death

Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer Fred White Dead At 67

by

Fred White, the drummer for the legendary band Earth, Wind, & Fire, has passed away at the age of 67. The band confirmed the news on Sunday.

White’s brother and bandmate, Verdine, shared a post for Fred on Instagram.

“Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member. Our beloved brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White,” Verdine wrote to his fans.

NETHERLANDS – MARCH 14: AHOY Photo of EARTH WIND & FIRE and Fred WHITE, Drummer Fred White performing on stage (Photo by Rob Verhorst/Redferns)

He further continued: “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!”

Lenny Kravitz also shared his condolences in the comments section of the post.

“Sending my love and deepest condolences to you and the family,” Kravitz wrote. “I was blessed to have been in his presence and blessed to have been influenced by him. A true king. Rest in power.”

Fred got his start in music when he was 14 years old. He first played with the band the Salty Peppers before joining Earth, Wind & Fire in 1974. The iconic band is best known for their hits “September,” “Shining Star” and “Let’s Groove.” They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame back in 2000.

Outside of his work with Earth, Wind, & Fire, Fred played drums on songs for Bonnie Raitt, Donny Hathaway, Deniece Williams, as well as Diana Ross.

Check out Earth, Wind, & Fire’s posts for the late Fred White below.

[Via]

Angela Bassett’s Son Apologizes For Michael B. Jordan Death Prank

by

Angela Bassett’s 16-year-old son, Slater Vance, has apologized after playing into a prank about the death of Michael B. Jordan. In a TikTok video, Slater told his parents that the iconic actor passed away.

For the trending prank, someone pretends that a famous celebrity has died and records the reaction of the person they’re telling. In Slater’s clip, Bassett clutches at her chest in response, while his father, Courtney B. Vance, refuses to believe the news.

HOLLYWOOD, CA – JANUARY 29: Slater Vance, Angela Bassett, Bronwyn Vance and Courtney B. Vance attend the Premiere Of Disney And Marvel’s “Black Panther” – Arrivals on January 29, 2018 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Slater later shared an apology for the insensitive TikTok.

“I apologize to Michael B. Jordan’s entire family, his extended family, and him directly as he is an idol of mine,” Slater said. “Taking part in a trend like this is completely disrespectful. I don’t wish any bad ramifications upon his family nor my parents as they deserve none of the backlash.”

Slater added: “I own this was a mistake. I hope this can be a teaching lesson to anyone who uses social media as a tool and a source of entertainment to truly understand that your actions can have consequences that extend beyond you.”

Bassett recently starred alongside Jordan in both Black Panther and its sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Finneas, brother of Billie Eilish, called on his young followers to stop the trend.

“I haven’t laughed once at any of your videos of you telling your parents somebody died when they didn’t actually die,” Finneas said in his own video, before adding, “Your parents are showing vulnerability for a brief second and you’re laughing at them.”

Check out Slater’s apology video below.

[Via]

Gangsta Boo Dead At 43: Report

by

Gangsta Boo has reportedly passed away at the age of 43, according to TMZ. Her Three 6 Mafia collaborator, DJ Paul, seemingly confirmed the news in a post on Instagram, Sunday afternoon.

In comments on Paul’s post, numerous artists including 2 Chainz, Krayzie Bone, Lil Jon, and more shared their condolences.

ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 19: Gangsta Boo performs with Run The Jewels at Music Midtown at Piedmont Park on September 19, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Chris McKay/Getty Images for Live Nation)

The exact circumstances surrounding Gangsta Boo’s death remain unclear. However, Fox 13 reports that her body was discovered around 4:00 PM, local time in Memphis, Tennessee.

Regarded as a pioneer of female rap, Gansta Boo‘s career began to take off in the 1990s when she started collaborating with Paul, Juicy J, and other founding members of Three 6 Mafia. She was featured on the group’s first 5 studio albums.

As a solo artist, Boo released three albums: Enquiring Minds (1998), Both Worlds *69 (2001), and Enquiring Minds II: The Soap Opera (2003). In the years since her departure from Three 6 Mafia, Boo has collaborated with countless high-profile artists. All-in-all, she’s worked with Gucci Mane, Lil John, OutKast, E-40, T.I., The Game, as well as Run the Jewels, and many more.

Boo most recently appeared on Latto’s “F.T.C.U.” alongside Glorilla. In speaking about the collaboration, she told Billboard: “Anytime I can contribute and support any female rapper that I like, that like me back, I’m always down for it.”

In the wake of Boo’s passing, numerous artists have begun sharing tributes online.

“Love you Lola thank you for your friendship,” El-P wrote in one post.

Freddie Gibbs tweeted: “Damn we was just together. RIP Queen.”

Check out DJ Paul’s post for Gangsta Boo below.

[Via]

Modest Mouse Drummer Jeremiah Green Dead At 45

by

Modest Mouse drummer Jeremiah Green has passed away at the age of 45, the band confirmed on Sunday. His death comes just days after the group announced he had been diagnosed with cancer.

Modest Mouse frontman Isaac Brock confirmed that Green had passed in a post on Instagram.

“I don’t know a way to ease into this: Today we lost our dear friend Jeremiah,” Brock wrote. “He laid down to rest and simply faded out. I’d like to say a bunch of pretty words right now, but it just isn’t the time. These will come later, and from many people.”

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 22: Musician Jeremiah Green of Modest Mouse performs on stage at Cal Coast Credit Union Amphitheater on September 22, 2021 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)

“Please appreciate all the love you give, get, have given, and will get,” he further said. “Above all, Jeremiah was about love. We love you.”

Modest Mouse guitarist Simon O’Connor added in a post of his own: “Jeremiah, You are the reason I joined Modest Mouse. You are selfless, hilarious, brave, and exceptionally kind. I would look at you from across the stage and you knew when I was feeling lost and needed assurance.”

Green was a founding member of Modest Mouse back in 1993. He stayed with the group through 2003, before taking a year-long break. Green then returned in 2004 and remained with the group until his passing.

Modest Mouse released their debut album, This Is a Long Drive for Someone with Nothing to Think About, in 1996. Their biggest singles include “Float On,” “Ocean Breathes Salty,” “Dashboard,” “Missed the Boat,” and more.

He was married to Lauren Green, with whom he shares one son.

Check out the posts for Green below.

[Via]

UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar Dead At 45

by

UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar has passed away at the age of 45. Bonnar reportedly died of presumed heart complications while at work. UFC president Dana White confirmed his death in a statement on Saturday.

“Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon,” White told UFC.com after his passing. “His fight with Forrest Griffin changed the sport forever, and he will never be forgotten. The fans loved him, related to him and he always gave them his best. He will be missed.”

LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 06: (L-R) Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar pose for photos with their UFC Hall of Fame plaques during the UFC Fan Expo Las Vegas 2013 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center on July 6, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Powers/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Bonnar made a name for himself during the first season of The Ultimate Fighter. He took on Forrest Griffin in the final fight. It is widely considered one of the most important bouts in the sport’s history. Both fighters were inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2013.

“The UFC family is saddened by the passing of UFC Hall of Famer Stephan Bonnar. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends,” a post from the UFC’s social media accounts reads.

All-in-all, Bonnar competed in mixed martial arts for 13 years from 2001-14. He finished his career 15-9 in 24 bouts. During his career, he fought numerous future and former UFC champions, including Griffin, Tito Ortiz, Anderson Silva, Rashad Evans, Jon Jones, Lyoto Machida, and Mark Coleman.

Outside of fighting, Bonnar has also worked as an MMA analyst for both ESPN and Fox Sports. Additionally, he made multiple appearances with Impact Wrestling in 2019.

[Via]

Sonya Eddy, General Hospital Star, Dead At 55

by

Sonya Eddy, who starred in the ABC soap opera, General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 55. The show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, confirmed her passing in a statement on Tuesday.

“I am heartbroken about the loss of the incredible Sonya Eddy,” Valentini wrote. “I truly loved her not only as an actress but as a friend. The lights in the hub of the nurses’ station will now be a bit dimmer, but her spirit and light will live on in both the show and our set. On behalf of the entire GH cast and crew, we send our deepest sympathy to her family, friends, and fans. She will be very missed.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Sonya Eddy attends the Premiere of Apple TV+’s “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey” at Regency Bruin Theatre on March 07, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/FilmMagic)

ABC also confirmed Eddy’s passing in an email to Page Six: “‘General Hospital’ is sad to confirm the passing of actress Sonya Eddy, who embodied her character … the tough but compassionate, head nurse, Epiphany Johnson … and immediately became a fan favorite and beloved member of our ‘GH’ family when she joined the show in 2006.”

No details regarding her death were provided as of Tuesday afternoon. Octavia Spencer reflected on her passing in a statement on Instagram.

“My friend @sonyaeddy passed away last night. The world lost another creative angel. Her legions of @generalhospitalabc fans will miss her,” Spencer wrote. “My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones, friends, and fans!”

In addition to her work on General Hospital, Eddy also appeared in episodes of Seinfeld, Fresh Off the Boat, Glee, and more. She also was included as a regular cast member in the spin-off, General Hospital: Night Shift.

Check out Octavia Spencer’s Instagram post below.

[Via]

Tom Browning, World Series Winner, Dead At 62

by

Tom Browning, who won the 1990 World Series with the Cincinnati Reds, has died at the age of 62. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his passing on Monday.

Officers responded to a call to Browning’s home which reported that a man was not breathing. On the scene, they discovered the retired pitcher was unresponsive on his couch. Officer and E.M.S. personnel attempted life-saving measures, but they were unsuccessful. Authorities do not suspect foul play.

1989: CINCINNATI REDS PITCHER TOM BROWNING DELIVERS A PITCH AGAINST THE DODGERS AT DODGER STADIUM IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. MANDATORY CREDIT: STEPHEN DUNN/ALLSPORT

The Cincinnati Reds released a statement afterward mourning the loss on Tuesday.

“The entire Reds family is stunned and deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tom Browning,” the team said. “Affectionately referred to as ‘Mr. Perfect,’ Tom was a true Red who after his playing made the Cincinnati area his home and remained heavily involved within the organization.”

They further continued: “A fan favorite, the Reds Hall of Famer touched fans’ hearts at team events, Reds Hall of Fame festivities and Reds Community Fun activities. We join Reds Country in mourning the loss of one of our all-time greats, who created so many memories and magical moments for us all. Our deepest condolences to Tom’s family during this difficult time.”

Browning joined the Reds as a ninth-round draft pick in 1982. He made his debut with the team two years later as a 24-year-old.

In addition to winning the World Series, Browning notably threw the 12th perfect game in MLB history in 1988. He was also an All-Star in 1991. He retired with the Kansas City Royals in 1995.

Following his playing career, Browning released a book titled Tom Browning’s Tales from the Reds Dugout in 2006.

Check out the Reds’ statement below.

[Via]

Master P Fires Back At Romeo Miller On IG

by

Master P and his son, Romeo Miller, traded shots on Instagram over the weekend. Miller seems to have blamed the loss of his sister, Tytyana Miller, on Master P neglecting her mental health struggles.

The dispute became public when Romeo called out his father on Friday. He also shared a poem titled “The Tree of Trauma” on Saturday.

“Today was a boiling point,” Romeo wrote at the time. “I seen a man avoid his own children struggle with suicide and depression but post another man whom passed today that he doesn’t even know. Yall idols be lost. Better stop following the blind. Watch when it’s revealed.”

NEW ORLEANS, LA – JUNE 29: Rapper Master P at 2017 Essence Festival – Celebrity Charity Basketball Game at Xavier University Convocation Center on June 29, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

On Sunday, Master P fired back, revealing that he hasn’t spoken to his son in months.

“This new generation of kids need to stop blaming their parents for everything. How do they think they got to where they are without their parents making sacrifices for them?” Master P wrote. “Mental illness is real and so many families are tragically affected by it especially when there is added trauma like death of a loved on.”

“Son, I love you. Stop trying to get people to feel sorry for you. And let’s come up with a solution,” he added. “You can come talk to your father and your family, like a man, you have kids too. No family is perfect but together with God, we can heal and get through this.”

Romeo responded to the posts in the comments sections, admitting that they are the “last straw.”

“I loved you so much that I followed you blindly for 30+yrs,” he continued, “You know we’ve talked behind closed doors. You aren’t the man who you paint to be and why is it war because I refuse to follow ur lead. You only want to protect your image, but the image isn’t even real.”

Check out Master P’s post on Instagram below as well as Romeo’s poem.

[Via]

Stephen “tWitch” Boss, DJ For Ellen DeGeneres, Dead At 40

by

Stephen “tWitch” Boss, who is the DJ for The Ellen DeGeneres Show, has died at the age of 40. His wife, Allison Holker Boss, confirmed the news in a statement provided to People on Wednesday.

Holker Boss wrote: “Stephen lit up every room he stepped into. He valued family, friends and community above all else and leading with love and light was everything to him. He was the backbone of our family, the best husband and father, and an inspiration to his fans.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST 04: Stephen “tWitch” Boss attends the 4moms Car Seat launch event at Petersen Automotive Museum on August 4, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for 4moms)

She continued: “He was the backbone of our family, the best husband and father, and an inspiration to his fans. To say he left a legacy would be an understatement, and his positive impact will continue to be felt. I am certain there won’t be a day that goes by that we won’t honor his memory.”

“Stephen, we love you, we miss you, and I will always save the last dance for you,” Holker concluded.

TMZ reports that Boss’ death appears to be a suicide. Holker had reportedly been worried about his whereabouts after noting he left home without his car. Paramedics later found him dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at a hotel in L.A.

In addition to his work on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Boss rose to fame on the show, So You Think You Can Dance. He was also a semifinalist on MTV’s The Wade Robson Project, back in 2003. Later in his career, he appeared in both the Step Up movie franchise as well as Magic Mike XXL.

Boss and Holker celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary just days ago.

[Via]

Grand Daddy I.U. Dies At 54

by

Grand Daddy I.U. has passed away at the age of 54. LL Cool J, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, and more all mourned the veteran rapper afterward on social media, Tuesday.

Grand Daddy I.U. was a leading artist on the iconic label Cold Chillin’ Records in the late 1980s. Before then, the late Biz Markie helped him get signed after hearing one of his demo tapes. His debut album, Smooth Assassin, later helped him land several songs on the charts, including “Something New” and “Sugar Free.”

NEW YORK, NEW YORK–MARCH 10: Rapper Grand Daddy I.U. (aka Ayub Bey) and his crew appears in a portrait taken on March 10, 1994 in New York City. (Photo by Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

In addition to his own music, Grand Daddy I.U. also produced for Das EFX, Heltah Skeltah, KRS-One, Ice-T, and others.

According to TMZ, the Queens-born rapper died peacefully in his sleep; however, the outlet did not confirm a cause of death.

As for the reaction to his passing, several popular voices in the hip-hop community shared tributes for him during posts on social media.

Pete Rock wrote online: “GRAND DADDY IU YOU WERE A GREAT PERSON AND IM SAD RIGHT NOW.”

“Rest in power King. HipHop was in your DNA. @granddaddy_iu Thank You for your contribution,” LL Cool J also wrote in a post on Instagram.

Method Man commented on LL Cool J’s post: “Long Island Legend … rest in power King.”

In addition, Busta Rhymes wrote: “Waking up to this crazy, RIP ALMIGHTY GDIU!!”

As noted by AllHipHop, N.O.R.E. listed I.U. in his list of top five rappers dead or alive back in 2008.

“Grand Daddy I.U. was one of the most lyrical, wordplay-having emcees,” he said at the time. “Young artists like Murda Mook… they don’t understand a lot of their style was fathered by Grand Daddy I.U.”

Check out some of the responses to Grand Daddy I.U.’s passing below as well as his song, “Something New.”

[Via]