Kool & the Gang's Michael Sumler dies in car crash

Michael Sumler, a long-time member of Kool & the Gang, has died. He was involved in a car crash on Sunday night. The accident occurred on Veterans Memorial Highway near Buckner Road. Sumler was 71 years old.

Mableton's mayor, Michael Owens, shared the news on Facebook. He said, "This Memorial Day weekend the world lost a music legend." He expressed condolences from the city and its council to Sumler's friends and family.

Local news outlet Cobb County Courier reported that Sumler's car collided with another vehicle. Sadly, he died at the scene.

Kool & the Gang posted on Facebook about Sumler's passing. They said they were "deeply saddened" by his death. Sumler worked as their wardrobe valet from 2000 to 2015. He ensured the band looked great on stage every night and energized the crowd with his dance moves.

The band shared fond memories of Mike and expressed how much they will miss him. They wished him peace in their post.

Sumler was also known as a backing vocalist for Kool & the Gang. The group formed in New Jersey during the 1960s and gained worldwide fame in subsequent decades.

Adrian Meeks, a friend of Sumler’s, called his death "a devastating blow." He noted that Sumler always wanted others to succeed in music.

Kool & the Gang have changed personnel many times over the years. They have explored various musical styles including jazz, funk, disco, rock, and pop since their first album release in 1969.

The band has won two Grammy Awards and sold over 70 million albums worldwide.