After moving to California on a basketball scholarship, music quickly became his focus. In Los Angeles, he joined Danny Hutton and Cory Wells to form Three Dog Night in 1967. Negron’s powerful, gritty vocals became the heart of the band, driving hits such as “Joy to the World,” “One,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” and “The Show Must Go On.” At their peak, Three Dog Night dominated radio, but fame brought pressure.

Drug use and internal conflict eventually led to the band’s breakup. Negron’s offstage battles were intense. After years of addiction, he achieved sobriety in 1991, a turning point that reshaped his life. He went on to release seven solo albums, tour for decades, and share his story in his memoir Three Dog Nightmare.

Even as COPD affected his health, he continued performing until the pandemic.Late in life, Negron reconciled with former bandmate Danny Hutton, and family remained central to him. He is survived by his wife, Ami, and five children. His voice—raw, soulful, and honest—remains a lasting part of rock history.