Singer Dobie Gray, who had an enormous hit with 1973′s “Drift Away,” has died at age 71.

The news was announced on the singer’s official website, although no cause of death was given.

“Drift away” was a hug hit in the 70′s and again in 2003 when Gray sang along with Uncle Kracker who did a remake of the song. You can see that video here.

Gray’s other songs included “Look at Me,” “The ‘In’ Crowd,” and “Loving Arms,” but nothing hit as big as the wonderfully wistful “Drift Away,” which sold over a million copies. It was actually first recorded by little-known John Henry Kurtz, but it was Gray’s version that is most remembered. It’s often played as a last song at concerts. [MSN]

The Deluth News Tribune reports that Gray’s attorney and friend said Gray died at home in his sleep early Tuesday. And that he had been in declining health for several months.

Oh, give me the beat boys and free my soul

I wanna get lost in your rock n roll

And drift away…

 

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