R&B Star Freddie Jackson Dies at 69

Freddie Jackson, whose 1980s R&B ballads included Rock Me Tonight and You Are My Lady, died the night of Oct. 5, 2026. His family announced the death on Oct. 6 on his official Instagram and Facebook, writing with profound sadness that he went home to rest last night. They called him more than a legendary voice and "a kind, generous soul," thanked everyone who ever sang along, danced, or felt something when he took the stage, and said details on arrangements and how to honor his legacy would be shared in the coming days. No cause of death was given. Outlets disagreed on his age. Fox21 and Nexstar reported 69, saying he died days after turning 69; JustJared, HipHopVibe and The US Sun reported 70. He was born Oct. 2, 1956 in Harlem. His platinum 1985 debut Rock Me Tonight sent the title track to No. 1 on the R&B chart for six weeks; You Are My Lady reached No. 12 on the Hot 100. Later albums added further R&B No. 1s. In September 2024 he publicly disclosed kidney disease and partnered with the National Kidney Foundation; the family has not said whether it was related. Elijah Burke and other fans left tributes under the family post.