A prolific saxophonist who shone on some of the group’s biggest hits.

Saxophonist Andrew Woolfolk has died, aged 71.

Earth, Wind & Fire’s frontman Philip Bailey recruited Woolfolk to join the band in 1972, taking over after Ronnie Laws left the group.

Woolfolk stayed with the group up until their hiatus in 1984, and rejoined when their break ended. He remained with the outfit until 1993.

Alongside his work with Earth, Wind & Fire, Woolfolk also contributed to records by artists including Phil Collins, Gary Taylor, and Deniece Williams.

“I met him in high school, and we quickly became friends and band mates,” Bailey shared on Instagram.

Great memories. Great Talent. Funny. Competitive. Quick witted. And always styling.”

Woolfolk died on April 24th, aged 71, after struggling with an unnamed illness for over six years.