Kashif Saleem, also known as Kashif, was a multi-talented musician, songwriter, producer, author, and humanitarian who left a lasting legacy in the R&B genre. He was responsible for creating hits for artists like Whitney Houston, Evelyn “Champagne” King, George Benson, and many others. He also had a successful solo career, earning several Grammy nominations and chart-topping singles. He was widely regarded as a pioneer in urban music, thanks to his innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments.
But how did Kashif die? What was the cause of death for this musical genius? Here is what we know so far.
Natural Causes Suspected
According to Essence, Kashif was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home on Monday, September 26, 2016. He was 56 years old at the time of his death. The cause of death was not immediately known, but it was believed to be of natural causes.
EURweb.com reported that Kashif was found by a neighbor who had not seen him for a few days. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s office said that he had been dead since Sunday, September 25, 2016. There were no signs of foul play or trauma.
Billboard also confirmed that Kashif died of undetermined causes, pending further investigation by the coroner’s office. The magazine noted that Kashif had no known health issues or history of substance abuse.
A Life of Music and Service
Kashif was born Michael Jones on December 26, 1959 in New York City. He grew up in foster care and faced abuse and neglect from his foster parents. He found solace in music and learned to play various instruments at a young age. He joined the funk band B.T. Express when he was 15 and later converted to Islam and changed his name to Kashif.
He launched his solo career in 1983 with his self-titled debut album, which featured the hits “I Just Gotta Have You (Lover Turn Me On)”, “Stone Love”, “Help Yourself to My Love”, and “The Mood”. He followed up with more successful albums like Send Me Your Love (1984), Condition of the Heart (1985), Love Changes (1987), and Kashif (1989). He also collaborated with some of the biggest names in R&B, such as Whitney Houston, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Al Jarreau, Melba Moore, Dionne Warwick, Kenny G, and Barry White.
Kashif was not only a musical icon, but also a humanitarian and an educator. He founded the Kashif University, which offered courses on music production and business. He also created the first Walk/Run for Foster Care at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California in 2006. He produced and directed a ten-part documentary series called The History of R&B Music and Its Influence on World Culture. He was reportedly working on new music at the time of his death.
Kashif’s death was mourned by many fans and fellow artists who expressed their condolences and appreciation for his work on social media. He was remembered as a legend, a pioneer, a mentor, and a friend.
Kashif’s cause of death may not be clear yet, but his legacy lives on through his music and his service. He will be missed by many who loved him and his art.
