Kool & The Gang founding member Dennis Thomas dead at 70

Dennis 'Dee Tee' Thomas, a founding member of the long-running soul-funk band Kool & The Gang, has died. Thomas died peacefully in his sleep Saturday, Aug 7, 2021 in New Jersey, where he was a resident of Montclair. Photo: AP

Kool & The Gang alto sax player Dennis "Dee Tee” Thomas, an original member of the beloved soul-funk band known for its enduring party anthems Celebration and Get Down On It, has died.

Thomas "passed away peacefully in his sleep” Saturday (Aug 7) at the age of 70, a representative for the band confirmed.