Rudolph Isley, The Isley Brothers Member, Dead At 84

Following the news of Rudolph Isley’s death, fans of the beloved singer flocked to X, formerly known as Twitter, with heartbreaking tributes. One fan wrote, “Rest in Power Rudolph Isley. A music legend indeed with the Isley Brothers, whose music is timeless.” Another user added, “Rudolph Isley was what Ronald called the strength of the group. The ultimate energizer bunny that kept the crowd amped up and moving during their live shows. A key piece to the Isley’s puzzle.” As for Ronald Isley, Rudolph’s older brother and bandmate, the Grammy-winner seemingly acknowledged his brother’s passing by cancelling an upcoming appearance in an Instagram statement, citing unforeseen circumstances.

The beloved singer’s tragic death comes a few months after he hit Ronald with a shocking lawsuit. In the filing submitted in March, the late artist accused his older sibling of registering The Isley Brothers trademark without his involvement, despite them both owning the name, per People. The suit also noted that Rudolph and Ronald shared group responsibilities and privileges, including expenses, profits, and business control. While the elder Isley sibling asked the judge to throw out the lawsuit, U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin denied the request in August, per Billboard. “Plaintiff’s contention is that when he ceased performing, he did not leave the group, but instead took on the sort of continuing managerial role that continuing ownership right in the mark,” the judge wrote. As of this writing, the case remains open.