Born: 4-May-1942
Birthplace: Fairfield, SC
Died: 22-Aug-2011
Location of death: New York City
Cause of death: Cancer - Throat

Gender: Male
Religion: Baptist
Race or Ethnicity: Black
Sexual orientation: Straight
Occupation: Songwriter

Nationality: United States
Executive summary: Half of Ashford and Simpson

Initially a writer and producer for Motown, putting together such soul classics as Ain't No Mountain High Enough with his partner (later wife) Valerie Simpson, Nickolas Ashford went on to be a popular performer in the 1970's as part of Ashford and Simpson. The pair remained active as performers until his death, as well as continuing to wear their writer/producer hats.

Father: Calvin Ashford (construction worker)
Mother: Alice
Brother: Albert
Brother: Calvin, Jr. (d. 2008 cancer)
Brother: Frank
Brother: Paul
Wife: Valerie Simpson (musician, m. 1974, until his death, two daughters)
Daughter: Nicole
Daughter: Asia

    University: Eastern Michigan University (dropped out)

    Ashford and Simpson Vocalist (1973-2011)
    Wedding: David Gest and Liza Minnelli (2002)
    Songwriters Hall of Fame 2002

    FILMOGRAPHY AS ACTOR
    New Jack City (8-Mar-1991) · Rev. Oates
    Live Aid (13-Jul-1985) · Himself

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