Jimmy Lewis

Jimmy Lewis was a respected Southern soul singer, songwriter, and producer born in 1939 in Nashville, Tennessee. He carved out a solid career starting in the 1960s, releasing singles—including a notable duet with Ray Charles—and writing and arranging for major artists like Charles and Z.Z. Hill. Known for his gritty Southern soul sound, his 1974 album *Totally Involved* is a standout, showcasing his ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with authentic soul grooves. Beyond his solo work, Lewis was influential behind the scenes, producing and writing for other artists such as Peggy Scott-Adams, shaping Southern Soul music from the mid-1990s onward with his label Miss Butch Records.

Although his voice was more workmanlike than extraordinary, Lewis won fans with honest, often humorous portrayals of real life and culturally candid lyrics, making him a beloved figure in the Southern Soul scene. His songs like *That Baby Ain't Black Enough* have become favorites in the genre, and his legacy lives on through his recordings and productions that highlight his skill as a storyteller and soulful craftsman.