Dante Hall, the Grammy-nominated Chicago gospel singer who owned a popular Bellwood bar and restaurant, Donnie’s Place, has passed away unexpectedly, his longtime best friend said.
His death was confirmed on Sunday, but what caused it has yet to be announced.
Dante Hall Passed Away Suddenly
Hall always contributed value to gospel music during his successful solo career with collaborations alongside Jennifer Hudson, Yolanda Adams, and Donald Lawrence. Outside of his music, Dante Hall was an entrepreneur who recently opened Donnie’s Place, a bar and restaurant in Bellwood, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The establishment was to feature family recipes and culinary knowledge from his ancestors.
In February 2021, Hall discussed his book with Hosea Sanders of ABC7 Chicago, “Growing Up Black: Things My Grandparents Said.” The compilation of idioms and wisdom on the part of his grandparents went like this, for example, “It’s a poor dog that won’t wag its tail” and “Fat meat ain’t greasy.” These sayings are full of deep cultural traditions and life lessons that led to Hall’s upbringing and career.
Hall’s sudden death will be a massive blow to the Chicago music community and the lovers of his contribution both on and off stage. Many will remember him for his talents, entrepreneurship, and his practice of keeping family traditions. His death is going to be a major loss for his family and his loved ones.
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