'Yah Mo B There' singer James Ingram has died, aged 66

29 January 2019, 22:37

James Ingram
James Ingram. Picture: Getty

By Tom Eames

James Ingram had several R&B and soul hits in the 1980s, and won two Grammy Awards during his career.

James Ingram's friend and creative partner Debbie Allen confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday (January 29) at the age of 66.

There are currently no details about how Ingram died.

"I have lost my dearest friend and creative partner James Ingram to the Celestial Choir," Allen tweeted.

"He will always be cherished, loved and remembered for his genius, his love of family and his humanity. I am blessed to have been so close. We will forever speak his name."

The singer won two Grammys during his career, for 'One Hundred Ways' in 1981 and his duet with Michael McDonald on 'Yah Mo B There' in 1984.

James Ingram & Michael McDonald - Yah Mo Be There

He was also nominated for back-to-back song Oscars in 1993 and 1994, for co-writing 'The Day I Fall in Love' from Beethoven's 2nd and 'Look What Love Has Done' from Junior.

His other hits included US number ones 'Baby Come to Me' with Patti Austin and 'I Don't Have the Heart' in 1990.

Ingram was also known for his songwriting work, and he co-wrote Michael Jackson's 'P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)', as well as songs by Pointer Sisters, George Benson, Ray Charles, Shalamar and others.