4/25/16-Billy Paul Dies

Soul singer Billy Paul, best known for his hit song “Me and Mrs. Jones,” died at the age
of 81, according to his manager. He had been a frequent guest on “The Lost 45s.”

Manager Beverly Gay said that Paul, born Paul Williams, was recently diagnosed with cancer and was hospitalized last week at Temple University Hospital. He died Sunday at his home in Blackwood, New Jersey.

“We regret to announce with a heavy heart that Billy has passed away today at home after a serious medical condition. We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to his wife Blanche and family for their loss, as they and the world grieves the loss of another musical icon that helped pioneered today’s R&B music. Billy will be truly missed. Please share you thought, messages and stories of Billy as we remember this legendary artist, family member and friend.”

Born December 1, 1934 in Philadelphia, Paul began his music career at the age of 11 when he appeared on local radio station WPEN. He also attended the West Philadelphia Music School and the Granoff School of Music where he received his vocal training.

Early in his career, Paul performed at several clubs and college campuses with many jazz and soul music legends, including Charlie “Bird” Parker, Nina Simone, Miles Davis and Roberta Flack. After serving in the Army, where he was stationed with Elvis Presley, Paul released his debut album “Feelin’ Good at the Cadillac Club” in 1968 on legendary producer and Philly soul pioneer Kenny Gamble’s Gamble Records label.

Paul gained his greatest success when he released his 1972 #1 international hit, “Me and Mrs. Jones” which was written and produced by Gamble and Huff. The song was the number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B singles chart and received a Grammy Award. The song also received newfound attention decades later when singer Michael Buble released a cover version in 2007.

In all, Paul released 15 albums. His second Top 40 hit, “Thanks for Saving My Life” is an overlooked gem. While he never again matched the mainstream success of “Me and Mrs. Jones,” he is recognized by many as a pioneer and important figure in soul music, known for his socially conscious lyrics. Questlove of the Roots once compared him to Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, calling him, “one of the criminally unmentioned proprietors of socially conscious post-revolution ’60s civil rights music.”