Singer/songwriter Alan O'day has lost his battle with brain cancer at the age of 72.

O'Day was surrounded by loved ones when he passed away at his home in Westwood, California, on Friday (17May13).

He is best known for his 1977 number one hit Undercover Angel, and he also wrote pop tracks for acts including the Righteous Brothers and Cher.

A statement from bosses at 1st Phase Records to Reuters reads, "Alan continued to write and perform until his last days. Alan was a generous man who gave his heart and soul to the music industry."

O'Day's songs have been performed by a number of artists including Sir Tom Jones, Dusty Springfield, Three Dog Night and Paul Anka.

He is survived by his wife, Yuka.