From the humble beginnings in a Bronx apartment to achieving legendary fame, Chuck Negron’s life was a captivating tale of talent, struggle, and eventual triumph.

We’ve lost this extraordinary voice. Chuck Negron, recognized for his unforgettable vocals with Three Dog Night, has passed away at 83.

The founding member of this iconic band left us on Monday, February 2, at his home in Studio City, California, where he was surrounded by his loved ones.

In his final months, Chuck faced a battle with heart failure alongside chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Throughout his life, Chuck was known for his perseverance, facing and overcoming the challenges life presented. “Negron was a testament to never giving up through all of life’s hurdles,” shared his publicist.

Born on June 8, 1942, in the Bronx, Chuck grew up surrounded by music thanks to his father, Charles Negron, a Puerto Rican nightclub performer, and his mother, Elizabeth Rooke.

He was involved with doo-wop groups and local basketball in his neighborhood, cultivating his love for music early on.

By 15, Chuck already recorded his first single and performed at the Apollo Theater with his vocal group, The Rondells.

Reflecting on that pivotal night, Chuck remembered, “By our second verse, the audience started cheering us on, a moment teaching me music’s power to unite people beyond differences.”

He moved west on a basketball scholarship to California State University, but music swiftly became his main focus.

In Los Angeles, Chuck teamed with Danny Hutton and the late Cory Wells, forming Three Dog Night in 1967, known for its unique sound and harmonies.

Chuck’s powerful vocals defined their classic hits like “Joy to the World (Jeremiah Was a Bullfrog),” “One (Is the Loneliest Number),” and “Old Fashioned Love Song.”

During their peak, Three Dog Night included guitarist Michael Allsup and the fallen Jimmy Greenspoon, Joe Schermie, and Floyd Sneed. Despite success, personal issues led to their disbandment, largely due to drug use and inner conflicts.

Chuck and bandmate Danny Hutton reconciled after years of estrangement, finally burying past differences last year.

Offstage, Chuck battled addiction, finding sobriety in 1991, transforming his life by releasing seven solo albums from 1995 to 2017.

His 1999 memoir, Three Dog Nightmare, recounted his rise, struggles with addiction, and path to recovery.

Even as COPD impacted him, Chuck kept touring late into life until the COVID-19 pandemic made it unsafe.

“His family was always his greatest joy through all his successes and challenges,” remarked his publicist.

Chuck Negron is survived by his wife, Ami Albea Negron, and children: Shaunti Negron Levick, Berry Oakley, Charles Negron III, Charlotte Negron, and Annabelle Negron.

His voice, rich with emotion and experience, leaves a lasting legacy in the world of rock music. Rest in peace, Chuck!