Brenton Wood, the beloved soul singer and songwriter who brought the world timeless hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign,” has passed away at the age of 83.

Wood’s manager, Manny Gallegos, confirmed the news to TMZ, stating that the singer died peacefully on Friday at his home in Moreno Valley, California. Family and loved ones were by his side. While the cause of death has not yet been revealed, Wood’s passing marks the end of a remarkable era in soul and R&B music.

Born Alfred Jesse Smith on July 26, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood’s family relocated to Los Angeles during his early years. He attended Compton High School, where he excelled in athletics before discovering his passion for music. Inspired by icons such as Sam Cooke and Jesse Belvin, he adopted the stage name “Brenton Wood,” possibly drawing inspiration from the Brentwood neighborhood in Los Angeles or the historic Bretton Woods.

Wood’s career began in earnest in the 1960s. After early singles failed to chart, his fortunes turned when he signed with Double Shot Records. In 1967, he released “The Oogum Boogum Song,” a groovy blend of R&B and pop that climbed to No. 19 on the US Billboard R&B chart and No. 34 on the Hot 100. That same year, his greatest hit, “Gimme Little Sign,”captivated audiences, reaching No. 9 on the pop charts and selling over a million copies worldwide.

Beyond his early hits, Wood continued to shape the music industry. In 1972, he co-founded his own record label and collaborated with renowned musicians like George Semper and Al McKay of Earth, Wind & Fire. The funk-soul classic “Sticky Boom Boom” emerged as one of his standout projects during this period.

In the 1980s, Wood’s career saw a resurgence with the release of Out of the Woodwork, and his musical journey continued into the 21st century with albums like This Love Is for Real in 2001. In 2014, he reimagined his iconic hit “Gimme Little Sign” alongside William Pilgrim & The All Grows Up, ensuring his music resonated with newer generations.

Wood’s work also found its way into pop culture, with “The Oogum Boogum Song” featured in a 2019 Kinder Joy commercial, showcasing the timeless appeal of his artistry.

In 2024, Wood began his farewell tour, Catch You On The Rebound: The Last Tour, which aimed to celebrate his decades-long career. However, the tour was interrupted in May due to a hospitalization, leaving fans with bittersweet memories of his enduring passion for live performance.

Brenton Wood’s contributions to music remain unforgettable. His smooth voice, infectious melodies, and heartfelt lyrics earned him a lasting place in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike. As a pioneer in blending R&B and pop, his influence can be felt across generations.

He leaves behind a legacy of joy and rhythm, one that will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.