Freddie Jackson has died. He had just turned 70.
The R&B star’s family announced on Instagram that he passed away on Monday.
“Freddie was more than a legendary voice. He was a kind, generous soul who loved his fans, his family, his friends, and his music with everything he had,” his family wrote.
“For decades he gave us the songs that became the soundtrack to our love stories, our celebrations, and our most treasured memories. That gift will live on forever.”
Jackson’s hit 1985 single You Are My Lady was his biggest hit and has since become one of the most requested songs at weddings and engagement parties around the world.
“To everyone who ever sang along, danced, or felt something when Freddie took the stage: thank you. You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always,” his family concluded on social media.
While no cause of death was given, the singer announced in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with kidney disease.
“This journey has been challenging, but I am not facing it alone,” he shared at the time. “My close friends, my manager and music family, and all of you are here with me, keeping me going.”
Jackson, who was born in Harlem, New York, started out as a gospel singer. His smooth voice earned him two Grammy nominations and a slate of platinum and gold records, Rolling Stone reports.
“My music is for people who like to hold hands in concert,’ he told the New York Times in 1989.
“If people could diminish some of their hate, the chaos and trouble in life wouldn’t be so strong.”
