Who was Willie Ford?
Willie “Sugar Bear” Ford was one of the co-founders and the bass singer of the legendary soul group The Dramatics, formed in Detroit in 1964. He was known for his outstanding bass voice and his influence on the group’s harmony and stage show. He joined The Dramatics in 1968, replacing Rob Davis, and stayed with the group until his death in 2023. He was born on July 10, 1950 in LaGrange, Georgia, and moved to Detroit as a child. He attended Northern High School, where he played the saxophone, baseball, and ran track. He also sang with the Capitols before joining The Dramatics.
What were his achievements?
Willie Ford was part of The Dramatics’ most successful lineup, along with Ron Banks, L.J. Reynolds, Lenny Mayes, and Larry “Squirrel” Demps. The group had several hit songs in the 1970s and 1980s, such as “In the Rain”, “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get”, “Be My Girl”, “Me and Mrs. Jones”, and “Love is Here”. The group was known for their distinctive vocal blend, their dynamic stage presence, and their versatility in different genres, such as soul, funk, disco, and pop. The group was also featured in the 2017 film “Detroit”, which depicted the Algiers Motel incident of 1967, in which one of the founding members, Larry Reed, was involved. The group was inducted into the National Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame in 2013, and had a street named after them in the Woodbridge Estates in Detroit.
How did he die?
Willie Ford passed away on May 28, 2023, in Detroit, at the age of 68. The cause of death was not officially announced, but according to Michael Henderson, a singer, writer, and producer who worked with The Dramatics, Ford had just had surgery and was resting at his home before his death. Henderson also praised Ford as one of the greatest bass singers of all time, along with Melvin Franklin of The Temptations. Ford’s funeral was held on June 12, 2023, at the Detroit World Outreach, followed by a repast at Bert’s Warehouse. He was survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and other relatives and friends.
Why is he remembered?
Willie Ford was a beloved and respected member of The Dramatics, and a pioneer of the soul music scene in Detroit. He left a lasting legacy with his voice, his personality, and his contributions to the group and the music industry. He was admired by his fans, his peers, and his colleagues, and influenced many other singers and groups. He was a part of the history and culture of Detroit, and a representative of the city’s musical heritage. He will be missed by many, but his music will live on forever.
