Sam Cooke (1931-1964) was an American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of soul music. His genre primarily encompassed soul, gospel, and pop. Notable works include hits such as "You Send Me," "A Change Is Gonna Come," "Wonderful World," and "Cupid." Cooke's smooth vocal style and emotive songwriting helped bridge the gap between gospel and popular music, influencing countless artists across various genres. Cooke's impact on music is profound; he is often credited with helping to establish soul music as a significant genre in the 1960s, and his songs often addressed social issues and the African American experience, making him an important figure in the civil rights movement. His untimely death at the age of 33 only heightened his legacy, and he has been posthumously inducted into multiple music halls of fame, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.