Fred White, a drummer for classic ’70s superband Earth, Wind & Fire, has died, according to an Instagram post from his older brother and former bandmate, Verdine White. As of Monday, the cause of Fred’s death was unknown. He was 67.
Verdine wrote on Instagram on Sunday, “Our family is saddened today With the loss of an amazing and talented family member, Our beloved brother Frederick Eugene “Freddie” White.”
“He joins our brothers Maurice, Monte and Ronald in heaven and is now drumming with the angels,” the post continued. Verdine called his brother a “child protégé” and identified him as an “original” member of Earth, Wind & Fire.
“But more than that at home and beyond he was the wonderful bro that was always entertaining and delightfully mischievous! And we could always count on him to make a seemingly bad situation more light hearted! He will live in our hearts forever, rest in power beloved Freddie,” he added before thanking fans for their “love, blessings and support.”
The EWF band page also shared a heartwarming video in memory of the late drummer, showing off his skills from a performance in Germany during their Tour of the World in 1979. One of the band’s lead singers, Philip Bailey, also posted, sharing a photo of himself, Ralph Johnson, and Fred celebrating their 1980s Grammy wins.
“The best of times,” he wrote. “We will miss you, Freddie.”
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