Loni Gamble: A musician who left his mark on the Williamsport community

Williamsport, Pa. — Musician, philanthropist, and beloved community member Loni Gamble passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Aug. 4, bringing forth an outpouring of love and support from the community.

Loni was an accomplished musician with a wide range. He found his roots in the R&B scene in Philadelphia as he grew up alongside his older brother, another musician. He later became a guitar player for the Grammy-nominated Stylistics.

Later in his career, he started producing as a solo-artist. His hit single “Could It Be Love” made the Top 40 dance lists in seven countries in Europe and Canada. After a 17-year gap, Loni returned to music, releasing, “It’s All About the 3-Steps Baby”, a dynamic group dance creation that was well-received in the USA as well as throughout the world. Check it out on YouTube !

Loni’s career went into a new direction with his part in leading the Community Alliance for Progressive Positive Action (CAPPA), an award-winning nonprofit organization that has served the Williamsport area since 2004 with innovative youth programs.

Related reading: Local non-profit up and running after three-year closure

Loni served as the founder and director of CAPPA’s Young Gentlemen Performing Arts and Life Skills Project, a program that provides meaningful and hands-on experiences and opportunities to young males through music and the performing arts.

Loni worked alongside a number of community organizations and media professionals, who voiced their appreciation for him and his impact on the community throughout his life.

Junior League of Williamsport paid the following tribute on Facebook:

“Today we extend our deepest condolences to our friends at CAPPA Project and to the family of Loni Gam . Loni Gamble was champion for the youth in our area, and we are saddened to hear of his passing. As we celebrate Loni's life, we will continue to seek out ways to continue his legacy by supporting the youth in the greater Williamsport area and remember all the love he had in his heart. Loni, thank you for all that you accomplished and inspired.”

Among many other community members, Dave Brumbaugh of Uptown Music Collective and radio veteran Gary Chrisman also left tributes on Facebook.

Posts and comments continue to spread on Facebook, shining light on Loni's life.