He was 70.
Grammy-nominated R&B singer Freddie Jackson, known for his smooth ’80s hits “Rock Me Tonight ” and “You Are My Lady,” has died.
Jackson was born and raised in Harlem, where he learned all about soul music and sang gospel at White Rock Baptist Church. He started his career in the New York club scene, eventually making his way out West with the band Mystic Merlin in the late ’70s. His distinctive voice proved to be his superpower: The album, which was quickly certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, also led to his two career Grammy nominations.
He soon returned to New York and released his debut album, “Rock Me Tonight,” in 1985. Those were for best new artist and best male R&B vocal performance for the single “You Are My Lady.”
In 2024, Jackson revealed he had been diagnosed with kidney disease in a video shared to his social media accounts. At the time, Jackson also revealed he had partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness of the disease. “It’s important to me that I share this with you, not just as a part of my personal story, but as a way to make a positive difference.
His sophomore album, 1987’s “Just Like the First Time,” was also certified platinum. “This journey has had its challenges but I’ve decided to face it with openness and resilience,” he said in the clip.
“Freddie was more than a legendary voice. 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,” the statement read.
