AR
Brenton Wood, the famous soul singer known for hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign,” passed away at 83 on January 3, 2025. His manager confirmed that he died of natural causes at his home in Moreno Valley, California, surrounded by his family.
Early Life and Career
Brenton Wood was born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1941. His family moved to California, where he grew up in San Pedro and later in Compton. While attending Compton College, he adopted the stage name Brenton Wood, inspired by his home county. Influenced by soul artists like Sam Cooke, Wood began focusing on music, especially songwriting and piano.
Rise to Fame
Wood’s career took off in 1967 when he signed with Double Shot Records. His songs “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign” became huge hits, with “Gimme Little Sign” reaching No. 9 on the pop charts. These songs showcased his unique voice and solidified his place in music history.
Continued Success and Legacy
In 1972, Wood started his own label, Prophesy Records, and later released music through Mr. Wood Records. His songs continued to be popular, appearing in TV shows and films like “The Umbrella Academy,” “Almost Famous,” and “Don’t Worry Darling.” His track “Great Big Bundle of Love” also gained a new audience when it was featured in “Big Little Lies.”
Final Years and Farewell
In 2024, Brenton Wood went on his farewell tour, called “Catch You on the Rebound: The Last Tour,” named after his 1967 hit. Unfortunately, health issues forced him to end the tour early. In his final message to fans, he said, “Catch you on the rebound,” a heartfelt reminder of his bond with his audience.
Brenton Wood’s legacy as a pioneer of soul music will live on through his unforgettable songs and the impact he had on fans all over the world. His contributions to the genre will continue to be remembered for many years.
Kashif Khan
