Maurice White, the charismatic co-founder and frontman of American soul, funk, and pop group Earth, Wind & Fire, died at his Los Angeles home yesterday at the age of 74, according to the Associated Press.
White had been battling Parkinson's Disease.
Earth, Wind & Fire sold more than 90 million albums worldwide, and boasted hits like "September", "Boogie Wonderland", and "Shining Star." They received six Grammys and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. Ten years later, White was individually inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
TMZ reports that White "was diagnosed [with Parkinson's] in 1992 and his condition deteriorated in recent months. The disease had progressed to the point he was forced to stop touring with the band 1994."
Maurice's brother, Verdine, posted the following message on the Earth, Wind & Fire Facebook page: "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."
Though White was no longer turing with the group, Earth, Wind & Fire are set to play Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut on April 9, with Chicago. More to come as this story develops...