VH1 Legends Sam Cooke Lesson 2

Learn more about the "soulful" life of gospel-pop singer Sam Cooke (1931-1965), one of the first inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

This NPR Morning Edition profile features text and sound to celebrate the life and work of soul singer Sam Cooke whose string of hits includes "Cupid," "Wonderful World," "Chain Gang," and "Twistin' the Night Away."

Sam and Dave were known as "the greatest of all soul duos". Read about the history behind this famous duo and learn about their music and songs. They were 1992 inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Students examine Sam Cooke's transition from gospel to pop music as they study his style. They dance the Cha Cha and the Twist.

Students identify the impact of the social injustices and Civil Rights movement on Cooke's life and career. They create lyrics to a familiar song that express a personal struggle or concern.

This site explores the history of Gospel music, including how gospel music began and some of the various incarnations it has gone through.

Students identify musical characteristics of gospel and sing a gospel selection. They practice the call and response technique. After going through individual parts, they sing the entire song with piano accompaniment.

The Rock & Roll of Fame in Cleveland profiles the life and work of soul singer Sam Cooke.

Appeal to your music lovers with this lesson. Middle and high schoolers listen to and describe music from contrasting styles. They identify the common elements between gospel and bluegrass music and have a class discussion regarding the...

Learn the history of soul music from its origins in gospel music, through Motown and Memphis Soul, to contemporary rhythm and blues. The site includes three videos: Sam Cooke singing "A Change is Gonna Come," from 1964, with images from...