Kool & The Gang Musician Perishes in Tragic Mishap - Kool-and-the-Gang band member perished in a tragic accident.
Funk and R&B legend Michael Sumler, famously known as "Chicago Mike," tragically perished in a car accident last weekend in Mableton, Georgia. He was 71 years old. According to Fox 5 Atlanta, the fatal collision occurred on Sun., May 25, on Veterans Memorial Highway.
Sumler, who was driving his own vehicle, collided with another vehicle around 11:35 p.m. Emergency services were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene by the Cobb County Medical Examiner's Office. The specific circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation by local authorities.
In a statement to People magazine, Kool & the Gang confirmed Sumler's death, acknowledging his significant contribution to the band. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of our longtime dresser, Mike Sumler," the statement read. "Mike worked with Kool & the Gang from 2004 to 2015, ensuring that we looked sharp on stage every night."
Sumler was not just a stylist, though. His energetic presence and remarkable dance moves captivated audiences. Beyond the stage, he also organized events for LeKool, the group's champagne label. "Everyone here at Kool & the Gang has fond memories of Mike and will miss him. We wish him peace," the band added.
Michael Sumler's journey with Kool & the Gang began in the clubs of his hometown, Chicago. In an interview on the Kelly Talk Show in 2018, he shared how he joined the band: A security guard from Kool & the Gang noticed his spirited performance in another band and invited him to meet the R&B legends in Minneapolis.
The encounter led to a prominent role with Kool & the Gang, during which Sumler evolved from a stylist and choreographer to a beloved "hype man." He supported the band as a hype man, backing vocalist, and, on occasion, filling in as a performer. Sumler's influence extended beyond entertainment, as he actively mentored younger musicians, earning recognition for his positive impact on the industry.
Founded in New Jersey in 1964, Kool & the Gang captured generations with hits such as "Celebration," "Get Down on It," "Ladies' Night," and "Jungle Boogie." The band won two Grammy Awards and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015. In 2024, they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
- Georgia
- Accident
- Death
- Weekend
- Car crash
- Fatal collision
- Kool & the Gang
- Michael Sumler
- Chicago Mike
- Hype man
- Choreographer
- Stylist
- Wardrobe valet
- Mableton
- Cobb County
- Veterans Memorial Highway
- Buckner Road
- Legends
- Music industry
- Entertainment
- Mentorship
- R&B
- Funk
- Live performances
- Chicago
- Mableton
- Cobb County
- Fatal collision
- Car accident
Georgia witnessed a tragic weekend as Michael Sumler, also known as Chicago Mike and a renowned hype man for Kool & the Gang, perished in a fatal collision on Veterans Memorial Highway in Mableton, Cobb County. The accident occurred on Sun., May 25, near Buckner Road. Sumler was driving his own vehicle and collided with another, leading to his death at the scene. Kool & the Gang mourn the loss of their valued wardrobe valet, stylist, and choreographer, who played a significant role in their entertainment industry legacy. The specifics surrounding the car accident are currently under investigation by local authorities. Despite his tragic death, Michael Sumler's influence on R&B, funk, and live performances remains an essential part of the music industry's history.
