R&B singer Jesse Powell best known for '90s hit song 'You' dies a day after his birthday at 51
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jesse Powell, an R&B singer best remembered for his captivating 1998 song 'You', has died at the age of 51. The musician's sister, singer-songwriter Tamara Powell, shared the news of his death on Tuesday, September 13, and paid tribute to her brother in an Instagram post.
Jesse "passed away peacefully" at his Los Angeles home, Tamara wrote in a statement attributed to the singer's family, "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother and uncle Jesse Powell. The family asks for privacy at this time as we mourn this tremendous loss and celebrate his legacy. Jesse loved music and he especially loved his fans who supported him throughout his career. We want you all to know that you meant the world to him."
READ MORE
'Finally free and at peace': Luke Bell's MENTAL HEALTH worsened after father's death in 2015
'I grieve with them and for them': Kenny Chesney DEVASTATED by fan's death at Colorado concert
Tamara wrote in a different post, "Aside from being one of the best R&B male vocalists out there, you were the best big brother ever. I loved you so much. I'm thankful that we were so close; a whole mess all the time." It has not yet been revealed what caused Jesse's death.
Following the news of Jesse's death, heartfelt sympathies poured in from admirers and loved ones. One fan wrote, "MY GOD!! I am soooo sorry to hear this!! He truly got me through being the new kid when I went to Wirt. He will truly be missed. Rest in Love JP. 💔💔💔 I am praying reverently for you all," and another fan chimed in, "Literally... YOU came on my playlist today 💔 I am sending you all some tremendous loving energy. Thank you for sharing him with us all. Prayers & Comfort."
Deborah Cox, a Canadian singer-songwriter, expressed her sympathies by writing, "Deep condolences 💐 to you and the family. What a gentleman and sweet soul. I remember we had a promo gig in St. Louis and he saaaaaang dowwwwwn!!! Whew!! What a voice!!" Chester Gregory, popularly known as C.H.E.S.S., wrote, "💔💔💔 MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES!!! You know Jesse was like a brother to me!!! I love you and your whole family so much! I’m here for you and with you!!!"
Jesse was born and raised in Gary, Indiana, along with his sisters Trina and Tamara, who are also musicians. His birthday was on September 12, 1971, and throughout his lifetime he has released a total of four albums: 'Jesse Powell' in 1996, 'Bout it' in 1998, 'JP' in 2001, and 'Jesse' in 2003. The 1998 album 'Bout It', reached Number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Jesse, a Grammy nominee with a four-octave vocal range, was most known for his single 'You,' which reached it's top positions at No 2 R&B and No 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since garnered about 13 million Spotify listeners.