Percy Mayfield
Percy Mayfield, known as the "Poet of the Blues," was born on August 12, 1920, in Minden, Louisiana. He emerged as a prominent rhythm and blues singer and songwriter in the early 1950s. Mayfield's career began in earnest in Los Angeles when he signed with Specialty Records. His first recording, "Please Send Me Someone To Love," became a number one hit on the R&B chart and was considered one of the early "message" songs of the Civil Rights Movement.
Mayfield was celebrated for his songwriting prowess, with hits like "Hit the Road, Jack," famously recorded by Ray Charles, and "The River's Invitation," recorded by Aretha Franklin. His work was characterized by its emotional depth and range, capturing themes of love, despair, and social commentary.
In 1952, Mayfield's promising career was interrupted by a severe car accident that left him disfigured, impacting his ability to perform. Despite this setback, he continued to write songs and occasionally record. In 1961, Ray Charles turned Mayfield's a cappella demo of "Hit the Road, Jack" into a Grammy-winning hit and hired him as a songwriter for his label, Tangerine Records.
Mayfield's influence persisted through his songwriting, with his compositions being recorded by various artists over the years. He passed away on August 11, 1984, just one day shy of his 64th birthday. His legacy is preserved in the 1990 CD reissue "Percy Mayfield—Poet Of The Blues," which features some of his greatest recordings.
App
