Grammy-nominated R&B singer Freddie Jackson has died at 70, according to a statement shared by his family on his official Instagram.
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Freddie Jackson, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer known for the ’80s hits “Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)” and “You Are My Lady,” has died at 70.
The statement, shared by his family on his official Instagram account, confirmed that Jackson died Monday, three days after his 70th birthday. The statement did not provide a cause of death. It described Jackson as “a kind, generous soul” who loved his fans, family, friends and his music, adding: “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 also thanked fans who sang along, danced, or felt something when Jackson took the stage, saying, “You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always.” The family said details regarding arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
Born and raised in Harlem, Jackson learned about soul music and sang gospel at White Rock Baptist Church. He began his career in the New York club scene before heading out West with the band Mystic Merlin in the late ’70s, then returned to New York and released his debut album, “Rock Me Tonight,” in 1985.
“Rock Me Tonight” was quickly certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America and led to Jackson’s two career Grammy nominations: best new artist and best male R&B vocal performance for “You Are My Lady.” His sophomore album, 1987’s “Just Like the First Time,” was also certified platinum, reinforcing his presence on Billboard R&B charts and on contemporary urban radio through the ’80s and early ’90s.
In 2024, Jackson shared that he had been diagnosed with kidney disease in a video posted to his social media accounts. He said he was facing the challenges with “openness and resilience” and noted he had partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 1 in 7 American adults has chronic kidney disease, and as many as 9 in 10 don’t know they have it. The CDC describes chronic kidney disease as a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and struggle to filter blood, leaving excess waste and fluids that can lead to other health issues, including heart disease.
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