Frederick Waite, Jr. of the 80s group Musical Youth has died, according to the group’s Instagram page Thursday.
Reports say that Freddie passed away on July 20 in Birmingham, England. The cause of death hasn’t been revealed.
Musical Youth, a British-Jamaican band consisting of boys between the ages of 11-15, was formed in 1979 by their fathers. The original band members are Freddie (drums), his brother Patrick Waite (bass), Dennis Seaton (percussion), Michael Grant (keyboard), and Kelvin Grant (electric guitar).
Freddie’s father (Frederick Waite, Sr.) sang lead with Jr. at the beginning of Musical Youth’s career.
The boys were able to land local gigs, deals with local labels, and then a record deal with MCA. By that time, Freddie had backed down as lead singer and allowed Dennis Seaton to take on the role. Freddie continued singing backup and played drums.
They are best known for their 1982 hit single, “Pass the Dutchie,” which went to the number one spot on many charts around the world and has been used in films and TV series like “Stranger Things.”
The song sold over 4 million copies and was nominated for a Grammy with a number 10 spot on the Hot 100 Billboard charts in the U.S.
Musical Youth was also the first Black act to have a video played on MTV.
The group recorded 2 studio albums and other successful singles throughout 1982 and 1983. Their other hits include “Youth of Today“, “Never Gonna Give You Up“, and collaboration with Donna Summer, “Unconditional Love“.
They group of 5 dismantled in 1985. According to Dennis, drugs were one of the causes of the break up. He stated he left the group and started a solo career, which wasn’t as successful.
After the band’s split, Freddie started exhibiting mental issues and was eventually diagnosed as schizophrenic.
Plans of a reunion back in the early 90s were put on halt when Freddie’s brother and group member Patrick suddenly died when he collapsed in his home in February 1993. He had a hereditary heart condition. He was only 24.
In 2001, Musical Youth reunited as a duo with singers Dennis and Michael. They are touring and participating in projects with other artists.
We’re sending our deepest condolences to Musical Youth and Freddie’s family. R.I.P.
