In 1951, with the band the Soul Stirrers, Sam Cooke began his writing and recording career on Specialty Records. For six years, he established a new standard for gospel expression. At the height of his gospel career, Cooke made an abrupt change in professional direction. His first pop single, 1956’s “Lovable,” was released under the alias of “Dale Cooke” in order to not alienate his fan base. He continued to release soul, pop, and R&B music, creating some of the most beloved and recognizable tunes in the American songbook. Cooke had 29 top 40 hits on the pop charts, and more on the R&B charts. He died at the age of 33 under mysterious circumstances in Los Angeles. Details of the case are still disputed, the official story was that he was shot to death in self-defense by Bertha Franklin, manager of the Hacienda Motel in South LA. The protest song “A Change Is Gonna Come” was released shortly following Cooke’s death, and it came to exemplify the sixties Civil Rights Movement. The song has gained in popularity and acclaim since its release.

Our Uncle Sam: The Sam Cooke Story From His Family’s Perspective