Little Willie John

R&B singer Little Willie John was born on November 15, 1937 in Cullendale, Arkansas. Despite his short career, he had numerous hits including "Fever" in 1956 and "Take My Love (I Want To Give It All To You)" in 1961. Throughout his career, he was signed to King Records and frequently headlined at New York City's Apollo Theater alongside James Brown. However, his life took a tragic turn when he went to prison after stabbing a man at his own engagement party in Seattle. He eventually passed away from pneumonia in Washington State Prison in 1968.

Little Willie John's talent caught the attention of James Brown who managed to get him out on parole two years before his death. Unfortunately, Willie violated the parole regulations by crossing state lines to Los Angeles and had to return to prison. In tribute to him, James Brown recorded an album titled "Thinking Of Little Willie John... And A Few Other Nice Things". In recognition of his contributions to music, Little Willie John was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 1996.

Little Willie John is often associated with artists such as LaVern Baker, Chuck Willis, Ruth Brown, Big Maybelle, Percy Mayfield, Amos Milburn and more. His soulful voice and impactful performances continue to inspire musicians today.