Brenton Wood, the beloved crooner known for his infectious hit “The Oogum Boogum Song,” has passed away at the age of 83. His manager, Manny Gallegos, confirmed that Wood died of natural causes at his home in Moreno Valley.

Born Alfred Jesse Smith on July 26, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood moved to San Pedro, California, when he was just three years old. His musical journey began at an early age, inspired by a pianist he would watch in the park, and he began composing songs while still a child. After performing in local R&B groups throughout the 1950s, he emerged as a solo artist and adopted his stage name, Brenton Wood, influenced by the affluent Brentwood neighborhood in Los Angeles.

In 1967, Wood's breakthrough single "The Oogum Boogum Song" climbed the charts, peaking at number 34 on the Billboard Hot 100. Following its success, he released "Gimme Little Sign," which soared to number 9 on the Hot 100, solidifying his place in the music scene. This contagious sound, ripe with romance and relatable lyrics, resonated deeply with audiences, particularly in Latino communities across California and beyond.

Despite his initial success, Wood faced challenges, including frustrations with the music industry that led him to step away from the limelight. However, his love for performing and connection with his audience drew him back, leading to a fruitful second act. He found a dedicated following among Latino fans, playing shows across California, Mexico, and Arizona, and even reinventing his career as a beloved performer at weddings and celebrations like quinceañeras.

Bob Merlis, a former Warner Bros. Records executive, referred to Wood as a “local hero” and “a standard bearer for the Southern California pop soul scene,” noting the unique sound that set him apart. His songs became staples for romantic dedications, especially among Latino listeners, who cherished tracks like "Take a Chance" and "I Think You’ve Got Your Fools Mixed Up."

Chicano music historian Gene Aguilera reminisced about being captivated by Wood's music as a teenager, with songs echoing from lowriders and house parties that filled East L.A. His slow grooves and soulful melodies struck a chord with a generation longing for connection and nostalgia.

In addition to his chart performances, Wood's tracks gained new life in popular culture, appearing in films such as Cameron Crowe’s "Almost Famous" and Olivia Wilde’s "Don’t Worry Darling." His ability to encapsulate the rollercoaster of young love and heartache in his music made his work timeless and evergreen.

With a career that spanned decades, Brenton Wood not only left a mark on the music industry but also became an enduring symbol of romance and celebration within the Latino community. He is survived by a legacy that will continue to resonate, dance, and sing through the joyful memories that his music has created for countless fans.

As we remember this remarkable artist, it’s clear that Brenton Wood's enchanting melodies will forever echo in the hearts of those who cherished his songs.