Rod and Ronnie Wood have lead the tributes to soul legend Bobby Womack who has died aged 70,
Womack was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease two years ago and dealt with a number of health issues, including prostate cancer. His publicist Sonya Kolowrat confirmed he had died yesterday, but the cause of death has not been announced.
The musician’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief, messages of condolence and recollections of memories from some of his many friends in the industry, following a critically-acclaimed career that spanned over six decades and saw him inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.
Ronnie Wood led tributes to Womack, saying news of his passing “has brought tears to my eyes”. adding: “My heart goes out to his family & friends and everyone who loved his music. Bobby you will be greatly missed xx”
Rod spoke of his passion for Womack’s 1973 album, Facts Of Life, as he paid tribute to the musician.
In a brief statement, He said: “I must have listened to Facts Of Life for months. What an influence, what a voice, so long Bobby!”
Even with his health struggles, up until his death, Bobby was still recording with a new album – working title The Best Is Yet To Come – set to be released, which reportedly featured collaborations with Rod, Ronald Isley, Stevie Wonder, and Snoop Dogg.
Rod sang on Bobby’s 1994 album Resurrection on the fantastic track Don’t Break Your Promise [Too Soon]