Sadly, Gerald Levert had just returned from a trip to South Africa where he met with Nelson Mandela. His passing has come as a shock not only to his family, but also to the entire music world.
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(The legend lives through his music)
R&B legend Gerald Levert died as a result of a heart attack on Friday. He was only 40 years old.
Ironically and sadly, Levert, the son of legendary R&B king Eddie Levert of the O Jays, was also working on a reality TV program, which dealt with weight loss. “We are overwhelmed by the generous outpouring of love, condolences and support from the many friends, fans and admirers of Gerald’s life and legacy,â€? his family said, in a statement obtained by The Black Star News.
“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.�
Gerald Levert came to prominence in the mid eighties with the family group Levert. The group scored a hit in 1987 with “Casanova.� In 1991, Gerald Levert embarked on a solo career in which his solo debut album “Private Line� went to #1 on the R&B charts. This year he had been working on another solo album, which is due for release in 2007.
Sadly, Gerald Levert had just returned from a trip to South Africa where he met with Nelson Mandela. His passing has come as a shock not only to his family, but also to the entire music world. He will be sadly missed and The Black Star News family sends condolences and wishes of strength and fortitude to his family.
Ocen Allimadi is The Black Star News’ music editor. Send all review materials including CDs, tapes and DVDs to Ocen Allimadi, 16 Curran House, Lucan Place, London SW10 3PG U.K.
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