Soul singer Charles Bradley has died at age 68. Bradley passed away Saturday from cancer, which he was diagnosed with in October 2016.
After performing as a James Brown impersonator under the name "Black Velvet," Bradley began his professional music career in 2002 with a series of singles through Daptone, beginning with "Take It As It Comes." He released his debut album No Time For Dreaming in 2011, which was praised for it's classically-informed soul sound and Bradley's powerful and charismatic voice. His sophomore project Victim of Love came in 2013 and his third LP Changes in 2016. Changes was named after the Black Sabbath song that was covered on the project as the title track.
The singer was forced to cancel tour dates in September, revealing that while he had beaten the stomach cancer he was diagnosed with in 2016, the cancer had now spread to his liver. “I love all of you out there that made my dreams come true,” he said at the time. “When I come back, I’ll come back strong, with God’s love. With God’s will, I’ll be back soon.”
A statement from Bradley's spokesperson thanked fans for their support. "Mr. Bradley was truly grateful for all the love he’s received from his fans and we hope his message of love is remembered and carried on," it reads. "Thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Bradley's music has been sampled by hip-hop artists including Jay-Z and Cyhi Da Prynce.
Questlove, El-P, and other artists who were inspired by Bradley have been sharing their condolences on social media today. Read some of their thoughts below.