The Gap Band - Robert Wilson Founder Of The Gap Band Dies Aged 53

Bassist and founder of the legendary funk group THE GAP BAND, ROBERT WILSON, has died aged 53. Wilson, who made up the band with his brothers CHARLIE WILSON and RONNIE WILSON, died on Sunday 18th August 2010 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Palmdale, California.

The Wilson brothers began playing music together in 1967, most notably under the name The Greenwood, Archer, and Pine Street Band, however, in 1971 they formed THE GAP BAND and released their debut album in 1974 entitled Magician's Holiday. Their follow up record, 1977's The Gap Band went much the same way as its predecessor and failed to chart. The band were then signed to Total Experience Records and throughout the 1980's Wilson and co released numerous chart hits including Early in the Morning, Party Train, and You Dropped A Bomb on Me. Despite the band's decline in popularity throughout the 1990's, much of the group's work has been sampled and covered by contemporary artists such as NAS, SNOOP DOG, ICE CUBE, and MARY J BLIGE. ROOTS drummer QUESTLOVE posted a message of condolence on his Twitter page yesterday, he said, "my god. the youngest "Gap" Brother Robert Wilson passed away. he will be missed."

Considered by many as the 'Godfather of Bass Guitar', Wilson developed further the sound of GEORGE CLINTON and EARTH,WIND & FIRE to cement THE GAP BAND's place in funk music history. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.