More sad news from the music world: Bobby Hatfield, the tenor half of the legendary Righteous Brothers duo is dead at the age of 63. His body was found in a Kalamazoo, MI, hotel yesterday about a half hour before Hatfield and his bass-baritone partner Bill Medley were slated to perform a concert at Western Michigan University's Miller Auditorium.

The Brothers were known for singing "blue-eyed soul." If you have ever heard their classics — "(You're My) Soul and Inspiration," "Unchained Melody," "You've Lost that Lovin' Feeling," and "Rock 'n Roll Heaven" among them — you know that their dynamic, passionate singing was something truly special — and it would have been no matter the skin tones of the artists.

From MSN:

The duo's signature 1965 single, "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling," has been cited by numerous sources as the most-programmed song in American radio history. The inclusion of their songs in films such as "Top Gun," "Ghost" and "Dirty Dancing" repeatedly re-established the Righteous brand.

Earlier this year, singer Billy Joel inducted Hatfield and Medley into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

"Sometimes people with blue eyes transcended the limitations of what their color and culture can actually be," Joel said. "Sometimes white people can actually be soulful. This was a life-changing idea. It changed my life."

Does Joel sound stupid here, or what? But a little slack for the Piano Man, please. Remember that back in the 1960s, when the Righteous Brothers hit it big, many people were still trapped by the ludicrous notion that only brown- and black-colored people could be soul singers. The music world owes a debt to Hatfield and Medley for being among those who helped open their eyes and ears to the fact that music is music, good music should be applauded whatever its source, and color should not have a damn thing to do with it.

The cause of death is unknown, pending an autopsy.

Here is one comforting thought:

"If you believe in forever
And not in just a one-night stand,
If there's a rock 'n roll heaven,
Then you know they've got a helluva band."

And one helluva new member in the tenor section.

Rest in peace, Mr. Hatfield. Condolences to Mr. Medley and all of the Righteous Brothers' loved ones and fans.

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