Chips Moman
Lincoln Wayne "Chips" Moman (June 12, 1937 – June 13, 2016) was a pivotal figure in American music, known for his work as a record producer, guitarist, and songwriter. Born in LaGrange, Georgia, Moman developed an early passion for music, which led him to Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of fourteen. There, he supported himself through day labor while playing in local clubs at night. His career took a significant turn when he joined the band of Dorsey and Johnny Burnette, which eventually led him to Los Angeles and sparked his interest in record production.
Moman's return to Memphis marked the beginning of his influential role in the music industry. He became a key figure at Stax Records, where he produced hits like "Gee Whiz" by Carla Thomas and "You Don't Miss Your Water" by William Bell. His discovery of the movie theater that became the Stax headquarters was instrumental in the label's success.
In 1964, Moman founded American Sound Studio, where he produced over 120 Billboard Top 100 hits. His studio became a magnet for artists like Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, and Aretha Franklin. Moman co-wrote classics such as "Dark End of The Street" and "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" with Dan Penn. His work with Elvis Presley on the album "From Elvis in Memphis" and hits like "Suspicious Minds" are particularly noteworthy.
Moman's career extended into country music, where he co-wrote and produced hits such as "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song" for B.J. Thomas, which won a Grammy Award. He also collaborated with artists like Waylon Jennings and The Highwaymen.
Despite a later unsuccessful attempt to revive the Memphis music scene, Moman's legacy as a versatile and innovative force in music remains significant. He was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 1990, and his contributions continue to influence rock, pop, soul, and country music.