The musician, known for co-writing hits such as Ladies’ Night and Celebration, died of lung cancer in Los Angeles

George “Funky” Brown, known for playing an instrumental part in Kool and the Gang, has died at the age of 74.

Brown died in Los Angeles of lung cancer, according to a statement released from a representative. “When asked to describe his music, Brown always replied, ‘The sound of happiness,’” it read.