Walter Scott Jr of The Whispers Passes Away at 81 After Courageous Cancer Battle

Walter Scott Jr., one of the original voices behind the legendary R&B group The Whispers, has died at the age of 81 following a long battle with cancer. Known for his smooth vocals, timeless stage presence, and decades-long contribution to soul and R&B music, Walter leaves behind a legacy that helped define a generation of sound and style.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas in 1944, Walter’s journey into music began early in life. His family eventually moved to Los Angeles, where he and his twin brother Wallace Scott joined forces with Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson, and Gordy Harmon in 1963 to form what would become one of the most celebrated R&B groups of the 20th century — The Whispers. The group relocated briefly to San Francisco in 1966, where they performed regularly and developed the signature harmonies and smooth choreography that would later become their trademark. Walter stepped away temporarily after being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, but he returned to the group in 1969, helping them continue their rise.

The Whispers’ breakthrough came in 1970 with the soulful ballad “Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong,” which reached No. 6 on the R&B charts. Over the next two decades, the group became a dominant force in R&B, scoring 15 Top 10 hits, including their first No. 1, the iconic “And the Beat Goes On” in 1980. Other unforgettable tracks followed, such as the romantic “Lady,” the upbeat classic “It’s a Love Thing,” and the funk-infused “Rock Steady,” which not only topped the R&B chart but also peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. With a blend of melodic elegance and undeniable groove, The Whispers created songs that resonated across radio waves and dance floors alike.

The group’s success extended to albums as well, with eight Top 10 R&B albums, including the chart-toppers “The Whispers” and “Love Is Where You Find It.” After joining Solar Records in 1978, under the guidance of Dick Griffey, their sound solidified and they began a run of hits that cemented their place in music history. Tracks like “(Let’s Go) All the Way” and “(Olivia) Lost and Turned Out” demonstrated their ability to balance emotionally resonant storytelling with the polished production that became Solar’s hallmark.

Beyond their music, The Whispers were celebrated for their sophisticated choreography and tight live performances, which kept them touring and attracting fans well into the 2000s. Their on-stage unity and enduring brotherhood gave them a presence that went beyond the studio, making them a must-see act across decades.

Tragedy touched the group over the years. Founding member Gordy Harmon, who had to step down after a larynx injury in the early ‘70s, passed away in 2023. Leaveil Degree joined as his replacement in 1973. Marcus Hutson passed in 2000, and Nicholas Caldwell died in 2016. Despite these losses, the remaining members, including the Scott brothers, continued to carry the group’s legacy forward. In 2014, The Whispers were honored with an induction into the National Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring influence and contribution to music.

Walter Scott Jr. is survived by his wife Jan, two sons, three grandchildren, and his twin brother Wallace Scott, who stood beside him from the group’s inception to its lasting acclaim. Funeral arrangements will be shared at a later time, as the music world reflects on the life of a man who helped shape the soundtrack of an era.

Walter’s voice may be silent now, but the beat of his music will go on forever.