The Whispers singer Walter Scott Jr. has died aged 81

R&B singer and The Whispers co-founder Walter Scott Jr. has died aged 81.

The legendary vocalist had battled cancer for the past six months, his family confirmed to The Los Angeles Sentinel, and passed away surrounded by loved ones in Northridge, Los Angeles.

Scott Jr. was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and moved to LA in 1959 where he formed The Whispers alongside his twin brother, Wallace “Scotty”, as well as Gordy Harmon, Marcus Hutson, and Nicholas Caldwell.

Shortly after forming, The Whispers were invited by Sly Stone to move to the San Francisco Bay Area where they forged a legendary career in music, performing regularly together live.

The group began to find commercial success in the ‘70s following the release of their breakout track ‘Seems Like I Got to Do Wrong’, and later earned success with tracks including ‘And the Beat Goes On’ and ‘Rock Steady’.

“I’ve had the honor of witnessing up close the power of Walter’s artistry, humility, and grace,” The Whispers’ publicist, Desirae Lee Benson-Brockington, said in tribute on Facebook.

“His contribution to music, culture, and the hearts of so many will never be forgotten. Walter was more than a performer — he was part of a movement that brought soul, harmony, and timeless love songs to generations.”

She added: “His legacy will continue to live on through every note, every lyric, and every fan he touched. Rest well, Walter — Heaven has opened up for you. Your amazing energy for the music you loved to make will always live on."

Read some more tributes below.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter