Songwriter Nick Ashford Dies; Had Throat Cancer

Nick Ashford, one-half of the legendary Motown songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson, has died at age 70.

His longtime friend and former publicist Liz Rosenberg told The Associated Press that Ashford — who along with wife Valerie Simpson wrote some of Motown's biggest hits — died Monday in a New York City hospital. He had been suffering from throat cancer and had undergone radiation treatment.

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Among the songs Ashford & Simpson penned are "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," ''You're All I Need To Get By" and "Reach Out And Touch Somebody's Hand."

He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

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Copyright 2011 by Associated Press. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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