Percy Sledge, legendary singer of "When a Man Loves a Woman," died this morning at his home in Baton Rouge, LA.
Louisiana Coroner Dr. William Clark confirmed his death.
Sledge, 73, was diagnosed with liver cancer — which is diagnosed in about 700,000 people worldwide each year, according to the American Cancer Society — in 2014. However, the cause of death is not certain, reports CNN.
Sledge began his career in the 1960s and became a cornerstone performer in the wake of the Muscle Shoals sound — soul hits from a group of musicians who recorded at a studio in North Alabama, where musicians like Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones recorded.
"When a Man Loves a Woman" became Sledge's most famous offering. It sent his career soaring in both the US and Europe.
"I hummed it all my life ..." he told the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Sledge was born in Leighton, AL, November 25, 1941.
"Percy was a national treasure. He brought a lot of joy to this world and we will miss his smile and his spirit," the Alabama Music Hall of Fame wrote on its Facebook.
