American R&B singer Ben E King, best known for his 1961 hit Stand By Me, has died at age 76.
King died at his home in New Jersey on Thursday from a "coronary related illness," his agent said.
As a member of the Drifters, King co-wrote and sang lead on 'There Goes My Baby.'
The band had a string of hits featuring King, including 'Save the Last Dance for Me' and 'This Magic Moment.'
King left the Drifters in 1960, adopted his more well-known stage name, and launched a successful solo career.
The 1961 ballad 'Spanish Harlem' gave King his first solo hit.
'Stand By Me' was chosen one of the Songs of the Century by the Recording Industry Association of America.
"With an extremely heavy heart, I must say goodbye to one of the sweetest, gentlest and gifted souls that I have had the privilege of knowing and calling my friend for more than 50 years - Mr Ben E King," fellow singer Gary US Bonds wrote on Facebook.
"I can tell you that Ben E will be missed more than words can say."
