Joe Cocker dies from cancer, aged 70

[dutchman]

Joe Cocker has died at the age of 70.



The Grammy award-winning singer passed away earlier today (December 22) after a battle with lung cancer.

His agent Barrie Marshall confirmed the news, adding that he was "simply unique" and that "it will be impossible to fill the space he leaves in our hearts".

He said: "He was without the doubt the greatest rock/soul voice ever to come out of Britain- and remained the same man throughout his life.

"Hugely talented, a true star, but a kind and humble man who loved to perform. Anyone who ever saw him live will never forget him."

In a statement, Sony Music paid tribute to the singer for his "international success" during a career spanning six decades.

A spokesperson said: "John Robert Cocker, known to family, friends, his community and fans around the world as Joe Cocker, passed away on December 22, 2014, after a hard-fought battle with small-cell lung cancer. Mr Cocker was 70 years old.

"Joe Cocker was born on May 20, 1944, in Sheffield, England where he lived until his early twenties. In 2007 he was awarded the OBE by the Queen of England.

"His international success as a blues/rock singer began in 1964 and continues till this day. Joe created nearly 40 albums and toured extensively around the globe."

Cocker won a Grammy Award in 1983 for his Jennifer Warnes duet 'Up Where We Belong', and also enjoyed success with his cover of The Beatles' 'With a Little Help From My Friends'.

Cocker gave his final live performance at London's Eventim Apollo on May 13, 2013, following a tour in support of his 2012 album Fire It Up.

He is survived by his wife Pam Baker, who he married in 1987. They lived together on their ranch in Crawford, Colorado.