Sam Cooke

American singer and songwriter, a pioneer of soul who began in gospel and became a major popular and civil-rights-era voice before his death in 1964.

Died December 11, 1964. Began singing gospel (recorded with the Soul Stirrers). Wrote and recorded "A Change Is Gonna Come". Founded SAR Records and a publishing company. Moved to RCA during his career and achieved major commercial success; associated in the public eye with figures like Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) and Malcolm X. His death in a motel room has been subject to debate and conspiracy theories in reviews.

DeBaser reviews praise Sam Cooke's voice, live intensity and key recordings. Reviewers highlight A Change Is Gonna Come, Night Beat and Live at the Harlem Square Club. There is recurring discussion about his death (December 11, 1964) and his role in the civil rights era.

For:Fans of soul, R&B and 1960s music; readers interested in civil rights-era artists and live performance recordings.