American singer (1933-2006). Born in Barnwell, South Carolina. Often called "the Godfather of Soul" and "the Hardest-Working Man in Show Business." One of the most foundational figures in soul, R&B, and funk; widely cited as inventing funk as a distinct musical genre.
Released over 50 studio albums between Please Please Please (1958) and The Next Step (2002). Career peaks include Live at the Apollo (1963), Cold Sweat (1967, the song widely cited as the first true funk recording), Say It Loud — I'm Black and I'm Proud (1969), and The Payback (1973). Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. Died on Christmas Day 2006.
