Dennis Thomas Biography – Wiki
Dennis Thomas, the saxophonist, and co-founder of Kool & the Gang has passed away. The band announced the sad news, adding that he passed away peacefully at his home in New Jersey.
Born on February 9, 1951, in Orlando, Florida, Thomas was known for his foreword to the band’s 1971 hit “Who’s Gonna Take the Weight,” which was a hit. Thomas, known for his modern dress style and his hats, was also the group’s costume stylist. When the band started, Thomas served as the band’s “budget hawk,” carrying his earnings in a paper bag tucked into the bell of his horn, the statement said. In 1964, seventeen friends created the group’s unique blend of jazz, soul, and funk, initially calling themselves Jazziacs, but soon changed it to ‘Kool & the Gang’ in 1969. The other founders of the band are the Ronald brothers. and Robert Bell. and Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown, and Charles Smith. The band has won two Grammy Awards and seven American Music Awards.
The band was also honored in 2014 with a Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award and their music appears on movie soundtracks, including those for ‘Rocky’, ‘Saturday Night Fever, and ‘Pulp Fiction.
Age
Dennis Thomas has died at the age of 70-years-old.
Wife & Children
Thomas was married to Phynjuar Saunders Thomas. In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his daughter Tuesday Rankin and his sons David Thomas and Devin Thomas.
Cause Of Death
Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, a founding member of the old soul-funk band Kool & the Gang, known for hits like Celebration and Get Down On It, has passed away. He was 70 years old.
He died peacefully in his sleep Saturday in New Jersey, where he resided in Montclair, according to a statement from his representative.
Dennis Thomas was the co-founder of the marching band ‘Kool & the Gang’. The band was known for their 1971 hit, “Who’s Gonna Take the Weight.” Saxophonist and Kool & the Gang co-founder Dennis Thomas died on Saturday, August 7. The band announced the sad news, adding that he passed away peacefully at his home in New Jersey.
