Philly soul singer Billy Paul dies

New York

BILLY Paul, a star from the Philadelphia soul scene who won fame with Me and Mrs Jones before drawing controversy with his racially charged politics, died on Sunday. He was 80. Known for his uplifting, mellifluous voice, Paul won a Grammy Award and helped shape the course of modern R&B but fell on the losing end of one of the music industry's legendary tales of poor marketing. "We regret to announce with a heavy heart that Billy has passed away today at home after a serious medical condition," a statement on his website said.

Born as Paul Williams in Philadelphia, the singer came of age as the eastern city became an epicentre of a style of soul music known for smooth and jazzy melodies. He performed in his youth alongside legends such as Charlie Parker and Nina Simone.