Lou Rawls – The Velvet Voice of Soul
Born Louis Allen Rawls on December 1, 1933, in Chicago's South Side. Raised by his grandmother after his father left. Started singing in Baptist church choir at age 7. Influenced by gospel and live shows at the Regal Theater. As a teen, high school classmate and sang with Sam Cooke in the Teenage Kings of Harmony gospel group.
Started with jazz and blues albums in the 1950s. Survived a near-fatal 1958 car crash while touring with Sam Cooke. Became a major soul/R&B star mid-60s with hits like "Love Is a Hurtin' Thing" (first R&B #1) and Grammy-winning "Dead End Street" (1967). Powerful, emotive stage presence defined his early career.
Signed with Philadelphia International Records. Delivered that signature silky, sophisticated soul sound. Biggest hit: "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" (1976) — reached #2 on pop chart, #1 R&B and adult contemporary, million-seller, timeless classic. Other hits: "Lady Love", "Groovy People".
Released over 60 albums, sold more than 40 million records, earned 3 Grammy Awards (mostly Best Male R&B Vocal Performance). Acted in films/TV, did voice-over work (cartoons too). Deeply involved in charity — especially United Negro College Fund telethons, raising millions for education. Frank Sinatra called him having "the classiest singing and silkiest chops". Battled lung and brain cancer; passed away January 6, 2006, at age 72 in Los Angeles.