Percy Mayfield

Percy Mayfield was a great, sophisticated West Coast Blues crooner who was also undoubtedly the finest songwriter in the early R&B field. His subtle vocal style worked perfectly with the despondent, literate lyrics of such wrist-slashing songs as "Memory Pain," "Life is Suicide" and "Hopeless." He was fast becoming a major star in the early 1950s, but a tragic car accident destroyed his handsome looks. Luckily, his voice was as fine as ever and his work was championed by Ray Charles, who recorded acres of his songs, including "Hit the Road Jack." His most recorded song, "Please Send Me Someone to Love" has become a popular and jazz standard.