Grammy-winning singer B.J. Thomas has passed away at the age of 78. He had several successful songs on the pop, country, and gospel charts, but will be most-remembered for his hits “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” and “Hooked On A Feeling.” A statement from his representatives announced the sad news that B.J. died following complications from lung cancer. He passed away at his home in Arlington, Texas.
Thomas was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in March and was receiving treatment from doctors up until his passing.
His official Twitter account confirmed the news as well with the following tweet: “It is with profound sadness we confirm the passing of BJ Thomas.”
Dionne Warwick, who duetted with Thomas in the past, posted her tribute to Thomas on Twitter: “I will miss him as I know so many others will as well. Rest In Peace my friend.”
A few months before his cancer diagnosis, Thomas was asked how he’d like to be remembered. He told the interviewer:
“I hope they think of me as somebody who really believed what he was singing. It’s all about soul and emotion to me, so I’ve tried to put that in. I’ve only tried to record things that I really believe in and that I really feel. I just hope that I’m remembered as a good father, a good husband and the music will take care of [itself].”
B.J. was born Billy Joe Thomas in Oklahoma, but he spent the majority of his childhood in Houston, Texas. His love of music started at a young age, and he was singing in church choirs when he was a teen.
In his twenties he joined a rock band called the Triumphs which launched his amazing career.
Rest in peace, B.J. You will be missed!