Percy Sledge [Photo: agencies]

Percy Sledge, who topped the Billboard Hot 100 with his hit single "When a Man Loves a Woman" in 1966, has died.

He was 73.

During the mid-60's, Sledge originally worked as a hospital nurse to help keep his head above water whhile he launched his music career.

"When a Man Loves a Woman," became his first and only number-1 hit.

His follow-up in 1966, "Warm and Tender Love," reached Number-17 on the Hot 100.

While Sledge's chart success stalled in the '70s, he continued to successfully tour.

His career was given a slight resurgence after "When a Man Loves a Woman" was later discovered by new generations.

Percy Sledge was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.