Percy Sledge was born on November 25, 1940, in Leighton, Alabama. Before his rise to fame as a soul singer in the 1960s, he worked as a nurse at a local hospital in Alabama. Growing up, he was passionate about music and would often sing in church choirs and local talent shows.
Sledge's big break came in 1966 with the release of his hit single "When a Man Loves a Woman." The song quickly became a sensation, topping the charts in the United States and reaching the number two spot in the United Kingdom. It was the first certified gold track released on the Atlantic Records label, solidifying Sledge's place in music history.
Following the success of "When a Man Loves a Woman," Sledge went on to release several other popular songs, including "Ain't No Sunshine," "Take Time to Know Her," and "I'll Be Your Everything." In 1996, he recorded an album titled Blue Night, which won a Blues Music Award and received a Grammy nomination.
Despite his success in the music industry, Sledge remained grounded in his personal life. He was married twice and had a total of 12 children. His family remained a constant source of inspiration and support throughout his career.
Throughout his career, Percy Sledge left an indelible mark on the music industry. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with audiences around the world. In 2010, he had the opportunity to perform with British singer Sir Cliff Richard on a series of tour stops, further cementing his status as a music icon.
Percy Sledge's impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. His timeless classics and unforgettable performances have solidified his place as one of the greatest soul singers of all time. Though he may no longer be with us, his music lives on, continuing to touch the hearts of fans old and new alike.