Singer-Songwriter Bill Withers Dead At 81

The news broke this morning that American singer-songwriter Bill Withers has passed away at the age of 81 according to a statement from his family. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bill Withers is known for a string of well-known hits including "Lovely Day," "Lean On Me,"  "Ain't No Sunshine," and more. Sadly his family released a statement this morning announcing the death of the musician. Here is the statement according to the Associated Press:

“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. 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.”

Withers was nominated for 7 Grammy Awards and won 3. Withers was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 and performed at the inauguration for both former President Bill Clinton and former President Barack Obama. Both his songs "Ain't No Sunshine" and "Lean On Me" were named one of the 500 Greatest Songs of all Time, according to Rolling Stone.