Wilson Pickett was born in Pratville, Alabama, 83 years ago today. A major figure in the development of American soul music in the ’50s and ’60s, Pickett carved out his sound by blending unique combinations of southern R&B, rock and roll, and gospel. He began recording in the mid-to-late-’60s and was heavily praised within the walls of Stax, Fame, and Atlantic Records studios for recording over 50 songs to cross top charts in the U.S. His live performances were legendarily full of passion and energy, catering to the lifestyles of the young and the free.
Also known as “Wicked” Pickett, the R&B singer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991 for his undeniable impact on songwriting and recording. Mostly known for popularizing hits like “Land of 1,000 Dances”, “Mustang Sally”, and “Funky Broadway”, Pickett truly made a name for himself with a song he co-wrote with Steve Cropper, “In The Midnight Hour”.
In celebration of his life, let’s watch some of the best versions of “In The Midnight Hour” by Wilson Pickett:
Wilson Pickett
Grateful Dead
B.B. King & Stevie Ray Vaughan
Jefferson Airplane
Phil Lesh & Friends ft. John Kadlecik, Jackie Greene, Marco Benevento, Joe Russo, Bill Evans
Wilson Pickett
Happy Birthday and Rest In Peace, Wilson Pickett.