Influential Soul Singer Bill Withers Dies at 81

Legendary soul singer Bill Withers passed away early this week from heart complications at his home in Los Angeles.

Bill Withers, the Hall of Fame soul giant behind "Lean on Me," "Lovely Day" and "Ain't No Sunshine," has died at age 81 https://t.co/fp0wzrvqnj pic.twitter.com/jrDSuR4eIh

— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) April 3, 2020

Withers was the artist behind such hits as Lean On Me and Ain’t No Sunshine. He’s been described as a “solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world”. A statement added, “He spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other.”

The soul singer will be remembered for his sultry baritone vocals, writing some of the most memorable songs of the 70’s. Withers also holds the record for “Longest Sustained Note on a US Chart Hit,” holding a high E note for 18 seconds on the song Lovely Day. 

He may have stopped recording in 1985 but Withers influence is still heard in much of today’s R&B and Hip Hop. He was 81.

Artists across the music industry are paying tribute to the late soul legend today.

https://twitter.com/LennyKravitz/status/1246097495190646784

Shout out to the magic of recorded music. Imagine if the transcendent Bill Withers died and we never heard his voice again

— Flea (@flea333) April 3, 2020

GOD BLESS BILL WITHERS • 1938-2O2O tBLSt SDMF pic.twitter.com/p7iKCMGwXy

— Zakk Wylde (@ZakkWyldeBLS) April 3, 2020

Bill Withers RIP my friend. Forever grateful for your music and kindness.

— Joe Walsh (@JoeWalsh) April 3, 2020

What a poignant writer whose songs are more relevant than ever right now May music always bring us together! Rest in paradise to the magnificent #BillWithers https://t.co/smITA9MKFO

— Alicia Keys (@aliciakeys) April 3, 2020

https://twitter.com/BrianWilsonLive/status/1246096980444667905

Mourning the loss of my friend and inspiration, Bill Withers. He was such an incredible songwriter and storyteller. I'm so glad he shared his gift with the world. Life wouldn't be the same without him.

— John Legend (@johnlegend) April 3, 2020