Jackie Wilson was born June 9, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan. He's been referred to as one of the all-time great entertainers and
"Mr. Excitement". Prior to turning to music, he was an amateur boxer. Becoming a singer, he eventually joined
Billy Ward and His Dominoes as a replacement for lead singer,
Clyde McPhatter, who went on to a solo career. Jackie also became a solo artist in 1957, the same year he had his first hit record,
Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want To Meet) and was produced by
Berry Gordy Jr., who eventually went on to found
Motown Records.
Jackie appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 charts a total of 62 times
between 1957 and 1972, scoring 6 Top Ten hits. He collapsed on stage
after suffering a stroke at the Latin Casino in Cherry Hill, New Jersey
on September 29, 1975. Sadly he lived the rest of his life in nursing
homes prior to his passing January 21, 1974 at the very young age of 49.
Treasure Island Oldies is pleased to feature
Jackie Wilson on
Voice Your Choice.
Cast your vote at the Voice Your Choice page for either Night or Alone At Last. I'll play the winner on next week's show.
