Trombonist Clifford Adams, best known for his work with Kool and Gang, has died at the age of 62.

The beloved musician lost his year-long battle with liver cancer earlier this week and an outpouring of support has come in from fans and colleagues.

Bandmate Michael Ray broke news in an official statement online earlier this week saying, "This was my closest and oldest friend."

"If you knew Cliff you knew his infectious smile and his strong spirit . . . He was powered by family values and he was one of the baddest trombone players in the planet.

We've been around the world several times just playing.

He loved the music and he was a master musician. He taught me so much."

He was without insurance during his cancer battle and had received aid through the Trenton, New Jersey organization Jazz Bridge.