Gordy Harmon Dead at 79: Did The Whispers' Founding Member Die of Health Issue?

Gordy Harmon, a musician who famously founded the R&B group The Whispers, died at the age of 79, his family confirmed.

ABC7 released the initial report citing Eyewitness News. It disclosed Harmon's death, saying the musician died Thursday at his Los Angeles home.

The publication noted that Gordy Harmon's exact cause of death was not known, but his family believes he died of natural causes. They also clarified that he died peacefully in his sleep and had no serious illnesses at the time of his death.

"We the family of Gordy Harmon Jr. would like to inform you that he passed away January 5, 2023 in his sleep in his LA home at 10:41 A.M," the family said.

Colleagues, fans, and different groups paid tribute to the late musician on social media pages.

His bereaved loved ones have not released details of his funeral.

Gordy Harmon's Career and Legacy

Harmon started his career with The Whispers when he formed the group in the Los Angeles area in 1964. Along with Wallace Scott, Walter Scott, Marcus Hutson, and Nicholas Caldwell, the group dominated the R&B world with their hit songs and albums.

The Whispers released a total of 77 singles, 24 studio albums, 13 compilation albums, and one live album.

Among these music projects included "The Whispers/Planets of Life," "The Whispers' Love Story," "Life and Breath," "Bingo," "One for the Money," "Open Up Your Love," "Headlights," "Whisper in Your Ear," "Love for Love," "My Brother's Keeper," "Christmas Moments," "For Your Ears Only," and "Thankful," to name a few.

Harmon eventually left the group in 1973. According to the Los Angeles Sentinel, he had to leave the group after sustaining a larynx injury following a driving accident in the same year. Leaveil Degree replaced him in the band.

"We have seen so much change, but our fans have been with us. When you look at music like ours or the Temptations or the Ojays, that music is still here," Walter said.

In 2002, The Whispers received an NAACP Image Award. A year later, the group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.

The R&B musicians were soon inducted into the Official R&B Music Hall of Fame.

As of press time, the Scott brothers and Leaveil Degree remain in the group.