maurice-white

The music world lost a legend, as Maurice White has passed away. White, 74, was the co-founder and leader of the legendary funk group Earth, Wind & Fire. Maurice passed away at his Los Angeles home on Wednesday after a long battle with Parkinsons Disease.

“My brother, hero and best friend Maurice White passed away peacefully last night in his sleep,” Earth, Wind & Fire member Verdine White 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.” The group also posted a message on Twitter saying, “Our brother Maurice White passed peacefully in his sleep this morning. The light is he, shining on you and me.”

Many, including Magic Johnson, Questlove, Q-Tip, and Juicy J took the time to send their condolences via social media on Thursday evening. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, Earth, Wind & Fire will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 58th annual GRAMMY Awards on Feb. 15 in Los Angeles.

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