Gene McDaniels, American singer-songwriter and producer (d. 2011)

Eugene Booker McDaniels: A Versatile American Musical Icon

Eugene Booker McDaniels (February 12, 1935 – July 29, 2011) was a profoundly influential American artist, celebrated for his dual talents as both a captivating singer and an insightful songwriter. His career spanned decades, marking significant impact across various genres, from pop and R&B to jazz and protest music. McDaniels demonstrated remarkable versatility, first achieving widespread fame as a vocal performer in the early 1960s, and later cementing his legacy as the pen behind some of the most memorable and politically charged songs of his era.

Early Chart Success as a Singer (1960s)

McDaniels garnered his most significant recording achievements during the vibrant musical landscape of the early 1960s. His smooth vocal delivery and engaging melodies quickly propelled him to national prominence. In a remarkable year, 1961, he released two singles that became smash hits on the prestigious U.S. Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, a benchmark for musical popularity in America:

• "A Hundred Pounds of Clay": This evocative track soared to an impressive number three position, captivating audiences with its narrative storytelling and melodic appeal. Its success firmly established McDaniels as a formidable presence in the pop and R&B scenes.
• "Tower Of Strength": Following swiftly, this powerful ballad ascended to number five on the same chart, further solidifying his reputation as a hitmaker. The track showcased his vocal range and emotional depth, becoming another cornerstone of his early career.

These early successes highlighted McDaniels' ability to craft and perform songs that resonated deeply with the American public, defining a significant period in popular music.

Enduring Legacy as a Songwriter: From Pop Ballads to Protest Anthems

While his singing career provided him with initial stardom, Eugene McDaniels' genius as a songwriter truly shone through in the latter part of his career, leaving an indelible mark on music history. He penned compositions that transcended genres and often carried profound social and political messages. His songwriting credits include:

"Compared to What"

This iconic protest song, written by McDaniels, became a powerful statement against war and injustice. It gained legendary status through the live jazz performance by Les McCann & Eddie Harris, recorded for their Grammy-nominated 1969 album, Swiss Movement. "Compared to What" is celebrated for its biting lyrics and unvarnished critique of societal issues, cementing its place as a quintessential protest anthem and a jazz standard.

Roberta Flack's "Feel Like Makin' Love"

McDaniels also demonstrated his versatility by composing the timeless romantic ballad "Feel Like Makin' Love." This song became a monumental success for Grammy-winning artist Roberta Flack, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1974. Its tender lyrics and smooth melody earned it widespread acclaim and a Grammy Award nomination for Song of the Year, solidifying its status as an enduring classic of soul and R&B music.

Beyond these chart-topping successes, McDaniels’s songwriting extended to a range of artists and genres. His albums as a solo artist, such as "Outlaw" (1970) and "Headless Heroes of the Apocalypse" (1971), further showcased his radical lyricism and pioneering blend of funk, jazz, and social commentary, influencing countless musicians and cementing his status as a visionary artist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eugene McDaniels

What were Eugene McDaniels' biggest hits as a singer?

As a singer, Eugene McDaniels achieved his greatest chart success in 1961 with two singles: "A Hundred Pounds of Clay," which reached number three on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and "Tower Of Strength," which peaked at number five on the same chart.

What famous songs did Eugene McDaniels write for other artists?

Eugene McDaniels is widely recognized for writing the impactful protest song "Compared to What," famously recorded by Les McCann & Eddie Harris, and the hugely successful romantic ballad "Feel Like Makin' Love," which became a number one hit for Roberta Flack in 1974.