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Fred White (musician) facts for kids

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Fred White
Birth name Frederick Eugene Adams
Born (1955-01-13)January 13, 1955
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Died January 1, 2023(2023-01-01) (aged 67)
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Genres R&B, funk, disco, soul
Occupation(s) Musician, songwriter
Labels Columbia, ARC

Fred E. White was an amazing American musician and songwriter. He was born Frederick Eugene Adams on January 13, 1955. Fred was a very important early member of the famous band Earth, Wind & Fire.

Before joining Earth, Wind & Fire, he showed off his drumming skills. He played drums on the live album by the legendary artist Donny Hathaway.

Fred White, along with his half-brother Maurice White and brother Verdine White, helped make Earth, Wind & Fire a huge success. Their music was loved by many. In the year 2000, Fred and the other members of Earth, Wind & Fire were honored. They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This is a very special award for musicians.

Fred White passed away in Los Angeles on January 1, 2023. He was 67 years old. His music continues to inspire people around the world.

Fred White's Musical Journey

Fred White was known for his incredible drumming talent. He started playing drums at a young age. His skills led him to work with many different artists. He was a very busy session drummer. This means he played drums on recordings for other musicians.

Early Recordings and Collaborations

Fred played drums on many albums in the 1970s and 1980s. Some of his early work included playing for artists like Simtec & Wylie. He also played on albums for Albertina Walker and The Caravans. One of his most notable early works was on Donny Hathaway's Live album.

He also contributed to albums by artists such as Willie Hutch and Linda Ronstadt. Fred's drumming helped create the sound for many popular songs.

Joining Earth, Wind & Fire

Fred White became a key part of Earth, Wind & Fire. He joined the band in the mid-1970s. With the band, he played drums on many of their biggest hits. These included albums like That's the Way of the World and Gratitude.

He also played on Spirit and All 'n All. These albums helped define the band's unique sound. Fred's drumming was a big part of their success. He also contributed to albums like I Am and Raise!.

Other Notable Works

Besides Earth, Wind & Fire, Fred White continued to work with other artists. He played drums for Deniece Williams on her albums This Is Niecy and Song Bird. He also worked with The Emotions on albums like Flowers and Rejoice.

His talent also led him to play with jazz artists. He contributed to albums by Ramsey Lewis. Fred's drumming style was unique and powerful. It helped shape the sound of funk, R&B, and soul music for many years.

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