Walter Scott of The Whispers Dies at 81
Walter Scott, who with his twin brother Wallace “Scotty” founded the legendary R&B group The Whispers, has died at the age of 81, after a six-month bout with cancer, his family confirmed. He passed away surrounded by his family in the Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles.
The Whispers extensive catalog includes “And the Beat Goes On,” “Rock Steady,” “It’s a Love Thing,” “Lady, “Love is Where You Find It,” and “Love at Its Best.”
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Walter and Scotty moved to Los Angeles with their family in 1959. They started singing while attending Jordan High School and in 1964, The Whispers were formed, according to a Sentinel interview with Walter and Scotty in 2017.
A veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, Walter served as a signaleer during the Vietnam War. Upon his return in 1969, he rejoined his brother in The Whispers. Walter recorded for several record companies, including Soul Train Records, Solar Records and Capital Records. In 1980, the group really took off and released several gold and platinum hits.
The Whispers: A Soul Legacy That Spanned Generations
Formed in Los Angeles during the early 1960s, The Whispers included twin brothers Walter and Wallace “Scotty” Scott, Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Leaveil Degree. They began recording with Dore Records and found early success with the 1970 hit “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong.”
The group remained consistent through the 70s, with modest chart success under Don Cornelius and Dick Griffey’s Soul Train label. But things changed dramatically in 1980 when they joined Griffey’s SOLAR label and collaborated with producer Leon Sylvers. That union gave birth to one of the most iconic tracks in R&B history: “And the Beat Goes On.”
Hits That Defined a Generation of R&B Fans
The Whispers found their stride in the 1980s with a stream of unforgettable songs. “It’s A Love Thing,” “Keep On Lovin Me,” and “Tonight” became soul anthems. Their tender tribute, “A Song For Donny,” paid homage to Donny Hathaway with lyrics by Carrie Lucas. And with the help of Babyface, the group reached new heights with the crossover smash “Rock Steady.”
Even as mainstream success faded, The Whispers remained a favorite on soul and dance charts. After moving to Capitol Records in 1990, they released additional hits like “Innocent” and “My Heart Your Heart.”
Personal Loss and Continued Dedication to Music
The group suffered personal tragedies with the loss of Marcus Hutson in 2000 and Nicholas Caldwell in 2016. Despite the heartbreak, the group pressed on. Walter and Scotty Scott released a duo album, My Brother’s Keeper, in 2006, continuing their musical journey together.
Remembering Walter Scott: A Voice That Never Faded
Earlier this year, Walter Scott missed several shows due to illness, sparking concern among fans. Though many hoped for his recovery, the sad news of his passing now marks the end of an era. His contribution to R&B spans over 50 years, leaving behind a musical catalog that shaped the soundtrack of countless lives.
From humble beginnings to international acclaim, Walter Scott and The Whispers proved that soul music could thrive across decades. His voice, energy, and dedication will forever be remembered by fans, friends, and fellow artists alike. Rest in peace, Walter—you were truly one of a kind.
