Grammy-nominated R&B singer Freddie Jackson, best known for the classic hits You Are My Lady and Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake), has died.
Jackson died on Monday, October 5, 2026, just three days after his birthday. His family confirmed his death in a statement shared on his official Instagram account.
The family described Jackson as a “kind, generous soul” who loved his fans, family, friends and music.
“Freddie was more than a legendary voice,” the family said, remembering the singer for the music that became part of the soundtrack to generations of love stories and celebrations.
The family did not disclose a cause of death and said details about funeral and memorial arrangements would be announced later.
Jackson rose to fame in the 1980s after releasing his debut album, Rock Me Tonight, in 1985. The album achieved platinum status and produced some of his biggest hits.
His smooth vocals helped establish him as one of the prominent voices in romantic R&B, with songs including You Are My Lady, Tasty Love, Have You Ever Loved Somebody and Jam Tonight becoming major R&B successes.
Jackson earned two Grammy nominations in 1986, including Best New Artist and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for You Are My Lady. His follow-up album, Just Like the First Time, was also certified platinum.
Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Jackson began singing gospel music at White Rock Baptist Church before performing on the New York club circuit. He later performed with the band Mystic Merlin before launching his solo career.
In 2024, Jackson publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with kidney disease. He subsequently worked with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness about the condition, describing his experience as a personal journey he wanted to use to help others.
Jackson’s death marks the loss of one of the distinctive voices of 1980s and early-1990s R&B, with his music continuing to resonate with fans decades after his biggest chart successes.
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