| Description |
In this paper Dr. Susan M. Cottler, Professor of History, Westminster College, discusses the life of Wilson Pickett (1941-2006) and outlines why she believes he belongs in the pantheon with other great American soul singers such as James Brown, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, and Otis Redding. Throughout the paper Cottler provides examples backing her argument that Pickett's legacy is less political and far more cultural. She delves into the background behind his "Wicked Wilson Pickett" moniker, his involvement in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, and how the sexuality of his music shaped some of the popular dances of those turbulent times. Professor Cottler weaves in mention of such major works as "In the Midnight Hour" and "Land of a Thousand Dances," while suggesting how pedagogically an educator could use classroom dancing to Pickett's music as a way of helping students "feel" the era. Included are lyrics to "Don't Let the Green Grass Fool You," "Soul Dance #3," and "Funky Broadway." |
