RIP Bill Withers

[Gman]

Reading this morning that Bill Withers passed gave me the blues...

'Lean On Me,' 'Lovely Day' singer Bill Withers dies at 81

Bill Withers, who wrote and sang a string of soulful songs in the 1970s that have stood the test of time, including “ Lean On Me, ” “Lovely Day” and “Ain’t No Sunshine,” has died from heart complications, his family said in a statement to The Associated Press. He was 81.

The three-time Grammy Award winner, who withdrew from making music in the mid-1980s, died on Monday in Los Angeles, the statement said. His death comes as the public has drawn inspiration from his music during the coronavirus pandemic, with health care workers, choirs, artists and more posting their own renditions on “Lean on Me” to help get through the difficult times.

“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 family statement read. “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.”

[Aloha_Shooter]

Sad to hear. Wonderful artist from a time when music mattered more than "identity" ...

[Bowtie]

One of the most underrated musicians. He is one of my favorites.

[JohnnyEgo]

"Ain't no sunshine when she's gone" was actually playing over the maternity ward speakers when they took my son from my wife to be weighed and checked in. A fantastic song, with perfect karmic timing for that moment. RIP Mr. Withers.

[flogger]

I've been humming Lovely Day since I heard the news. Very talented guy that really made a mark.

RIP Mr. Withers.

[StagLefty]

Lots of good memories from Mr. Withers songs RIP