Legendary duo Sam & Dave tenor Sam Moore died Friday in Coral Gables, Fla. He was 89 years old. According to his wife and manager of nearly six decades, Joyce Moore, Sam Moore died of complications from surgery.
Sam & Dave achieved legendary status in the 1960s with hits such as “Soul Man,” “Hold On, I’m Comin’,” and “I Thank You.” Known for their electrifying stage presence, the duo was often referred to as the “Sultans of Sweat” and “Double Dynamite.” Their music, crafted at Memphis-based Stax Records with producers Isaac Hayes and David Porter, played a pivotal role in blending gospel-inspired call-and-response with soul and R&B rhythms.
Fans and fellow performers loved Moore’s rich, warm tenor smoothness. Sometimes, he is referred to by others as simply “the best living soul singer,” and was so described a few years back by Bruce Springsteen. Their song “Soul Man” reached number one on the R&B chart and won the Grammy in 1967.
After Sam & Dave disbanded in 1970, Sam Moore weathered personal hardships, including a long struggle with addiction. Still, he credited his wife, Joyce, with bringing stability back into his life. He reconvened his career again, performing at events like the Kennedy Center Honors and even singing for multiple U.S. presidents.
He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. Moore left an indelible mark on music, influencing generations of artists, including Michael Jackson and Al Green. He continued to record and perform into his later years, his voice and passion never wavering.
Sam Moore is survived by his wife, Joyce, their daughter, Michelle, and two grandchildren. His legacy as a “soul man” will remain timeless.
To Read More: Global