Edwards, a Missouri native who took over for Phillippe Wynne, lent his baritone to hits such as “Working My Way Back to You” and “Cupid” and was inducted alongside the group into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2023.
Edwards joined The Spinners at age 33, stepping into the shoes of Wynne—whose departure in 1977 left big expectations. “He proved more than capable of bearing the burden, ensuring that the excellence that fans came to associate with The Spinners would continue uninterrupted,” the group’s statement read. “John Edwards is an integral part of The Spinners’ legacy and we will continue to celebrate his contributions to this mighty legacy.”
Before his tenure with The Spinners, Edwards recorded as a solo artist and found modest success, according to SoulTracks, which also reported that he had been in poor health since suffering a stroke more than two decades ago.
Before his tenure with The Spinners, Edwards recorded as a solo artist and found modest success, according to SoulTracks, which also reported that he had been in poor health since suffering a stroke more than two decades ago.
The Spinners first rose to fame in the early 1970s with Phil Collins–produced tracks like “I’ll Be Around” and “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love.” They received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1976 and were inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2015 before their Rock Hall honor. Edwards’ era kept that momentum alive with polished soul-pop that bridged AM radio and disco dance floors.
Edwards retired from touring in 2000 but continued to make public appearances with his former bandmates on special occasions. He is survived by his wife and two children.
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