Soul Legend Brenton Wood Passes Away at 83: A Tribute to His Musical Legacy

Brenton Wood, the iconic soul singer renowned for his 1967 hit “Oogum Boogum Song,” has sadly passed away at the age of 83. The announcement was confirmed by Wood’s manager, Manny Gallegos, as reported by TMZ and Variety.

Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood was raised in the vibrant coastal community of San Pedro, Los Angeles. His musical journey began during his high school years in Compton, where he developed a passion for music and later attended Compton College. As a talented singer and pianist, Wood drew inspiration from celebrated artists like Sam Cooke, covering the classic “A Change is Gonna Come.”

While he released several records early in his career, “Oogum Boogum Song” catapulted Wood to fame, peaking at No. 19 on the Billboard R&B charts. The infectious tune gained renewed popularity through its features in various films and television shows, including “The Umbrella Academy,” “Almost Famous,” and “Don’t Worry Darling.”

In 1972, Wood established his own label, Prophesy Records, and continued to release music under Mr. Wood Records for nearly five decades. His final tour, named “Catch You on the Rebound,” was set to launch in early 2024, inspired by his 1967 song of the same name. However, the tour faced an unexpected halt in May when Wood was hospitalized.

Brenton Wood leaves behind a rich musical legacy that has touched generations. His contributions to soul music, particularly through “Oogum Boogum Song,” will forever be cherished by fans and fellow musicians alike.