1931 - 1964
Sam Cooke was an influential American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist, renowned for his smooth voice and innovative approach to soul music. Born on January 22, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, he is best known for hits like "A Change Is Gonna Come," "Wonderful World," and "Cupid." Cooke's work not only shaped the music industry but also significantly impacted the civil rights movement before his untimely death in 1964.