A few weeks ago, Rolling Stone Magazine released its 200 Greatest Singers List. In what is certain to spur a number of spirited debates, this list will make news for who it excludes as much as for who it includes – and where they are placed. On a personal note, I’m delighted to see thatContinue reading “Happy Birthday, Sam Cooke”
Tag Archives: Sam Cooke
The Black Sinatra
For those who really know me, this finding by the folks at Spotify (watch until the end) is no surprise. On this 58th anniversary of his shocking killing, an event that preceded my birth by five-and-a-half months, Sam Cooke has had a profound influence on my thinking and on my aspirations as well as myContinue reading “The Black Sinatra”
Black Rock & Roll
Sounds like a contradiction in terms, doesn’t it? Well, in commemoration of the launch of Black Music Month, humbly, allow me to demystify this for you. In launching the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame back in 1986, six of the 10 charter performing members were Black: Chuck Berry, James Brown, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke,Continue reading “Black Rock & Roll”
🎵 Play that one called ‘Soul Twist, play that one called ‘I Know’…🎵
Some may recognize those words as lyrics from Sam Cooke‘s hit song ‘Havin’ A Party,’ one of many, that was released 60 years ago that hit #17 and #4 on the Billboard Pop and R&B Charts, respectively. Sam was talking about playing records, the dominant form of music during that time. Well, many may beContinue reading “🎵 Play that one called ‘Soul Twist, play that one called ‘I Know’…🎵”
Roy Shuler 