(January 3, 2025) Tonight we say a sad goodbye to 60s singing sensation, Brenton Wood, who has died at his Moreno Valley, California home at age 83.
Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood possessed a smooth, powerful vocal delivery that was just right for the emerging soulful sounds of the 1960s. After his family relocated to San Pedro, California, Wood grew up immersed in the rich R&B culture of Los Angeles, where he honed his musical chops and discovered his knack for crafting catchy, heartfelt melodies. Later, he adopted the name “Brenton Wood,” inspired by the affluent Los Angeles neighborhood of Brentwood.
Wood’s career took off in 1967 with the release of Oogum Boogum, his debut album that featured the infectiously playful title track, which hit the R&B Top 20. The album showcased his knack for pairing groovy rhythms with clever, flirtatious lyrics. However, it was his next single, “Gimme Little Sign” (with the memorable refrain “Just Give Me Some Kind of Sign, Love”), that catapulted him to stardom. The song became an international Top 10 hit, earning critical acclaim and securing his place in the soul music pantheon. Its irresistible blend of upbeat energy and emotional vulnerability resonated deeply with audiences.
Wood never topped the success of “Gimme Little Sign,” but he continued to chart with a number of 1970s singles, most on his own record Mr. Wood label. After that decade, Wood recorded and toured more sporadically, always finding an audience — particularly in the Los Angeles area – for his classic soul sounds. He most recently performed last year, in what he described as Catch You On The Rebound: The Last Tour. That tour was cut short by illness, ultimately leading to his passing today.
Brenton Wood delivered some absolute gems as part of the Golden Age of Soul Music, and those contributions will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
