Beloved soul and jazz singer, Billy Paul has passed away at the age of 81.
Neil Portnow, CEO of The Recording Academy said in a statement:
We are terribly saddened to learn of the passing of GRAMMY® Award winner Billy Paul. Billy was a much-beloved figure from the Philadelphia music scene, and he brought a sophisticated jazz sensibility to his most famous hit, 1972's "Me And Mrs. Jones." His career was marked by songs of empowerment and his incredible voice.
We have lost a very talented member of our creative community, and our sincerest condolences go out to Billy's family, friends, collaborators, and all of his fans worldwide. He will be missed.
On the artist's official website, the statement read:
We regret to annouce with a heavy heart that Billy has passed away today at home after a serious medical condition.We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to his wife Blanche and family for their loss, as they and the world grieves the loss of another musical icon that helped pioneered todays R&B music. Billy will be truly missed.Please share you thought, messages and stories of Billy as we remember this legendary artist, family member and friend…….
