Billy Paul, the singer of the classic single “Me and Mrs. Jones,” is dead at age 81.
TMZ reported on Sunday that Billy Paul died at his home in Philadelphia sometime last week. He reportedly received treatment for cancer at the Temple University Hospital in Philly shortly before passing away.
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Paul became a singing sensation in the early 1970s with his instant hit single “Me and Mrs. Jones.” In 1975 he released another hit “Let’s Make a Baby” that stirred up a lot of controversy when Rev. Jesse Jackson called for radio stations across the U.S. to ban the song for its sexually explicit lyrics.
“We regret to announce with a heavy heart that Billy has passed away today at home after a serious medical condition,” a message posted on his website reads.
“We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to his wife Blanche and family for their loss, as they and the world grieves the loss of another musical icon that helped pioneered today’s R&B music. Billy will be truly missed.”
“Please share you thought, messages and stories of Billy as we remember this legendary artist, family member and friend.”
He also became a key figure in the black power movement of the 1970s and 80s. But to date his biggest charting single is “Me and Mrs. Jones.”
2016 seems to be a curse year for celebrities so far.
