THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Richardson was the chief of staff of the Studio Museum in Harlem. He died on April 30 at the age of 43.

Stevens' caption read, "This album is dedicated to the light of my life, my beloved partner and best friend Evans Richardson, who passed away in April. He was an absolute gem of a person, full of life, love, laughter, curiosity, integrity, and joy. He was one of those rare and beautiful ones you find only once in a lifetime—precious, impeccable, and absolutely exceptional in every way.

"I know relationships can be very difficult sometimes, but it's always worth it to put in the hard work and care for the ones you love, especially the beautiful ones, who are few and far between. If you happen to find that kind of love, hold it close, hold it tight, savor it, tend to it, and give it everything you've got, especially in times of trouble. Be kind, be strong, be patient, be forgiving, be vigorous, be wise, and be yourself. Live every day as if it is your last, with fullness and grace, with reverence and love, with gratitude and joy. This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

"Thank you. I love you. XOS"

Last month, Stevens revealed that he had been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome and is relearning to walk after the neurological disorder left him with no mobility. He will continue outpatient therapy.

Stevens received wide recognition for his 2005 concept album Illinois and for the single "Chicago," from that album. (A few of the other album tracks include "Casimir Pulaski Day," "The Seer's Tower" and "Come On! Feel the Illinoise!" However, he actually grew up in Michigan.

—Andrew Davis