Earth, Wind & Fire founding member Maurice White has died, the Associated Press reports. The 74-year-old suffered from Parkinson’s Disease, which ultimately forced him out of the spotlight.
“My brother, hero and best friend Maurice White passed away peacefully last night in his sleep,” Verdine White, also a member of the band, told 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.”
R&B singers around the world went to Twitter to express their condolences.
Our brother Maurice White passed peacefully in his sleep this morning.
The light is he, shining on you and me. pic.twitter.com/ppWTHKUyG6
— Earth, Wind & Fire (@EarthWindFire) February 4, 2016
Maurice White. You were there when we were born,when we graduated,when we connected with our families,when we mourned,when we got married.
— solange knowles (@solangeknowles) February 5, 2016
My condolences to the family of the legendary Maurice White. He will be missed and his music will continue to be shared for generations.
— Joe Thomas (@JoeThomas4real) February 5, 2016
Maurice white wasn’t just an amazing composer, songwriter, artist and singer. He was one of the… https://t.co/C4fdEUm7c7
— Eric Roberson (@IAmEricRoberson) February 5, 2016
RIP Maurice White. A true legend.
— Tiffany Evans (@Mstiffevans) February 5, 2016
Rest In peace Maurice White. Thank you for the music. https://t.co/olHVSV6Kaq
— Deborah Cox (@Deborah_Cox) February 5, 2016
#Rip to Maurice White of Earth Wind & Fire…he used to always send me messages through… https://t.co/zsQJ7SLblf
— THE LOVE KING (@Raheem_DeVaughn) February 5, 2016
