Description
Claydes "Charles" Smith, co-founder and lead guitarist of Kool & the Gang, was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. The group had the U.S. No. 1 hit "Celebration" in 1981, the UK No. 2 hit "Joanna" in 1984, and more than 15 other Top 40 songs. Smith died on June 20, 2006, at the age of 57.