Sam Mooresecond half 1960s Sam & Dave, deceased. He was 89 years old.
According to Moore's rep, the late singer — best known for hits like “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I'm Comin,” — died Friday morning Coral Gables, Florida, due to complications while recovering from surgery.
Her singer partner Dave Prater died in a car accident in 1988.
MARIE OSMOND SAYS ABORA WAYNE'S DEATH HAS REMOVED A 'GREAT BREAK' FROM HER HEART.
Moore died on Friday. He was 89 years old. (Getty Images)
The soul and R&B duo worked together for nearly two decades beginning in the early 1960s. Well known for their high energy and gospel infused performances, the duo became an influence on several artists including Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and others.
In the 1980s, The Blues Brothers – comedians Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi – put soul and blues back on the map after covering Sam & Dave's “Soul Man” on 'Saturday Night Live'. They often paid homage to Sam & Dave during their act as well.
Moore was born on Oct. 12. 1935, Miami, Florida, and began his singing career in the church.
Moore struggled with drug addiction in the 1970s. (Getty Images)
He and Prater performed in soul and R&B groups in the 1950s, but did not meet until 1961 in Miami, according to Associated Press.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ? CLICK HERE FOR MORE NEWS
The two had a contentious relationship towards the end of their tour. Moore sued Prater after Prater began touring with a new band called New Sam & Dave, according to the AP.
Sam & Dave started racing in the 1960s. (Getty Images)
Moore struggled with drug addiction in the 1970s, which ultimately affected his career. His wife, Joyce, helped him get treatment for his addiction. After regaining consciousness, Moore began to take on unexpected jobs.
“I've done a lot of cruise ships, I've done a lot of old games,” he once told the AP.
CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE FOR COMMENTARY NEWS
“It's strange to think about it now. And I did a lot of shows where if I was doing a show with an old show, I had to check well,” he said. “But you know what? You keep your mouth shut and get up there and sing as hard and work as hard as you can, and get a little money and go about your business and try paying those bills. I laugh about it now, but at the time, man, it was really serious.”
Moore is survived by his wife, Joyce, daughter, Michell, and two grandchildren.