The founding member of the iconic soul and funk band Kool & the Gang Dennis “Dee” passes away peacefully at the age of 70 in New Jersey while being at home, The group announced with grief.
The 1951 born artist from Orlando, Florida formed his first band in 1964 which was called The Jazzies, along with his seven teenage friends named Robert “Kool” Bell, Ricky Westfield, Charles Smith, Ronald Bell, George Brown and Spike Mickens.
Their group became the most influential in 1969 by infusing their jazz, blues, soul and funk and stood as the group we know now, The Kool & Gang.
They went on to win the award after awards, two Grammys, Seven Music Awards, 25 top – 10 &4 B hits along with 9-10 pop hits and 31 platinum albums if numbered.
Their major hits such as “Get down on it”, ” Jungle Boogie” and “Celebration” took the times with a storm.
Many of their songs are famous and were featured in blockbusters like Pulp Fiction(1994) and Rocky, along with video games like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas(2004)
The accomplished artist was an expert on several musical instruments like Saxophone, percussion and flute.
Thomas also took the role of the group’s wardrobe director, blessing the band with its unique, funky style and the emcee of their live performances.
The final show Thomas performed was on July 4, 2021, with his band, at a Holland Bowl concert.
A spokesperson described Thomas as
” A huge personality while also an extremely private person”
He resided in Montclair, New Jersey.
The Library of Congress National Recording Registry, Class of 2020 inducted “Celebration” on March 24, 2021.
The artist’s and the band’s music still pleases and resonates through many souls of fans.
