R&B Legend Walter Scott of The Whispers Dies at 81.Founding member remembered for shaping the soul of a generation
Walter Scott, a founding member of the legendary R&B vocal group The Whispers, has passed away at the age of 81. His family confirmed the news to the Los Angeles Sentinel on June 26, revealing that the singer had been battling cancer over the past six months.
Scott’s passing marks the end of an era for the influential group, which rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with classic hits such as “Rock Steady,” “And the Beat Goes On,” and “It’s a Love Thing.” Known for his silky vocals and magnetic stage presence, Scott was instrumental in shaping the signature sound that earned The Whispers a lasting place in R&B history and the hearts of fans worldwide.
In a statement to SoulTracks, Desirae L. Benson, a representative of the group’s promotional team, shared the collective grief of those closest to Scott:
“We all are incredibly heartbroken. It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Walter Scott, beloved member of the legendary R&B group The Whispers. His voice, presence, and contributions helped shape a musical legacy that touched millions. Walter’s impact on the industry and in the hearts of fans will never be forgotten. Memorial details will be shared at a later date. Sending love and light to his family, friends, and all of the millions of fans around the world. We lost a legend.”
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1944, Scott later moved to Los Angeles, where he co-founded The Whispers in 1963 alongside Wallace Scott, Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon. He temporarily stepped away from the group after being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War but rejoined in 1969 and remained an integral part of their sound and success.
Over the course of their career, The Whispers achieved remarkable commercial success, earning 15 Top-10 R&B singles and eight Top-10 R&B albums—two of which, The Whispers and Love Is Where You Find It, reached No. 1. The group also received five gold albums and two platinum certifications.
Beyond the accolades, Walter Scott’s influence extended far beyond the charts, inspiring generations of artists and music lovers alike. As tributes continue to pour in from fans and peers across the world, the music community reflects on the extraordinary life of a man whose voice helped define a genre.