Kool and gang’s Michael “Chicago Mike” Sumler died in a car accident in Maybreton, Georgia over Memorial Day weekend.
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Michael Sumler, a long-time hype and designer of Coole and the gang, died in a head-on collision in Mableton, Georgia. He is 71 years old.
The crash occurred after midnight on the Veterans Memorial Highway near Buckner Road. Authorities confirmed that Samler’s vehicle hit another car, and Atlanta News first reported. Another driver was not injured. Samler was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sumler, known by many as “Chicago Mike”, has been part of Kool and the gang’s large family since 1985. He started out as a stylist and choreographer, then became a fixture on stage, hypnotizing with his signature moves and energy for more than thirty years.
Kuhl and the gang pay tribute to Michael Samler
The band issued a statement remembering their former colleague: “We were very sad to hear the death of Mike Sumler in the long-term wardrobe. Mike Sumler. Mike Sumler started working with Kool & The Gang from 2004 to 2015 to make sure they look the best on stage every night. He was also full of energy and dance moves.”
We were very sad to hear the death of our long-time wardrobe valeter Mike Sumler. Mike worked with Kool and The Gang from 2000 to 2015 to make sure the guys on the stage look the best on the stage every night. He also hyped up his energy and dance moves among the crowd
exhibit.— Kuhl and the Gang (@koolnthgnglive) May 29, 2025
Sumler just performed at the Mable House Barnes amphitheater before the fatal crash.
Mayor Michael Owens, who reflects Sumler’s influence, said: “We are saddened by the loss of musician Michael Sumler. Chicago Mike has contributed a lot to the music and entertainment community. His style and energy have added decades of talent and excitement to Kool & Enternity.”
Sumler is the latest member of Kool & The aftermath of drummer George Brown in 2023.
Founded in 1969, Kool & The Gung is known for a string of R&B and pop songs including “Festivals,” “Ladies’ Night,” “Get off” and “Jungle Boogie.”
The band won two Grammy Awards, seven American Music Awards, and more than 30 gold medals and platinum albums. Their music remains one of the most sampled music in hip-hop history.
