Sam Moore, legendary soul singer and one half of Sam & Dave, passed away at age 89 in Coral Gables, Florida, due to post-surgery complications. His death was confirmed by his representative, Jeremy Westby.

Photo Credit: Sam Moore by Gage Skidmore / CC by 2.0

Moore formed the iconic soul duo Sam & Dave with Dave Prater in 1961, after meeting at Miami's King of Hearts Club. Their breakthrough came when they signed with Atlantic Records in 1964 and were subsequently loaned to Stax Records. Working with songwriters Isaac Hayes and David Porter, backed by Booker T & The MG's and the Memphis Horns, they created a string of hits between 1965-1968, including "Soul Man," "Hold On, I'm Coming," and "I Thank You."

Born in Miami in 1935, Moore began his musical journey in church choirs before transitioning to gospel groups. Sam & Dave were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, recognized as "the greatest of all soul duos."

After the duo's initial split in 1970, Moore pursued a successful solo career. He overcame drug addiction in the 1980s with help from his wife Joyce McRae, who became his business manager and partner in advocating for artists' rights. His later work included collaborations with artists like Sting, Bruce Springsteen, and Mariah Carey on his 2006 album "Overnight Sensational."

Moore remained active in music industry advocacy until his death, particularly championing the American Music Fairness Act for fair radio play compensation. His lasting influence on soul music and dedication to artists' rights has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

The musicFIRST Coalition praised Moore as "more than a brilliant artist," highlighting his role as a pioneer who "fought fiercely for the rights of artists" throughout his six-decade career. His legacy encompasses both his groundbreaking musical achievements and his tireless advocacy for performers' rights.

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