Michael Sumler, a longtime member of the legendary R&B and funk band Kool & the Gang, has died at the age of 71 in a tragic car accident in Mableton, Georgia. The incident occurred on May 25, when Sumler was involved in a collision with another vehicle. According to the Cobb County Police Department, the crash took place on Veterans Memorial Highway west of Buckner Road at approximately 11:35 PM. Sumler, who had worked with the band as a wardrobe valet before joining as a stage performer, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle, Khary Weaver, a 33-year-old, was not injured, and the crash is currently under investigation.
The news of Sumler’s passing has been met with deep sorrow by the Kool & the Gang team, who described him as an invaluable member of the group. In a heartfelt tribute shared with Fox News Digital, the band’s representative expressed their grief, noting that Sumler had been with the group from 2000 to 2015, ensuring the band members looked their best on stage every night. He also brought energy and excitement to their performances, especially at the beginning of each show. Most recently, Sumler had been involved in the Kool with LeKool champagne events, where he was cherished for his enthusiasm and presence.
The tragedy marks a somber moment for a band that has been a staple of the R&B and funk music scene for decades. Kool & the Gang, known for chart-topping hits such as ‘Celebration’ and ‘Jungle Boogie,’ celebrated their 60th anniversary in 2023, which was a testament to their enduring popularity and influence. Robert ‘Kool’ Bell, the band’s founder and current lead, reflected on the band’s journey in 2024, expressing gratitude for the continued success and touring life. Despite the passing of key members, such as Sumler and the recently deceased Sam Moore, the band remains active, with Bell emphasizing the importance of their legacy and how each member has contributed to their enduring appeal over the years.
Kool & the Gang was founded in the 1960s by Bell, his brother Ronald Bell, and their high school friends, including Ricky Westfield, George Brown, Spike Mickens, Dennis Thomas, and Charles Smith. The group began as a jazz and soul band called the Jazziacs before undergoing several name changes, including The Soul Town Band and Kool & the Gang. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1970 under De-Lite Records, marked the beginning of their long and successful career. The band has since released 25 studio albums, with their most recent being ‘Perfect Union’ in 2021. Throughout their history, they have won two Grammy Awards and sold over 70 million albums worldwide, cementing their place in musical history.