Singer Bobby Caldwell has died at the age of 71.
The musician, most known for his hit song, What You Won’t Do For Love, died at his home, with his wife Mary by his side.
She confirmed the sad news of his death on his official Twitter page, explaining that he battled an illness for many years.
‘Bobby passed away here at home,’ she wrote. ‘I held him tight in my arms as he left us. I am forever heartbroken.
‘Thanks to all of you for your many prayers over the years. He had been “FLOXED,” it took his health over the last 6 years and 2 months.
‘Rest with God, my Love. – Mary Caldwell.’
Underneath her post, fans rushed to offer the family their condolences, while paying tribute to the late star.
‘My prayers and love to you and the family. Thank you for sharing Bobby with all of us,’ a follower wrote.
‘My whole life, I’ve had Bobby’s music in my ear. That won’t end. I’ll forever listen to his music.’
One said: ‘I’m so sorry to hear! Was thinking about him the other day while listening to his music! Such a lovely man!’
‘Rest in peace, legend. You will live forever in our hearts,’ another commented.
A fan replied: ‘This is devastating news. Bobby’s voice was a gift, his music life-changing…so full of heart and soul.
‘Peace be with him in the hereafter and with his loved ones coping with the loss.’
As a Twitter user added: ‘Condolences to you and your family Mary. He will live forever thru his beautiful music [sic].’
Bobby’s cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
TMZ reports that he suffered bouts of nerve damage, due to a torn tendon in his ankle.
The Manhattan-born singer realized his passion for music as a child, and started a band as a teenager, making the move to LA to jump start a career on stage.
He signed a contract with TK Records in 1978, releasing What You Won’t Do For Love in September of that year.
It was an instant hit, breaking into the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, as well as the R&B and Adult Contemporary listings.
Many huge artists, including Boys II Men and Tupac went on to either cover or sample the hit, which became Bobby’s biggest song to date.
The singer released his self-titled debut album in 1978, which went double platinum in the US – and followed this up with Cat in the Hat two years later. His last release came in 2015, with Cool Uncle.
He also went on to write songs for Roy Ayers, Neil Diamond, Amy Grant and Boz Scaggs throughout his career.
Bobby is survived by his wife, Mary.
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