On January 13, 2014, former percussionist Beloyd Taylor, who co-wrote the band's 1976 hit "Getaway", died. During February 2014 EWF performed alongside Pharrell, Janelle Monae at the 2014 NBA All-Star Game. Just a few months later, on May 2, former lead vocalist Jessica Cleaves died at the age of 65 following complications from a stroke.