George Brown, Kool And The Gang Drummer And Cofounder, Dies Aged 74
George "Funky" Brown, best known for his instrumental role in Kool and the Gang, has died aged 74.
Brown died of lung cancer in Los Angeles, a spokesman said in a statement. "When asked to describe his music, Brown always replied, 'the sound of happiness,'" he said.
He was one of the band's co-founders, drummer and songwriter and co-wrote some of their biggest hits such as Celebration, Ladies' Night and Jungle Boogie. He describes himself as an "autonomous" musician.
Kool and the Gang started in 1964 in New Jersey. "None of us were kids with a silver spoon," Brown said. “All of Jersey City was in town, so you know, the minority and the riots. And it helped us write and perform in a certain way. not rehearsing, but knowing or being taught to play. »
The band released their debut album in 1969. After two more live albums, it was 1973's Wild and Peaceful that put them on the map with hits like Hollywood Swinging. In 1979, she followed her success with her first platinum hit, Ladies Night.
The band has won two Grammy Awards and has 31 gold and platinum albums.
Brown "Too Hot. Last summer, the band also released a new album, People Just Wanna Have Fun, written by Brown and bassist Robert "Cool" Bell. In August, he officially decided to retire.
Artists such as Jay-Z, Beastie Boys, Madonna and Janet Jackson have covered Kool and the Gang's songs. Brown said he was "absolutely proud" that his music was often reused.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the American Lung Association.
In an interview earlier this year, Brown said: “If you make happy music, he does. Bring people to clubs to have a good time. And we do it. Before we go, we say our prayer and say please others."
