The music world is mourning the loss of acclaimed singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Bryan Loren, best known for his collaborations with Michael Jackson and for co-writing the iconic early Simpsons hit “Do the Bartman.” Loren passed away earlier this week. He would have been 59 years old.
The news was confirmed by Loren’s close friend and talent manager Shana Mangatal, who shared an emotional tribute on Facebook on January 28.
“This is sad news to share. My dear friend, extraordinarily talented music producer Bryan Loren, has passed away. He would have been 59 this year,” Mangatal wrote.
Nicknamed “The Wiz” for his exceptional keyboard and instrumental skills, Loren began his professional music career at just 15 years old as a session player. Under the mentorship of legendary Philadelphia producer Nick Martinelli, Loren quickly established himself in the early 1980s as a rising force in R&B and pop. He performed with Fat Larry’s Band, was part of the group Cashmere, and later launched a solo career that produced R&B chart hits such as “Lollipop Luv” and “Do You Really Love Me?”
Loren’s most widely recognized work came through his long-standing creative relationship with Michael Jackson. During the Dangerous era, Loren collaborated with the King of Pop on several tracks, including “Superfly Sister” and the unreleased “Serious Effect.” He also co-wrote and produced “Do the Bartman” in 1990 for The Simpsons Sing the Blues, a cultural phenomenon that blended pop, hip-hop, and animation at the height of the show’s early popularity.
Beyond Jackson, Loren’s songwriting and production credits extended to major artists such as Whitney Houston, Sting, Shanice, and Eric Benét. His contribution to Houston’s “Feels So Good” and other high-profile projects further cemented his reputation as a versatile and in-demand creative force.
A true multi-instrumentalist, Loren was known for his work on keyboards and percussion, as well as his skills as a recording and mixing engineer. Peers frequently praised his musical intuition, technical ability, and generous spirit in the studio.
Tributes from fans and fellow artists continue to pour in, celebrating a man whose influence quietly shaped decades of R&B and pop music.
Rest peacefully, Bryan Loren. Thank you for the timeless music and the countless songs that will continue to inspire generations.
