Kool & the Gang star Dennis ‘Dee Tee’ Thomas has died aged 70.
The musician, who was a founding member of the Grammy-winning Celebration group, passed away “peacefully” in his sleep in New Jersey, his bandmates have confirmed.
“An original member of Kool & the Gang, Dennis was known as the quintessential cool cat in the group, loved for his hip clothes and hats, and his laid-back demeanor,” they said in a statement.
“A huge personality while also an extremely private person, Dennis was the alto saxophone player, flutist, percussionist as well as master of ceremonies at the band’s shows.”
They added: “Dennis’ prologue featured on the group’s 1971 hit, Who’s Gonna Take the Weight is legendary and an example of his showmanship.
“Dee Tee was the group’s wardrobe stylist who made sure they always looked fresh. In the band’s early days, Dennis also served as the ‘budget hawk’, carrying the group’s earnings in a paper bag in the bell of his horn.”
A cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
The Get Down On It group formed in 1964 as Jazziacs, starring Ronald and Robert Bell, Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown and Charles Smith, before switching to Kool & the Gang five years later.
They were inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015 and played their final show with Dennis on July 4 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Dee Tee is survived by his wife Phynjuar Saunders Thomas and his three children, Tuesday Rankin, David Thomas and Devin Thomas.
