Curtis Mayfield was an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer, whose music was among the most influential in soul and politically conscious African-American music during the 1960s and 1970s. Mayfield was born on June 3, 1942, in Chicago and began his career in the music group The Impressions during the late 1950s. With The Impressions, he penned and sang hits like "Keep on Pushing," "People Get Ready," and "We're a Winner," which became anthems for the civil rights movement with their messages of empowerment and hope.

After going solo in 1970, Curtis Mayfield's music evolved, yet he continued to push social and political boundaries. His 1972 soundtrack album for the blaxploitation film "Superfly" not only achieved massive commercial success, it also underscored the complexities of inner-city life, and is hailed as one of the greatest soundtracks of all time. On top of an impressive vocal range, Mayfield's guitar playing was distinctive for its light touch and shimmering, percussive style—highly influential in its own right. His work in the 1990s was cut short by an accident that left him paralysed from the neck down, but he continued to compose and record music, releasing his final album "New World Order" in 1996. Mayfield's lyrical prowess, his social consciousness, and his rich compositions ensure he remains a towering figure in soul and popular music history. Curtis Mayfield passed away on December 26, 1999, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and a spirit of resistance and self-determination.

Genres

Chicago Soul

Classic Soul

Funk

Soul

Related Artists

Marvin Gaye

Al Green

The Isley Brothers

Stevie Wonder

Earth, Wind & Fire

The Temptations

James Brown

Bobby Womack

Sly & The Family Stone

Donny Hathaway

Isaac Hayes

Bill Withers

Latest Release

Move On Up (Mark Knight Remix)

Curtis Mayfield•

Mark Knight

Single - Released June 14, 2024