Freddie Jackson, famed for hits such as You Are My Lady and Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake), has died at the age of 70.
The R&B icon quietly departed on Monday (05.10.26), just three days after reaching a milestone birthday. At present, the cause of death remains undisclosed.
In a post on social media, his family shared: “With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Freddie Jackson, who went home to rest last night.”
“Freddie stood for 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.”
“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.”
“Please keep his family, friends, and loved ones in your prayers during this difficult time. Details regarding arrangements and how to honor his legacy will be shared in the coming days.”
“Rest in peace, Freddie. Your legacy and your voice will live on forever.”
Freddie began his music journey in the late 1970s when he joined the California funk outfit Mystic Merlin. After returning to the East Coast, he shifted into R&B.
By the mid-1980s, he was collecting hits that established him as one of the decade’s premier R&B voices. His breakout run included chart favorites such as Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake), You Are My Lady, Have You Ever Loved Somebody, Jam Tonight and Do Me Again, tracks that solidified his presence on U.S. charts.
He also branched into film work, recording Love Survives—a duet with Irene Cara—for the 1989 animated movie All Dogs Go to Heaven. He later appeared on screen in the cult crime drama King of New York.
He remained active for many years, releasing his final album, Love Signals, in 2018. In 2020, he issued the single Why, addressing racial injustice.
