Brenton Wood, the musical maestro behind the iconic 1967 hit “The Oogum Boogum Song,” has sadly passed away at the age of 83 in his Moreno Valley, California home. The news was confirmed by his manager and assistant, Manny Gallegos, to The Post, with TMZ being the first to break the tragic news. While the official cause of his death remains undisclosed, Gallegos attributed it to Wood’s advanced age, stating, “It just was his old age. He was 83 years old.”
A Legendary Legacy: Remembering Brenton Wood
Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, LA, Wood’s musical journey began in San Pedro, CA, where he honed his piano skills and drew inspiration from doo-wop legend Jesse Belvin and soul star Sam Cooke. Renowned for hits like “Gimme Little Sign” and “Baby You Got It,” Wood’s rise to stardom culminated in the infectious charm of “The Oogum Boogum Song,” which peaked at No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967.
A Final Farewell and Immortalized Hits
As Wood concluded his final tour, aptly named “Catch you on the rebound,” in 2024, his health gradually declined, leading to hospitalization in May of the same year. Despite his physical struggles, Wood remained a beacon of positivity, leaving fans with his signature phrase as a poignant farewell. The enduring popularity of his music, featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years, attests to Wood’s timeless talent and the joy he brought to listeners worldwide.
A Philanthropic Legacy
Beyond his musical prowess, Wood’s commitment to giving back shines through his performances at schools and community outreach events, particularly for at-risk youth in Southern California. By sharing his personal and professional experiences, Wood championed education and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the lives he touched.
In remembrance of Brenton Wood, let us celebrate his music, his generosity, and the joy he brought to countless hearts through the timeless melodies that continue to resonate with fans of all ages. Brenton Wood may have left us, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who cherish his music.