Bobby Caldwell, a celebrated singer, and songwriter passed away on Tuesday (March 14) at the age of 71, according to USA Today, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has influenced countless music artists and fans worldwide.

Caldwell's wife, Mary, also tweeted from his official Twitter account and indicated the singer died due to floxing complications, which are attributed to reactions to certain antibiotics.

Born on August 15, 1951, in New York City, Caldwell was known for his exceptional ability to blend various genres of music, including jazz, R&B, and pop. His soulful hits, such as "What You Won't Do for Love," "My Flame," and "Coming Down From Love," earned him worldwide recognition and accolades, including a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Vocal Performance in 1978.

Caldwell's music has had an enduring impact on the industry, with several hip-hop artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Common, and Dilla, sampling his iconic track "Open Your Eyes." This exemplifies his influence as a true music pioneer whose sound transcends genres and generations.

Caldwell's music was so groundbreaking that his record label tried to disguise his race to avoid racial stereotyping, presenting him as a Black artist despite his actual ethnicity. 

“Quite honestly, I never thought I sounded black,” said Caldwell in an interview from 2015. “I thought I sounded like a white guy that was influenced by R&B music. But people would swear up and down I was Black. Huge amounts of money were lost in bets.”

In the same interview, Caldwell spoke about the makeup of his fanbase, and stated, "All I know is, I look out in the audience today, and I have a demographic that’s mind-boggling.”

Caldwell's talent spoke for itself, and his unique style and powerful voice earned him a place among the greatest musicians of all time.

Apart from his music, Caldwell was also a dedicated philanthropist who actively supported charitable causes that provided assistance to the homeless and the hungry. His generosity and passion for giving back left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Caldwell's music and legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with future generations, ensuring that his voice and influence remain timeless.

Take a look at Caldwell's performance at the 2013 Soul Train Awards.