Wilson Pickett, born on March 18, 1941, in Prattville, Alabama, was a dynamic and influential American soul singer known for his electrifying performances and powerful voice. Often referred to as the “Wicked Pickett,” he rose to prominence in the 1960s and became a prominent figure in the soul and R&B music scene.
Pickett’s distinctive voice and energetic stage presence made him a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. His breakthrough came with hits like “In the Midnight Hour” and “Mustang Sally,” showcasing his gritty vocal style and passionate delivery. Pickett’s songs seamlessly blended soul, gospel, and rock elements, contributing to the evolution of the soul genre.
A prolific songwriter and performer, Wilson Pickett left an indelible mark on the music landscape, earning him a well-deserved place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. His impact extended beyond the charts, influencing generations of musicians who admired his raw, emotive approach to soul music.
Despite facing personal challenges, Pickett’s legacy endures through his timeless recordings, and his impact on the soul genre continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Wilson Pickett’s contributions to music remain a testament to his enduring talent and the enduring power of soulful expression.
1. Fire and Water
“Fire and Water” by Wilson Pickett is a soulful masterpiece that encapsulates the emotional depth and intensity of Pickett’s vocal prowess. Released in 1968, the song weaves a narrative of love and desire against a backdrop of simmering horns and a groovy rhythm section. Pickett’s impassioned delivery, coupled with the song’s tight arrangements, creates a sonic experience that is both fervent and evocative. “Fire and Water” exemplifies Pickett’s ability to infuse soul with raw, visceral energy, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the enduring power of his musical legacy.
2. Sugar Sugar
“Sugar, Sugar” is a classic pop song by The Archies, a virtual band created for the Archie Comics franchise. The song was released in 1969 and became a massive hit, topping the charts in the United States and several other countries.
The Archies consisted of fictional characters from the Archie Comics series, and the music was performed by session musicians, with Ron Dante providing lead vocals. “Sugar, Sugar” was written by Jeff Barry and Andy Kim, and it’s known for its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and sweet lyrics.
The success of “Sugar, Sugar” made it one of the defining bubblegum pop songs of the late 1960s. The song’s popularity extended beyond its initial release, and it has been covered by various artists over the years. Its infectious charm and nostalgic appeal continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece of pop music history.
3. Land of 1,000 Dances
“Land of 1,000 Dances” is a classic soul and R&B song written by Chris Kenner. Wilson Pickett recorded one of the most famous and successful versions of the song, releasing it in 1966. Pickett’s rendition of “Land of 1,000 Dances” became a signature song for him and an iconic track in the soul music genre.
The song features an energetic and infectious rhythm, and its lyrics invite listeners to dance while referencing various popular dance styles and moves. The famous “na-na-na-na-na” chant in the chorus became a memorable and catchy element of the track.
“Land of 1,000 Dances” is celebrated for its lively and dynamic nature, making it a staple in soul music playlists and a go-to track for energetic performances. The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by various artists, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic R&B and soul music.
4. Funky Broadway
“Funky Broadway” is another classic soul and R&B song associated with Wilson Pickett. It was written by Arlester “Dyke” Christian and was initially recorded by Dyke and the Blazers in 1967. However, it was Wilson Pickett’s cover of the song that became more widely known and successful.
Wilson Pickett released his version of “Funky Broadway” in 1967, and it became a hit on both the R&B and pop charts. The song is characterized by its upbeat and funky sound, featuring prominent brass instrumentation and Pickett’s soulful vocals. The lyrics celebrate the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Broadway, particularly the “funky” and danceable aspects of the street.
“Funky Broadway” is often regarded as one of Wilson Pickett’s signature songs, showcasing his ability to infuse soul music with a funky and energetic edge. The song’s infectious groove has contributed to its enduring popularity, and it remains a favorite among fans of classic soul and R&B.
5. I’m In Love
“I’m In Love” is a classic soul song recorded by Wilson Pickett. Released in 1968, the song became one of Pickett’s notable hits. It’s known for its passionate and soulful delivery, characteristic of Pickett’s vocal style.
In “I’m In Love,” Pickett expresses the joy and elation of being in love. The song features a blend of soul and R&B elements, with a tight arrangement and Pickett’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The instrumentation, including horns and a rhythmic groove, adds to the overall energetic and heartfelt atmosphere of the track.
Wilson Pickett’s rendition of “I’m In Love” showcases his ability to convey deep emotions through his music, and the song has endured as a beloved classic in the soul genre. Over the years, it has been recognized as one of Pickett’s standout performances, contributing to his legacy as a prominent figure in the world of soul and R&B.
6. Hey Jude
“Hey Jude” is a classic song by The Beatles, written by Paul McCartney and originally released in 1968. The song was primarily composed by McCartney for John Lennon’s son, Julian, during Lennon’s divorce from his first wife, Cynthia. It was meant to provide comfort and support to Julian during a challenging time.
The song features a memorable and extended outro that includes the famous “na-na-na” refrain. Clocking in at over seven minutes, “Hey Jude” was one of the longest singles to achieve mainstream success at the time. The song’s structure, emotional depth, and universal appeal contributed to its widespread popularity.
“Hey Jude” topped charts around the world and became one of The Beatles’ most iconic and enduring tracks. It is celebrated for its melodic brilliance, heartfelt lyrics, and the powerful vocal performance by McCartney. The song has maintained its status as a classic and continues to be appreciated by music lovers of all generations.
7. Don’t Knock My Love – Pt. I
“Don’t Knock My Love – Pt. I” is a soul and funk song recorded by Wilson Pickett. It was released in 1971 as a single and later included on his album “Don’t Knock My Love.” The song was written by Wilson Pickett and Brad Shapiro.
“Don’t Knock My Love – Pt. I” is characterized by its infectious groove, funky instrumentation, and Pickett’s soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics express a plea for understanding and acceptance in a relationship, with Pickett passionately delivering the message.
The success of “Don’t Knock My Love – Pt. I” solidified Wilson Pickett’s reputation as a versatile and influential artist who could navigate various musical styles, from soul to funk. The song became a hit on the R&B charts, showcasing Pickett’s ability to stay relevant and adapt to evolving musical trends.
With its lively and danceable rhythm, “Don’t Knock My Love – Pt. I” remains a favorite among fans of classic soul and funk music, contributing to Wilson Pickett’s legacy in the realm of R&B.
8. In The Midnight Hour
“In the Midnight Hour” is a classic soul song recorded by Wilson Pickett. Released in 1965, the song became one of Pickett’s signature hits and is considered a landmark in the soul and R&B genres.
Written by Wilson Pickett and Steve Cropper, “In the Midnight Hour” features a distinctive horn riff and Pickett’s soulful and impassioned vocals. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and anticipation, with the midnight hour serving as a metaphor for the time when love and passion come alive.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its impact on popular music is enduring, and it has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. “In the Midnight Hour” is celebrated for its energetic and timeless quality, making it a classic in the soul music canon and solidifying Wilson Pickett’s reputation as one of the great soul singers of his time.
9. Mustang Sally
“Mustang Sally” is another iconic soul and R&B song associated with Wilson Pickett. Originally written and recorded by Sir Mack Rice in 1965, it was later popularized and turned into a classic by Wilson Pickett with his dynamic rendition in 1966.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a young woman named Sally who is encouraged to slow down and appreciate the finer things in life, symbolized by the reference to the Ford Mustang car. Pickett’s version of “Mustang Sally” is known for its catchy refrain, energetic instrumentation, and Pickett’s soulful vocal delivery.
“Mustang Sally” has become a staple in the R&B and soul music repertoire and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. It remains one of Wilson Pickett’s most recognized and enduring hits, contributing to his legacy as a powerhouse in the world of soul music.
10. Engine Number 9
“Engine No. 9” is a funk and soul song originally recorded by Wilson Pickett. It was released as a single in 1970 and later included on his album “Wilson Pickett in Philadelphia.” The song was written by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, who were influential in the development of the Philadelphia soul sound.
“Engine No. 9” is characterized by its funky groove, horn arrangements, and Pickett’s energetic and soulful vocals. The lyrics incorporate a metaphorical train theme, using the image of an engine to convey the unstoppable force of love and desire. The repetitive and catchy chorus adds to the song’s overall appeal.
While “Engine No. 9” didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Pickett’s earlier hits, it remains appreciated by fans of funk and soul music. The track showcases Pickett’s ability to adapt to evolving musical styles while maintaining his distinctive vocal style.