Soul singer Brenton Wood, behind the 1967 hit Oogum Boogum Song, dies aged 83

Soul singer Brenton Wood, behind the 1967 hit Oogum Boogum Song, dies aged 83

Soul singer Brenton Wood, behind the 1967 hit Oogum Boogum Song, dies aged 83

Soul Singer Brenton Wood Passes Away at 83

Brenton Wood, the soulful voice behind the 1967 classic The Oogum Boogum Song, has died at the age of 83, as confirmed by his manager, Manny Gallegos. Wood passed away at his home in Moreno Valley, California, just east of Los Angeles.

Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, and raised in San Pedro, Los Angeles, Wood developed his love for music during his time at Compton College. Inspired by artists like Sam Cooke, he became known for his smooth vocals and piano skills. His rendition of Cooke’s A Change is Gonna Come was a testament to his admiration for the legendary singer.

Wood rose to fame with The Oogum Boogum Song, a joyful track that peaked at No. 19 on the Billboard R&B charts and gained renewed recognition through films and TV series like The Umbrella Academy and Don’t Worry Darling. In 1972, he founded Prophesy Records, later transitioning to Mr. Wood Records, releasing music for nearly five decades.

Earlier this year, he embarked on his final tour, Catch You on the Rebound, named after another 1967 hit. However, health issues led to his hospitalization in May, cutting the tour short.

Wood’s music remains a celebration of joy, love, and resilience, ensuring his soulful legacy endures.

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