by A minute’s silence is being paid to former Earth, Wind & Fire drummer Fred White, who died at the age of 67.
Earth, Wind and Fire It was founded in the late 1960s by White’s brother, Maurice.The band has featured a number of different musicians over the years and spanned a variety of genres, from R’n’B and soul to pop and disco.
Fred White was one of the first members of the US band and played on several hit albums and songs, including September, Boogie Wonderland, Saturday Nite and Shining Star.
His death was announced by his brother Verdine, who is also a member of the group. He paid tribute to “a wonderful and talented family member” in a statement shared on Instagram.
“Dear family, friends and fans, our family is grieving the loss of an incredible and talented family member today, our dear brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White,” he wrote. “He joined our brothers Maurice, Monte and Ronald in heaven and now drums with the angels!
“EWF ORIGINAL 9 member, 16 year old boy apprentice with gold records! He was the fourth brother in the family standings.
“But more than that, he was a great sibling at home and beyond, always fun and delightfully mischievous!
“And we can always count on him to make a seemingly bad situation more carefree! He will live in our hearts forever, rest in peace dear Freddie!!
“We thank you all for your love, blessings and support at this time. Rise up baby brother, we love you until you shine and return!”
White began drumming professionally as a teenager and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 along with other members of Earth, Wind & Fire.
He also appeared in songs by American singers Donny Hathaway and Jennifer Holliday.
Earth shared a video of White playing the drums solo in tribute to Wind & Fire’s official Instagram page.
The post was captioned: “In Memoriam: Fred White, 1955-2022. He was seen solo here during our Runnin’ performance during our 1979 World Tour at Rockpalast in Essen, Germany. May he rest in love.”
American singer-songwriter Lenny Kravitz was among those paying tribute to those who remember the drummer as “a true king.”
Commenting on Verdine White’s Instagram post, Kravitz said, “I send my love and deepest condolences to you and your family.
“I was very lucky to be in his presence and impressed by him. A true king. Sleep in as long as you can.”
“Queen of Percussion” Sheila E also responded with prayer and dove emojis.
Comedian Loni Love wrote: “Rest in peace and thank you for the years of great fun.”
