Chuck Negron, the voice behind numerous hits by the band Three Dog Night, including the iconic "Joy to the World," has died at the age of 83. Negron passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at his home in Studio City, Los Angeles, surrounded by his family. His publicist, Zach Farnum, confirmed the cause of death as complications arising from heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Born Charles Negron II on June 8, 1942, in the Bronx, New York City, Negron grew up singing in doo-wop groups and playing basketball. He continued to pursue both music and basketball, attending California State University in Los Angeles. In 1967, Negron, along with Danny Hutton and Cory Wells, founded Three Dog Night. The band, known for its three-part harmonies and covers of songs by up-and-coming songwriters, quickly rose to fame.
Between 1969 and 1974, Three Dog Night dominated the airwaves, placing 18 singles in the Top 20 and achieving gold certification for 12 albums. The band had 21 Billboard Hot 100 top 40 hits between 1969 and 1975, with three reaching number one. Negron's distinctive tenor voice was the driving force behind many of their hits, including "Joy to the World," "One," "Easy to Be Hard," "Just an Old Fashioned Love Song," "Pieces of April," "The Show Must Go On," and "Til the World Ends". "Joy to the World," penned by Hoyt Axton, became a signature song for the band, with Negron's opening shout of "Jeremiah was a bullfrog!" becoming an unforgettable pop-culture phrase. Three Dog Night was known for interpreting songs by other songwriters, including Harry Nilsson ("One"), Laura Nyro ("Eli's Coming"), Randy Newman ("Mama Told Me Not to Come"), and Paul Williams ("An Old Fashioned Love Song").
Despite their success, Three Dog Night faced internal challenges, and the band disbanded in 1976. Negron struggled with heroin addiction during the height of the band's fame, a battle he eventually overcame in 1991. Following his recovery, he embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums, including Am I Still in Your Heart? (1995), Joy to the World (1996), and Long Road Back (1999). He continued to tour and perform, captivating audiences with his iconic vocals and storytelling.
Negron was married four times and is survived by his wife, Ami Albea Negron, and five children. His family also includes Berry Oakley Jr., the son of Allman Brothers Band bassist Berry Oakley.
Chuck Negron's legacy extends beyond his hit songs. He was remembered by his publicist as "a testament to never giving up – persevering through everything life throws at you, everything you may throw at yourself, and striving on". His contributions to music and his powerful voice will continue to be celebrated for years to come.