Robert Knight, whose 1967 hit “Everlasting Love” has become an everlasting hit, has passed away at 72.
Knight died on Sunday from a brief and undisclosed illness, according to the Tennessean. Knight’s hits included “Everlasting Love,” “Blessed Are the Lonely,” “Isn’t It Lonely Together,” and “Love On a Mountain Top.”
Hailing from Franklin, Tennessee, Knight — born Robert Peebles — first found fame as a member of the Paramounts, signing to Dot Records in 1960. After the group broke up, Knight pursued chemistry at Tennessee State University and sang with vocal trio Fairlanes.
Knight was later discovered during a Fairlanes performance in Nashville and offered a solo contract.
Michael Gray, a historian at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, told the Tennessean, “With ‘Everlasting Love,’ Knight created the blueprint for one of the most famous, most enduring songs to ever come out of Music City.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.