Al Green

Albert Greene, better known as Al Green, is a music legend whose life and career have been nothing short of remarkable. Born on April 13, 1946, in Forrest City, Arkansas, he was the sixth of ten children in a family of sharecroppers. His journey from a challenging childhood to international stardom is a testament to his incredible talent and resilience.

Al’s musical journey began at a young age when he started performing with his sister in a group called the Greene Brothers. Even as a child, his talent was evident, and he quickly developed a love for music. However, his devoutly religious father disapproved of secular music, and this conflict eventually led to Al being kicked out of the family home in his teens.

During this period of his life, Al Green immersed himself in the vibrant world of music. He was influenced by gospel greats like Mahalia Jackson but also found inspiration in the sounds of artists like Wilson Pickett and Elvis Presley. His love for music led him to form a vocal group called Al Greene & the Creations while in high school.

In 1968, fate intervened when he crossed paths with Memphis record producer Willie Mitchell, who recognized Al’s immense talent. Mitchell signed him to Hi Records, becoming his vocal coach and helping him discover his unique voice.

Al Green’s career took flight with the release of his first album, “Green Is Blues,” in 1969. This was followed by a string of hits, including “Tired of Being Alone” and “Let’s Stay Together,” both of which achieved gold status. His soulful voice and emotive delivery endeared him to audiences worldwide, solidifying his place in the pantheon of soul music.

Throughout the 1970s, Al Green continued to produce chart-topping hits, such as “Call Me (Come Back Home)” and “Love and Happiness.” His music transcended genres and resonated with diverse audiences, making him an iconic figure in the world of music.

However, in 1979, a tragic incident in which his girlfriend died by suicide and he was injured during a concert led Al Green to reevaluate his life. He decided to become an ordained pastor and shifted his focus to gospel music. His gospel album, “The Lord Will Make a Way” (1980), won him his first Grammy Award and marked a new chapter in his career.

Al Green’s return to secular music in the late ’80s and ’90s saw him collaborating with artists like Annie Lennox and Lyle Lovett, earning him more accolades and Grammy Awards. His enduring influence on the music industry was further solidified when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll and Songwriters Halls of Fame.

With 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and timeless hits that continue to resonate with fans, Al Green’s legacy is firmly etched in the annals of music history. His contributions to soul and gospel music have left an indelible mark, making him one of the greatest artists of all time. At the age of 76, Al Green continues to be celebrated for his remarkable career and musical genius.