Exclusive: Robert Bell of Kool & the Gang talks to FOX 8 ahead of Rock Hall induction

CLEVELAND (WJW) — Before Robert “Kool” Bell sat down for a private Rock Hall event on Thursday night, he talked exclusively with FOX 8 News about being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame .

“It’s bittersweet because I lost six of my seven members. The original Kool & the Gang — I’m the only one left,” said Bell.

Bell and his late brother Ronald were born in Youngstown.

He remembers growing up close to Cleveland, now the home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

“This is great. I’ve been waiting for this a while,” said Bell.

Bell is one of the founding members of Kool & the Gang – one of the most sampled bands of all time.

The band has toured all over the world. He’s even collaborated with some fellow inductees.

“I did shows with Van Halen, Dave Matthews Band, Kid Rock. Now I’m a rocker. It feels great. I’m in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” said Bell.

The seven-time Grammy award-winning group has sold over 80 million albums worldwide, with recognizable songs that are often played at weddings, events and yes, celebrations.

“It’s a great feeling. I have family here. Everyone will be watching me. We’re going to have a good time,” said Bell.

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