Dominique Trenier, Unheralded Neo-Soul Architect, Has Died

We are deeply saddened to confirm that Dominique Trenier, longtime manager and creative director for artists like D'Angelo, has passed. According to sources close to Trenier and his family, Dom, as he was known to friends and colleagues, was found dead this morning in his Los Angeles home, though the cause of death has yet to be established.

It was Trenier who famously dreamed up the iconic "How Does It Feel" video, but his accolades and accomplishments stretch far beyond getting D to take his shirt off. Trenier was one of unheralded architects of NYC's downtown renaissance and the "neo-soul"movement at-large, a magnetic force that pulled brilliant creatives together to realize incredible potential and craft some of our most beloved albums, soundtracks (Blow,Space Jam) and experiences in music over the last 20 years. Dom signed Nikka Costa, brought a young Mark Ronson into the fold, and even had his own record label, Cheeba Records, for some time. He was a dear friend to the late Ted Demme, who directed and created Yo! MTV Raps and Blow.

No one should envy the role of a manager, especially a former artist who found himself as the main creative force behind so many cherished projects, as the job is thankless, even as it's so necessary. But Dom was a fierce creator unto himself that never minded side-stepping into the wings to see his clients and friends alike, flourish. Our hearts are with the Trenier family today and forever as they process this loss, and wish them only peace in this trying time. RIP Dominique Trenier, you will be sorely missed.