Ronald Bell (musician)

Ronald Bell
Bell in 2019
Background information
Birth nameRonald Nathan Bell
Also known asKhalis Bayyan
Born(1951-11-01)November 1, 1951
Youngstown, Ohio, U.S.
OriginWest Orange, New Jersey, U.S.
DiedSeptember 9, 2020(2020-09-09) (aged 68)
United States Virgin Islands
GenresClassical, jazz, funk, R&B
Occupation(s)Composer, singer, songwriter, arranger, producer
Instrument(s)Saxophone, vocals
Years active1964–2020
Formerly ofKool & the Gang

Ronald Nathan Bell (November 1, 1951 – September 9, 2020), also known as Khalis Bayyan, was an American composer, singer, songwriter, arranger, producer, saxophonist and co-founding member of Kool & the Gang. The band recorded nine No. 1 R&B singles in the 1970s and 1980s, including its No. 1 pop single "Celebration". The group is honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.