American R&B and Grammy nominated singer Freddie Jackson, whose voice became synonymous in the 1980s and in the 1990s, has died at the age of 70.
His family confirmed the news in a statement, remembering him as a kind, generous soul, whose music provided the soundtrack to countless lives.
“Jackson was kind generous soul, whose music was the soundtrack to our love stories, celebrations and treasured memories,” the family wrote.
The musician was known for soulful classics like “You Are My Lady” and “Rock Me Tonight” with his career beginning singing gospel music at White Rock Baptist Church in Harlem at an early age.
In 2024, Jackson revealed he had been diagnosed with kidney disease said he had partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness of the disease.
He was born in Harlem, New York on October 2, 1957, where he met his later record producer and songwriting partner, Paul Laurence. He began playing clubs in New York before relocating west in the late 1970s.
He received two Grammy nominations in 1986 for Best New Artist and Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male for “You Are My Lady.”
The family has requested the public to keep them in their prayers as they honor the legend.
“Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time. Details regarding arrangements and how to honor his legacy will shared in the coming days,” the family said in a statement.