Dennis Edwards dead: The Temptations singer dies aged 74

Credit: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for National Museum of African American Music.

Dennis Edwards, lead singer of The Temptations, has died.

His death was confirmed by his family to CBS News, but the cause of death has not been revealed.

Edwards became lead singer of The Temptations in 1968 and remained in the band until 1977.

He was the Motown group's third lead singer, replacing David Ruffin in 1968 and previously Elbridge "Al" Bryant.

​Edwards gained fame for singing on tracks including "Ball of Confusion," "I Can Get Next to You" and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone."

Fans took to Twitter to show their condolences.

Musician Siedah Garrett said, "RIP Dennis Edwards, beautiful soul who gave me my first shot..."

MC Hammer and Rev Jesse Jackson Sr. also wrote a remembrances.

Rickey Smiley paid his respects as well.

Kenny Lattimore said, "Prayers to the family of one of our legendary vocal greats #DennisEdwards of the Temptations. His unmistakable gift will live on forever."

Edwards was subsequently fired from The Temptations in 1977 when they left Motown Records for Atlantic Records, but joined again in 1980 upon their return to the label.

He departed the band once again in 1984 to pursue a solo career.

Edwards' debut solo album Don't Look Any Further came out that same year.

The musician then rejoined The Temptations by 1987 for two more years.

In 1989, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with The Temptations.

Edwards was in Chicago at the time of his passing.

He was married to Ruth Pointer of the famed band The Pointer Sisters from 1976 to 1977.

They had a daughter named Issa Pointer who became a part of The Pointer Sisters eventually.

Edwards passed away at 74, and would have turned 75 this coming Saturday.