Freddie Jackson dies: R&B singer known for ‘You Are My Lady’

R&B singer Freddie Jackson, known for his smooth ballads and hits including "You Are My Lady" and "Rock Me Tonight," has died. He was 69.

Jackson’s family announced his death Tuesday, saying he "went home to rest" Monday night. The family did not disclose a cause of death.

Freddie Jackson dies at 69

What they're saying:

"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Freddie Jackson, who went home to rest last night," his family said in a statement. "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 family added, "To everyone who ever sang along, danced, or felt something when Freddie took the stage: thank you. You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always." 

Freddie Jackson’s legacy

The backstory:

Jackson rose to prominence in the 1980s and became one of R&B’s leading voices, known for his powerful vocals and romantic songs.

Among his best-known hits were "You Are My Lady," "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)," "Have You Ever Loved Somebody" and "Jam Tonight."

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His music became a fixture on R&B and adult contemporary radio, and his songs helped establish him as one of the genre’s prominent balladeers of the decade.

The family said details about funeral arrangements and plans to honor Jackson’s legacy will be announced in the coming days.

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