Kool & the Gang Trombonist Clifford Adams Has Passed Away

After a battle with liver cancer, Adams has passed at 62 years old.

Not Available Lead
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Not Available Lead

Kool and the Gang trombonist Clifford Adams passed away today in New Jersey. He was 62 years old, and had been inflicted with liver cancer for about a year. Unfortunately, Adams didn't have medical insurance, which made his recovery problematic. While hospitalized, Adams' friends and families attempted to raise money for a liver transplant. On January 16 in New Jersey, his family and friends will again be having a fundraiser, this time aiming to offset his remaining medical expenses. 

Adams was best known for his heavy involvement in Kool & the Gang, receiving credit in many of the band's studio albums. He also worked with Patti Labelle and Duke Ellington, among many other prominent jazz and R&B musicians and signers. Even with his constant collaborations, Adams still found time to put down to solo records. His two studio albums, The Master Power and I Feel Your Spirit can be streamed on Adams' website. 

Kool & the Gang member Michael Ray shared a few thoughts about Adams' passing to NJ.com: "He was powered by family values and he was one of the baddest trombone players in all the planet," said Ray. "He loved the music and he was a master musician. He taught me so much."

[via E! Online]

Latest in Music