Dennis "Dee Tee" Thomas, a founding member of the long-running soul-funk band Kool & the Gang, has passed away. His hits include "Celebration" and "Get Down On It."
He was 70 years old.
According to a statement from his representative, he died quietly in his sleep Saturday in Montclair, New Jersey, where he was a resident.
Thomas was a drummer, flute, and alto sax player.
At the band's performances, he was the master of ceremonies.
On July 4th, he performed with the band at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Thomas, who was born in Orlando, Florida on February 9, 1951, was most recognised for his prologue on the band's 1971 song "Who's Gonna Take the Weight."
He was the group's wardrobe stylist and was known for his trendy outfits and headwear.
According to the allegation, he used to be their "budget hawk," bringing their profits in a paper bag placed into the bell of his horn.
In 1964, seventeen friends called themselves the Jazziacs and formed the group's distinctive blend of jazz, soul, and funk. Before deciding on Kool & the Gang in 1969, they went through numerous versions.
Ronald and Robert Bell, as well as Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown, and Charles Smith, are the group's other founders.
Two Grammy Awards and seven American Music Awards have been bestowed upon the band.
In 2014, they received the Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award.
Their music has been sampled extensively and appears on film soundtracks such as "Rocky," "Saturday Night Fever," and "Pulp Fiction."
His wife, Phynjuar Saunders Thomas, daughter Tuesday Rankin, and sons David and Devin Thomas are among those who survive him.
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