Maurice White – Earth Wind and Fire frontman dies, 74

Maurice White – Earth Wind and Fire frontman dies, 74    

Maurice White has died at 74.

White was a singer, drummer, songwriter and producer and founding member for the evergreen funk and soul band,  Earth Wind & Fire.

The nine piece Earth Wind and Fire were one of the most influential bands of the 70’s in laying down the blueprint for the disco era that followed in the late 70’s. The band played a major role in influencing the artists such as Nile Rogers (Chic.)

Nile Rogers called Maurice White “one of the most amazing innovators of all time” in his tribute to the late great, while Diane Warren said “this world just got a lot less soulful.”

Maurice White was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease and although the band for which he was a founding member continued to perform, he had not been able to participate in recent years.

As the lead vocalist Maurice White had a distinctively soulful voice and shared vocal duties with singer Philip Bailey.

Some of the band’s biggest hits included September, Shining Star and Boogie Wonderland and their albums sold more than 90 million copies worldwide.

Brother and founding band member Verdine White confirmed the news;

“My brother, hero and best friend Maurice White passed away peacefully last night in his sleep. While the world has lost another great musician and legend, our family asks that our privacy is respected as we start what will be a very difficult and life changing transition in our lives. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes.”