Kool & the Gang founding member Dennis Thomas dies aged 70

Kool and The Gang ((Yui Mok/PA)

Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, a founding member of the long-running soul-funk band Kool & the Gang – known for such hits as Celebration and Get Down On It – has died at the age of 70.

He died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday in New Jersey, where he was a resident of Montclair, according to a statement from his representative.