Gospel veteran Marvin Winans engaged in a brief conversation about music with one of his attackers before being beaten and robbed Wednesday.

According to Detroit Free Press, one young man approached him, "engaged him in conversation about the music he had on the radio," then told him gas was spilling from his tank. Winans turned to look and seconds later was punched from behind.

"Three or four men punched and kicked him on the pavement. Somebody said, 'Roll him over,' and they got his wallet," Detroit police inspector Nick Kyriacou told Detroit Free Press.

Winans had walked into the gas station's convenience store before going back to his car so officials believe the men followed him to his car.

Up to 10 men, ages 18 to 20, were at the station a the time.

Winans walked away with few injuries but lost a wallet containing $200, a $15,000 rolex, and his 2012 Infiniti QX56 SUV.

Marvin L. Winans is best known for his contributions to Gospel music. He also officiated the funeral of late entertainer Whitney Houston in February.

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