Black Lives: Last News

James Harris was a former professional wrestler who went by the ring name Kamala and was billed as “The Ugandan Giant.”Harris had worked as a truck driver and picked cotton – occasionally resorting to petty crime – before he discovered his potential as a professional wrestler. He initially wrestled under the names Sugar Bear Harris and the Mississippi Mauler before developing his Kamala character.

Howard Grimes was a drummer with the Memphis soul session band the Hi Rhythm Section, who backed singers including Al Green and Ann Peebles.Grimes grew up in Memphis, where he was inspired to be a drummer after watching Gene Krupa (1909–1973) play on TV. After learning to play drums – he was largely self-taught – Grimes attended school with Isaac Hayes (1942–2008). The two played together in a combo when they were young.

Elza Soares was a Brazilian samba singer called “Singer of the Millennium” by BBC Radio.Soares famously rose from poverty to stardom after being forced to marry when she was 12 years old. She entered a singing competition at 15; after being mocked by the host for her tattered clothing, she stunned the audience with her talent. Her career quickly took off.

Chris Dickerson was a bodybuilder who became the first Black man to win the Mr. America title, in 1970.Dickerson found his way to bodybuilding through an unusual route. He trained as a dancer, actor, and opera singer at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and he began lifting weights at the suggestion of a vocal instructor who said it would expand his vocal range.

John Artis was a co-defendant in the notorious 1967 murder trial against boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter (1937–2014). Both were convicted but later exonerated.In a case that drew widespread attention, Artis and Carter were driving together in Paterson, New Jersey on a 1966 night when three men were murdered at the nearby Lafayette Bar and Grill.

Jerry Pinkney was a children’s book illustrator and author known for books including the Caldecott Medal-winning “The Lion & the Mouse.”Pinkney illustrated more than 100 books for children and teens, beginning with the 1964 “The Adventures of Spider: West African Folk Tales.” He often worked with author Julius Lester (1939–2018), including on “John Henry” and several books in his “The Tales of Uncle Remus” series. Pinkney also wrote his own books later in his career, including “Noah’s Ark,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” and “The Lion and the Mouse.” Though he worked in a number of different styles, Pinkney’s preferred medium was watercolor.

Shawn McLemore was a gospel singer known for music including his 1997 album with New Image, “Wait on Him.”McLemore led the gospel group New Image, which had a Billboard hit with their album “Wait on Him.” McLemore followed it with several other albums, including his most recent, 2011’s “One Percent Miracle: Any Minute Now.” Also an actor, McLemore appeared in stage plays including Tyler Perry’s “If Loving You Is Wrong” as well as in the 1988 movie “Colors.”I will truly miss my gifted brother in ministry #ShawnMclemore (@1pmiracle).

Dr. Lonnie Smith was a Hammond organist known for his jazz and soul jazz music.Smith was considered one of the greatest Hammond organists ever.

Willie Winfield was the lead vocalist with the 1950s doo-wop group the Harptones.The Harptones were founded in 1953, showcasing Winfield’s clear, high singing voice. They performed widely and appeared in the 1956 movie, “Rockin’ the Blues.” Though they didn’t have major mainstream success, the Harptones were known for songs including “A Sunday Kind of Love,” “What Will I Tell My Heart,” and “Why Should I Love You?” Their recording of “Life Is But a Dream” became known to a new audience when it was featured in the 1990 film “GoodFellas.” Winfield remained with the Harptones through decades of personnel changes until his retirement in 2019, at age 89.“Singing the songs for me feels fresh every time.