Bill Withers ‘Lean on Me’ singer dies in California

<!– Bill Withers dies at 81 –>

Bill Withers dies at 81

U.S. singer Bill Withers, a three-time Grammy award winner has died in Los Angeles, California, following heart complications.

Withers, who withdrew from making music in the mid-80s, died on Monday at 81, his family said.

He 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.”

(Listen to Lean on me:[embedded content])

His death comes as the public has drawn inspiration from his music during the coronavirus pandemic.

Health care workers, choirs, artists and more post their own renditions on “Lean on Me” to help get through the difficult times.

The family statement published by AP read: “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.”

Withers’ songs during his brief career have become the soundtracks of countless engagements, weddings and backyard parties.

“Lean On Me,” a paean to friendship, was performed at the inaugurations of both Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.