Grammy-nominated R&B singer, Freddie Jackson, who helped define the romantic sounds of 1980s soul, has died at the age of 70.
Jackson died on Oct. 5, just three days after his birthday, according to a statement shared by his family through his official social media account. An official cause of death was not disclosed.
“Freddie was more than a legendary voice,” the Oct. 6 statement read. “He was a kind, generous soul who loved his fans, his family, his friends, and his music with everything he had.”
“For decades he gave us the songs that became the soundtrack to our love stories, our celebrations, and our most treasured memories. That gift will live on forever.”
Jackson rose to fame with his 1985 debut album, “Rock Me Tonight,” and produced chart-topping hits with his title track “You Are My Lady.” The album reached platinum status, while Jackson quickly became a fixture on R&B radio and the Billboard charts.
He earned two Grammy nominations in 1986, including Best New Artist and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “You Are My Lady.” His success continued with the 1987 album “Just Like the First Time,” which also reached platinum certification.
“To everyone who ever sang along, danced, or felt something when Freddie took the stage: thank you,” the family statement continued. “You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always.”
The family will share details about arrangements and how to honor his legacy in the coming days, it said.
Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Jackson developed a musical foundation through gospel. He sang in church before entering the New York club scene and later performed with the group Mystic Merlin.
Jackson continued recording and performing for decades, more recently releasing his 2023 album “My First Love.” His music also reached beyond the recording studio, as he held a television appearance on the series “The Golden Girls” and a duet with Irene Cara on the soundtrack for the animated film “All Dogs Go to Heaven.”
In 2024, Jackson posted a video to his social media accounts announcing he had been diagnosed with kidney disease. Rather than keeping the diagnosis private, he chose to discuss it publicly and partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to encourage greater awareness of kidney health.
“This journey has been challenging, but I am not facing it alone,” he said at the time. “My close friends, my manager and music family, and all of you are here with me, keeping me going.”
In the video, he described his journey as one focused on “openness” and “resilience” and hoped his experience could help others facing similar challenges.
It was important, he told his followers, “as a way to make a positive difference.”
“As I take this step, I’m turning my personal experience into a platform for greater understanding and advocacy. With your help, we can work towards better awareness and improved outcomes for everyone with kidney disease.”
