Brenton Wood, the beloved soul singer known for his iconic 1967 hit “The Oogum Boogum Song,” has passed away at the age of 83. Wood died on Friday at his home in Moreno Valley, California, surrounded by family and friends, as confirmed by his manager and assistant, Manny Gallegos. TMZ was the first to report the sad news, and though the official cause of death has not been released, Gallegos stated, “It just was his old age. He went in his sleep peacefully. The love he gave us, God took him the same way.”
Born Alfred Jesse Smith on July 26, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood moved with his family to San Pedro, California, during his childhood. He was influenced by the music of doo-wop legend Jesse Belvin and soul star Sam Cooke, which inspired his own musical aspirations. After changing his name to Brenton Wood, he started carving out his niche within the music industry.
Wood's music career skyrocketed after signing with Double Shot Records, where he released “The Oogum Boogum Song,” which peaked at No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnered major acclaim. This quirky, upbeat track became one of the hallmarks of his career, securing his place within the pantheon of classic soul music. Wood's other hits from 1967, including “Gimme Little Sign” and “Baby You Got It,” also achieved significant chart success, ranking at No. 9 and No. 34 respectively.
Gallegos shared Wood's last message to fans, noting, “I might not be here for long. He said, ‘Catch you on the rebound.’” This phrase not only reflected Wood's light-hearted nature but was also the title of his farewell tour, which had been paused earlier this year due to health issues.
Despite the ups and downs of his early career, which saw initial struggles to chart with his singles, Wood's infectious melodies eventually captivated audiences, especially within the Latino community. His 1960s hits found renewed relevance over the years, featuring prominently in films and television shows like “Almost Famous,” “The Umbrella Academy,” and “Don’t Worry Darling.” NPR once noted about the timeless appeal of “The Oogum Boogum Song,” saying, “It’s hard to be in a bad mood after you hear the ‘Oogum Boogum Song.’”
Much of Wood's legacy lies not only in his music but also his impact as a performer deeply connected to his community. He often advocated for education and performed at community outreach events, particularly for at-risk youth throughout Southern California. His website emphasizes his commitment to sharing personal and professional experiences to encourage young people.
Even as his hits faded from the mainstream, Wood managed to maintain relevance through performances at weddings, quinceañeras, and other festivities, solidifying his status as a local treasure. His lively and soulful songs became essentials of social gatherings, revered for their romantic themes and catchy beats.
Wood continued to engage with audiences throughout his career. He spoke fondly of how Latino communities embraced him, stating, “They’ve kind of picked me out of the whole batch. I appreciate it, because if I was waiting for the big boys to call, I’d have died a long time ago.” His music became part of the soundtrack for many familial and cultural gatherings, illustrating how he became more than just a singer—he was part of the cultural fabric.
His adoring audience, particularly those from Latino heritage, have repeatedly highlighted the significance of his songs, which were often dedicated during moments of love and heartbreak. Radio veteran Art Laboe commented on this connection, stating, “Latinos like to dedicate songs, and his songs are good for [that].” Songs like “Take a Chance” and “I Think You’ve Got Your Fools Mixed Up” represent Wood's ability to encapsulate the essence of love, making them ideal for dedication.
Overall, Brenton Wood leaves behind not just the legacy of catchy soul tunes but also the memories he created with audiences across generations. His distinct voice and endearing personality ensured his music felt as fresh today as it did decades ago. From his humble beginnings to soul fame, Wood's life is celebrated by fans who enjoyed the soundtrack he provided to many of their own cherished moments.
Wood's contributions have defined eras and created connections among fans, ensuring his music and spirit will continue to echo long after his passing. Today, the notes of “The Oogum Boogum Song” reverberate through the hearts of those who cherished his work, reminding us of the joy and magic Brenton Wood brought to the world of music.