Popular musician Brenton Wood, known for his hit song “The Oogum Boogum Song,” has passed away at the age of 83. According to the New York Post, Wood passed away on Friday, January 3, 2024, in his Moreno Valley home in California.
The outlet revealed that Wood was surrounded by his family and friends, as confirmed by his manager and publicist, Manny Gallegos. Following a request for comment, Gallegos told the New York Post that Wood had passed away peacefully in sleep. Gallegos said, “He went in his sleep peacefully. God took him the same way that he took us.”
Was Brenton Wood Sick?
Speaking with the New York Post, Gallegos stated that Wood started feeling unwell following the end of his tour in February 2024. Following Wood’s illness over Valentine’s Day weekend in 2024, he was admitted into the hospital in May 2024.
Speaking with the New York Post, Gallegos remembered Wood’s last remarks, which alluded to his 1967 song and the title of his last tour. According to Gallegos, Wood had managed to pass a few statements around hours before his death.
ALSO READ: Famous Catwoman Socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein Dies at 84
Gallegos said, “I was there last night at his house. I was playing the piano for him. He was in the hospital bed, and I told him, ‘Friend, is there anything you want to say to your fans?’ And he says you tell my fans I said, ‘Catch you on the rebound.'”
Brenton Wood, whose real name is Alfred Jesse Smith, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and relocated to San Pedro, California, in the 1950s. According to his autobiography, Wood grew up listening to artists like Jesse Belvin and Sam Cooke, and he started writing songs and playing the piano.
What Year Did Brenton Wood Release “Oogum Boogum”?
In 1967, Brenton Wood released his hit classic, “The Oogum Boogum Song,” for the first time. At the time of the song’s release in 1967, Wood released it under his real name, “Alfred Smith.” When “The Oogum Boogum Song” was released in 1967, it peaked at No. 19 on the US R&B chart and No. 34 on the Hot 100.
POLL—Should Laws Be Enacted To Protect LGBTQ+ Individuals From Workplace Discrimination?
The song was released by Double Shot Records. However, “Gimme Little Sign” became Wood’s biggest success, peaking at No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart, No. 9 on the Pop chart, and No. 19 on the R&B charts. The album went on to become certified gold in the U.S., selling over a million copies.
The last week of 1967 saw Wood’s “Baby You Got It” (1967) reaching No. 34 on the Hot 100. The LA-based Kent and The Candidates, fronted by drummer Kent Sprague, served as his supporting group in the 1960s. “The Oogum Boogum Song” gained renewed fame with the release of songs “The Umbrella Academy,” “Almost Famous,” and “Don’t Worry, Darling.”
Who Was Brenton Wood Married To?
Although nothing is known about Brenton Wood‘s personal life, it is known that he was married and had children. However, Wood had tight ties with his family and friends throughout his life, especially in his later years. Throughout his life, Wood’s family supported him, and they were there for him when he died.
WATCH: The Lazy Man’s Trick for Making More Money
According to Wood’s biography, he was never married and did not have any children. Brenton started his first year at San Pedro High School before his family relocated to Compton. Following his relocation, Wood joined the Compton High School track team and won several awards for his athletic performance.
After graduating from high school, Wood went on to study at East Los Angeles College. Brenton Wood’s estimated net worth at the time of his death in 2025 was $2 million. His successful music career, business endeavors, and continued performances were the main sources of his fortune.
His reputation would endure for centuries thanks to his record sales, chart-topping hits, and contributions to the music industry.
You Might Also Like:
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck Finalize Divorce Several Weeks After the Pop Star Filed
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively Skip the 2025 Golden Globes
Aubrey Plaza’s Husband, Jeff Baena Commits Suicide at 47
Ten Best Looks From the Golden Globes Red Carpet
Is Zendaya Engaged? Star’s Massive Ring at Golden Globes Sparks Engagement Rumors