Arthur Conley

The earliest solo recordings of graceful yet powerful R&B singer Arthur Conley fell on deaf ears, but supporter Otis Redding eventually played a large role in Conley's career, encouraging his songwriting and advising him in business decisions. The two created "Sweet Soul Music," an electrifying tribute to Southern soul that was a massive hit, reaching number two on both the Billboard pop and R&B charts. Conley's subsequent hits through the late '60s and early '70s included "People Sure Act Funny" (Top 20 R&B), "Funky Street" (number five R&B), and "God Bless" (Top 40 R&B). ~ Jason Ankeny