Wayne Osmond, a founding member of The Osmond Brothers, has passed away at the age of 73. The family of the late singer expressed gratitude for the support and recognition of his talents throughout the years. Wayne’s legacy in the music industry will be remembered and celebrated by his fans and loved ones.
Born as Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Brenton Wood, known for hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign,” moved to San Pedro, California, during his childhood before later settling in Compton. His career took off in 1967 when he achieved his first major success with “The Oogum Boogum Song,” which made its mark on the Billboard R&B and Hot 100 charts.
Despite facing challenges with his record label, Wood persevered and continued to create music that resonated with audiences. He described his songwriting style as personal and unique, challenging traditional musical and ethnic boundaries. In the 1980s and 1990s, he experienced a reinvention in his musical career, gaining newfound fame and recognition within the popular culture sphere.
Wood’s commitment to his fans, particularly those from his hometown in Southern California and across the West, was unwavering. He cherished the support he received from his dedicated fan base and made it a priority to connect with them through his performances. Wood’s impact on the “oldies but goodies” movement solidified his place in music history.
In 2024, Wood embarked on a farewell tour titled “Catch You On The Rebound: The Last Tour,” a nod to his 1967 hit song. The tour was briefly interrupted when the singer faced health issues that led to a hospitalization in May. Despite the challenges, Wood remained grateful for the love and admiration shown by his fans, whom he considered an integral part of his journey as an artist.
Wood’s manager and assistant, Manny Gallegos, confirmed that the singer passed away from natural causes at his home in Moreno Valley, CA. Surrounded by his family, Wood’s final words were a poignant reflection of his enduring spirit and passion for music: “Catch you on the rebound.” His family expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from fans, emphasizing the reciprocal bond of admiration and respect between Wood and his dedicated audience.
Reflecting on Wood’s musical legacy and career, his family shared that he believed in the power of creating lasting memories through his art. As they mourn his passing, they find solace in the impact he made on countless lives through his music and performances. Brenton Wood’s influence on the music industry will continue to inspire future generations and resonate with fans who have treasured his timeless songs.
The passing of Wayne Osmond and Brenton Wood marks the end of an era in music, but their contributions and legacies will endure through the timeless melodies and memories they have gifted to the world.
