Charlie Wilson Obituary – Death: Charles Kent Wilson musician, songwriter passed away
Charlie Wilson isn’t just an “icon” – he’s a musical powerhouse. His incredible singing talent first came to the forefront when he co-founded the legendary band GAP, known for hits like “You Dropped the Bomb on Me,” “Outstanding,” and “Party Train,” as well as “Burn Rubber on Me.”
As a solo artist, Wilson’s impact on the music scene is undeniable. He’s dominated the R&B charts with an impressive 13 number-one singles, earned 13 GRAMMY® nominations, and authored bestselling memoirs featured in The New York Times and The Washington Post. His contributions to music have been celebrated with numerous awards, including a BET Award for the I Am Charlie Wilson Lifetime Achievement Award, a Soul Train Icon Award, a Soul Train Certified Soul Award, and an NAACP Musical Difference Award.
In recognition of his enduring influence, Charlie Wilson received a star on the Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2022, and he’s slated to receive another star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2024.
Wilson’s live performances are legendary too. In 2022, he kicked off an acclaimed cultural tour alongside New Edition and Jodeci. This came after his own sold-out arena tours, including “Forever Charlie” in 2015 and “In It To Win It” in 2017. He also teamed up with Bruno Mars during his 24K Magic tour.
Billboard has twice honored Charlie Wilson as the Top Male Adult R&B Artist, in 2009 and 2020, and he holds the distinction of being the Top Male Adult R&B Artist with the most number-one hits in three different decades.
Known affectionately as “Uncle Charlie” to the younger generation, he’s cherished for his timeless contributions to music. Wilson’s collaborations span a who’s who of top artists, including Bruno Mars, Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Tyler The Creator, Nas, and many more.
But it’s important to recognize that Charlie Wilson’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. He faced and overcame drug and alcohol addiction, homelessness, and prostate cancer in the years between his time with the GAP band and his solo success. Remarkably, he’s been sober for 28 years and reflects, “I didn’t believe I would be where I am now. That’s why I scream every night because I thank God for putting me here.”
