Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025

January 4, 2025

Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty

UPDATED: 9:00 AM ET., January 4th, 2025

As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.

Brenton Wood, known for his hit songs “The Oogum Boogum Song,” and “Gimmie Little Sign,” died of Natural Causes in his California home. He was 83 years old.

Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood’s family relocated to California, where his artistic talents blossomed. Drawing inspiration from legends like Sam Cooke, his unique blend of soulful vocals, piano-driven instrumentation, and playful lyrics brought a fresh vibrancy to the R&B genre. His work captured universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and connection, resonating deeply with listeners.

Wood rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign.”

Wood’s influence was particularly profound in the Latino lowrider community, where his romantic ballads became a soundtrack for cultural celebrations. His music was a bridge between generations, fostering connections through a shared admiration for his sound.