Grammy-winner Daniel Sembello drowns in Schuylkill

Daniel G. Sembello, who won a Grammy Award for his contribution to the soundtrack of

Beverly Hills Cop

, drowned in the Schuylkill last weekend, authorities said Friday.

Mr. Sembello, 52, of Ardmore, disappeared while swimming late Saturday afternoon near the Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center, police said. His body was recovered that evening.

Stevie Wonder paid tribute to Sembello during his Monday concert at Dilworth Park, calling him "a great songwriter and a great human being."

Mr. Sembello cowrote the songs "Stir It Up" for Patti LaBelle and "Neutron Dance" for the Pointer Sisters. Both songs were featured on the soundtrack for Beverly Hills Cop, the 1984 hit movie starring Eddie Murphy.

He also wrote songs for Chaka Khan, Jeffrey Osborne, and Irene Cara, and produced records for other stars.

His brother Michael won a Grammy for his contribution to the soundtrack of the 1983 movie Flashdance. Michael Sembello cowrote and performed the song "Maniac" from the film.

There will be a visitation from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at Stretch Funeral Home, 236 E. Eagle Rd., Havertown.