There is sad news from Buffalo's music industry Monday morning with word that Lance Diamond has passed away. Diamond was dubbed the "the hardest working man in Buffalo show business."
The R&B singer and disc jockey had been entertaining audiences in Buffalo since the 1970s, most notably at the former Elmwood Lounge, now known as Milkie's, but he also played stages from weddings and special events to outdoor concerts.
Diamond was known for his showmanship, his wardrobe, his love for the city and his love for the ladies.
"People get addicted to Buffalo and I'll tell you what the reason is...It's the food, the air, the people... they're so unique and so genuine," Diamond told Buffland Productions in an interview posted on YouTube in 2014.
"Buffalo has it's own sound. It's own music scene. You can feel the heartbeat of the city. You can stand here right now and feel the city moving under your feet cause it's growing. Don't get me started about Buffalo. I love it."
Diamond was forced to cancel his New Year's Eve show at Milkie's due to heart problems he began suffering shortly after Christmas. He passed away Sunday.
Diamond, a member of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, influenced generations of local musicians, including members of the Goo Goo Dolls. He performed live and recorded with the Buffalo-founded band.
"He was really a staple here in Buffalo," said Anthony Casuccio, president of the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame. "People are going to remember his name for generations to come.
Diamond lived up to his reputation as the busiest person in Buffalo entertainment, Casuccio added.
"The guy was everywhere, did everything and was loved by everyone," Casuccio said.
Diamond was inducted into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame in 1992.