The American singer Solomon Burke is a true soul legend. His pioneering role in the soul music is hard to overestimate. In addition, Burke was as undertaker, pastor of a church, with its striking stage presence also a particularly interesting figure. Since a radio deejay him crowned King Of Rock & Soul, Burke appeared invariably in a robe with a crown. When he was too obese to act even standing up
… to, he installed a throne on stage. His career dates back to the early sixties, when Burke made legendary recordings for the Atlantic label. As the first black artist when he ventured to country repertoire. He was so convincing that he was booked after scoring a countryhit by the Ku Klux Klan. On stage he fought amusing verbal feuds with other soul singer with royal aspirations: James Brown. From the seventies, the singer was becoming less successful and aforementioned secondary activities became increasingly important. In 2002 he released his comeback album Do not Give Up On Me. This CD, which he sang songs to him were written by, among others, Elvis Costello, Tom Waits and Brian Wilson, was very well received by press and public alike and brought Solomon Burke again in the spotlight. Just before a concert with De Dijk, with whom he recorded an album, Burke died. He was 70 years old.more
