From the small neighborhood of St. Louis, a sweet melody and wave of emotions surface as one voice fills the air with rhythm and blues.
Wendell B is the pride of St. Louis as a self-made balladeer whose talent knows no bounds. His journey is an inspiring tale of never losing track of one’s dreams, even if it means hanging from a loose thread of hope.
Inspired by other legendary artists such as Luther Vandross, Barry White, Freddie Jackson, Will Downing, and his idol Joe, Wendell B pursued his love for music from a very young age. At just 5, Wendell’s honey vocals as a gospel singer were appreciated by his peers. He was a part of the gospel group “The Sensational Wonders” for about ten years before he decided to venture out of singing for the Lord.
In an interview, he said, “At first, I had to hide my interest in R&B music from my Mom because she was into the church and she didn’t play that.” He laughs at how drastic he decided to defy his mom’s beliefs and sing R&B.
He later formed a group in high school called the Dream and performed all around his hometown.
After two decades of performing with the band, Wendell ventured as a solo artist to truly express his art with an entrepreneurial mindset. His hit single, ‘Yu Want 2 Play Me,’ and his debut album, ‘Make It Good for Ya,’ was the turning point for his career in the 90s, gaining wide recognition for his music.
He kept churning out some of the most critically acclaimed albums like Good Times, In Touch with My Southern Soul, The Next 1, and more. After amassing a considerable fanbase, Wendell expressed his gratitude and vision for his music in a heart-to-heart interview:
“My goal is to leave an indelible imprint on the business. You see, fans deserve the best and I intend to give them the best. With my music, I intend to reach hearts and homes everywhere, so until I take my last breath, nothing but the sound of music, love, keeping it real, and telling the truth, will represent the name Wendell B.”
And thus, his name has become immortal in the music industry even after the disheartening news surfaced.
Wendell B passed away on August 3, 2023, at 3 a.m. He was 65 when he succumbed to the long and grueling battle against cancer.
What Happened to Wendell B?
Wendell B was suffering from cancer for a very long time. He never publicly came out about his struggle and continued focusing on music despite his ill health. But after the brutal battle, the cancer reached a critical stage, which further deteriorated his health. There are no more details or confirming reports regarding what type of cancer he had and how long he was diagnosed.
The Southern soul balladeer stood tall at six foot five and weighed 298 pounds. He maintained his health, but the deadly disease got to him eventually.
Did Wendell B Die?
Wendell B is confirmed to have passed away on August 3 at 3 a.m. Although his family has not put out any statement yet, his close associates and friends expressed their condolences through Facebook posts.
Curtis Muldrew, a close friend, confirmed the reports with a post:
“This morning, about 5:30. I got a sad phone call that my good friend, The Boss Wendell B. The Lord has called on him, I’m going to miss you, my big bro. The last phone call we had, you told me to keep your music alive I love you, big bro R.I.P.”
Another friend, Christopher Holt, expressed his condolences and described what a great man Wendell B was and the legacy he left behind. He writes a sweet message to his friend:
“Even during his illness in the hospital we would still have our talks. Bro you will truly be missed! Take your rest bro! No more suffering! Love you! Until we meet again!”
What is your favorite Wendell B song? What are your thoughts on this sudden news?
Let us know in the comments section below.
