Sam Cooke

The Profile

Sam Cooke (1931–1964) was an American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur hailed as the King of Soul. He began with the gospel group the Soul Stirrers before crossing into pop and R&B, scoring hits such as You Send Me, Chain Gang, Cupid, Wonderful World, Bring It On Home to Me, and Twistin’ the Night Away. He co‑founded SAR Records and wrote A Change Is Gonna Come, an enduring civil‑rights anthem.

Began as lead singer of the Soul Stirrers; major solo hits include You Send Me, Chain Gang, Cupid, Wonderful World, Bring It On Home to Me, Twistin’ the Night Away; co‑founded SAR Records; widely known as the King of Soul; active 1951–1964.

Four DeBaser reviews trace Sam Cooke from intimate Night Beat moods to the volcanic Harlem Square Club stage, with Ain’t That Good News framed as a singles-forward set. The Best Of sparks wonder at the sheer run of hits and authorship. Across them, Cooke’s civil‑rights resonance and entrepreneurial streak (SAR Records) recur. The overall verdict: the voice and the songs are enduring.