Knowra Jackie Wilson Jackie Wilson Jackie Wilson (1934–1984) was an American R&B and soul singer known for his powerful tenor voice, energetic stage performances, and hits including “Lonely Teardrops” and “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher.”
Rhythm and blues : A popular music genre that developed in African American communities, encompassing styles shaped by blues, jazz, and gospel. Wilson built his career in this genre before becoming a major figure in soul.
Lonely Teardrops : A 1958 Jackie Wilson song written by Berry Gordy, Gwen Gordy, and Roquel Davis. This early solo hit established Wilson as a major recording star.
Berry Gordy : An American songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur who founded Motown Records. Gordy co-wrote several early Wilson hits, including “Reet Petite” and “Lonely Teardrops.”
Elvis Presley : An American singer and actor widely known as a central figure in rock and roll. Presley admired Wilson’s voice and stagecraft, reflecting Wilson’s reach across racial boundaries.
Gospel music : Christian music rooted in African American worship, known for expressive vocals, communal performance, and spiritual themes. Its vocal intensity and phrasing informed Wilson’s singing.
(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher : A 1967 Jackie Wilson song written by Gary Jackson, Raynard Miner, and Carl Smith. Its buoyant soul arrangement became one of Wilson’s best-known later hits.
Billy Ward : An American pianist, arranger, and vocal coach who founded the Dominoes. Ward recruited Wilson into the Dominoes and trained the group’s singers.
Michael Jackson : An American singer, songwriter, and dancer who became one of the most successful entertainers in popular music. Jackson cited Wilson as an influence and honored him at the 1984 Grammy Awards.
Soul music : A genre combining gospel’s vocal expressiveness with rhythm and blues, often emphasizing emotional delivery and groove. Wilson’s later hits helped bring soul to a broad pop audience.
Reet Petite : A 1957 Jackie Wilson song written by Berry Gordy, Gwen Gordy, and Roquel Davis. Its playful rhythm and Wilson’s agile delivery launched his solo recording career.
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