'Ain't No Sunshine' singer Bill Withers passes away at 81
Bill Withers, the beloved singer and songwriter behind hits from the 1980s such as Lean on Me and Ain't No Sunshine, has passed away aged 81 due to heart complications, his family told the Associated Press in a statement. The award-winning musician, who withdrew from recording music in the mid 1980s to lead a private life, breathed his last on Monday in Los Angeles.
Withers was nominated for seven Grammys, won three
Withers is known for adding some of the greatest songs to the American songbook. A mix of powerful melodies, catchy grooves, and meaningful lyrics, Withers's discography included other memorable songs such as Lovely Day, Use Me, Just the Two of Us, and Grandma's Hands. Out of a total seven nominations, Withers took home three Grammy awards during his brief yet eventful career.
Withers is survived by his wife and their two children
The statement from Withers's family reads, "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father." "A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large, with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other," the statement adds. Withers is survived by his wife Marcia Johnson and their two children.
'We hope his music offers comfort in this difficult time'
"As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones," the statement concludes.
May his soul rest in peace
Withers's demise comes at a time when the former star's all-time signature track Lean on Me is bringing people hope and inspiration in these grim times as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc across the globe. Many people have posted their own renditions of the song in solidarity with health workers and other other essential services providers. May his soul rest in peace.
