Earth, Wind & Fire Founder Maurice White 1941 – 2016

The music world has lost another great as founder Maurice White has died. TMZ broke the news of White’s passing which was confirmed by the band. Maurice died in his sleep on Thursday morning according to TMZ’s report. White was 74-years-old.

White was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease which led to his 1994 decision to stop touring with Earth, Wind & Fire, however he was still involved with band decisions. According to TMZ, Maurice’s condition worsened in recent months. The note shared by Earth, Wind & Fire reads, “Our brother Maurice White passed peacefully in his sleep this morning. The light is he, shining on you and me.”

“My brother, hero and best friend Maurice White passed away peacefully last night in his sleep,” Earth Wind & Fire’s Verdine White (Maurice’s younger brother) said in a statement to The Associated Press. “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.”

Maurice White founded Earth, Wind & Fire in 1969. He was co-lead singer with Philip Bailey as the group produced such hits as “Shining Star,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Let’s Groove” and “Sing A Song.” He was also the band’s main songwriter and record producer. White was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame along with the rest of Earth, Wind & Fire in 2000 and was also inducted as an individual into the Songwriters Hall Of Fame in 2010. White won seven Grammys after being nominated for 21 over the years.

Our thoughts are with Maurice White’s friends and family.