Bobby Womack

Bobby Womack, a veteran of soul music, persevered through tragedy and addiction to become a solo star after a decade of hard work. He was a hitmaker on the R&B charts in the late '60s and '70s, drawing inspiration from legends like Sam Cooke and Wilson Pickett. Womack's soulful records, marked by his idiosyncratic style, showcased his talents as a singer, instrumentalist, and songwriter. His influence extended to rock and R&B, with his songs recorded by numerous artists and his guitar work praised by peers like Jimi Hendrix.

Born in Cleveland in 1944, Bobby Womack's musical journey began with the gospel group the Womack Brothers, before transitioning to R&B with the Valentinos under the mentorship of Sam Cooke. Despite personal hardships and controversies, Womack's solo career took off in the late '60s, with hits like "Woman's Gotta Have It" and "Lookin' for a Love." Through collaborations with artists like Janis Joplin and Sly & the Family Stone, Womack's sound evolved, culminating in critical acclaim with later albums like The Poet. Despite health challenges, Womack remained a respected figure in the music industry until his passing in 2014.