Walter Scott of R&B group the Whispers dies at 81

Walter Scott, who together with his brother Wallace started the R&B group the Whispers in Los Angeles – a group that made hits in the 70s and 80s with songs like “And the Beat Goes On,” “Rock Steady,” “Lady” and “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong” – passed away on Thursday, as reported by various media sources such as Billboard and the Los Angeles Sentinel. He was 81 years old.

According to The Sentinel, it was reported that Scott passed away in Northridge following a half-year fight against cancer.

The Whispers, known for their rhythmic post-disco tunes enhanced by harmonious group singing, managed to place 15 songs in the Top 10 of Billboard’s R&B chart. “And the Beat Goes On” peaked at No. 1 in 1980, followed closely by “Rock Steady” in 1987. Their music became a popular sample source in later years, with artists such as 50 Cent, Mobb Deep, J. Cole, and Will Smith drawing from it. Notably, Will Smith used “And the Beat Goes On” as the foundation for his late ’90s hit “Miami.

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Growing up as a Texan born in 1944, Fort Worth served as my cradle before we eventually relocated to the bustling city of L.A., where music seemed to be an integral part of the air we breathed. My brother and I found our shared passion for singing at Jordan High School, which was chronicled by the Sentinel. Together with Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon, we formed the Whispers in the heart of the ’60s. Our musical journey took us to San Francisco before my military service called me to Vietnam during that period.

The band gained most of its fame on the Solar record label, which was run by Dick Griffey, after having been signed to several other recording companies. The Whispers have been honored by being inducted into both the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame.

Billboard said Scott is survived by his wife, Jan; two sons; three grandchildren and his brother.

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2025-06-28 00:31