Saying Goodbye to a Funk Legend
George “Funky” Brown, the renowned drummer and founding member of the iconic band Kool & The Gang, has sadly passed away. It is with heavy hearts that we report the news of his death at the age of 74. George’s remarkable 59-year career as a songwriter and drummer came to an end on Thursday night at his home in Los Angeles, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Key Takeaway
George “Funky” Brown, the key drummer and songwriter of Kool & The Gang, has passed away at the age of 74 after a battle with cancer.
Farewell to a Musical Legend
George Brown was an integral part of Kool & The Gang since its inception in 1964. Together with other founding members, including the brothers Robert Bell and Ronald Bell, Dennis Thomas, Robert Mickens, Ricky West, and Charles Smith, they formed this supergroup in Jersey City, NJ. With their debut album, “Kool & The Gang,” released in 1969, they began their journey to stardom.
However, it was in 1973 that the band achieved worldwide recognition with their album “Wild And Peaceful.” This album featured chart-topping hits like “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging,” catapulting Kool & The Gang into the spotlight.
A Legacy of Success
The band’s success continued to soar throughout the years with albums such as “Ladies Night” (1979), “Celebrate!” (1980), and “Emergency” (1984), which sold an incredible 2 million albums in the U.S. alone. These records created a wave of popular tunes, including the iconic anthem “Celebration,” which topped the charts.
Kool & The Gang’s contributions to music were widely recognized, earning them 2 Grammy Awards, 7 American Music Awards, a Music Business Association Chairman’s Award, and a Soul Train Legend Award. Additionally, they were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, we bid farewell to George “Funky” Brown, a visionary musician who co-wrote many of Kool & The Gang’s iconic songs. His contributions to the band’s legendary sound, including hits like “Ladies Night,” “Too Hot,” “Jungle Boogie,” “Celebration,” and “Cherish,” will be forever remembered.
The music world has lost a true talent, but George’s spirit and the sound of happiness he brought will live on. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife, Hanh Brown, his five children, and all those whose lives were touched by his music.
Rest in peace, George Brown. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
