When did Kool and the Gang first form?

Kool & the Gang was originally formed in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1964. The band was founded by seven childhood friends: Robert "Kool" Bell, Ronald Bell, George Brown, Robert "Spike" Mickens, Dennis Thomas, Charles Smith, and Ricky Westfield. Initially known as the Jazziacs, they later changed their name to Kool & the Gang in 1969 and went on to become one of the most successful and influential funk and R&B bands in music history.