Who Was the Better Singer: Michael Jackson or Sam Cooke?

Introduction

Two of the most legendary vocal artists of the 20th century, Michael Jackson and Sam Cooke, both left indelible marks on the music industry. They were masters of different styles and genres, each with their own unique contributions to popular music. This article delves into a comparative analysis, exploring their voices, styles, and the impact they had on the music world. Ultimately, the preference between these two great singers is a matter of personal taste, with both artists leaving a lasting legacy.

Michael Jackson: The King of Pop

Michael Jackson, often referred to as the King of Pop, was known for his ability to convey emotion through his voice, coupled with his distinctive falsetto. Jackson's vocal range and the way he used his voice to express various emotions made him one of the most recognizable and iconic figures in popular music. His hits like 'Billie Jean', 'Thriller', and 'We Are the World' showcased his vocal talents and his ability to captivate audiences with his expressive singing. His voice, although versatile, was more suited to pop music due to its fluctuating nature and range changes, particularly as he grew from a child to a mature artist.

Sam Cooke: The Soulful Innovator

Sam Cooke, often referred to as the Dear Lord I Love You (P.S. Be Cool), was a pioneering soul singer who infused gospel influences into his music. His vocal delivery characterized by warmth, smoothness, and the ability to convey deep emotions set him apart. Cooke's contributions to the soul and RB traditions are immeasurable. His rendition of 'A Change Is Gonna Come' is one of the most emotionally powerful and iconic songs in the genre. Songs like 'until you told me' and 'send me on my way' display his unparalleled ability to convey deep emotions and his unique vocal style. Sam Cooke's voice was more consistently smooth and controlled, marking him as a foundational figure in the genre.

Comparing the Singers

Comparing Michael Jackson and Sam Cooke involves examining their respective styles, genres, and the impact they had on the music industry. Both were revered for their vocal prowess, but their approaches to music differed significantly. Jackson's voice was known for its range and adaptability, particularly when it came to pop music. Cooke, on the other hand, was a master of soul and RB, with a voice that conveyed deep emotion and warmth. Their legacies and contributions to music are distinct but equally impactful.

One of the key distinguishing factors is their vocal range and control. Sam Cooke was known for his smooth and controlled voice, which lent itself well to soul and RB. Jackson, while also a gifted singer, had a more variable and wide-ranging voice, which was more suited to pop music. This difference is evident in their performances and the types of music they were known for. While both were exceptionally talented, the nature of their talents and their respective genres make direct comparisons challenging.

Jackie Wilson: A Legitimate Comparison

Another notable figure is Jackie Wilson, who was often considered the 'singingest man on the radio'. Jackie Wilson and Sam Cooke were friends and each had their own unique musical styles. While Jackie Wilson was praised for his incredible vocal control and range, it's important to recognize that each singer brought something different to the table. Jackson, while improving significantly from his childhood, did not have the same level of control and range as Jackie Wilson. Similarly, Peter Cetera, while a talented singer, could not be compared to Steve Perry on the same level.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the question of who was the better singer between Michael Jackson and Sam Cooke is subjective and dependent on individual preferences and the genre of music. Both artists made significant contributions to the world of music and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Jackson's voice and influence in pop music are irrefutable, while Cooke's impact on soul and RB is equally undeniable. The legacy of these two artists continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers worldwide.