brothers Ronald Bell and Robert “Kool” Bell, Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown and Charles Smith. The group infused their jazz, blues, soul and funk influence and eventually become the influential Kool & The Gang in 1969.
They went on to win two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, 25 top-10 R&B hits, 9 top-10 pop hits and 31 platinum albums with major hits such as “Get Down On It,” “Jungle Boogie” and “Celebration.”Thomas was an accomplished musician on several different instruments including the alto saxophone, flute, and percussion.
He was also known as the group’s wardrobe director, giving the band its distinct, funky look and the emcee of their live performances.Thomas played his final show with the band at a July 4,.
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