Sam Moore, One Half Of Legendary Soul Duo Sam And Dave, Dead At 89

Sam Moore, one half of Stax Records soul duo Sam and Dave, died on Friday (January 10) at his home in Coral Gables, Florida, at the age of 89. Moore’s death was confirmed by his wife and manager, Joyce Moore. The beloved soul icon underwent an unspecified surgery earlier in the week, and died from complications in recovering from the proceedure. Moore – who was born in Miami in 1935 – and his partner Dave Prater formed Stax Records’ most celebrated vocal duo, helping the Memphis label become one of the greatest homes for soul in music history. Sam and Dave are best known for hits like “Soul Man” – which won the Grammy for Best Rhythm & Blues Group Performance in 1968 – and “Hold On! I’m Comin,’” creating a catalog of songs featuring their rich vocals and uplifting harmonies. Labelmate Booker T. Jones, who backed the duo on many of their classics, says of Moore, “I will miss this beautiful set of lungs.” Bruce Springsteen paid tribute to Moore on Instagram, calling him “one of America’s greatest soul voices,” while stating, “There simply isn’t another sound like Sam’s soulful tenor in American music.” (Rolling Stone)