Walter Scott of The Whispers Passes Away at 81

Walter Scott, a co-founding member of the renowned R&B group The Whispers, has passed away at the age of 81. His death, reported by the Los Angeles Sentinel, occurred in the Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles after he had been living with cancer for the past six months.

Early Life and Formation of The Whispers

Walter Scott, alongside his twin brother Wallace “Scotty” Scott, co-founded The Whispers in California during the early 1960s. The original lineup included members Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon. The group released their first singles in 1964 through Doré Records, but their debut album, titled Planets of Life, was not released until 1969 under the Soul Clock label.

Rising to Fame

Despite a prolific output in the early years, The Whispers saw limited commercial success until the late 1970s, when they signed with Dick Griffey’s SOLAR Records. The group’s self-titled album released in 1979 was a milestone in their career, particularly with the hit single “And the Beat Goes On,” which became a signature song for the band.

Following this success, The Whispers continued to dominate the R&B scene with a series of successful albums, including Imagination (1980), Love Is Where You Find It (1982), and Just Gets Better With Time (1987). Their unique blend of soul, R&B, and disco firmly established them as one of the leading acts of their time.

Industry Impact and Tributes

Walter Scott’s contributions to music did not go unnoticed. Questlove, drummer and co-founder of The Roots, paid tribute to Scott on Instagram, describing him as “one of the most trusted voices in 70s soul music.” This sentiment highlights the profound influence Scott and The Whispers had on the genre during a pivotal era in music history.

Legacy and Significance

Walter Scott’s passing marks the end of an era for The Whispers and the broader R&B community. His work not only enriched the musical landscape of his time but also influenced countless artists who followed. The Whispers’ music remains a staple in the R&B and soul genres, showcasing the timeless nature of their artistry.

As fans and fellow musicians mourn Scott’s loss, his legacy continues to resonate. The group’s tracks, infused with heartfelt lyrics and captivating harmonies, are likely to endure, ensuring that Scott’s contributions will not be forgotten.

For those wishing to reminisce or explore The Whispers’ discography, their iconic music is available on various streaming platforms.