In a profound loss for the music industry and fans across the globe, legendary soul singer Sam Moore, known for his soaring vocals as part of the iconic duo Sam & Dave, has passed away at the age of 89. Moore departed on Friday morning in Coral Gables, Florida, following complications from surgery, as confirmed by his publicist.

Sam Moore, along with the late Dave Prater, made waves in the 1960s with hits like “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I’m Comin’,” cementing their place in soul music history. Their powerful performances and infectious harmonies captured the essence of an era, influencing countless artists from Al Green to Bruce Springsteen.

“We are heartbroken to hear of the death of Sam Moore,” Bruce Springsteen lamented on social media, referring to him as one of America’s greatest soul voices. “He was filled with stories of the halcyon days of soul music, and he maintained a deep authenticity right to the end.”

Moore’s journey began in Miami on October 12, 1935, where his passion for music flourished in the church choir. His career took off after he met Prater in 1961, and together they became soul sensations, recording timeless classics at the renowned Stax Records in Memphis. Their chemistry stemmed from their ability to innovate the “call and response” style of gospel music into a more frenzied and entertaining stage show.

Despite their success, their career faced challenges in the late '70s with changing musical landscapes. “Soul Man” saw a resurgence in popularity partly due to the 1980 film "The Blues Brothers," which introduced the song to a new generation—though Moore often expressed mixed feelings about the association.

Through personal struggles, including a battle with addiction and a contentious split with Prater, Moore continued to create and perform. He famously sued the record industry for equity in his retirement benefits, revealing the shocking details of his inadequate pension despite his musical achievements, a fight that resonated with many fellow artists.

In addition to his musical contributions, Moore had his hand in political commentary, creating a parody version of “Soul Man” for Bob Dole’s presidential campaign in 1996. Over the years, he performed for various presidents, including Barack Obama—whose campaign once controversially used Moore’s song.

Moore's life was full of rich stories, from the confrontation of his past struggles to his triumphs on stage, including memorable performances at the Kennedy Center Honors. He maintained connections with notable musicians and will be remembered as a vital force in shaping soul music.

In the wake of his passing, Sam Moore leaves behind a legacy that includes not only a treasure trove of music but also a remarkable resilience that inspired many. He is survived by his wife Joyce, daughter Michell, and two grandchildren, who together carry forward the vibrancy of his spirit and artistry.

As we mourn the loss of Sam Moore, we also celebrate the indelible impact he made on music and culture—a true icon whose voice will echo through the ages. Rest in peace, Sam Moore. The music world will never be the same without you.