1942-1999. A songwriter, producer, singer (the Mount Rushmore of rock falsetti: Curtis, Prince, Smokey Robinson, Frankie Valli), and guitarist. Member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Co-leader of The Impressions, one of the best soul music vocal groups; he never moved an inch from their gospel roots - his secular songs were "pocket sermons" on occasion. Dance and learn. Went solo; did the Superfly soundtrack and numerous other great LPs. Became wheelchair-bound (and kept working!) due to an onstage accident during a Brooklyn gig in 1990, and later had to have a leg amputated, due to complications from the paralysis and diabetes.

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