R&B star Gerald Levert has died from a heart attack at the age of 40. The singer, the son of O'Jays vocalist Eddie Levert, first came to public notice with trio LeVert which he formed with his younger brother Sean and friend Marc Gordon in 1984, scoring a UK top ten single, 'Casanova', in 1987. Levert went solo in 1991 and subsequently worked with the likes of Patti LaBelle and Barry White, receiving a Grammy nomination for writing the latter's 1994 single 'Practice What You Preach'. In 1992, he recorded a number one R&B hit, 'Baby Hold On To Me' with his father, a success which led to a complete album of such collaborations, 'Father And Son'.
His label said: "All of us at Atlantic are shocked and deeply saddened by his untimely death. He was one of the greatest voices of our time, who sang with unmatched soulfulness and power, as well as a tremendously gifted composer and an accomplished producer."
His family released a statement which read: "As everybody knows, Gerald was a man who loved and breathed music. To his family and friends he was a man of strong character, who had an infectious personality and a zest for life. For his fans, his greatest love was touching the hearts and souls of all people through his music. At this very difficult time, we thank you for your prayers and hope you will understand our need for privacy."
Patti LaBelle, who says she hopes to sing at Levert's funeral, said that he was "like a son" to her, and added: "He was such a great entertainer. It's not for real to me that he is gone ... Nobody was prepared for this."
R&B singer and friend Freddie Jackson says: "Gerald Levert was the essence of soul music. His showmanship, authentic vocal style and delivery set the standard for all R&B crooners. Gerald poured his heart and soul into every note, and with his passing, not only R&B, the recording industry has lost one of its greatest gems. Gerald will be deeply missed."
Levert is survived by four children.