Joe Cocker just might be the most singular and distinctive performer in rock history, with a style, mystique, and journey to iconhood all his own. Born and raised in the U.K., he came up through the pub band tradition while embracing and exuding enchanting elements of American blues. Then, through a quirky and unpredictable stage presence and radical interpretations of the well-known songs of others (particularly those of the Beatles), he and his raspy, soulful voice became associated with the countercultural hippie generation. And then, unlike most other major acts of the Woodstock era, Cocker was able to stick around. He evolved and experimented with this style, which allowed him to score hits on the singles chart until well into the 1990s.

A 20th century legend who died at the age of 7

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