“Dear Friends,

This is a difficult time in the world, and I would like to ask each of you to find ways to be a part of positive solutions.  There is something that each of us can do, and it’s just a matter of searching your own soul to find the way that you can give to others.  Some of us can give of our time and talent, and some of us can donate money or items. The trick is to give without looking to receive – to give of yourself to your family, your friends, your community, and the world community with love.”

—Solomon Burke
(March 21, 1940 – October 10, 2010)

It’s strange that Solomon Burke isn’t quite the household name that James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Isaac Hayes or Barry White became. Quoting author and musicologist Tom Reed, Burke was a “founding father of what was defined as soul music in America in the 1960s.” He paved the way for them all. The man was just as influential a King of Rock n’ Soul, and an original Blues Brother.

He may be gone now, but listening to dozens of recordings of that huge, kindly voice, it’s impossible to feel too sad. He was a giant who has left behind a giant legacy. (Not to mention 21 children, 90 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.)

He liked to say, “loving people is what I do.” Love you, too, Big Soul. Rest in peace.

Posted by Meredith Yayanos on October 11th, 2010
Filed under Better than coffee, Memento Mori, Music