Bill Withers, the legendary singer-songwriter who brought us hits like "Lean On Me" and "Ain't No Sunshine," has passed away. According to his family, the 81-year-old died of heart complications on Monday.
"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," his family said in a statement, per AP. "As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones."
The singer's death comes at a time when his song "Lean On Me" has served as an inspiration for many during these difficult times of the coronavirus pandemic.
Some of our staff have put this video together to reinforce the message to; 🏡Stay home 🏥Protect the NHS 💙Save liv… https://t.co/LaVGM3DwuK— Royal Wolverhampton (@Royal Wolverhampton) 1586019598.0
Celebrities and friends honor Withers with online tributes.
Bill Withers made the sort of music that you couldn’t help but sing along to—from “Lean on Me” to “Lovely Day,” he… https://t.co/SmxWmULnrv— Michelle Obama (@Michelle Obama) 1586007613.0
Aw man, Bill Withers was really the greatest. Grandma’s Hands, Ain’t No Sunshine, Lean on Me, Use Me Up, Just The T… https://t.co/eimn4mFOHR— Chance The Rapper (@Chance The Rapper) 1585924875.0
Mourning the loss of my friend and inspiration, Bill Withers. He was such an incredible songwriter and storyteller… https://t.co/Gy32EQqdRK— John Legend (@John Legend) 1585931150.0
Like many, his songs have always spoken to me. The epitome of soul. May you forever rest in power, Bill Withers. https://t.co/HAFGzzbJ8T— Chadwick Boseman (@Chadwick Boseman) 1585973842.0
I know I know I know I know I know I know I know I got a pic of me & BILL WITHERS somewhere! Who Is He & What Is He To U?! RIP Boss👊🏾— Samuel L. Jackson (@Samuel L. Jackson) 1585984107.0
Yesterday we lost two amazing human beings. Rest In Paradise Bill Withers and Sergio Rossi. Your legacy’s will never be forgotten ❤️🙏🏽— Ciara (@Ciara) 1586013819.0
Rest In Peace, maestro Bill Withers. What a legacy. https://t.co/GBImqLRdPh— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin-Manuel Miranda) 1585924224.0
R.I.P., Bill Withers! Thank you for pouring out your soul into your music, and sharing it all with us.
Photo via Getty
Sign Up For The Morning PAPER
Nightlife
Coolest Person in the Room: Jaden Walker
Story by Zach Shucklin / Photography by The Cobra Snake (Sponsored by Cuervo Tradicional Cristalino)
Nightlife
Madonna Is the Wildest Party Favor
Photography by Ricardo Gomes / Interview by Nile Rodgers / Story by Patrik Sandberg / Styling by Eyob Yohannes / Hair by Andy LeCompte / Makeup by Wendi Miyake
Fashion
PAPER Fashion: Madonna Diabla
Creative direction by Jess Cuevas / Art direction by Sakura Bready / Photography by Drew Escriva