from a 2005 surgery to repair his Achilles tendon. He also suffered from chronic back pain and arthritis. He had been prescribed some of the drugs by his doctor, but he also obtained some from other sources without a prescription. He may have been unaware of the dangers of mixing these drugs or taking them in high doses.
How Did Gerald Levert’s Family React to His Death?
Gerald’s family was devastated by his sudden and tragic death. His father Eddie said that he felt like he had lost his best friend and that he was proud of his son’s achievements. He also said that he wished he had known more about Gerald’s drug use and that he could have helped him.
Gerald’s brother Sean, who was also his bandmate in LeVert, said that he was shocked and heartbroken by Gerald’s death. He said that Gerald was a loving and generous person who cared for his family and friends. He also said that Gerald had a lot of plans for the future and that he wanted to make more music.
Gerald’s mother Martha said that she missed her son every day and that she prayed for him. She said that Gerald was a good son who always tried to make her happy. She also said that Gerald loved his children and wanted to be a good father to them.
What Was Gerald Levert’s Legacy?
Gerald Levert left behind a rich legacy of music and memories for his fans and peers. He sold over 20 million albums worldwide and won several awards, including three Soul Train Music Awards, two NAACP Image Awards, and one Grammy Award (posthumously). He collaborated with many artists, such as Patti LaBelle, Barry White, Anita Baker, Teddy Pendergrass, James Ingram, Freddie Jackson, New Edition, The O’Jays, and Yolanda Adams.
He also discovered and mentored several R&B groups, such as the Rude Boys, Men at Large, and 1 of the Girls. He was respected and admired by many in the music industry for his talent, work ethic, and generosity. He influenced many singers who came after him, such as Usher, R. Kelly, Tank, Tyrese Gibson, Jaheim, Joe Thomas, Avant, Anthony Hamilton, and John Legend.
Gerald Levert was a star who shone brightly in the R&B world. He touched many lives with his music and his spirit. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest singers of his generation.
