Bill Withers has died, aged 81

News

Legendary soul singer and songwriter Bill Withers has died, aged 81. 

The American artist, best known for writing and performing hits such as ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’, ‘Lovely Day’, ‘Just The Two Of Us’ and ‘Lean On Me’, passed away on Monday 30th March following heart complications, it has been confirmed. 

Withers’ family shared the sad news in a statement today (3rd April): “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.”

“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.”

Withers’ influence on the fabric of music, from soul and R&B to pop, blues, funk and beyond, cannot be understated. A singular artist and multiple Grammy award winner, Withers stepped away from the music industry in the ‘80s, but his songs have done more than stand the test of time, and they will continue to do so for years and years to come.