'Me and Mrs Jones' singer Billy Paul no more

Los Angeles: Soul singer Billy Paul has died from a serious medical condition at his home on Sunday. He was 81.

The singer's death was announced on his website. "We regret to announce with a heavy heart that Billy has passed away today at home after a serious medical condition," the statement reads.

"We would like to extend our most sincere condolences to his wife Blanche and family for their loss, as they and the world grieves the loss of another musical icon that helped pioneered todays R&B music. Billy will be truly missed."

Paul's manager said he died at his home in Blackwood, New Jersey, after being diagnosed with cancer. He was hospitalized a week ago at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia.

The singer is best known for his Grammy-award winning 1972 hit, "Me and Mrs Jones." He first burst onto the music scene playing in jazz clubs alongside such music icons as Charlie Parker, Nina Simone and Miles Davis.

He released his debut album, Feelin' Good at the Cadillac Club in 1968 and went on to release 14 other albums through 1988.
Paul is survived by his wife, Blanche.