LEGENDARY RECORDING artist Bill Withers, who wrote and sang a string of hits has died aged 81.

The American will be best known for classics that illuminated 1970s and that have stood the test of time, including Lean On Me, Lovely Day and Ain’t No Sunshine.

“He was a solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large”

Family statement

It is reported that he died from heart complications, his family said in a statement 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,” the family statement read.

“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.”