Dennis ‘Dee Tee’ Thomas was a saxophonist and the co-founder of Kool & the Gang. He passed away in his sleep on Saturday in New Jersey at the age of 70.

“An original member of Kool & the Gang, Dennis was known as the quintessential cool cat in the group, loved for his hip clothes and hats, and his laid-back demeanor,” the spokesperson said in a statement, according to NBC reports. “A huge personality while also an extremely private person, Dennis was the alto saxophone player, flutist, percussionist as well as master of ceremonies at the band’s shows.”

Born in Orlando, Florida, in 1951, Thomas was among seven teens who helped form the New Jersey band, famous for its blend of jazz, soul and funk, in 1964.

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Thomas started the band with Bell, Bell’s brother, Robert “Kool” Bell, and neighbourhood friends Robert “Spike” Mickens, Charles Smith, George Brown and Ricky West.

Originally known as the Jazziacs, the group went through numerous other names until settling on Kool & the Gang in 1969. In the same year, the band signed with De-Lite Records and released their self-titled first album.

“Dee Tee”, as he was affectionately called, served as the band’s alto saxophone player, flautist, percussionist and master of ceremonies at the group’s shows. He most recently performed with the award-winning ensemble at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on July 4.

Within the band, Thomas wore several roles, including clothing stylist and “budget hawk,” with the saxophonist keeping the band’s profits in a paper bag in the bell of his horn in the early days.

Following their debut album, Kool & the Gang released two more before Thomas and the rest of the band began their long journey with fame with 1973’s Wild and Peaceful, which featured top-ten singles “Jungle Boogie” and “Hollywood Swinging.”

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The band’s entire discography, which includes 1979’s Ladies’ Night, 1980’s Celebrate! and 1984’s Emergency, features 31 gold and platinum albums. 

Kool & the Gang has earned two Grammy Awards and seven American Music Awards, in addition to being inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame and having a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.