Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Brenton Wood moved to California at a young age, eventually settling in Compton. It was here that he began to explore his passion for music, drawing inspiration from artists like Sam Cooke and Jesse Belvin. Wood's breakthrough came in 1967 with the release of "The Oogum Boogum Song," which climbed to No. 19 on the Billboard R&B charts. A few months later, he scored another hit with "Gimme Little Sign," which peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. These successes marked the beginning of a career that would see Wood become a beloved figure in the soul music scene.

Despite facing challenges in the mainstream music industry, Brenton Wood found a dedicated fan base among Latino audiences. His music, characterized by its soulful groove and relatable lyrics, resonated deeply with this community. Wood frequently performed in major California cities and even toured through Mexico and Arizona, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. His songs became staples at weddings, quinceañeras, and other celebrations, earning him a special place in the hearts of many. As Chicano music historian Gene Aguilera noted, "His music was really accepted by East L.A. because of the slow groove he's got, very soulful, that people from East L.A. just love."

Brenton Wood's music has continued to find new audiences over the years, thanks in part to its inclusion in films and TV shows like "Almost Famous" and "The Umbrella Academy." Earlier this year, Wood embarked on a farewell tour titled "Catch You on the Rebound," a nod to his 1967 song. However, the tour was cut short due to his declining health. In his final message to fans, Wood expressed gratitude for their support, saying, "Catch you on the rebound." His passing marks the end of an era for many, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music.