Singer-songwriter Eugene McDaniels, best known for a string of hits he authored in the early 1960s, died in his Kittery home on July 29 at age 76. McDaniels had an enduring impact on pop, soul, jazz and other genres. 

McDaniels burst into the spotlight in 1961 with his chart-topping song “A Hundred Pounds of Clay.” Several other early recordings reached the top five on the pop chart, including “Tower of Strength,” “Chip Chip” and “Point of No Return.” 

His songwriting credits include “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” which was first recorded by Roberta Flack in 1974. According to McDaniels’ website, the song has been performed more than 6 million times and recorded on 400 albums. He also wrote the composition “Compared to What,” which has appeared in eight major films, including Martin Scorsese’s 1995 movie “Casino.”

McDaniels also worked as a producer for several major record labels. As a writer, artist and producer, he’s had a hand in numerous top 10 albums. 

McDaniels remained active late in his life. He released a series of YouTube videos in 2010 featuring his thoughts, musical performances and short films. “I’m just a hermit and I live in my cave up in Maine. It’s nice. I like it,” he says in one video.