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Kool & the Gang, Rhythm'n'Blues-Band; USA - Dennis Thomas bei Auftritt auf der Museumsmeile, Bonn

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NEW YORK (AP) — Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, a founding member of the long-running soul-funk band Kool & the Gang, has died. He was 70.

A statement from his representative says Thomas died peacefully in his sleep Saturday in New Jersey, where he was a resident of Montclair.

The soul-funk band is known for such hits as “Celebration” and “Get Down On It.”

Thomas’ last appearance with the group was on the Fourth of July at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

Thomas was the alto sax player, flutist and percussionist.

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