He was 81. Bill Withers was born in a coal-mining town, Slab Fork, WV, the youngest of 6 children. At age 17, he joined the Navy, serving for 9 years. Once discharged, he moved to Los Angeles, bought a guitar at a pawn shop, and there you are!
His song, "Lean of Me," was performed at the inauguration of two presidents, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
His profile should be opened, if it already exists. RIP.