Joe Simon
Joe Simon was an influential American soul and R&B musician, born Joseph Simon on September 7, 1936, in Simmesport, Louisiana. He passed away on December 13, 2021, at the age of 85. Simon's career began in gospel music with the Golden West Singers in California, but he soon transitioned to secular music. He became a prominent figure on the US charts from 1964 to 1981, achieving 51 chart hits, including three number-one hits on the US Billboard R&B chart: "The Chokin' Kind" (1969), "Power of Love" (1972), and "Get Down, Get Down (Get on the Floor)" (1975).
Simon's early career was marked by his transition from gospel to secular music, influenced by artists like Sam Cooke and Arthur Prysock. He initially recorded with the Golden Tones before embarking on a solo career. His breakthrough came with the minor hit "My Adorable One" on the Vee-Jay label in 1964. After Vee-Jay folded, Simon continued to find success with hits like "Let's Do It Over" and "Teenager's Prayer."
In 1969, Simon's rendition of "The Chokin' Kind" earned him a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. He later collaborated with producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff at Spring Records, resulting in hits like "Drowning in the Sea of Love" and "Power of Love," both of which sold over a million copies.
Throughout his career, Simon was a significant presence in the R&B genre, known for his soulful voice and emotional delivery. His contributions to music were recognized when he was nominated for the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2021.
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