Leroy ”Sugarfoot” Bonner, lead singer for the famed group “The Ohio Players”, has died at age 69. The Ohio Players were one of the best funk and R & B bands of the 70’s. They were known as much for their flashy outfits and stage presence as they were their legendary hits such as “Skin Tight”, “Love Rollercoaster”, “Funky Worm” and "Heaven Must Be Like This".
His death was announced on the Facebook page of his current group “Sugarfoot’s Ohio Players”.
Yesterday, Leroy “Sugarfoot” Bonner passed away quietly in his hometown of Trotwood-Dayton, OH. While his family, friends, colleagues, and fans mourn his passing they celebrate fondly his memory, music, and legacy.
Sugarfoot, or Foot, or Sugar, was the founding and cornerstone artistic talent of OHIO PLAYERS and the face and sound of the OHIO PLAYERS brand, which he knit together and launched in 1964 with former members of The Ohio Untouchables. With a career spanning 56 years, he passed barely short of his 70th birthday.
Humble yet charismatic, soft spoken and of few words, the weight of his thoughts, lyrics, and music has influenced countless other artists, songs, and trends. He will be missed but not forgotten as his legacy and music lives on. More details and an official historical perspective of his career will soon be forthcoming.
In case if you aren’t familiar with Bonner and one of the best bands of all time here are few of their tracks. Get familiar and enjoy the lyrical stylings of “The Ohio Players”.
