Jersey City · 1969
The band
Seven teenagers built a sound from jazz, rhythm and blues, soul and funk.
Follow the full historyThe beginning
The Magnificent Seven
Robert Bell
Kool
In the band 1969–present
The only founding member still in the band, and the constant across every era. His bass is displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Bass Ronald Bell
Khalis Bayyan
In the band 1969–2020
Co-founder, principal songwriter and producer. Robert Bell's brother. Wrote or co-wrote the run of hits the band is known for. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018.
Tenor saxophone · Keyboards George Brown
Funky
In the band 1969–2023
Co-founder, drummer and a principal songwriter. Published a memoir, Too Hot: Kool & The Gang & Me, on 11 July 2023, four months before his death. Ran the label Astana Music.
Drums · Keyboards Dennis Thomas
Dee Tee
In the band 1969–2021
Co-founder. One third of the original horn section with Ronald Bell and Robert Mickens, the sound the debut album was built on.
Alto saxophone · Flute Claydes Charles Smith
Clay
In the band 1969–2006
Founding guitarist. Longest continuous tenure after Robert Bell.
Guitar Robert Mickens
Spike
In the band 1969–1985
Founding trumpeter and part of the original horn section credited on the debut album.
Trumpet Ricky Westfield
Rick West
In the band 1969–1976
Founding keyboard player, one of the original seven.
Keyboards