R&B singer and co-founder of The Whispers, Walter Scott Jr., has passed away at the age of 81.

The iconic vocalist had been fighting cancer for the last six months, as confirmed by his family. He died surrounded by his loved ones in Northridge, Los Angeles.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Scott Jr. relocated to Los Angeles in 1959, where he established The Whispers with his twin brother, Wallace “Scotty,” along with Gordy Harmon, Marcus Hutson, and Nicholas Caldwell.

Shortly after their formation, The Whispers were invited by Sly Stone to move to the San Francisco Bay Area, where they built a legendary music career, performing live regularly.

The group began to achieve commercial success in the 1970s with their breakout hit ‘Seems Like I Got to Do Wrong,’ followed by other successful tracks such as ‘And the Beat Goes On’ and ‘Rock Steady.’

“I’ve had the honor of witnessing up close the power of Walter’s artistry, humility, and grace,” said The Whispers’ publicist, Desirae Lee Benson-Brockington, in a tribute.

“His contribution to music, culture, and the hearts of so many will never be forgotten. Walter was more than a performer — he was part of a movement that brought soul, harmony, and timeless love songs to generations.”

She added: “His legacy will continue to live on through every note, every lyric, and every fan he touched. Rest well, Walter — Heaven has opened up for you. Your amazing energy for the music you loved to make will always live on."