Antone “Chubby” Tavares, whose smooth vocals helped define the sound of 1970s R&B and disco as part of the Grammy-winning group Tavares, died at his home at age 81.

His son, Antone Tavares Jr., shared the news on Facebook , writing that his father’s health had declined over the past year.

“His spirit and attitude always remained positive,” the younger Tavares wrote. “Dad and his brothers touched many people and brought joy worldwide. They were blessed to experience many places and things.”

The family plans to hold a celebration of life at a later date, according to the post.

Tavares was one of five Cape Verdean-American brothers who formed the group, which initially performed as Chubby and the Turnpikes before signing with Capitol Records in the late 1960s, Parade noted. The group

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