Kool & The Gang's Robert "Kool" Bell on a Classic SOUNDS Podcast with Tom Needham

SOUNDS

On a special edition of The SOUNDS Podcast, Robert “Kool” Bell will join the show to celebrate Kool & the Gang’s remarkable 50-plus year journey in the music business. This year, Kool & The Gang is being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

As a founding member of one of America’s most iconic bands, Bell will reflect on their evolution from a jazz-influenced ensemble to global superstars with a unique blend of funk, soul, and R&B. With seven Grammy Awards under their belt and over 80 million albums sold, Kool & the Gang has left an indelible mark on popular music. Their hits, including “Cherish,” “Celebration,” and “Ladies’ Night,” have not only dominated the charts but have also become anthems in blockbuster films like “Pulp Fiction” and “Saturday Night Fever,” a testament to their cultural impact.

In this episode, listeners will also hear about Bell’s entrepreneurial ventures through Just Kool Enterprises, which has seen success with products like Le Kool Champagne and Just Kool Cologne. As the most sampled artist of all time, Kool & the Gang’s influence extends far beyond their own recordings, with their timeless grooves serving as the foundation for countless tracks across genres. Robert Bell’s conversation will provide a rare glimpse into the band’s legacy, the enduring popularity of their music, and their pivotal role in shaping the soundtrack of numerous Hollywood hits.