Whats the new album like?
Its pure, straight-up Kool & the Gang.
Its good to put out a wholesome message like ours.
There hasnt ever been so much turmoil on this planet people storming countries, constant mass murders here.
There is no better reason to shine our light on people coming together and having fun.
Was it tough recording during the pandemic?
We had ultraviolet lights, ozone fans, we made sure we woremasks.
How painful is that loss?
Oh man, its been very difficult.
We started out literally in grade school.
When I go into my studio every day, I feel them.
Thats what they would want.
Its us coming back off the road in some van, and we cant wait to get home.
The family is waiting.
Grandmothers going to give you a hug.
Mom has food on the table.
Dads coming home from work.
We still have a great love for that place.
How do you stay engaged playing the same songs over and over?
You hear the energy of the crowd everybody is giddy, like children.
That electricity goes through you, and youre ready to perform.
Its never the same.
Sometimes its totally perfect.
And when its not, it can sound even funkier.
Your group and Earth, Wind & Fire were always on parallel paths.
Are they friends or rivals?
We see them as very good musicians with fantastic songs.
They helped us realize we were doing the right thing with our throw in of upbeat, happy music.
We were both trying to move the culture along to a higher place.
Your memoirToo Hot: Kool & the Gang & Metalks about your struggle with prescription drug addiction and depression.
Was it the pressure of the music industry?
It started when I was in my 20s.
The greatest thing I did was get help.
I went into rehab for a couple weeks, less than most people do.
Its a cautionary tale.
