Soul Legend Sam Moore Passes Away at 89

Sam Moore, one-half of the legendary soul duo Sam & Dave, has passed away at the age of 89. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer died Friday morning in Coral Gables, Florida, due to complications following surgery, according to his representative.

Moore and his partner, Dave Prater, rose to fame in the 1960s with a string of timeless hits, including "Soul Man," "Hold On, I'm Coming," and "I Thank You." The duo, known for their electrifying stage presence and rich harmonies, left an indelible mark on soul music.

Sam’s journey into music began in church, where he was discovered by gospel legend Sam Cooke. Initially inspired to pursue gospel, Moore transitioned to soul and pop music after being influenced by Jackie Wilson. He met Dave Prater at a nightclub talent show in Florida, and the pair’s partnership quickly caught the attention of Atlantic Records in 1965.

While Sam & Dave disbanded in 1970, their music remained influential. The duo’s hit "Soul Man" experienced a revival when Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi famously covered it as the Blues Brothers on Saturday Night Live.

Beyond his work with Prater, Moore battled heroin addiction before marrying Joyce McRae in 1982, who helped him get clean. He later flourished as a solo artist, collaborating with icons like Bruce Springsteen, Billy Preston, and Jon Bon Jovi. Moore also became a White House favorite, performing for six U.S. Presidents.

Sam & Dave were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing their legacy as pioneers of soul music.

Sam Moore is survived by his wife Joyce, their daughter, and a granddaughter. His remarkable voice and contributions to music will never be forgotten.