Sam Cooke

USA, 1951–1964

The Father of Soul. His vocal beauty, songwriting craft and independence from labels were the model for the entire Motown generation.

Influenced by

• R.H. Harris

Influenced

• Sly and the Family Stone
• Stevie Wonder
• Marvin Gaye
• Aretha Franklin
• Otis Redding
• The Supremes
• Four Tops
• Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
• Curtis Mayfield
• The Impressions
• Wilson Pickett
• The Isley Brothers
• Sam & Dave
• The Miracles
• Gladys Knight & the Pips
• Journey
• Al Green
• Bill Withers
• Billy Joel
• Bobby Womack
• Darlene Love
• Isaac Hayes
• Jimmy Cliff
• Rod Stewart
• Smokey Robinson