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Legendary guitarist, songwriter and producer Billy Nichols died on Thursday, November 30, at the age of 85 following a brief illness. His son Terrence Hines confirmed the news in a Facebook post. alongside a picture of the pair, he wrote: "Sadly, my Dad, William 'Billy' Nichols, passed away yesterday after a brief illness. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers."

He was flooded with support after sharing the sad news, with people rushing to the comments to offer condolences. "I'm so sorry to hear this. May he rest in peace and may his memories be a blessing to all who love him," one wrote. "So sorry to hear. It is such a great memory of hearing his song remixed by Danny Tenaglia. Our thoughts are with you," another added. A third chimed in: "Oh, this is awful news. So sorry, Terrence. Thinking of you during this super tough time."

"I am so sorry to hear this. Holding you close in my heart and praying your memories bring you comfort when you need it most in the days ahead," a fourth penned.

"So sorry to hear the loss of your Dad. May he rest in Heavenly Peace. My deepest condolences to you and the family," a fifth shared.

Meanwhile, a sixth commented: "I'm so sorry, Terrence. I remember some wonderful stories from you about him. Much love and strength."

The Mississippi-born star's professional career began in earnest after he relocated to Detroit in the mid-1960s, where he made his mark in Motown.

A self-taught guitarist his first job was playing with Martha and the Vandellas. In 1965 he began working as a musical director for Marvin Gaye on the road.

He is also remembered for his work with funk/disco group B.T. Express and penned their classic hit Do It ('Til You're Satisfied), which reached No.2 Billboard Hot 100 in 1974. He also wrote several of their other hits, including Can't Stop Groovin' and Shout It Out.

He also enjoyed solo success, and his last recording One Day (At a Time) was released in 2014.

The influential star's music has been sampled by rappers such as Will Smith, Beanie Sigel, EPMD, Master P, Ice Cube, P. Diddy, Jay-Z, Ludacris, Dr Dre, and De La Soul.