Jackie Wilson was called Mr. Excitement for good reason. With dazzling stage moves and a soaring voice that handled soul, rhythm & blues, rock ‘n roll, standards and more with power, passion & panache, it’s no surprise that generations of artists like Elvis Presley, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Usher and Bruno Mars have cited him as a huge influence.
Wilson’s stage act drew attention: he was a magnetic performer with a multi-octave vocal range and electrifying dance moves that included splits, knee drops and assorted shuffles. He regularly removed his jacket and flung it to his side to the delight of cheering audiences.
Jackie Wilson Baby Workout on Shindig 1965