Legendary gospel performer Andraé Crouch has died at the age of 72, the Associated Press reports. Crouch died Thursday afternoon at Northridge Hospital Medical Center after suffering a heart attack.

The singer, songwriter and choir director wrote his first gospel tune at age 14 and, over the course of his illustrious career, worked with Michael Jackson and Madonna and on movies such as The Lion King. 

The seven-time Grammy winner wrote dozens of songs, including gospel favorites such as "The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power," ''My Tribute (To God Be the Glory)" and "Soon and Very Soon," which was sung at a public memorial to Jackson.
Crouch was one of only a handful of gospel performers to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His choir, the Disciples, sang background for Madonna's song "Like a Prayer." Crouch helped Michael Jackson arrange the King of Pop's 1987 hit song, "Man in the Mirror."
He also arranged music for the 1985 film The Color Purple, which earned him an Academy Award nomination, and Disney's The Lion King in 1994.
Crouch had health issues in recent years, including diabetes and cancer. Last month, he was hospitalized for pneumonia and congestive heart failure and had to cancel a tour.
Our condolences go out to his family.
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(Photo: Moses Robinson/Getty Images for The Stellar Awards)