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Died Age: 64
source: wikipedia.org
Wilson Pickett
Birthday:
18 Mar, 1941
Date of Death:
19 Jan, 2006
Cause of death:
Heart attack
Nationality:
American
Famous As:
Singer
Age at the time of death:
64
Wilson Pickett's Quote's
“You can talk about all the great guitarists you want Jimi Hendrix or whoever but as far as I'm concerned, Duane Allman is the best. No one ever played like him.”
Wilson Pickett
🔗 celebritylegacyhub.com
Early Life and Musical Influences
Wilson Pickett, an American singer and songwriter, was a highly influential figure in the realm of soul and R&B music during the 1960s. Born in Prattville, Alabama, in 1941, he grew up honing his vocal skills by singing in Baptist church choirs. Growing up in the heart of the South, he was exposed to the rich sounds of gospel, blues, and R&B, which would heavily influence his musical style. Pickett’s powerful voice and dynamic stage presence were shaped by the likes of gospel greats such as Mahalia Jackson and Clara Ward.
Move to Detroit and Early Career
In 1955, Pickett relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where he became a member of a gospel group called The Violinaires. Eventually, he transitioned into secular music and formed his own vocal ensemble named The Falcons. In 1962, The Falcons achieved a Top Ten R&B hit with “I Found a Love,” showcasing Pickett’s impressive vocal range and captivating stage presence.
Solo Career and Rise to Fame
Wilson Pickett then embarked on a solo career and secured a record deal with Atlantic Records in 1964. Collaborating with esteemed producers like Jerry Wexler, Tom Dowd, and Bert Berns, he honed his musical craft. In 1965, he recorded at Stax in Memphis, a pivotal moment that would define the sound of Southern soul. It was during this time that Pickett released his iconic hit, “In the Midnight Hour,” a song that solidified his status as a soul powerhouse and became an anthem for generations to come.
The “Wicked Pickett” and Chart-Topping Success
Renowned for his dynamic stage presence and reputation for being challenging to work with, Pickett earned the moniker “The Wicked Pickett.” Throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, he enjoyed a string of chart-topping hits. Songs like “634-5789,” “Mustang Sally,” and “Funky Broadway” became instant classics and solidified Pickett’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. He also garnered multiple Grammy nominations and was ultimately inducted into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Collaborations and Artistic Partnerships
Pickett also collaborated with a wide range of artists. He recorded early songs by Bobby Womack and worked with Duane Allman as a session guitarist on his hit cover of the Beatles’ “Hey Jude.”
Decline and Later Years
However, as musical preferences evolved and personal challenges arose, Pickett’s career declined in the late 1970s. Despite making several attempts at comebacks during the 1980s and 1990s, he was unable to recapture his former level of success. Tragically, Pickett passed away from a heart attack in Reston, Virginia, in 2006 at the age of 64.
Profile Snapshot
Name:
Wilson Pickett
Popular Name:
Wilson Pickett
Gender:
Male
Cause of Death:
Heart attack
Spouse:
Bonnie Covington
Place of Birth:
Prattville, Alabama, U.S.
Place of Death:
Reston, Virginia, U.S.
Occupation / Profession:
Singer
Songwriter
Personality Type
Entrepreneur: Wilson Pickett was a logical individual who preferred to follow his own judgment rather than listen to others.
Wilson Pickett's Interesting Facts
He tried his hand at Disco music in the ‘70s but failed from a sales standpoint.
He was a major star in Ghana.
Wilson Pickett’s favorite hobby was boating and fishing.
Achievements & Awards
National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame (2015)
Pioneer Award by the Rhythm and Blues Foundation.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1991)
External Links
Additional Links
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