Percy Sledge
Full Name and Common Aliases
Percy Sledge was born Percival George Sledge Jr.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: November 8, 1941
Died: April 14, 2015
Nationality and Profession(s)
American singer, songwriter, and musician. Known for his smooth baritone voice and emotional delivery of soul music classics.
Early Life and Background
Percy Sledge was born in Leighton, Alabama, to a family of sharecroppers. His early life was marked by the hardships of rural poverty, but it also fostered his love for music. Growing up, Sledge sang gospel songs with his mother's church choir, developing a rich, soulful voice that would become his trademark.
Major Accomplishments
Percy Sledge's music career spanned over five decades and included numerous chart-topping hits. His iconic song "When a Man Loves a Woman" (1966) remains one of the most recognizable and enduring love songs in popular culture. This timeless classic reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, selling over 10 million copies worldwide.
Notable Works or Actions
Sledge's discography includes:
"Out of Left Field" (1970)
"Take Time to Know Me" (1973)
"Hurt No More" (1986)
Percy Sledge also appeared on various TV shows, including the classic 1967 episode of _The Ed Sullivan Show_ , where he performed his signature hit.
Impact and Legacy
Sledge's music has been a staple of American soul and R&B, influencing countless artists across genres. His emotional delivery and heart-wrenching ballads continue to captivate audiences worldwide. With over 25 million records sold globally, Percy Sledge is considered one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Percy Sledge's music and legacy are often cited as an inspiration by artists such as:
Otis Redding
Sam Cooke
Al Green
His timeless classic "When a Man Loves a Woman" has been covered by numerous artists, including Rod Stewart, Michael Bolton, and Aretha Franklin.
The impact of Percy Sledge's music extends beyond the realm of entertainment. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have provided solace to countless listeners navigating love, loss, and heartbreak. Today, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, ensuring that his music remains an integral part of our shared cultural heritage.
In recognition of his contributions to American music, Percy Sledge was inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame (2001) and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2005).
Quotes by Percy Sledge
When a man loves a woman, can't keep his mind on nothing else. He'd trade the world for the good thing he's found.
When a man loves a woman, he'll spend his very last dime tryin' to hold on to what he needs.
Where I came from in the country, there was no place to hear pop music like Little Richard and people like that. Later, I heard James Brown, Otis Redding, The Drifters, The Four Aces, The Ink Spots.
I was a little boy singing sad songs, about 9 or 10 years old in the woods. I listened to my voice coming back to me. It was as high as you could go. I dreamed of being famous as a singer when I was on those cotton fields. I wanted to see the world and meet people.
I never knew much about business. But I've been made happy. The TV and commercials have been very fortunate for me and my career. And Atlantic Records has always been wonderful to me. I don't think I could have chosen a better record company.
I had the great opportunity to work with some of the greatest artists - the Beach Boys, the Temptations, the Four Tops. Otis Redding. Wilson Pickett. Stevie Wonder. So many great singers. And don't forget Clarence Carter!
'Cover Me.' 'Take Time To Know Her.' 'Warm and Tender Love.' 'Out Of Left Field.' 'Dark End Of The Street.' 'Tears Me Up.' 'My Special Prayer.' All points back to one song. 'When A Man Loves A Woman.' The Grand-daddy to all of my songs. The boss of all of my songs. I have great respect for that song. Always will.
As a kid, on the cotton fields, I had this tune in my head. I hummed it and sang it. It was the same melody as 'When A Man Loves A Woman.' I could never, ever forget it.
Most singers have their idols. I remember Elvis Presley when I was a kid. When I was about sixteen, I always said I wanted to do 'Love Me Tender.'
I'd liked this girl all through high school. After we graduated, we got together for a while, but she left me for another man.