Earth, Wind & Fire drummer Fred White dies aged 67
His brother announced the news of his passing
Last updated 3rd Jan 2023
Earth, Wind & Fire drummer Fred White sadly passed away at the age of 67, with the sad news announced by his bandmate and brother Verdine White.
The band was known for huge hits like 'September' and 'Boogie Wonderland' and the group's line-up included brothers Verdine, Fred and Maurice White. Throughout his career, Fred also drummed for other artists including The Emotions and Ramsey Lewis.
The news of his passing was shared by Verdine on Sunday 1st January on Instagram. Sharing photos of Fred, he wrote: 'Dearest Family Friends and Fans.....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! 🥁🥁
'Child protégé, member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old!
'He was brother number 4 in the family lineup. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
'But more than that at home and beyond he was the wonderful bro that was always entertaining and delightfully mischievous!' (sic)
He continued: '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!!
'We thank you all for your love, blessings and support at this time. Soar high baby bro, we love you to the shining ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️and back!' (sic)
Musician Nile Rodgers commented on the post: 'Deepest condolences, love and respect. ❤️'
Singer Lenny Kravitz added: 'Sending my love and deepest condolences to you and the family. I was blessed to have been in his presence and blessed to have been influenced by him. A true king. Rest in power.'
Our thoughts are with Fred White's family and friends.
Take a look at these other bands with siblings:
Oasis
Noel and Liam Gallagher formed Oasis in Manchester in 1991 and went on to worldwide stardom with massive hits and anthems including: 'Don't Look Back In Anger' and 'Supersonic'. Famously, the brothers didn't get on well and split in 2009. We hope they reunite one day!
Bee Gees
The Bee Gees formed in 1958, featuring brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. With their catchy tunes, they were incredibly prominent in the 70s disco era and their songs continue to fill dancefloors today. Sadly, Maurice passed away in 2003 and brother Robin died in 2012.
We do however have a film about the trio to look forward to as a biopic about their lives is in the making!
Sister Sledge
Formed in 1971 and hailing from Philadelphia, Sister Sledge (Debbie, Joni, Kim, and Kathy Sledge) also enjoyed incredible success during the Disco era. Their album 'We Are Family', co-produced by Nile Rodgers the mastermind behind Chic, included hits like 'He's The Greatest Dancer' and 'Lost In Music'.
Spandau Ballet
Spandau Ballet, including brothers Martin and Gary Kemp, were formed in London in 1979. The band went on to top the charts with hits like 'True' and 'Gold'. They also performed at Live Aid in 1985 alongside David Bowie, Queen and Elton John.
Dire Straits
One of the world's best-selling music artists, Dire Straights were formed in London in 1977 by Mark Knopfler and David Knopfler. Their album 'Brothers in Arms' was the first album to sell a million copies on compact disc.
The Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sisters (June, Bonnie, Ruth and Anita Pointer) were formed in California in the early 1970s and went on to produce hits like 'Jump (For My Love)' and 'I'm So Excited'. They have won a total of three Grammy Awards and have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
Sadly, Ruth is the only surviving origial member of the group.
The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys' original lineup consisted of brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine! Although they began as a garage band, they went on to solidify the pop genre and influence many future musicians with songs like 'Surfin USA' and 'Good Vibrations'.
The Jackson 5
The Jackson 5 was made up of Jackie, Tito, Marlon, Michael and Jermaine Jackson. In 1968, they were signed to now legendary label Motown Records and went on to achieve number one hits with tunes like 'I Want You Back' and 'ABC'.
The Nolan Sisters
Although they originally performed with their parents and brothers as The Singing Nolans, the Irish sisters (Maureen Nolan, Anne Nolan, Linda Nolan, Coleen Nolan, Bernie Nolan and Denise Nolan) took on the name of the The Nolan Sisters and went on to achieve huge success. Their song 'I'm In The Mood For Dancing' remains their biggest hit.
Earth, Wind & Fire
Founded by Maurice White, the group Earth, Wind & Fire also included brothers Verdine and Fred White. The band was known for their hit songs 'Shining Star', 'September' and 'Boogie Wonderland'.