This Earth has lost another incredible musician, as the legendary Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire has passed away at the age of 74. Initially reported by TMZ, White passed away after a lengthy battle with the debilitating Parkinson’s Disease. While he had not toured with EWF in some time, Maurice was actively involved with the band up until his death, and remained involved in any decision making for the group.
Maurice White got his start recording music for commercials with a group called The Salty Peppers, and eventually migrated from Chicago to Los Angeles. The group, which featured Wade Flemons and Don Whitehead, changed their name to Earth, Wind & Fire, and the rest, as they say, was history.
White’s ability to lead a band is second to none, as the group racked up accolades and chart-topping hits throughout the years. Six Grammys, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame, a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame… just a handful of awards recognizing the enormous talent of this group.
Songs like “Shining Star” and “September” remain iconic classics of a bygone era, steeped in the smooth R&B and soul that only EWF truly possessed. White was unfortunately diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the 1980s, and stopped touring with the band in 1994. White is survived by his brother Verdine White, who still remains a vital member of the classic group.
Verdine penned the following note in honor of his brother:
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.
Yours Truly,
Verdine White
RIP Maurice White, your music is an inspiration to us all.