SHOUT! Black Gospel Music Moments - Alright, Alright by The Cotton Brothers

Eldest son Tommy Cotton created the Cotton Brothers in 1963, joining his father, the Rev. James L. Cotton, and brothers Willie and A.C. Members of the group were high school friends with one of Otis Redding’s bodyguards, who introduced them to Otis. On Redding’s recommendation, they were signed to Houston’s innovative Song Bird gospel label.

The Cotton Brothers, usually featuring the raspy voiced Tommy on lead vocals, had several hits in the 1960s and ‘70s, including “Remember Me, O Lord,” “Mother Prayed” and “Praying the Night Away.” But my favorite is their double-timed rave up, “Alright,” Alright,” with Tommy and dad James trading shouts leading to an irresistible vamp.

I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.

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