| Author | Message | ||
  Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 111 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138 |
I just got the news that John Whitehead of the group McFadden & Whitehead singers of the hit "Ain't No Stoppin Us Now", was shot to death this evening around 7PM. I do not have all the details as of yet, but I will post them as soon as I get them. I confirmed his death with the wife of William Hart (Poogie) of the Delfonics. She could not give me much in the way of details except the time. I spoke with Weldon McDougal and he will post a picture as a tribute to John Whitehead. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 716 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
I am verry sorry to hear this. I really don't know what to say. RIP John!  | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 717 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
I've been scouring the net, so far, no mention at all | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 309 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.163 |
Also killed in this unfortunate incident was James "Sugarman" Knight who sang with the Epsilons /Talk of the Town. Knight was father to up and coming songstress, Jamie Knight | ||
Linda Di. (linda_di_fsg) 3-Pundit Username: linda_di_fsg Post Number: 35 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.67.202.172 |
This is incredibly sad news. When will the violence end? Rest in peace. | ||
marv (marv) 1-Arriviste Username: marv Post Number: 9 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
This is sad and distressing news. Did it occur in Philly? | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 310 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.163 |
Yes, in upper North Philly near Cheltenham and Broad. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 718 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Why is there nothing posted on the net as of yet??? I've even checked the Philly news website, but nothing, not even on BET!!! | ||
marv (marv) 1-Arriviste Username: marv Post Number: 10 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
I know exactly where that is as I lived in Philly some years ago. This is bad man, very bad news. Here is a link to John's website which includes his biography: http://www.letfreedomringinc.c om/john-whitehead-bio.htm | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 312 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.163 |
I heard of it barely two hours after the incident and trust me, its factual. It probably was unknown to the authorities just who he was. Its kind of reminiscent of the "Sam Cooke incident", know what I mean? It will be all over the media by early tomorrow. | ||
Charise (mistrivia1) 3-Pundit Username: mistrivia1 Post Number: 35 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46 |
Oh, God!! I just got on the net to talk about A.I. and I see this! Vonnie, Vonnie, Vonnie-NO!!! What in the world is going on??? I just saw a news brief regarding the American getting beheaded and now, here is something else!! I am almost speechless, I just saw him on the PBS special and now he's gone!!! Prayers to his family and to the family of James Knight. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 719 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Bobby, I believe you implicitly. I know that neither you or Vonnie would ever post something like this if it wasn't fact. I'm just going crazy scouring the web & can't get any info at all. I'm sure that you will keep us posted. Damn Bobby, you & I were discussing them only a month ago. Man, this is terrible! My prayers to both the McFadden & Knight families. | ||
SF3000 (slyfan_3000) 3-Pundit Username: slyfan_3000 Post Number: 65 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 67.119.53.190 |
This has got to stop..we need to pray and end this madness..really. RIP Mr.Whitehead. May the creator protect you and your family. | ||
Hey (aychdub) 1-Arriviste Username: aychdub Post Number: 7 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 69.141.122.25 |
terrible news! | ||
SF3000 (slyfan_3000) 3-Pundit Username: slyfan_3000 Post Number: 66 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 67.119.53.190 |
RIP to Mr. Knight as well.. Much love and comfort to his family and loved ones. | ||
Jimmy Mack (luke) 4-Laureate Username: luke Post Number: 141 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.198.48.201 |
Wernt they just on that PBS 70s show? HOw terrible. Im praying. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 314 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.163 |
William Hart of the Delfonics was extremely close to both John and James. They were a fixture at all of Poogies 4th of July pool parties. As Vonnie had mentioned, she spoke to Pam Hart and she was told that Poogie is with the two families and I can probably reach him later tonight. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 720 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
I found a couple of links: http://www.philly.com/mld/phil ly/8643751.htm http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/news/051104_ent_whiteheadmurder.html (Message edited by Juicefree20 on May 11, 2004) | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 315 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.163 |
UPDATE!!!! I just spoke to Poogie and James Knight did not get shot, it was someone else with Whitehead. I was told that John lay dead for hours until the authorities showed up. The details are still sketchy but it may have involved a disgruntled patron of an auto repair shop where John was also getting his car fixed and he was shot six times!!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 721 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
From the report, John & a young man named Olhmed Johnson was working on his SUV behind his house. It's reported that 2 or 3 men approached & opened fire. It appears that he was shot in the neck & his companion in the buttocks. I guess that more details will come out. | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 112 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
Juice, I have been trying to get on the link that you posted, but I can't seem to connect. Did you read the article on that link? | ||
Charise (mistrivia1) 3-Pundit Username: mistrivia1 Post Number: 37 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46 |
Eli, you are not serious!!!! Human beings are something else! How is it that you could become so freakin' angry with someone, that you just take it upon yourself to be their judge and jury, thus killing them!!! Nothing was solved, someone lost a husband, a father, a son, and a brother, because of your life-altering decision to be Mr. Bad @##$. Not only did you destroy a life, now your life is wasted and your family members are going to suffer, because of your ignorance!!! You know what, right now I'm really feeling the lyrics of 'Inner City Blues- MAKE ME WANNA HOLLER!!! Six times?!? MY GOD!!!!!!` | ||
Charise (mistrivia1) 3-Pundit Username: mistrivia1 Post Number: 38 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46 |
Why did his body lay there for hours? I swear, sometimes you don't get respect, even in death!!!!! I think back to Ennis Cosby's death and how they left his body uncovered and they kept showing it on the news. I'm guessing someone finally realized that it was in poor taste and had the body covered. GOD HELP US ALL!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 725 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Vonnie, yes I read both articles. The first one is more extensive. Unfortunately you had to sign up for the first link. I can e-mail it to you as an explorer file. For the second link, you have to highlight the entire line, copy & paste it into your browser & it will take you there. The first link has a picture of his daughter. If I could post it here, I would. I can e-mail you the first one though. | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 114 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
I finally got on the news site and read the details of John's death. My condolences go out to his family and friends. I feel really sad that this horrible crime has taken the life of a musical legend. I saw John at the PBS Special and he was having such a good time, laughing and telling jokes. I was shocked to hear this dreadful news. | ||
Vickie (vickie) 1-Arriviste Username: vickie Post Number: 7 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46 |
This is very sad news...... i'm very bothered by this.... | ||
Rodmann (rodmann) 4-Laureate Username: rodmann Post Number: 145 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 12.223.169.197 |
This is sad! We just had a topic about M&W here at the forum not too long ago. I feel so sorry for his daughters in that pic! I'm hoping that all of Whitehead's loved ones will recover from this. | ||
Manny (manny) 4-Laureate Username: manny Post Number: 99 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.124.11.167 |
Bad way for starting the day, reading this, dear friends! This notice is very sad for all the true soul fans and I'm feel very blue. I likes all by M & W. Their voices, their lyrics, their diverse incarnations as Talk Of The Town and as M & W. Their productions (especially for Melba Moore). Their versatility as writers of Gospel Anthems ("Wake Up Everybody") and disco-soul social-conciousness anthems ("Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now"). I believe the voice of John Witehead is (sadly "was"!) the more "deep" of the two (?). This it's double sadly because the circunstances of his dead. Hope in the implacable justice with this crime. My condolences to the family (The Whitehead Brothers!) and friends. RIP, John "Wake Up Everybody" Whitehead. (sadly more true than never, from now on, "Ain't No Stoppin You Now") | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 5-Doyen Username: wonder_b Post Number: 206 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.250.157.222 |
Owwwww what a tragic news... R.I.P John  Wonder B | ||
T.L. Harris (tl_harris) 2-Debutant Username: tl_harris Post Number: 11 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.0.54.208 |
This is indeed tragic and shocking I don't know what to believe. First I send my condolences to the family of John Whitehead and to all of his friends on this board and elsewhere and fans around the world. Indeed we have truly lost a legend in the music business. Through John Whitehead's gifts as a songwriter, producer and singer he has given us years of joy and memories. Rest assured we will never forget the legacy of the late great John Whitehead. Rest in Peace T.L. Harris | ||
Jester (jester) 1-Arriviste Username: jester Post Number: 8 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 62.253.64.7 |
I echo the sentiments above; tragic! ...May he rest in peace. The Jester. | ||
bluerhythmbass (bluerhythmbass) 1-Arriviste Username: bluerhythmbass Post Number: 10 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 192.55.140.2 |
Here's the latest on AP Wire.... PHILADELPHIA � John Whitehead a prominent R&B artist best known for the 1979 hit song "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now," was shot dead Tuesday, police said. Whitehead, 55, was shot while working on a vehicle with another man, police said. The assailant fled. Whitehead was shot in the neck and collapsed; the other man was shot in the buttocks and taken to a hospital. Gene McFadden, who was Whitehead's partner in the singing group McFadden & Whitehead, went to the scene of the shooting in the city's West Oak Lane neighborhood and stood there trembling, WPVI-TV reported The two men formed a group called the Epsilons in their youth and were discovered by Otis Redding and toured with him in the 1960s, according to their Web site. The duo wrote several hit songs performed by others in the 1970s, including "Back Stabbers," "For the Love of Money," "I'll Always Love My Mamma," "Bad Luck," "Wake Up Everybody," "Where Are All My Friends," "The More I Want," and "Cold, Cold World." "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now" went to No. 1 on the R&B chart and reached No. 13 on the pop chart. | ||
Phil (phil) 3-Pundit Username: phil Post Number: 48 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 213.36.140.237 |
A tragic death, but WHY were they shot ? | ||
Linda Di. (linda_di_fsg) 3-Pundit Username: linda_di_fsg Post Number: 36 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.67.202.172 |
One of the newspaper reports I read said the man with John Whitehead had been involved in an altercation earlier in the day with somebody over an auto repair. This once again brings us to the forefront of America's biggest problem. We'll all cry and mourn and then it will be back to business as usual. Action is needed now. My dream is to see every gun in America put in a heap and melted. EVERY one. Let's go back to the days when an altercation was settled with a good old fashioned fistfight. We should take a lesson from our neighbors to the north - Canada. Gun violence is almost unheard of up there, and gun ownership is illegal. My apologies to those who are gun owners. I've been robbed at gunpoint, and that will never leave me ever. (Message edited by linda di fsg on May 12, 2004) | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 316 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.12.28 |
Ive known John personally for over thirty five years and he was such a fun loving, happy go lucky kind of guy, always a smile on his face. He was probably one of the most talented and wel rounded songwriters in town and could sell a song just with his mannerisms. Such a bundle of energy!! He would dance around the studio and make you want to really dig in and play. I can just picture him now dancing from side to side up in Sigma studio 1 during the recording of Aint no stoping us now, and later playing those syndrums while dancing around them! He was truly an under rated gem and I will really miss him and so will the Philly music community as a whole as well as the rest of the world. R>I>P> brother John, aint no stopping YOU now!!! | ||
Nosey (nosey) 4-Laureate Username: nosey Post Number: 105 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.153.113.238 |
Eli: Sugarman too? Omigod! I used to "follow" their band back in the day! | ||
Chancellor of Soul (harlem_144) 4-Laureate Username: harlem_144 Post Number: 128 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138 |
I just woke up with this tragic news this morning here in NY on our morning program, Good Day NY ! This is so so sad. Soul heaven has really been busy this past few months. I know he and Gene were in the Epsilons and also backed up Arthur Conley on " Sweet Soul Music", in 1967. My favorite cut by them was, " The Echo". Peaceful Journey, John...... Mike Boone (Chancellor of Soul) | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 317 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.12.28 |
Nosey, Sugarman is ok. I posted an ammendment to my original post regarding that. At first it was thought that it was him, but when I spoke to Poogie late last night he clarified it . | ||
Nosey (nosey) 4-Laureate Username: nosey Post Number: 107 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.153.113.238 |
Thanks, Eli. Well I'm off to Jury Duty today. Let me know the arrangements as I would like to pay my respects to John/"Toodles". Boy did we boogie! | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 319 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.12.28 |
I sure will Nosey. Ill bet my bottom dollar that Bunny will sing there as he's been the 'funeral king" here in P Town | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 115 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Nosey, Please read Eli's retraction on one of the above threads. He initially reported, based upon second hand information that Sugarman was shot and killed, but that was proven to be a false report. It was another man who was shot with John, named Olhmed Johnson. Thank goodness that was only a rumor because that would have made this tragedy even greater. | ||
Weldon A. Mc Dougal III (weldon) 4-Laureate Username: weldon Post Number: 114 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.80.162.3 |
John Whitehead, was a very good friend of mine, R.I.P I will miss you, WELDON  | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 116 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Weldon, I know you will miss him, you guys go back a long way. Your picture of John picture is how I always want to remember him, with that big wonderful smile. He was full of energy and always smiling and dancing. | ||
Lady Mystique (ladymystique) 5-Doyen Username: ladymystique Post Number: 298 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.26.122.13 |
Sorry I haven't been on in a while...have been working weird hours and recently was home sick. I heard about the news this morning on my way back to work and had to pull over. Very sad indeed and unfortunately, the media forgot to mention that he and McFadden contributed much more than 1979s AIN'T NO STOPPIN' US NOW. RIP John and my condolences to his family and friends. Never would we see that smiling face again. (Message edited by ladymystique on May 12, 2004) | ||
darren (darren) 1-Arriviste Username: darren Post Number: 3 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 84.66.69.208 |
hi gang. just read what happened on another web-site,i feel sick at the moment.here in the U.K.a good percentage of people will only recognise the name for one song-ain't no stopping us now,but like myself there are alot of people that will recognise the name JOHN WHITEHEAD along with GENE McFADDEN being responsible for writing such beautiful music.and helping me to understand the culture from where that music came from. for me the PHILLY sound will always remain a passion. THANK YOU Mr WHITEHEAD.god bless. ktf. darren. | ||
David Meikle (david_meikle) Moderator Username: david_meikle Post Number: 115 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 81.130.211.124 |
The Echo by the Epsilons is one of my favourite songs. RIP John Whitehead | ||
Galactus (galactus) 3-Pundit Username: galactus Post Number: 33 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 207.144.253.114 |
Horrible. Just horrible. I won't get into any gun debate.....But this world today definitely has it's problems. I'm not sure of what the answer is to tell the truth. I'm too stunned to think right now. An "altercation"....and it leads to someone gunning down another? What goes through the minds of these people that they think they can do this and get away with it? The news yesterday was all bad, it seems.....Beheadings, war, McFadden's death, Kobe on trial......geeezzz. | ||
SisDetroit (sis) 4-Laureate Username: sis Post Number: 131 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.42.211.240 |
(((John Whitehead))) | ||
whatchulookinat (tommysupreme) 1-Arriviste Username: tommysupreme Post Number: 9 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.53.185.14 |
It's been said in this thread already.. but I just can't believe we lost a music great because of an "altercation".. It makes it all the more tragic.. I hope they get to the bottom of this soon.. | ||
Don (don) 4-Laureate Username: don Post Number: 100 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.78.27.135 |
I'M IN A STATE OF DISBELIEF!!!!!! | ||
Manny (manny) 4-Laureate Username: manny Post Number: 100 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.124.12.97 |
Hello again, soulful friends! This picture, with John at Sigma Sound with three members of The Futures, i think illustrates perfectly that Bobby says about John.  } (From the interior sleeve of L. Huff's "Here To Create Music"). Again my condolences for those of you who knows personally and are friends of John Whitehead (as Weldon, Bobby, etc.).  } | ||
Don (don) 4-Laureate Username: don Post Number: 102 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.78.27.135 |
That's a very nice tribute of pics Manny | ||
Any (uncle_derrald) 1-Arriviste Username: uncle_derrald Post Number: 1 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.122.55.125 |
I just heard the news of John Whitehead's sudden death several minutes ago on Paul Harvey News on the radio. I had to get this page right away for the in-depth details from Eli (thanks for the info!) Regards, Derrald | ||
MoMotown (momotown) 1-Arriviste Username: momotown Post Number: 1 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 216.249.66.84 |
Such sad news. My prayers go out to Mr. Whitehead's family and loved ones. | ||
SF3000 (slyfan_3000) 3-Pundit Username: slyfan_3000 Post Number: 67 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 67.119.52.47 |
WHY...im still in shock.. I kinda feel as though a part of me is gone in a way.. I pray that Mr.Whitehead's family and friends will get through such a trying time. | ||
NYC Diva (nyc_diva) 2-Debutant Username: nyc_diva Post Number: 20 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 158.57.45.226 |
I heard about this this morning as I was getting ready for work...what a damn shame. My prayers are with his family. | ||
philly trammp (tco) 1-Arriviste Username: tco Post Number: 8 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.167.191.199 |
horrible sad sad news,... | ||
GO_GET_GONE_GIRL (gogogirl) 3-Pundit Username: gogogirl Post Number: 32 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 63.159.64.42 |
Greetings All, This is some sad, sickening, stunning and terrible news - hearing about John Whitehead's death and how it came about. Most killings are senseless - and this murder reeks of senselessness. He was only with 55 years of age. Oh - pity the ones that rape, kill and murder - for God has their numbers - and He will punish and condemn them to a hellish afterlife roaming around in the wilderness. R.I.P. - John Whitehead. Thank God for him. My thoughts and prayers goes out and up to his family and friends. I'm getting ready to look for the "Wake Up Everybody", song on Harem Sheik's website right now, although I know upon hearing it - I will cry like a baby. I've been tearing up all day - for I haven't been able to get that tune out of my head. Most of us that know the album - would agree that it is one of the most monumental and greatest albums ever made for and from our generation. We remember what we were doing and feeling at the time of its release. And we remember how it had such a profound affect on us. "THE WORLD WON'T GET NO BETTER - IF WE JUST LET IT BE - WE GOTTA CHANGE IT YEAH - JUST YOU AND ME" "NEED SOME HELP!" (Message edited by gogogirl on May 12, 2004) | ||
Kev-Lo (7273747576) 3-Pundit Username: 7273747576 Post Number: 66 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.184.167.116 |
Hi this is Kev-Lo I'm so sadden by the death of John whitehead it's too bad that this soul legend died and I send my sympathy to his family. Rest In peace John you are in Soul Heaven now and you will be missed by everyone of us. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 730 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Yet another piece of our hearts & our youth is stripped away & for what, for what??? A stupid disagreement over some nonsense. What disgusts me the most is that this man wrote songs of unity & togetherness. He wrote songs about uplifting humanity & understanding, only to lose his life through senseless violence. Even worse, these IDIOTS have probably grown up with his music & danced to it. Now, they repay him by stilling his voice & taking his talent from all of us. They took away a father, a friend, a brother & most of all, they took away his life. And for what, FOR FREAKING WHAT???? May they reap the reward for the fruitage of their labor. As ye reap, so shall ye sow! | ||
Manny (manny) 4-Laureate Username: manny Post Number: 104 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.124.11.140 |
You're right, brother Juice! Marvin, Phillys Hyman, Harold Melvin, Laura Nyro, Curtis, Tito Puente,...killeds, victims of healt problems, comiting suicide,... The resulting is simply �they left� leaving all of us a little more poors without their talent. It's like most of the "pure" spirits "decide" left this very senseless, demential and "Cold Cold World". | ||
tony drake (tony_drake) 1-Arriviste Username: tony_drake Post Number: 1 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
This news is more than I can take I grew up in Philly and Harold Melvin intrduced me to John 32 years ago, you could feel joy all over his persona. I just received my password today and was unable to post yesterday, this news realy hurts last night I watched the tape of the PBS special and he looked so happy may God bless his family and the rest of us. R.I.P. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 332 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.42.212 |
I was told that because of John's Muslim faith, there is not going to be a funeral as we know it. However, I will research the matter further because someone else told me a contardicting story. | ||
Lucy (lucy) 1-Arriviste Username: lucy Post Number: 7 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
THIS IS TRULY HEARTBREAKING NEWS.I JUST SAW THEM ON THE PBS SPECIAL.I LOVED THAT SONG "AIN'T NO STOPPING US NOW".IT WAS ONE THAT GOT EVERYONE UP ON THEIR FEET. WE ARE IN SOME MESS IN THIS COUNTRY,FRIENDS. I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON.AN AMERICAN IS BEHEADED,AND BUSH STATED THE PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE WILL BE BROUGHT TO JUSTICE.YEAH,RIGHT.JUST LIKE OSAMA BIN LADEN WAS. THE NEWS LITERALLY MAKES ME SICK TO MY STOMACH. MAY THIS MAN RIP,AND MAY GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY. MAY GOD HELP US ALL. | ||
sea (sea) 2-Debutant Username: sea Post Number: 23 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138 |
I too knew John although it has been many years since I've seen him. Such a vibrant, life of the party personality. There really are no words to express this horrific tragedy. Damn whoever did this. God Bless John's family and his soul. | ||
brian goddard (brianday) 1-Arriviste Username: brianday Post Number: 3 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 62.253.64.7 |
just read the terrible news ,he is in our prayers brian and jose southampton uk | ||
Dinelle (dinelle_watson) 3-Pundit Username: dinelle_watson Post Number: 60 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 66.157.61.154 |
Oh my goodness! I never thought this would happen. Not to McFadden and Whitehead. | ||
Nosey (nosey) 4-Laureate Username: nosey Post Number: 108 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
I just got in from viewing Mr. Whitehead's body. He looked at peace in a white shroud with only his face exposed. The Obituary reads as follows: Janazah Services (Prayers for the Deceased) for John C. Whitehead (Yah-Yah) Sunrise July 10, 1948 Sunset May 11, 2004 John C. Whitehead, son of Mary E. Whitehead and the late John W. Whitehead, was born on July 10, 1948 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Immediately upon his birth his mother nick-named him "Toodles" and this stuck with him throughout his life. He very suddenly and without forewarning, departed this life on Tuesday, May 11, 2004. John received all of his formal education in the Philadelphia Public School System. While in his latter years of high school, he, along with his best friend, Gene McFadden ventured out and commenced their musical career. The names Gene McFadden and John Whitehead should not be new to anyone who has been remotely connected to the music industry. During the 1970's they wrote and produced some of the most powerful rhythm and blues hits. They formed a group called "the Epsilons" and had the good fortune of being discovered by the late, great Otis Redding, and toured with him until his untimely death. They returned to Philly International Records where they wrote hit after hit. The first hit was written for the O'Jays which was "Backstabbers", which became number one across the board in one week. Hits started flowing in such as "For Love Of Money", "I'll Always Love My Momma", "Bad Luck", "Wake Up Everybody", "Where Are All My Friends", "The More I Get", and the list goes on. These songs were written for such artists as: Teddy Pendergrass, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, The O'Jays, The Jacksons, Lou Rawls and Archie Bell and the Drells just to name a few. They then wrote and sang, "Ain't No Stopping Us Now", which sold over 8 million records and was nominated for 2 Grammy Awards, one for "Song Writer of the Year" and the other for "Artists of The Year". It also won the NAACP Award for "Best Artist of the Year". In Europe it also went platinum. They also performed on the Oprah Wuinfrey Show, did a segment for VH1 named "Where Are They Now" and "Sounds of the 70's" at the Borgata Hotel-Casino, which appeared on WHYY, Channel 12. John was first marrried to the former Anita Mosley, and this union was blessed with three children. In 1990 he married the former Elnor Medley. He embraced the Islamic faith in 1996 and he took his religious beliefs seriously. John had one sister, Wanda that preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn with cherished memories, his loving wife, Elnor Whitehead; his beloved mother, Mary E. Whitehead; his childfren, John C., Dawn E., Kenny, Kareema, Shawn, Lakia, Caiya, Jaron, Nicole and Sabrina, Aailyah, Eric and Naim; six step-children, Shawn, Kamisha, Zafir A., Ameen A., Alim and Fateem; sixteen grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a dear great grandmother, Willie Smith, (101 years of age); one sister, Sylvia Adrienne; two brothers, Kevin and Frank; two aunts; two uncles; nieces and nephews; a host of children that also called him their Dad and other people that took him as a part of their family and many other friends. The viewing was on Broad Street only 3 blocks above the Uptown where I'm sure they performed as the Epsilons. The place was packed with many familiar faces and all conversations overheard by Nosey regarding Toodles was that NO ONE could say a bad word about him. He was funloving and lit up a room when he walked in. That he was always smiling. Someone was reminiscing about when they went horseback riding and how they rode those horses until they virtually gave out! I personally remember when "Aint No Stopping" came out, seeing Toodles and Gene in a brand new convertible (with the top down) waving and cutting up riding through the streets of North Philly. Rest on Toodles. (Message edited by Nosey on May 13, 2004) | ||
Chancellor of Soul (harlem_144) 4-Laureate Username: harlem_144 Post Number: 139 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 63.78.189.114 |
Thanks Nosey....... Mike Boone (Chancellor of Soul) | ||
GO_GET_GONE_GIRL (gogogirl) 3-Pundit Username: gogogirl Post Number: 37 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 63.158.244.228 |
All, Thanks for posting Nosey. "TEACH THE CHILDREN" | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 766 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
I appreciate you sharing Nosey. Thank you very much! | ||
DyvaNaye (westside314) 5-Doyen Username: westside314 Post Number: 362 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 209.212.74.216 |
Wow.... 'To be absent of the body is to be in the presence of the Lord.' God's Blessing to the Whitehead family and all connecting persons. Very sad and untimely, indeed. | ||
AlwaysListening (sterlinggoddess) 1-Arriviste Username: sterlinggoddess Post Number: 2 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138 |
Wow, this is just too much...R.I.P. John, Blessings and prayers to your family. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 346 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.163.47.8 |
The services for John Whitehead will be held today at the Masjid Mohammad, at Belfield and Penn in Germantown, Philadelphia. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 348 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.202 |
L-W, John Whitehead, Gene Mc Fadden, Bobby Eli and William "Poogie" Hart at the PBS soul spectacular.  | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 4-Laureate Username: vonnie Post Number: 144 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Eli, That is how I will always remember John, always with that big smile. And above all singing and dancing. R.I.P. | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 437 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.156.232 |
Vonnie; We spoke of this on the phone but its still quite shocking and I would like to express my outrage over such senceless acts of violence. What a tragic loss of a brilliant writer. I had just seen Peabo Bryson & Ruben Studdard singing a duet of "�in't No Stopping Us Now" on Showtime at the Apollo! Bobby; Thanks for posting the 411 and photos. Nosey; Thanks for your posting too. S.S. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 352 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.202 |
Felix Hernandez is doing a tribute to John right now. wbgo.org | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 444 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.156.232 |
Felix is playing a tribute to John Whitehead right now! S.S. | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 445 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.156.232 |
Now he's playing a rare dynamite gem by them as The Epsilons! WBGO. S.S. | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 446 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.156.232 |
The name of that Epsilon jam was "The Echo". S.S. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 354 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.59.202 |
Hi SS!! I just cant believe that John is gone. The city is reeling. | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 447 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.156.232 |
Hi Bobby; Such sad & tragic news. I can't imagine whats going on in Philly. I hope they catch those guys. R.I.P. John....... I can't believe our posts crossed in the Felix report, LOL! Talk with you soon Bobby, S.S. PS Felix is now playing "Smitty" & Manhattans singing "Follow Your Heart" !!!!!!! | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 355 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.163.20.100 |
heres another pic from the 70's soul spectacular. L-R Sammy Strain, Gene Mc Fadden, John Whitehead, Eli  | ||
dvdmike (dvdmike) 4-Laureate Username: dvdmike Post Number: 96 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.208.234.61 |
According to what I've just learned, John was not even the intended target. Supposedly, the shooter was after the guy who was with him. There was an altercation earlier in the day and this knucklehead just wanted to kill him...over an argument. I weep for our youth. | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 5-Doyen Username: wonder_b Post Number: 247 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.51.205.159 |
That's even more tragic... murdered by mistake... Wonder B | ||
Manny (manny) 4-Laureate Username: manny Post Number: 135 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 217.124.12.103 |
Hi again, soulful friends! Some days after the absurdity, it seems to me more absurd. This country of wonderful people that got a governement that is not worthy for his people, (the people of the USA is majority progressist and paciffic!!!!), this country with laws unjust for the people and with permissive laws with the armament (the country of "The Riffle Society", with more pistols than citizens!...). Somebody here in SD call me "Philly-spaniard" and he was right and honored me. I wanna to express my condolence and my solidarity with all the "Philly" family. It's posible that some day all of us (firsty the governors and legislators) Wake Up Everybody? By now the author of this message was killed!! Peace, Justice & Soul Food | ||
bigdaddyg2k4 (bigdaddyg2k4) 2-Debutant Username: bigdaddyg2k4 Post Number: 27 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.138.54.171 |
Hi fellow SDFers. I've been trying my hardest to get to the library to the computer, but due to my hectic working schedule for the past 2 weeks, I've been able to do so. I first heard the tragic news on CNN Headline News last Tuesday, and just like all of you, I was tremendously shocked and saddened by the death of John Whitehead, 1/2 of the legendary duo McFadden & Whitehead who wrote and sang one of Philly's biggest and greatest hits, "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now". This was truly one of the most shocking and unbelievable acts of violence ever happened to a musical legend that I've ever seen and its a sad testiment to what's going on in the world today. I felt as if I lost a close family member and a dear friend when this happened. My feelings and sentiments are with each and every one of you as we come together and reflect on the wonderful life and great achievements of this man that we love so much as we do also of Gene McFadden and to both of their families, friends and colleagues in this moment of grieving and loss. For now and forever, things will never be the same again when I hear their famous song and others that John have written (Y'all know what they are), but one thing's for sure, I will have a very big smile on my face when that song comes on because for McFadden & Whitehead, it came from the heart, and meant every word of it 'cause "AIN'T NO STOPPIN' US NOW" is the Love anthem forever of all time. God bless you all, and may you rest in peace eternally Mr. John Whitehead. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE MUSIC. "BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU, DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU, AND PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU AND PERSECUTE YOU, THAT YOU MAY BE THE SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN; FOR HE MAKES HIS SUN RISE ON THE EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, AND SENDS RAIN ON THE JUST AND ON THE UNJUST." Matthew 5:44-45 | ||
Destruction (destruction) 1-Arriviste Username: destruction Post Number: 9 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.224.21 |
Well put BigDaddy. Let me add my condolences to the survivors. | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 4-Laureate Username: ~medusa Post Number: 92 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.79.82.78 |
That scripture sounds good bigdaddy, BUT sometimes I agree with the old testament... an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth...(LOL) ok now, I'm just being real here. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 400 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.27.134 |
PSALM 91 IS MY FAVE RELATING TO THIS KIND OF HAPINSTANCE. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 945 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Bobby, Has there been any news regarding the perpetrator(s) of this? Have they any leads at all? I mean, considering this whole tragedy actually started with beef at a car repair shop, surely someone knows something. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 5-Doyen Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 402 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.19.111 |
The news media had reporded that they had several leads, and sadly, they are saying that John WAS the intended victim. However,I find that hard to believe because John was a great guy who was loved by all. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 966 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Bobby, that's just so sad if it's true. I wonder if there was any latent jealousy involved? Whatever the reason for this, it's still not a good enough reason to take his life. | ||
Lady Mystique (ladymystique) 5-Doyen Username: ladymystique Post Number: 353 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 216.37.228.106 |
Who would want to shoot John...I mean I have never met him, but he seemed to be a great person, a happy-go-lucky guy. | ||
Nosey (nosey) 4-Laureate Username: nosey Post Number: 116 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.153.113.238 |
From what I remember being a "groupie" back in the day, Toodles was a happy-go-lucky, nice person but some of his associates were unsavory types from the "hood". I also remember the newspapers reporting a home invasion at his house with someone getting shot back in the late 80s/early 90s. I am in no way attempting to malign anyone's memory as I am indeed sad about this but he could have been involved with the wrong people. Who knows? | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 984 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Nosey, I would never interpret your words as malignment. What you have spoken is one of the negative aspects of life. Many stars who are decent have one or two of those friends from "back in the day", who are into some shady things. Sometimes, those old alliances & friendships are hard to break away from. This is true for all of us. There have been many instances of murder & assault of people, simply for being friends with the wrong person, as well as being in the wrong place at the same time. Like Leon Haywood said: "The streets will love you to death." | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 5-Doyen Username: wonder_b Post Number: 316 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.14.113.239 |
Juice that L.Haywood track is out of this world. I was able (lucky me) to find a 12" promo version cos' I love that track so much! Wonder B If you mess with the 'fro, you gotta go! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 995 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Wonder, That is true, Leon is far too underappreciated!!! I sure wish that I could find Super Sexy as well! | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 4-Laureate Username: ~medusa Post Number: 121 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.79.102.229 |
Hey Juice, It's the Company they KEEP~ keeping on with...because they are used to them and they don't want to change the gameplay, because it will be said that they Forgot where they came from, or they think they're better than... Folks must understand that when you make a change in life(for the better),you have to change with it. What's the sense in changing your lifestyle, but continue hanging around those who go unchanged and sometimes become co dependent(or maybe even jealous)... depending on the persons' nature. It's like throwing something in the garbage, then keep going back taking it out again. Of course you can still communicate with them, but DO NOT get involved in their lifestyles and dealings, especially if you know some of the things they're doing is shady ...remember Bobby Womacks "Nobody Wants You When You're Down And Out" ...It's the company we keep. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1018 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Hi Medusa, That is quite true & even more evident today. I remember a few years ago when Allen Iverson & Jerry Stackhouse were teammates in Philadelphia. Their ENTOURAGE members got into a big argument over who was the man on the team, that turned into gun play. This happens with R&B singers & far too frequently in Hip Hop. And yes, sometimes it is your very friends or family who turn into the biggest haters. The situation involving Slick Rick's incarceration is a case in point. He hired his COUSIN & his cousin began to try to set him up & threaten him, to the extent that he ended up shooting his cousin in self-defense. They have to realize that no matter how "real" they try to keep it & no matter how they try to please those "friends", there are going to be a great number of people who will be envious & resentful of them. In many cases, their past dealings & associations simply catch up to them. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 6-Zenith Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 441 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.162.126.179 |
I can only ask WHY?? | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1033 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Bobby, I wish that there was a logical, sensible & understandable answer to your question. Some things just make no sense to me & all of this violence is one of them. I would have to be defending my life, or the life of a loved one to do such a thing. Some folks just have no love in them. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 6-Zenith Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 444 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.162.126.179 |
In my day to day observation of urban life in general, it seems that all of the so called thugged out cats want to be Tony Montana in Scarface. They want to be "the man" the "big Willie" with the "how you like me now " attitude, only to wind up on a slam in the morgue. Sad, but true. On the flip of the coin, there are a decent number of young men who attend my church who found their way out of all that mess and lived to se it. Just the other night, we had mens covenant, and some of these men were there to tell their story. Amen!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1039 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
What's up Bobby? You know, I always did find it ironic that the main image that appealed to the "keepin' it real" set, turned out to be movie characters. You hit it on the head with your last post & it's more than a little sad that these characters were nothing more than vile, violent criminals, with no real love in their hearts. They were nothing more than caricatures, yet they shaped the mindset of a generation. I remember it like it was yesterday. Back in those days of the 80s, it was Rambo & we used to hear the "Go Rambo, go Rambo go" chants in Raps. Then, we had the Tony Montana bullshit. They all thought that it was great that he went out like a man. He died defiantly, with guns blazing. They weren't fazed that he STILL DIED! They were caught up in the fact that he didn't die like a punk. Right on into the 90s, this crap got worse. Then we had Nino Brown. A "brother" who used a little girl as a shield, took over an entire housing complex, strung out his neighbors on drugs, berated his woman because she couldn't bear children, screwed his best friends girl & then, later killed this same friend, once their empire crashed down around them. Then we had Bishop, Tupacs character from "Juice". A violent, homicidal kid that just didn't have regard for the lives of anyone, not even his friends. Last, but not least, we had The King Of New York...Frank White, another violent drug dealer who dealt poison to the masses. A persona so notorious that Biggie claimed him as an alter ego. Not to mention John Gotti, who rappers also shouted out continually & any number of other gangsters, who have always found favor with the young inner city youths. So there you have it.... minds being shaped by a bunch of movie characters & real-life gangsters who hated the ground that these kids walked on. These are the images that far too many of our kids have based their lifestyles on. The primary qualities of all of these characters is violence & a total lack of regard for human life. These same kids will tell you how no one thinks for them & in the next sentence will use any movie quote to voice a thought. So much for keeping it real! |
