R&B Singer and Producer Andre Williams Dies at 82

Andre Williams, also known as the "Godfather of Rap" and "Mr. Rythm," lost the battle with colon cancer over the weekend.

His label, Pravda Records, released a statement on Facebook in which they confirmed the "passing of the legendary artist." They explained:

"He died this afternoon in Chicago at the age of 82. He touched our lives and the lives of countless others. We love you Dre."

He passed away while in hospice care in Chicago. His manager, Kenn Goodman, confirmed that Wiliams was "surrounded by family."

The brief battle with colon cancer lasted only two weeks, following his diagnosis earlier in March. The cancer spread rapidly.

Williams began his career in the early fifties. He shot to fame after winning the top prize at the Warfield Theatre's amateur night.

His signature hit, "Bacon Fat," was released in 1956 and soon reached the number nine spot on the Billboard R&B Chart.

Some of his most well-known albums include "The Black Godfather," "Silky," and "Don't Ever Give Up."