The family of Bill Withers have confirmed that the legendary US soul singer has died from heart complications at the age of 81.

The three-time Grammy Award winner had a string of hits in the 1970s and '80s, including 'Lean On Me', 'Lovely Day', 'Ain't No Sunshine' and 'Just The Two Of Us'.

In a statement, the Withers family said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved, devoted husband and father. A solitary man with a heart driven to connect to the world at large, with his poetry and music, he spoke honestly to people and connected them to each other.

"As private a life as he lived close to intimate family and friends, his music forever belongs to the world. In this difficult time, we pray his music offers comfort and entertainment as fans hold tight to loved ones."

Withers's death is not thought to be related to the deadly coronavirus disease, which has killed more than 55,000 people worldwide in the last few months.

Withers is survived by wife Marcia and children Todd and Kori.