Little Willie John
Little Willie John was a powerhouse R&B singer known for his impassioned vocal delivery and influential recordings in the 1950s and early ‘60s. Best remembered for hits like Fever and Need Your Love So Bad, he helped bridge the gap between blues, gospel, and early rock & roll. His smooth yet fiery voice brought an intensity to his music that would later influence soul legends such as James Brown and Otis Redding.
Despite his success, John’s career was tragically cut short due to legal troubles, leading to his incarceration and early death at just 30 years old. However, his impact on the development of soul music remains undeniable. His songs have been covered by countless artists, and his legacy endures as one of the unsung pioneers of modern R&B.