R&B singer Jesse Powell dies aged 51 at his LA home

R&B singer Jesse Powell has died just two days after his 51st birthday.

His family confirmed his passing on social media and paid tribute to their late loved one and his "everlasting legacy".

His sister Tamara Powell, also a singer, said on Instagram on Wednesday: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, and uncle Jesse Powell.

"He passed away peacefully in his Los Angeles home. The family asks for privacy at this time as we mourn this tremendous loss and celebrate his everlasting legacy.

"Jesse loved music and he especially loved his fans who supported him throughout his career. We want you all to know that you meant the world to him. – The Powell Family."

Ms Powell later added a clip of her brother singing, telling her followers: ‘That voice! Aside from being one of the best R&B male vocalists out there, you were the best big brother ever.

"I loved you so much. I’m thankful that we were so close; a whole mess all the time. We absolutely adored you “Jet” & our family will not be the same without you."

The cause of death is yet to be announced.

Fans immediately shared their condolences.

One wrote: "My Heart Is Torn!!! RIP To a Legend Your Music Meant The World to me," while another stated: "#JessePowell had just turned 51 two days before he passed away. That’s my age. So sad. Too soon."

A third commented: "Unfortunately Jesse Powell's passing is just another great example of how some people never truly receive their flowers in their lifetime.

"Most of the world forgot this beautiful man even existed and just how wonderful his voice was!"

The Grammy nominee was most famous for his 1996 chart-topping hit song, You.  

“You” remains his top played track on Spotify with nearly 13 million streams at the time of publishing.