Acclaimed 1970s soul singer, Bill Withers died on Monday in Los Angeles at the age of 81. His death was announced in a statement by his family, which said he died of “heart complications.”
Withers is known for his smooth baritone vocals and soulful arrangements. He was already in his 30s when he released his first album, Just as I Am, in 1971. The album included the hit “Ain’t No Sunshine” which reached the Billboard Top 10.
His hit “Lean on Me,” an anthem of friendship and support, hit No.1 in 1972. Withers is also known for hits like “Use Me” (1972), “Lovely Day” (1977), and “Just the Two of Us” (1981). After his 1985 album Watching You Watching Me, Withers stopped recording and performing due to frustration with the music business.
“He spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other,” the statement by his family read. “In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones.”