Earth, Wind and Fire drummer Fred White dies

A drummer in the legendary band Earth, Wind and Fire has died. Fred White passed away on Jan. 1. Mr. White's playing was well known on classics such as "Shining Star" and "Boogie Wonderland." He was 67.

The death was confirmed in a statement on Instagram by his brother and bandmate Verdine White:

"Dearest Family Friends and Fans….. Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our beloved brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White,’ he wrote.

"He joins our brothers Maurice, Monte and Ronald in heaven and is now drumming with the angels! Child protégé, member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old! He was brother number 4 in the family lineup."

"But more than that at home and beyond he was the wonderful bro that was always entertaining and delightfully mischievous! And we could always count on him to make a seemingly bad situation more light hearted! "He will live in our hearts forever, rest in power beloved Freddie!! We thank you all for your love, blessings and support at this time. Soar high baby bro, we love you to the shining [stars] and back!" " Verdine concluded.

The son of Verdine White, Sr. and Edna Parker White he was the full brother of Verdine abd half brotehr ofgroup founder Maurice who preceded him in death Maurice. He began playing at the age ofn nine and was a member of the group before joing EW&F at 16.

Fred White of Earth, Wind adn Fire via Instagram

Details about the cause of death were not shared.