Jazz singer Billy Paul, perhaps best known for his iconic hit "Me and Mrs. Jones," died on Sunday, April 24, at the age of 80, according to US Weekly. The musician passed away at his home in Blackwood, New Jersey.
His producers, Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, confirmed his passing to
Us Weekly in a statement:
"We are very saddened to learn of the sudden death of our good friend and Philadelphia International Records recording artist Billy Paul," the statement read. "From the time we saw Billy performing live, and then signing him to our label, we immediately realized that we had discovered and launched one the most unique voices in the music industry," it continued.
"Our proudest moment with Billy was the recording of the salacious smash, 'Me and Mrs. Jones.' In our view, it is one of the greatest love songs ever recorded. Billy will forever have a special place in music history."
In addition, The Recording
Academy issued the following statement today on his passing:
We are terribly saddened to learn of the passing of GRAMMY® Award winner Billy Paul. Billy was a much-beloved figure from the Philadelphia music scene, and he brought a sophisticated jazz sensibility to his most famous hit, 1972's "Me And Mrs. Jones." His career was marked by songs of empowerment and his incredible voice. We have lost a very talented member of our creative community, and our sincerest condolences go out to Billy's family, friends, collaborators, and all of his fans worldwide. He will be missed.
Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy
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