Deadline, the singer and songwriter died at his residence in the U.S. Virgin Islands. No information regarding his cause of death has been released.
Bell penned and composed some of Kool & the Gang’s most anthemic songs, including “Celebration,” “Cherish,” “Jungle Boogie” and “Summer Madness.” The saxophonist founded the group with his brother Robert “Kool” Bell in 1964 in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Later the two added Dennis “D.T.” Thomas, Robert “Spike” Mickens, Charles Smith, George Brown and Ricky West to the line-up.
Kool & the Gang released their debut album in 1970. They quickly rose to the top of the industry’s ranks with a distinct mix of lively jazz, soul and funk.
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