Freddie Jackson, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer known for 1980s hits like "You Are My Lady," has died at age 70.

Key facts
- •Freddie Jackson died on Monday, three days after his 70th birthday.
- •His 1985 debut album, "Rock Me Tonight," achieved platinum certification.
- •Jackson received two Grammy nominations during his career.
- •He publicly disclosed his kidney disease diagnosis in 2024.
- •The singer began his musical career performing gospel at White Rock Baptist Church in Harlem.
Freddie Jackson, a prominent R&B vocalist whose career spanned decades, died on Monday night at age 70. His family confirmed the news on his official Instagram account, though they did not disclose a cause of death. Jackson, who was born in Harlem and began his musical journey in gospel, became a defining voice of 1980s urban radio.
By the numbers
Musical Career and Legacy
Jackson rose to prominence in the mid-1980s with his debut album, "Rock Me Tonight," which was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. His smooth vocal style earned him two Grammy nominations, including nods for best new artist and best male R&B vocal performance for his signature 1985 hit, "You Are My Lady." Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, he remained a consistent presence on Billboard charts and contemporary urban radio.
Advocacy and Health
In 2024, Jackson publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with kidney disease. At the time, he shared his intention to partner with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness about the condition. The foundation issued a statement following his death, praising his courage in navigating his health challenges. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 7 American adults live with chronic kidney disease, often without knowing they have the condition.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by NBC News Pop Culture, ABC News Entertainment.


