The Grammy-winner and Oscar-nominee had two US number ones, with the smooth soul ballads Baby Come To Me (1986) and I Don't Have The Heart (1990).
He also co-wrote Michael Jackson's PYT with Quincy Jones.
Grey's Anatomy actress and friend Debbie Allen announced his death on Twitter, saying she was "blessed to have been so close" to him.
In a statement, music producer Jones said: "There are no words to convey how much my heart aches with the news of the passing of my baby brother James Ingram.
"With that soulful, whisky-sounding voice, James Ingram was simply magical."
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