Soul-Stirring Facts About Sam Cooke, The King Of Soul
There are few artists in history who can claim to have made as big an impact as the one and only Sam Cooke. From defining one genre to completely revolutionizing another one, he changed the music world forever.
Sadly, his rise to stardom was as inspiring as it was tragic. To this day, Sam Cooke's mysterious demise has steeped his legacy in a chilling conspiracy.
1. He Had Surprising Origins
Our singer’s life began on January 22, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Those familiar with the Southern-inspired origins of his singing style probably aren’t surprised to learn of his place of birth.
But there's something surprising about Sam Cooke's origin story. He never actually grew up in the South. Sam Cooke’s family moved to Chicago during his infancy—and it set the scene for his tumultuous rise to stardom.
2. He Had Humble Beginnings
Cooke may have ended up in the glitz and glamor of celebrity life, but he started out in a wildly different environment. His father was a reverend who raised the future singer and his seven siblings in a decidedly religious setting. As such, Cooke’s first exposure to singing came in the form of participation in a children’s gospel choir. These were humble beginnings—but it was only a matter of time before he tapped into his more rebellious side.
3. He Challenged His Upbringing
Cooke’s first taste of widespread recognition as a singer came with his involvement in the gospel group, “The Soul Stirrers.” His membership in this group allowed him to show off his vocal talents and build up a following of fans who appreciated it. But time would reveal that Cooke and Christian music were far from a match made in heaven.
4. He Was A Born Rebel
From early on, people who knew Sam Cooke could tell that he marched to the beat of his own drum. He did what he wanted without worrying about society’s expectations.
For instance, even at a time when society did not accept Black Americans taking part in many activities, Cooke brazenly took his nieces and nephews to predominantly white amusement parks.
He rode roller coasters with them—not caring one iota about all the disapproving glares people shot their way. Clearly, Cooke didn't mind rocking the boat, and boy, did he make the most scandalous splash.
