During the half-century that he performed, he drew from his roots: gospel, soul, and blues, as well as developing his own style in a time when R&B, and rock were still in their infancy. Burke was considered a pioneer and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1940, Burke, influenced by artists such as Little Richard, signed with Atlantic Records in the early 60's. His best known song, "Cry To Me" was a favorite of the British beat groups, inspiring cover versions by The Rolling Stones, The Pretty Things, and later on by The Animals' Eric Burdon in 1980. The song gained new popularity in the 80's with its inclusion in the blockbuster film 'Dirty Dancing' in 1987.
His 1964 hit "Everybody Needs Somebody To Love" was also recorded by The Rolling Stones, The Thirteenth Floor Elevators and Led Zeppelin were known to perform the song live as part of the medley in "Whole Lotta Love" during the late 1960's.
He won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album in 2002 for "Don't Give Up On Me." Burke's new studio album 'Hold On Tight', a collaboration with Dutch rock band De Dijk was released September 24th.
