Soul Survivor: The Extraordinary Life and Legacy of Al Green

Chapter 1: The Early Years

Soul Survivor: A Biography of Al Green

by Jimmy McDonough

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	62322 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Al Green was born in Forrest City, Arkansas, on April 13, 1946. He grew up in the Share Croppers Quarters, a poverty-stricken neighborhood where music played a vital role. Green's father was a Pentecostal preacher, and his mother often sang in the church choir. From an early age, Al was immersed in the spiritual and musical traditions of his community.

At age nine, Green began singing in the church choir. His powerful voice and natural talent quickly caught the attention of local churchgoers. By the age of 16, he had joined a traveling gospel group, the Mighty Clouds of Joy. With the Clouds of Joy, Green toured the country, honing his skills as a vocalist and developing his signature style.

Chapter 2: The Rise to Stardom

In 1967, Al Green signed a recording contract with Hi Records. His first single, "Back Up Train," was a moderate success, but it was his 1971 hit "Tired of Being Alone" that catapulted him to stardom. The song topped the R&B charts and crossed over to the pop charts, establishing Green as one of the most popular soul singers of the era.

Green followed up with a string of hits, including "Let's Stay Together," "I'm Still in Love with You," and "Love and Happiness." These songs showcased Green's unique blend of soulful vocals, gospel-inspired harmonies, and infectious rhythms. He became known for his romantic ballads, which expressed both the joys and heartbreaks of love with raw emotion.

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Journey

In 1974, Al Green's life took a dramatic turn. While visiting his girlfriend, Mary Woodson, Green was shot in the head by her estranged husband. The shooting left Green in a coma for several days, and he underwent extensive rehabilitation. During his recovery, Green experienced a profound spiritual awakening.

After his recovery, Green decided to become a minister. He renounced his secular music career and began preaching the gospel. Green established his own church in Memphis, Tennessee, and became an ordained pastor. He continued to sing, but his music now focused on gospel and spiritual themes.

Chapter 4: The Later Years

In the years since his spiritual awakening, Al Green has continued to be a prolific musician and a source of inspiration for generations. He has released numerous gospel albums, and his songs have been covered by countless artists. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today, Al Green remains one of the most iconic and beloved figures in music. His powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and spiritual journey continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Soul Survivor is a captivating biography that offers an intimate portrait of this extraordinary man and his unforgettable legacy.

Soul Survivor: A Biography of Al Green

by Jimmy McDonough

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	62322 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE