Soul Legend Brenton Wood, Famous for 'Oogum Boogum Song,' Passes Away at 83
Soul music has lost one of its beloved figures, Brenton Wood, who passed away at the age of 83. Known for his unforgettable 1967 hit "The Oogum Boogum Song," Wood’s influence on the genre remains timeless. Born Alfred Jesse Smith on July 26, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, he moved to San Pedro, California, during his youth, where he began to cultivate his musical talents. It was in the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles that Wood’s soulful voice and skill as a pianist flourished.
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His career began to take shape in the 1960s, but it was the release of "The Oogum Boogum Song" that truly launched him into the spotlight. The catchy and infectious track became an instant classic, earning a spot on the Billboard R&B charts at No. 19. This single would go on to have a lasting impact, being used in various film and television shows, including The Umbrella Academy and Almost Famous , which introduced his music to new generations of fans.
Though "Oogum Boogum" was Wood’s most recognized track, he had several other hits, including “Gimme Little Sign,” which reached No. 9 on the pop charts. These songs reflected his smooth, soulful style that was influenced by greats such as Sam Cooke and Jesse Belvin. Wood's passion for music never waned throughout his life. In 1972, he took a bold step by starting his own label, Prophesy Records, which allowed him to remain independent and continue producing music on his terms.
Despite a career that spanned several decades, Wood always remained grounded in his love for music. His final tour, titled Catch You on the Rebound , launched in early 2024, signaling that the soul singer was still ready to connect with his fans. Unfortunately, his tour was cut short when he was hospitalized in May 2024.
Brenton Wood’s influence stretched far beyond his chart-topping hits. His music, particularly “Oogum Boogum Song,” continued to resonate across various mediums, proving that the spirit of his soul-infused sound was timeless. Even in his later years, Wood’s legacy remained strong, his final words to fans echoing the title of one of his iconic songs: “Catch you on the rebound.” His death marks the end of an era in soul music, but his contributions will forever be remembered and celebrated by music lovers around the world.
Wood passed away peacefully at his home in Moreno Valley, California, surrounded by his loved ones. As the world mourns the loss of this soulful icon, his music will continue to play on, reminding us of the joy and energy he brought into our lives with every note he played.
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