Charles Negron

Charles "Chuck" Negron II, the distinctive voice behind many of Three Dog Night's greatest hits, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at his home in Studio City, Los Angeles, California. He was 83 years old. His publicist confirmed that he died of complications from heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), surrounded by his loving family. Negron's powerful tenor and soulful delivery were instrumental in shaping the sound of one of the most successful rock bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Born in New York City on June 8, 1942, Negron's musical journey began early, singing in local doo-wop groups in the Bronx. By the age of 15, he was already performing at venues like the Apollo Theater with his group, The Rondells. His athletic talents initially led him to California State University on a basketball scholarship, but his passion for music ultimately guided his path. In 1965, he secured a recording contract with Columbia Records, setting the stage for his future success.

In 1967, Negron co-founded Three Dog Night with vocalists Danny Hutton and Cory Wells, creating a unique sound that blended pop rock, soul, and R&B. The band quickly rose to prominence, achieving phenomenal success between 1969 and 1975 with 18 consecutive Top 20 singles and 12 gold-certified albums. Negron's lead vocals graced some of their most iconic tracks, including the chart-topping "Joy to the World," "One," and "An Old Fashioned Love Song," cementing his place in rock history.

Despite the band's immense success, Negron faced a profound personal battle with heroin addiction, which eventually led to his departure from Three Dog Night in 1985. After numerous attempts, he achieved sobriety in September 1991, a turning point that marked the beginning of a new chapter. He embarked on a successful solo career, releasing seven albums between 1995 and 2017, and candidly chronicled his struggles and recovery in his 1999 autobiography, "Three Dog Nightmare." In the year prior to his passing, Negron also reconciled with his former bandmate, Danny Hutton, bringing a poignant closure to their decades-long estrangement.

Chuck Negron's legacy is one of remarkable vocal talent, enduring musical contributions, and a testament to the power of redemption. His voice continues to resonate with generations of fans, and his story of overcoming adversity has inspired many. He is survived by his wife, Ami Albea Negron, and his five children, leaving behind a profound impact on the music world and a family who cherished him.