30 Facts About Bobby Womack

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Bobby Womack's journey in music began early. His life was filled with fascinating events that shaped his career.

1. Born on March 4, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio, Bobby Womack grew up in a musical family. His father, Friendly Womack, was a gospel singer.

2. Bobby and his brothers formed a gospel group called The Womack Brothers. They performed in local churches and gained a small following.

3. In 1956, Sam Cooke discovered The Womack Brothers. He signed them to his label, SAR Records, and they transitioned to secular music, renaming themselves The Valentinos.

Rise to Fame

Womack's talent soon caught the attention of the music industry, leading to significant opportunities.

4. The Valentinos' first hit, "Lookin' for a Love," was released in 1962. It reached number eight on the R&B charts.

5. Bobby Womack wrote "It's All Over Now," which became a hit for The Rolling Stones in 1964. This song marked his entry into the world of songwriting.

6. After Sam Cooke's tragic death in 1964, Bobby married Cooke's widow, Barbara. This controversial move strained his relationship with the music community.

Solo Career and Success

Bobby Womack's solo career took off in the late 1960s, bringing him widespread acclaim.

7. His debut solo album, "Fly Me to the Moon," was released in 1968. It included a cover of the Mamas & the Papas' "California Dreamin'."

8. Womack's 1971 album, "Communication," featured the hit single "That's the Way I Feel About Cha," which reached number two on the R&B charts.

9. In 1972, he released "Across 110th Street," a song that became iconic and was later featured in films like "Jackie Brown" and "American Gangster."

Collaborations and Influence

Bobby Womack worked with many legendary artists, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

10. He collaborated with Sly and the Family Stone on their 1971 album "There's a Riot Goin' On," playing guitar on several tracks.

11. Womack co-wrote and played guitar on Janis Joplin's posthumous album "Pearl," including the song "Trust Me."

12. He worked with Aretha Franklin, contributing guitar to her 1972 album "Young, Gifted and Black."

Personal Struggles and Resilience

Despite his success, Bobby Womack faced numerous personal challenges throughout his life.

13. Womack battled drug addiction for many years. He openly discussed his struggles in interviews and his autobiography.

14. His brother, Harry Womack, was tragically killed in 1974. This event deeply affected Bobby and influenced his music.

15. In 1976, Womack's son, Truth, died at the age of four months. This loss was another devastating blow to his personal life.

Later Career and Legacy

Bobby Womack continued to create music and influence new generations of artists until his death.

16. In 1981, he released "The Poet," which included the hit single "If You Think You're Lonely Now."

17. Womack was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, recognizing his contributions to music.

18. In 2012, he released "The Bravest Man in the Universe," his first album of original material in nearly two decades. It was produced by Damon Albarn and Richard Russell.

19. Bobby Womack's music has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, including Tupac Shakur, who used "If You Think You're Lonely Now" in his song "Thugz Mansion."

20. He influenced artists across various genres, from rock to R&B to hip-hop. His unique voice and guitar playing left a lasting mark on the music industry.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Bobby Womack's life was full of interesting tidbits that fans might find surprising.

21. He was a talented multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, piano, and drums.

22. Womack was known for his distinctive raspy voice, which became his signature sound.

23. He was a close friend of Jimi Hendrix and even played guitar on some of Hendrix's early recordings.

24. Bobby Womack was a prolific songwriter, penning hits for artists like Wilson Pickett and George Benson.

25. He had a cameo in the 1974 film "Across 110th Street," performing the title track.

Final Years and Death

Womack's final years were marked by both professional achievements and health struggles.

26. He was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2012 but continued to perform and record music.

27. In 2013, Womack revealed he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease, which affected his memory and ability to perform.

28. Despite his health issues, he continued to tour and connect with fans, showing his dedication to music.

29. Bobby Womack passed away on June 27, 2014, at the age of 70. His death was a significant loss to the music world.

30. His legacy lives on through his music, influencing countless artists and continuing to inspire new generations.

Bobby Womack's Lasting Legacy

Bobby Womack's influence on music is undeniable. From his early days with The Valentinos to his solo career, he left a mark on soul, R&B, and rock. His collaborations with legends like Sam Cooke and The Rolling Stones show his versatility and talent. Songs like "Across 110th Street" and "If You Think You're Lonely Now" remain timeless classics.

Womack's struggles and triumphs, both personal and professional, add depth to his story. Despite facing numerous challenges, he continued to create and inspire. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009 cemented his place in music history.

Fans and new listeners alike can appreciate the rich tapestry of his work. Bobby Womack's music continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of perseverance and passion. His legacy lives on, influencing artists and captivating audiences worldwide.