Earth Wind & Fire Front Man Maurice White Passes Away

One of Soul, Jazz, and Funk music’s most beloved voices and producers has died. Maurice White, co-founder and longtime front man of Earth Wind And Fire passed away last night (February 3), according to his brother (and fellow EWF member) Verdine. The 74 year-old singer died in his sleep.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, White provided vocals, percussion, kalimba, and drums to the multi-platinum group (which grew to include two of his brothers) since 1969. Additionally, Maurice was the lead writer to the acclaimed genre-fusing band. EWF released seven platinum albums, with 1975’s That’s The Way Of The World going to #1. White’s compositions include #1 “Shining Star,” as well as hits such as “Sing A Song” (which he also produced), “September,” and “Let’s Groove.” His voice would pilot the band’s success through decades, genres, and many moods.

As a producer, Maurice White worked extensively with The Whispers, Deniece Williams, and Ramsey Lewis. White was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease more than 25 years ago, affecting his touring with the band he helped form.

Through Hip-Hop, EWF was sampled on hits by Naughty By Nature (“Jamboree”), Jay Z (“Nigga What, Nigga Who”), and Big Pun (“Still Not A Player”).

Ambrosia For Heads extends condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Maurice White.

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