Lou Rawls

Name: Louis Allen Rawls
Born: December 1, 1933 – Chicago, Illinois
Died: January 6, 2006 – Los Angeles, California
Genres: Soul, Jazz, Blues, R&B
Occupation: Singer, Actor, Voice Actor, Narrator
Years Active: 1951–2005

Overview

Lou Rawls was a Grammy-winning American baritone whose velvety voice and genre-blending style made him one of the most versatile and beloved vocalists of the 20th century. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Rawls released more than 60 albums, sold over 40 million records, and left an indelible mark on jazz, soul, and R&B.

Early Life and Influences

Born on Chicago’s South Side, Rawls was raised by his grandmother and immersed in gospel music from an early age. He sang in church alongside childhood friend Sam Cooke, and later joined gospel groups such as the Teenage Kings of Harmony and The Pilgrim Travelers. These gospel roots would deeply influence his signature style—blending gospel fervor with jazz sophistication and R&B grit.

Career Breakthrough

After a stint in the Army and surviving a serious car accident in 1958, Rawls began recording secular music. His 1966 hit “Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing” became his breakthrough single and earned him his first Grammy nomination. He won his first Grammy Award in 1968 for “Dead End Street”, in the Best R&B Vocal Performance category.

Signature Sound and Major Hits

Rawls was known for his rich, smooth baritone and conversational phrasing. He could slide effortlessly from ballads to blues, often introducing songs with spoken-word intros that made each performance feel personal.

His biggest commercial success came in the mid-1970s with the Philadelphia International Records label. Songs like:

• “You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” (1976)

• “Lady Love”

• “See You When I Git There”

cemented his place as a soul icon. “You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” became a crossover hit, reaching the top 10 on both the pop and R&B charts.

Beyond Music

Rawls was also known for his voice work, including narrating cartoons like Garfield, commercials for Budweiser, and serving as a beloved spokesman. He made numerous appearances on television and in films, showcasing his laid-back charm and acting talent.

One of his most enduring contributions off-stage was launching the Lou Rawls Parade of Stars Telethon, which raised over $200 million for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) over two decades.

Legacy

Lou Rawls passed away from lung and brain cancer in 2006, but his influence continues to resonate. His ability to straddle genres and connect with audiences through sincerity and soulfulness made him a singular force in American music. He is remembered as a consummate performer with a voice "as smooth as silk, as warm as a fireplace," and as an advocate for education and Black empowerment.