Andrew Woolfolk who was the saxophonist for the band Earth, Wind & Fire has died aged 71, after a six-year health battle.
On Monday, the band’s frontman Philip Bailey took to Instagram to share the sad news of Andrew’s death to fans.
He wrote: “I met him in High School, and we quickly became friends and bandmates. Andrew Paul Woolfolk was his name. We lost him today, after being ill of over 6 years.
“He has Transitioned on to the forever, from this Land of the dying to the Land of the Living. Great memories. Great Talent. Funny. Competitive. Quick-witted. And always styling.
“Booski… I’ll see you on the other side, my friend.”
(Image: Redferns)
American band Earth, Wind & Fire spanned the musical genres of jazz, R&B, soul, funk, disco and pop and have been described as one of the most innovative bands in commercial history.
Andrew first joined the band in 1973 and played the saxophone with them until 1985. He then later returned in 1987.
Andrew’s first album with the group, Head to the Sky, was released in 1973 and went platinum.
The saxophonist then performed on several other Earth, Wind & Fire records which include their 1975 hit single That’s the Way of the World.
(Image: Getty Images)
The band also went on to have other smash-hit songs like September and Let’s Groove.
During the band’s hiatus, Andrew continued his career, playing with other musical artists such as Deniece Williams, Stanley Turrentine, Phil Collins, Twennynine, Philip Bailey and Level 42.
He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire.
Since the news of his passing, fans have flooded to social media to share their condolences.
(Image: Getty Images)
Taking to Twitter, one person wrote: “September, Earth Wind & Fire’s ode to the last night of summer is an enduring jam for ALL seasons. Part lies in #AndrewWoolfolk saxophone—He made September impossible NOT to dance & I never stopped in 1979. Play on with Angels.”
Another said: “Rest well, Andrew Woolfolk. Saxophonist for Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic period. One of my absolute favorites because he made every note count. You may not know his face or his name, but he was an integral part of THE sound. Wow…”
While a third chimed: “Rest in power, Andrew Woolfolk. I know your hooks by heart. Earth, Wind & Fire saxophonist Andrew Woolfolk dies at 71.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
