Beloved ’70s R&B Singer Dies at 80

Harry Williams Jr., the final surviving member of the iconic ’70s and ’80s funk-soul band Bloodstone, has died. He passed away at his home in Kansas City, Missouri, according to The Philadelphia Tribune. He was 80. No cause of death has been announced.

Williams’ death marks the end of an era for Bloodstone, a band that helped shape the sound of black rock and funk. Born in 1944, Williams grew up in Kansas City and formed the group alongside Charles Love, Willis Draffen, Charles McCormick, Roger Durham, and Melvin Webb. Originally known as The Sinceres, the band started out in 1962, performing in local clubs before rebranding as Bloodstone in the early 1970s.

Their breakthrough came in 1973 with the hit single “Natural High,” a soul ballad that climbed to No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the group international fame. But Bloodstone wasn’t just about love songs. They were known for their unique fusion of funk, doo-wop, gospel, and rock, blending genres in a way few others could.

“Bloodstone became known for their funk/soul tracks that blended Jimi Hendrix-styled rock music with doo-wop and gospel music undertones,” the Tribune quoted from Soul Tracks. Their versatility allowed them to perform alongside legendary acts like Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Elton John, and The Impressions.

Even in his later years, Williams remained a vital part of the group. Despite health challenges, he continued to perform, often appearing on stage in a wheelchair but still hitting his signature soprano notes.

“Remembering Harry Williams from the group Bloodstone,” wrote radio personality Patty Jackson on social media. “He passed away early this morning at the age of 80. He had been in the group for over 50 years.”

Lady B, another prominent radio host, shared her tribute: “Anyone who knows me knows I was his biggest fan. Rest well, Harry Williams. Thanks for the memories.”

In 2019, Bloodstone was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National R&B Music Society in Philadelphia, a testament to their lasting impact on the music industry.

Williams’ passing is a significant loss for the world of funk and soul, but his legacy will live on through the timeless music of Bloodstone.