Percy Sledge

Percy Sledge, known for his iconic hit "When a Man Loves a Woman," was a key figure of deep Southern soul, delivering powerful and emotional performances that captivated audiences. Recording at Muscle Shoals studios in Alabama, he sang songs by renowned songwriters Spooner Oldham and Dan Penn, pioneering country-soul with a gritty, passionate style. Despite a decline in commercial success in the '70s, Sledge continued to tour and record into the '90s, maintaining a strong reputation among soul fans and experiencing a resurgence in popularity with his classic hit.

Beginning his music career as a solo artist in 1966, Sledge's breakthrough came with "When a Man Loves a Woman," which topped both pop and R&B charts. While subsequent singles didn't achieve the same level of success, his collaborations with Oldham and Penn produced soul classics. Sledge's career saw a revival in the late '80s, with his hit single re-released and climbing the charts following its use in commercials and soundtracks. He continued to tour extensively, releasing new material and receiving accolades such as the Rhythm and Blues Foundation's Career Achievement Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame before his passing in 2015.