Iconic soul singer Bill Withers has died at age 81. His family confirmed to The Associated Press and released a statement. He died in Los Angeles from heart complications.
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father. A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large, with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other,” the statement read. “As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones.”
Withers was the voice behind “Lean On Me,” “Lovely Day,” “Ain’t No Sunshine” and countless other classics. He won three Grammy awards in his career. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015.
Withers was survived by his wife, Marcia, and children, Todd and Kori.