4 Wilson Pickett Songs That Everyone Should Still Know Today
American Songwriter has published a retrospective highlighting four songs by soul singer Wilson Pickett that it argues remain essential listening today. The piece marks the enduring legacy of Pickett, who began his career with the 1963 album "It's Too Late" and went on to record hits over a career spanning more than 25 years. It serves as a reminder of the songwriter and performer's influence on soul and rock music, with several tracks having become staples covered by other major artists.
The selected songs include "In The Midnight Hour" (1965), Pickett's first US number one single, co-written with Steve Cropper and later covered live by acts including Bruce Springsteen, Grateful Dead and Genesis. Also featured are "Funky Broadway" (1967), a number one hit originally written by Arlester "Dyke" Christian; "Sugar, Sugar" (1970), Pickett's version of the song first made famous by The Archies; and "If You Need Me" (1963), his debut single, notable for its spoken-word passage.
- Article lists four essential Wilson Pickett songs still worth knowing
- Includes his 1965 US number one "In The Midnight Hour"
- Also covers "Funky Broadway", "Sugar, Sugar" and debut single "If You Need Me"
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Wilson Pickett was one of the defining voices of American soul music, active from the early 1960s onwards and known for his powerful, gritty vocal style. He recorded across more than 25 years, working with collaborators such as songwriter and guitarist Steve Cropper, and built a catalogue that shaped both soul and rock music. Many of his songs have since become standards, performed and recorded by other well-known artists.
His best-known work includes "In The Midnight Hour", released in 1965, which gave him his first US number one single and has been covered live by artists including Bruce Springsteen and Genesis. Other notable songs span his career, from his 1963 debut single "If You Need Me" to later hits such as "Funky Broadway" and his version of "Sugar, Sugar", originally made famous by The Archies.
The piece in question is a retrospective feature by American Songwriter, a music publication, revisiting four of Pickett's tracks and making the case for their lasting significance. It is a reflective piece about musical legacy rather than a report on any new event, aimed at highlighting Pickett's influence for readers today.