Recording Academy Releases Statement on Dennis Edwards, Former Lead Singer of The Temptations,

It was reported tonight that Dennis Edwards, a former lead singer of the legendary motown hitmakers, The Temptations, has passed away at the age of 74.

The Recording Academy has just released a statement noting "As lead vocalist of the Temptations, three-time GRAMMY® winner Dennis Edwards helped define Detroit soul in the late 1960s as the music of Motown acts was becoming more socially aware. During his tenure with the legendary quintet, Edwards contributed to hit tracks including "I Can't Get Next to You" and "Run Away Child, Running Wild." He earned three GRAMMY Awards® with the Temptations-Best Rhythm And Blues Performance By A Duo Or Group for "Cloud Nine" for 1968, and Best R&B Instrumental Performance and Best R&B Vocal Performance By A Duo, Group, Or Chorus for "Papa Was A Rollin' Stone" for 1972. The Temptations were also honored with the Recording Academy™'s Lifetime Achievement Award for 2013. Edwards will forever be remembered as one of Motown's most celebrated vocalists. He will be dearly missed, and our thoughts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. "

According to Edwards booking agent, Rosiland Triche Roberts, the singer passed away in a hospital in Chicago. The cause of death has not been specified.

Taking lead vocals on Grammy winning tracks such as, "Papa Was A Rolling Stone" and "Cloud Nine", Edwards joined the group in 1968, with his gravelly vocals guiding the group into new musical territory.

Before his stint with The Temptations, Edwards sang with another motown group, The Contours, opening for The Temptations. Edwards took over lead vocals when the group's original lead singer, David Ruffin, departed in 1968.

Edwards left The Temptations to pursue a solo career in 1977, but re-joined the group after a period of time.