Singer Jay Black has died at the age of 82.
The American star - who was the lead singer for rock group Jay and the Americans - died from complications due to pneumonia, his family announced on Saturday. He also suffered from dementia.
"Today, we mourn the passing of David Blatt a/k/a Jay Black and we acknowledge the great successes we had with him both as a partner and as a lead singer," Jay and the Americans wrote in a Facebook post.
"We shared both wonderful and very contentious times, and much like an ex-wife, we are so proud of the beautiful children we created."
"We'll always remember The Voice," the group concluded, referencing a nickname that was given to him by his bandmates for his skills as a singer.
Jay and the Americans were down in history as they were the opening band for The Beatles' first US performance in Washington DC back in 1964.
The band were most active in the 1960s and enjoyed a very successful career.
Jay was the band's second lead vocalist, and he was heard on their hits Come A Little Bit Closer, Cara Mia and This Magic Moment.
But later, in 1973, Jay - who was born as David Blatt - embarked on a solo career.
His family previously told Rolling Stone: "New and old fans continued to marvel at the strength and range of Black's voice through his last concert in 2017.
"He had a special bond with his fans… He thought of them as family, knew many of their names, and would dedicate songs to them from the stage and meet with them after the show."
Jay is survived by four children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He was active right up until his tragic death, as he performed his last concert back in 2017.
Taking to Twitter to share their condolences to the star and his family, one fan wrote: "Music I grew up with. RIP Jay Black."
Another person shared: "RIP one of the great, high-pitch vocal leads of the 60s -- Jay Black of Jay & The Americans."
A third added: "What a magnificent voice! RIP Jay Black."
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