Charles Bradley, ‘Screaming Eagle of Soul,’ dead at age 68

Daksha Rangan, CTVNews.ca</span>
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017 3:29PM EDT

Acclaimed soul singer Charles Bradley has died after a lengthy battle with stomach cancer.

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Charles Bradley," a statement released on Bradley’s official Facebook profile reads.

"Mr. Bradley was truly grateful for all the love he’s received from his fans and we hope his message of love is remembered and carried on. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

The singer’s death comes just weeks after he announced the cancellation of all upcoming tour dates due to the return of his cancer. Bradley was first diagnosed in the fall of 2016.

"I love all of you out there that made my dreams come true," Bradley wrote on Twitter on Sept. 6. "When I come back, I’ll come back strong, with God’s love."

Known as the "screaming eagle of soul," Bradley was once a successful James Brown impersonator under the stage name "Black Velvet"

He later went on to release three solo albums – his debut album, No Time for Dreaming, was released in 2011, and his most recent album, Changes, in 2016. Before the return of his illness, Bradley was booked for almost 40 shows across North America through Dec. 31, promoting Changes.

Fans, friends, and fellow musicians took to social media on Saturday to convey their condolences.

Rest in power, Charles Bradley. Infinite gratitude for the warmth that you filled the House with last year. https://t.co/IJzqWtbUp0 http://pic.twitter.com/WMemsWJY1g
— The Strombo Show (@TheStromboShow) September 23, 2017

RIP to our dear brother Charles Bradley. Your heart was too big for this planet. See you on the other side. We love you.
— Antibalas (@Antibalas) September 23, 2017

I feel very grateful to have seen Charles Bradley as many times as I did. One of the most electrifying performers ever. RIP.
— Lee Spielman (@LeeSpielman) September 23, 2017

Thank you for the music, Charles Bradley
— UMO (@UMO) September 23, 2017

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend, the great, Charles Bradley. Too young, too early. Rest in peace, you will be missed. http://pic.twitter.com/NVCTt8TVeP
— Amoeba Music (@amoebamusic) September 23, 2017

Goodnight, Charles Bradley. You sang from beyond and gave the best hugs. http://pic.twitter.com/nrNpc6LtiP
— greg dulli (@MrGregDulli) September 23, 2017

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