Fred White, a drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, has died, his brother and former bandmate confirmed. The musician was 67.
On Instagram, Verdine White delivered the heartbreaking news about White’s passing. He shared a lengthy caption alongside photos of the late musician with the band.
“Child protégé, member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old!” he said on Sunday. “He was brother number 4 in the family lineup. But more than that at home and beyond he was the wonderful bro that was always entertaining and delightfully mischievous!”
He also wrote that his brother is now “drumming with the angels” and joins their brothers Ronald, Monte, and Maurice in heaven.
Verdine expressed his love for his brother and told him he would live in everyone’s hearts forever. The bereaved family sent their gratitude toward everyone who shows love, support, and blessings at the darkest time of their lives.
Details of Fred White’s cause of death are not yet known to the public. It remains unknown whether he suffered a health issue.
White received heartfelt tributes from his band, colleagues, and fans after the emergence of the news about his death.
Earth, Wind & Fire shared a clip of his drum solo during its Tour of the World at Rockpalast in Essen, Germany. One of its original lead singers, Philip Bailey, honored him by uploading an image of the band members celebrating their double Grammy win in 1980.
Fred White’s Career and Legacy
White started his career by touring with other musicians before finishing high school. He eventually joined his siblings in Earth, Wind & Fire in 1974.
The band’s commercial heyday started a year after he joined them, with their song “Shining Star” securing the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The group transformed into pop figureheads during the disco era.
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Among the albums he worked on with Earth, Wind & Fire included “That’s The Way Of the World,” “Gratitude,” “Spirit,” “All n’ All,” “I AM,” “Faces,” “Powerlight,” and “Electric Universe.”
Through the albums, White and the band won six Grammys and received 13 nominations.
In 2000, Earth, Wind & Fire officially got inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The award-giving body called the group the band that “solidified the growth of black album music in the Seventies,”
Before his death, he still became part of Diana Ross’ album, “Thank You,” in 2021.
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