We were too saddened to hear of the passing of Leroy “Sugarfoot” Bonner, the charismatic front man of funk pioneering group, The Ohio Players. We were fortunate enough to witness this incredible brother perform in the Bronx, New York a little over a year ago and can attest to the fact that he still had it. His presence and talent will be sorely missed Worldwide.
Here is the official announcement:
Official Family Announcement of the Passing of Leroy Sugarfoot Bonner
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.
His Facebook page is available to all to post comments, reflections, and testimonials of this wonderful and gifted man: https://www.facebook.com/sugarfootsohioplayers
Here are some of our favorite Ohio Players moments throughout the years:
Love Rollercoaster
Sweet Sticky Thing
Fire
Love Rollercoaster Live at The Paradise Theater (2011)