RIL: Nick Ashford, "Solid as a Rock!"

At the age of 70, one-half of the legendary Motown songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson, has died today. Nick Ashford's publicist told the AP the artist died in a New York City hospital. He had been suffering from throat cancer and undergone radiation treatment.

The duo has been one of the most profound contributors to R&B soul music as writers. Among the songs Nick and wife Valerie Ashford penned together are "Im Every Woman", "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "You're All I Need to Get By" and "Reach Out and Touch Somebody's Hand." Ashford is survived by his wife and two daughters. Rest in Love!