(CNN)Soul singer Ben E. King, whose classic hit "Stand By Me" became an enduring affirmation of love and devotion for generations of listeners, has died.
King died Thursday in New Jersey, his booking agent, Randy Irwin, told CNN. He was 76.
He is remembered most for "Stand By Me," inspired by a gospel song, which he recorded on his own. Buoyed by King's elegant baritone, the tune was a top 10 hit in the U.S. in 1961 and returned to the charts 25 years later when it was prominently featured in "Stand By Me," Rob Reiner's 1986 coming-of-age movie about four adolescent boys.
Prince Royce said, "I am shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of such a legend, a kind, gentle giant of the music industry. I feel blessed to have known, worked and performed with him -- he made me feel like a friend. Ben will always be in my heart as my mentor and my role model and someone who inspired me and opened the door for me in my career. May he rest in peace."
