Bryan Loren Hudson, known professionally as Bryan Loren and sometimes as "The Wiz," passed away on January 28, 2026, at the age of 59. Born on May 5, 1966, in Long Island, New York, Loren was a prolific American singer-songwriter, record producer, and multi-instrumentalist whose career spanned several decades.

Loren's musical journey began at a young age, showing an early aptitude for music by composing by age 12 and playing multiple instruments. He moved to South Philadelphia and was influenced by the vibrant local music scene. His professional career started in the early 1980s, working as a session musician and later joining Fat Larry's Band and the R&B group Cashmere.

He first gained recognition as a solo artist with his self-titled debut album in 1984, featuring the R&B hit "Lollipop Luv." However, Loren truly made his mark as a behind-the-scenes force in the music industry. He produced and wrote "Do the Bartman" for The Simpsons, a single that topped charts internationally. His production and songwriting talents were sought after by numerous acclaimed artists.

Loren's collaborations included work with music legends such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Sting. He contributed significantly to Michael Jackson's albums "Dangerous" and "Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix." He also wrote "Feels So Good," the B-side to Whitney Houston's single "I'm Your Baby Tonight."

His ability to play all instruments for a recording and his deep understanding of music production allowed him to create a diverse range of hits across genres like R&B, pop, and funk. Bryan Loren's legacy is cemented by his contributions to some of the most memorable songs and albums of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.