Singer Maurice White, who founded the classic 1969 band Earth, Wind & Fire has passed away at the age of 74 at his home in Los Angeles.
For several years in the 1970s and ’80s, Earth Wind & Fire was one of the leading acts in America; their songs became the soundtrack of a generation. White founded the group in 1969 and was the guiding force behind its sound.
White was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the late 1980s, which led him to eventually stop touring. However, he retained executive control of the band, and remained active in the music business. ‘Let’s Groove’ hit-maker’s health had reportedly deteriorated in recent months.
The deceased’s brother Verdine said that his hero and best friend had died peacefully in his sleep, adding that his family has asked that their privacy should be respected, the Independent reports.
White’s brother, Verdine, took to Facebook on Thursday to remember him:
“While the world has lost another great musician, visionary and legend, our family asks that our privacy is respected as we start what will be a very difficult life changing transition in our lives,” he wrote.
Our brother Maurice White passed peacefully in his sleep this morning.
The light is he, shining on you and me. pic.twitter.com/ppWTHKUyG6
— Earth, Wind & Fire (@EarthWindFire) February 4, 2016
The producer and singer, who won seven Grammys , was born in 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee. The late singer had worked with several famous recording artists including Deniece Williams, musical group ‘The Emotions’, singers Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond. Most widely known for hits like “September” and “Shining Star,” Earth, Wind & Fire were revolutionary in blending different genres into one sound, paving the way for artists like Dionne Warwick, Miles Davis, and Quincy Jones, Pharrell, Usher, and Mary J. Blige.
His fans took to twitter to remember him.
#EarthWindAndFire founder #Maurice White died last night. We have lost yet another great music man.
— Robbie Vincent (@RobbieVincent) February 5, 2016
Thank you for the music #Maurice White. The heavens are jamming for sure!
— Patrice (@mommaclayster) February 5, 2016
Long live the Fire. #Maurice White RIP https://t.co/yDkPinLHJI
— Paul Turner (@PaulTurnerBass) February 4, 2016
Rest in peace Mr. Maurice White, you will always our favourite voice.
