Eddie Floyd

Eddie Lee Floyd, born on June 25, 1937, is a celebrated American R&B and soul singer-songwriter known for his influential contributions to the Stax record label during the 1960s and 1970s. His most famous track, "Knock on Wood," became a massive No. 1 hit on the R&B charts and has been covered by numerous artists, including David Bowie and Count Basie.

Floyd's musical journey began at the young age of 16 when he co-founded The Falcons, a group that included Mack Rice and later featured Wilson Pickett. This ensemble paved the way for iconic Detroit vocal acts like The Temptations and The Four Tops, with notable hits such as "You're So Fine" and "I Found a Love."

In 1965, Floyd joined Stax Records as a songwriter, where he penned the hit "Comfort Me," recorded by Carla Thomas. Collaborating with guitarist Steve Cropper, he co-wrote several successful songs for Pickett, including "Ninety-Nine and a Half (Won't Do)" and "634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)." In 1966, Floyd's rendition of "Knock on Wood" launched his solo career, leading to a legacy of hits like "I've Never Found a Girl (To Love Me Like You Do)" and "Raise Your Hand," the latter performed by Janis Joplin and Bruce Springsteen.

Floyd's songwriting prowess extended beyond his performances, as virtually every Stax artist recorded his work. His enduring influence is reflected in songs like "Big Bird," inspired by his emotional experience waiting at a London airport for Otis Redding's funeral. With countless contributions to the genre, Eddie Floyd remains a pivotal figure in American music history.