Freddie Jackson, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer known for 1980s hits including "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)" and "You Are My Lady", has died at the age of 70.
A statement released by his family on his official Instagram account confirmed that Jackson died on Monday, three days after his 70th birthday. The cause of his death has not been revealed.
His family described him as more than a legendary voice, calling him a kind and generous soul who loved his fans, family, friends and music with all his being.
They said that for decades he provided the songs that became the soundtrack to people's love stories, celebrations and most cherished memories, adding that his gift would endure forever.
The statement thanked everyone who sang, danced or felt something when Jackson took the stage, noting that he considered his fans to be family and always carried their love with him.
Harlem roots
Born and raised in Harlem, Jackson learned about soul music and sang gospel at the White Rock Baptist Church. He began his career in the New York club scene before moving west with the band Mystic Merlin in the late 1970s.
He soon returned to New York and released his debut album, "Rock Me Tonight", in 1985. The record was quickly certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and earned him two Grammy nominations.
Jackson was nominated for best new artist and best male R&B vocal performance for his single "You Are My Lady".
Billboard success
He became a mainstay on the Billboard charts and a regular fixture on urban contemporary radio stations throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. His second album, the 1987 release "Just Like the First Time", was also certified platinum.
Kidney disease diagnosis
In 2024, Jackson revealed in a video shared on his social media that he had been diagnosed with kidney disease. He said at the time that the journey had presented challenges, but he had decided to face it with frankness and resilience.
He added that it was important to share the diagnosis not just as part of his personal story, but as a way to make a positive difference.
Jackson also announced he had partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness of the disease. Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which damaged kidneys have difficulty filtering blood, leading to an excess buildup of waste and fluids that can cause other health problems, such as heart disease.
