ASCAP Chief Creative Officer John Titta has died after a two-year battle with cancer.

Prior to joining the PRO in 2013, the Staten Island native worked for a number of pubcos, starting at Screen Gems/EMI Music, then moving on to PolyGram Music Publishing. From 1993 to 2006, Titta served as SVP/GM of Warner Chappell, which he left to hang out his own shingle at MPCA Music Publishing and Recordings, where he held the catalog of blues legend Robert Johnson.

Beyond his industry work, Titta had a long career as a performing musician, contributing to albums by Ringo Starr and Gizelle D’Cole and playing with Michael McDonald, The Doobie Brothers, Duane Eddy, Richie Sambora and Omi. As a producer and A&R, he worked with Dionne Warwick and Todd Rundgren, among others.

ASCAP President/Chairman and songwriter Paul Williams, said, “John Titta was one of a kind and truly one of the most beloved music-industry executives I've known, with deep ties to songwriters across genres and generations. John, you had a song in your heart always, and you will always be in our hearts. I miss you already.”

ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews added, “John’s warmth, his humor, his kindness, his love of family and his passion for music were infectious. He was a north star for me personally and for all of us at ASCAP. Titta—we love you.”

John is survived by his wife, Lana Titta, his sons Alex and Julian, his daughter Martine, grandson Mason and brother Michael. The family is planning a private service to be followed by a memorial at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the John and Rose Titta Fund at the ASCAP Foundation, which John set up in memory of his parents to help children on the autism spectrum through music programs. Those wishing to make a contribution in his honor can donate here.