Dennis D.T. Thomas, co-founder of the band Kool & The Gang, has passed away. He died “peacefully in his sleep” at the age of 70, according to Variety.
Thomas was one of the original members of the group in which he played the saxophone, flute and percussion among other things. He often performed the role of “master of ceremonies” during concerts. The musician performed with Kool & The Gang at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles last week.
Thomas achieved worldwide success with Kool & The Gang. The group was founded in 1964 by brothers Ronald and Robert Peel with Thomas, Robert McCains, Charles Smith, George Brown and Ricky West. Although the group first came up with a number of other names for their band, they eventually chose the name Kool & The Gang. Their signature sound was a mixture of jazz, soul, and funk.
The band has won two Grammy Awards and has musical collaborations with the likes of Elton John, Kid Rock, The Roots and Dave Matthews Band. They also went on tour with the rock band Van Halen.
Their most famous songs include Ladies Night, Celebration, Get Down On It, Fresh and Cherish. In 2015, the band was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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