MABLETON, Ga. — Michael Sumler, celebrated for uniting people across generations with his magnetic stage presence as both a hype man and stylist for the iconic music group Kool & the Gang, tragically died in a car collision on May 25. He was 71. The fatal incident occurred late at night on Veterans Memorial Highway, leaving the music and entertainment communities to mourn a profound loss.
Sumler, affectionally known as “Chicago Mike,” had earlier graced the stage at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre for a concert featuring funk luminaries. It concluded what was unknowingly his final performance, ending a vibrant chapter in a decades-spanning career.
His journey with Kool & the Gang began in 1985 when a chance encounter with a band security team member led to an introduction to the group. Originally recruited for his keen eye for style, Sumler’s role quickly expanded as his talent for engaging concertgoers and energizing performances became apparent. His onstage presence, complete with spirited dance moves often accompanied by a Sony Walkman or boombox, became integral to the group’s live shows.
Tributes poured in from colleagues and admirers alike, emphasizing his contributions to the band’s dynamic. Kool & the Gang, in a heartfelt statement, highlighted his dual role as a wardrobe maestro and electrifying performer. According to the group, Sumler was instrumental in ensuring the performers looked sharp and brought palpable energy to every performance from 2000 until his retirement in 2015.
Born in Chicago in 1953, Sumler grew up influenced by the city’s vibrant music scene. He attended Bond Elementary School and Harper High School before diving headfirst into a music career. His early life was marked by the dedication of his parents, with his father employed as a delivery driver and his mother working as a computer operator for the state.
Mableton Mayor Michael Owens expressed his condolences, noting Sumler’s significant impact not only on Kool & the Gang but also on the broader entertainment community. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a mentor who was keen on guiding young musicians and helping them make their mark in the industry.
His apartment in Georgia reflected another passion, showcasing an extensive collection of Michael Jackson memorabilia, a nod to another icon whose moves Sumler sometimes mirrored on stage.
Kool & the Gang’s legacy, enriched by Sumler’s contributions, spans multiple decades and includes several hits like “Celebration” and “Jungle Boogie.” Their influence in shaping funk, soul, disco, and R&B music has been recognized with numerous awards, including Grammy and American Music Awards, and their 2024 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Sumler’s death has prompted a police investigation into the crash circumstances. He is survived by his three children, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his mother, Dorothy Sumler. Plans for a celebration of his life are set for June 9, with funeral services following on June 10 in Chicago, where loved ones will gather to honor his memory and lasting impact on the world of music.