US pop and country singer Floyd Brown has died aged 79. Family members confirmed he passed away on Tuesday, June 9th, following a lengthy battle with cancer. His niece announced the news on social media, calling him "one of the greatest". Fellow Baton Rouge singer Chase Tyler paid tribute, saying: "It’s a shock for everyone. I don’t think anyone saw it coming.

"Floyd was a mentor early in my career. He was always a sweetheart to me and very encouraging to the younger artists coming up behind him.”

His first song, Thunderbird Beach, was released in 1960. His most popular songs included “Kiss Me Just One More Time,” “I Can’t Sleep If I Can’t Sleep With You,” and “There Lies the Difference.” Brown was known for blending swamp pop and country influences, which earned him a loyal following across South Louisiana.

In 1979, Brown released his first album, “Finally,” on Jimmy Rogers’ Baton Rouge-based Bayou Boogie Records. He became a household name in the 80s after his win on the Nashville Network talent show, "You Can Be A Star."

However, his career faced a number of setbacks as the record contract he got with his win was dropped during a company shake-up. The same thing happened with Capitol Records. However, he remained a local legend, and in 2005, a 12-song compilation album, “The Best Of Floyd Brown,” was released on AMG Records.

Tributes poured in online, as one fan said: "RIP Floyd! Sympathies to his family!!!! He definitely was a legend!!"

Another added: "The best in the business for many many years. He will be sadly missed."

A third chimed in: "The Voice!!! We will miss him and the music but the music and memories will live on forever as it already has for generations in my family! Prayers to his family."

A fourth agreed: "Loved dancing with my husband to his songs! So many wonderful memories! Thanks Floyd Brown!"