Sept. 2: Sam Gooden of The Soul & R&B group, The Impressions - "It's Alright," "People Get Ready" - is 79-years-old today.

Sam Gooden, born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was an original member of The Roosters in the 1950s. The group changed their name to The Impressions and moved to Chicago.

The Impressions have been elected to both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, The Impressions are best known for their 1960s string of hits, many of which were heavily influenced by gospel music and served as inspirational anthems for the Civil Rights Movement. Former members included Jerry Butler and Curtis Mayfield who went on to become stars in their own right.


Their 1965 hit song, "People Get Ready", has also been chosen as one of the Top 10 Best Songs Of All Time by a panel of 20 top industry songwriters and producers, including Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson and Hal David.


The Impressions - including Sam Gooden - are still performing.

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