Anthony Harley, better known as “Little Benny,” has died at the age of 46 on Sunday. Little Benny’s death is a huge shock to his family and the music lovers who loved his funk music style. Little Benny passed away while he was asleep at night at his brother’s home in Washington D.C. on May 30, 2010. The news of the death was confirmed by his longtime friend and former business partner Keith Galloway. Cause of his death has not yet been known. Little Benny joined the long list of celebrities who passed away in the month of May.
Little Benny was a member of the Rare Essence go-go music band and produced hits such as “Body Moves” and “Lock-It.” Little Benny was the best trumpet player and he was inducted into the Go-Go Hall of Fame for his contribution in this filed. Kato Hammond, a magazine’s editor, said,
“When you look at go-go from a historical standpoint, Little Benny, he stands out as one of the founding fathers.”
Little Benny was the pioneer of this genre of music. Little Benny’s magic was immense during 80’s and after his tenure with the band he worked with “Proper Utensils” and “Little Benny and the Masters.” My condolences go out with the family and friends of great trumpeter.