JJ Cale, born John Weldon Cale on May 12, 1938, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is remembered as a legendary blues singer and songwriter. He grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with his sister, where he discovered his love for music at a young age. Cale was deeply influenced by the sounds of his surroundings, which eventually led him to develop his own unique style known as the Tulsa Sound.
Before gaining fame as a musician, Cale was given his nickname by Elmer Valentine, the owner of the Sunset Strip nightclub Whisky a Go Go. This was to avoid any confusion with John Cale of the Velvet Underground. JJ Cale's music career started to take off in the 1960s when he began writing and performing his own songs. His laid-back, bluesy style quickly gained attention and he soon became known for hits such as "After Midnight," "Cocaine," "Clyde," and "Call Me the Breeze."
JJ Cale was a true innovator in the music industry, paving the way for a new generation of artists with his unique sound. His songs were not only popular among fans but also caught the attention of fellow musicians. Artists like Kansas, Santana, Eric Clapton, Phish, Jerry Garcia, Waylon Jennings, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and John Mayer all covered his music, showcasing the lasting impact of his work.
Despite his success, JJ Cale remained humble and true to his roots. He turned down an opportunity to appear on Dick Clark's American Bandstand because he refused to lip-sync his hit song "Crazy Mama" or perform without his band. This decision reflected his commitment to authenticity and musical integrity.
Throughout his career, JJ Cale stayed true to himself and his musical vision, never compromising his style for commercial success. His legacy lives on through his timeless music, which continues to inspire and influence artists across genres.
JJ Cale passed away on July 26, 2013, but his music continues to resonate with fans around the world. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer of the Tulsa Sound and a legendary figure in the world of blues music.