Fred White, the drummer behind the Grammy-winning ‘70s ensemble Earth, Wind, and Fire has joined the creator at the age of 67. His death was announced by his older brother and band vocalist Verdine White on a social media post last Sunday.

Verdine wrote on Instagram, “Our family is saddened today, with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our beloved brother Frederick Eugene “Freddie” White.”

A child protégé according to his brothers, Fred began playing the drums at 9 and start receiving gold records at the age of 16 years old. Before he joined Earth, Wind, and Fire he was an accomplished drummer, playing and touring with American Soul Singer, Donny Hathaway.

Later, he became the key to the band’s hitmaking beats and bring life to many of its greatest hits like Let’s groove, Boogie Wonderland, and the unforgettable September which was streamed 1.18 billion times on Spotify and was featured in the fantasy comedy film, Night at the Museum.

With the band, Fred won six (6) Grammys and was nominated 13 times.

Fred recently collaborated with Diana Ross on her 2021 album entitled “Thank You”.