Gospel music legend Andraé Crouch has passed away at the age of 72 after being hospitalised in the New Year.

The seven-time Grammy Award winner died at around 4:30pm on Thursday at Northridge Hospital Medical Center in the Los Angeles area. 

He was admitted to hospital on January 3 for undisclosed health issues and his family had been hopeful for a full recovery.  

His twin sister, Pastor Sandra Crouch, had said after his admission to hospital: "Andraé is doing better and responding to treatment. He still has a ways to go but we are believing God for a full recovery and request your continued prayers during this time."

Crouch was admitted to hospital back on December 1, forcing the cancellation of his 'Let the Church Say Amen' celebration tour which had been planned for that month.  He was released from hospital later but had to be re-admited after the New Year.

December's all-star concert tour was intended to pay tribute to Andraé's legendary career and gospel artists who were to appear on the tour included CeCe Winans, Marvin Sapp, Marvin Winans, and Israel Houghton.

During his decades-long career, Crouch worked with some of the biggest names in music, with his songs being recorded by the likes of Elvis Presley and Paul Simon.

He collaborated with Michael Jackson on several of the late singer's hit singles, including "Man in the Mirror", "Keep the Faith", "Will You Be There" and "Earth Song".

Crouch's family have requested privacy following his death.