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Lou Rawls Obituary
Rawls died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was hospitalized last month for treatment of lung and brain cancer, said his publicist, Paul Shefrin. His wife, Nina, was at his bedside when he died.
Rawls' family and Shefrin said the singer was 72, although other records indicate he was 70.
Rawls' deep, smooth voice was his trademark, and he used it in a variety of genres.
"I've gone the full spectrum, from gospel to blues to jazz to soul to pop," Rawls once said on his Web site. "And the public has accepted what I've done through it all."
Rawls' grandmother introduced him to gospel in his hometown of Chicago. The singer moved to Los Angeles in the mid-1950s to join a touring gospel group, the Pilgrim Travelers.
After a two-year stint in the Army, Rawls rejoined the Pilgrim Travelers in Los Angeles, where he sang with Sam Cooke. Rawls performed with Dick Clark at the Hollywood Bowl in 1959, and two years later he opened for The Beatles at Crosley Field in Cincinnati.
Rawls was playing small blues and R&B clubs in Los Angeles when his four-octave range caught the ear of a Capitol Records producer, who signed him to the label in 1962.
His debut effort, "Stormy Monday," recorded with the Les McCann Trio, was the first of 28 albums Rawls made with Capitol.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
1247 Entries
Jim Boynton
June 21, 2025
I will never forget being in an elevator at a hotel in Portland, Oregon, goosh many years ago, I thanked him for his entertaining musical contributions over the years, never will forget that experience, I am 78 now and can still see that moment in an elevator.
Linda
May 7, 2025
Your wonderful voice lives on with us. I bet you´re singing upstairs.
Debra Dinwiddie-Bird Jordan
June 8, 2024
Sending my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Lou Rawls. He was a remarkable performer who brought joy and entertainment to so many through his talent. I will always cherish the memories of his performances at the Chastain Amphitheater in Atlanta, Georgia. It was a privilege to have him visit our home on Regency Road, where he shared his incredible talent and warm spirit. His presence will be truly missed, and his legacy will continue to inspire. May he rest in peace.
Joe Chow
February 8, 2022
Lou Raw was a out standing performer,and story teller of musicians composers and thoughts he spoke of. When he did his showcase a video he did!!!
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Rob Miller
August 1, 2020
I'm listening to Lou Rawls concert while working on my computer this morning. I just love his voice and he seems like he was such a great guy. Would have loved to sit down for dinner with him. R.I.P. Uncle Lou...... Thanks for all the great music.
Richard Robles
January 2, 2020
Bartending in Pleasanton Ca, heard you were in performing in North Tahoe, quit in the middle of my shift to drive the 250 miles to see you, Joan Rivers opened for you. You were and are the Man, Lou. Thanks for the pleasures you gave me.
Bob Maxwell
December 25, 2019
Best voice in music and seemed like a genuine good guy
Maryam Chambler
November 22, 2019
I loved his Beautiful Voice and the song that I treasure in my heart is You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine.
November 2, 2019
How many children did he have ?
DOMINIC GROSS
October 13, 2019
I just heard one of your great songs,YOUR GONNA MISS MY LOVIN, and yes we're gonna miss YOU
Leroy Summers
October 6, 2019
A lovely person with a lovely voice you will be missed
Beverly Kittrell
September 16, 2019
Mr. Music, miss your songs with that velvet and strong voice. But you can entertain GOD, He will enjoy so much. R.I.H.
September 14, 2019
RIP! MISS YOUR MUSIC
Connie Parker
February 9, 2019
I'm listening to a disc containing some of Lou's wonderful songs. I have been listening to his music for the past 40+ years and I never get tired of hearing it. I saw him perform once in the New York City area. He was on a bill with Gloria Gaynor. She never showed up and Lou came out early to cover for her. He was just terrific. I can't say enough about his great talent.
Jane Luizza
February 2, 2019
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Billie Chociey
January 2, 2019
Such a tragedy and great loss to the world.
Flem Williams
November 19, 2018
As a R&B guitarist and vocalist, I must say without a doubt, that Mr. Lou Rawls set my mind free due to that ever smoothness, rhythmic sound and control of a masterful voice, that cannot by no other vocalist with such a technique that matches this ultimate master of song and style, for he was the best ever in vocal mastery.
May you rest with the God of glory, for I know that you have already joined the Heavenly Choir.
My God bless you for ever and ever.
Rest in peace, for God has more work for you in your new home.
Goodbye, my friend.
Joan Vickers
October 15, 2018
You are simply the BEST
Delores Perry
August 8, 2018
Mr. Rawls, I believe that you now sing in God's Celestial Choir. RIP
Lisa Bond
July 13, 2018
Thank you for your wonderful music. Such a wonderful class act. The world misses you and your voice. To the Family, what a wonderful legacy you have. Today and Forever.
March 28, 2018
Just spoke about you today. Mentioned that you lived a very fruitful life and you touched many lives through your smooth silky songs of encouragement, to live in love, understanding and peace.
you are resting in peace.. thank you for the joy through your songs that your brought to my heart and soul.
March 25, 2018
you were smooth. your voice will always be heard
Tamala Dickerson
September 10, 2017
Love your music always!
Viv Register
June 25, 2017
You were an amazing artists. I love all ur music. Mr. Rawls U R loved & missed. Fly our Angle Fly
Chris Lewis
May 14, 2017
You were the definition of smooth...your music lives on...R.I.P.
Shirley
April 21, 2017
R.i.p.
Sharon Papillion
December 4, 2016
Such amazing voice
G Mitchell
December 1, 2016
Never forgotten
Daltro Marangoni Jr
October 25, 2016
Amazing things happen in my soul when I return to the past , through these songs
July 7, 2016
Thanks for all you left us Lou...and it still wasn't enough.
Josh Philly
Valenda Newell
June 26, 2016
The voice....no one can compare to LOU...don't even try it SCRUBS...Soooooo many accomplishments....I definitely MISS YOU......RIP MY BROTHER...MANY BLESSINGS
--DEE
May 4, 2016
So many great memories of listening to Lou Rawls music as a child during the 1970s. I also enjoy his recordings from the 1960s and his Christmas music. My favorites include "You'll Never Find", "Lady Love", "Groovy People", "See You When I Get There", "Natural Man" and "On Broadway". Also enjoyed his many live performances on TV including at The White House, in the 1990s, when he performed alongside Aretha Franklin. The Budweiser commercials he sang on were superb. Lou also did a lot to bring financial assistance, for several years, when he hosted the UNCF Parade of Stars to raise money & awareness for historically black colleges/universities. Recently, "You'll Never Find" was playing on a SIRIUS XM radio station, in the car, and my boyfriend changed it while scanning stations. I snapped back real quick & told him to put that back on Lou cause that's my song! He did immediately. I have pleasant memories of my older family members/couples dancing to that song at house parties/special occasions. Rest in Peace, Lou.
Carma Russell
March 6, 2016
Ten Years- Lou,
And you are still loved and missed.
Your kids are still in my prayers.
Your song still in my heart.
Your presence is still felt.
Ten Years- Lou...
Cynthia Patterson
March 4, 2016
Rip love you
Evelyn Savage
February 3, 2016
Love you Lou Rawls
January 23, 2016
Lou Rawls had one of the best voices that in singer could have.
coque' Buckner
December 19, 2015
I listen to you all the time have 16 of your Albums and many more CD'S! My heart is broken.
November 29, 2015
RIP Mr Rawls you will be missed but your voice will be here forever
Mavaurneen Sullivan
September 18, 2015
R I P You left too soon. we shared the same birthday and you gave me much music listening enjoyment. Thank you, Lou
Jerilyn Taylor-Jones
August 3, 2015
RIH, Mr Lou Rauls. I grew up listening to your music. You are sorely missed
shirley burroughs
February 20, 2015
I loved your voice. My favorite was (You,ll never find a love like mine)
REST IN PEACE.
January 28, 2015
He was a great man I'm going to miss him
January 28, 2015
Ian so sorry for your loss he was great man
Shely Foster
January 26, 2015
RIP!! You will truly be missed by your fans!!
Harry Simpson
January 6, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rest Lou, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Addie Mathews
November 22, 2014
Thank you Mr Lou Rawls for your awesome music, Rip god bless your family From the Mathews family
pat weaver
November 1, 2014
Lue rawls i loved your voice you are missed
carol ivy
September 15, 2014
Much love to the Lou Rawls family. The Ivy family, Danville, Illinois
Toyia Petgrave
August 10, 2014
Mr. Rawls, God Bless You Always. RIP, Forever You Are Truly Missed. Beautiful Voice, Gentleman, You Did A Beautiful Job On Earth. And We Will Never Find A Better Love Than Yours
Larry G
April 7, 2014
A great voice that I am still listening to on my Kindle fire...Lou I love your talent!
andy hopkins
January 26, 2014
Its been a long time since you left I wish I had known you RIP silky chops!
Cookie Alston
January 6, 2014
Mr. Rawls your music is still very simply, fantastic and no one will ever duplicate your sound, the way you've put it down on wax truly makes you definitely one of a kind.
Angela Hamilton
December 22, 2013
RIP
Susan Jackson
July 20, 2013
Thank you Mr Lou Rawls for that the awesome music that you gave throughout the years. RIP! One of my favor song is Lady Love! Thank you Sir!
Charles H. Brooks
April 6, 2013
God has called his lead singer home to join his heavenly choir. I first heard your voice when I was 14 years of age you became my inspiration and encouraged me to step out of the background and become the lead singer of a group I was a member of. Thanks for all the great songs. You know you wee the first rapper of my time. I loved your monologues, Dead End Street, 47th Street Hustlers Blues, Etc. Rst in Pece Lou.
Candy Johnson
March 17, 2013
This is for Mr Rawls very wonderful voice from God may he RIP with the Lord.
Richard Owen
February 28, 2013
Thank You, Mr. Rawls, For All Your Great Music. Rest In Peace, Kind Sir. See You On The Other Side One Beautiful Day!
February 14, 2013
I have a photo with Lou on my wall from when I met him in the mid 70s that I will always treasure. A few years later I married singer Stevie Woods, who would dedicate that beautiful song "You'll never find" to me whenever he performed it. Sadly, Lou died way too young.
-Cheri Woods
facebook.com/CheriLewisWoods
Melida
February 13, 2013
GOD called your name, you could not resist. He has given you the Peace, that only HE knew you truly needed, from the things HE knew you were fighting. GOD Bless and keep you.
Latoya McDonald
February 11, 2013
Lou Rawls, you were truly a inspiration to others through your music.You were one of the many that pave the way for future generation God bless!
Lisa Weiner
February 9, 2013
To Lou Rawls,
You were a great entertainer. I really enjoyed your song You'll never find another love like mine, that song made me swoon. My prayers go to your family. Lisa Weiner
February 1, 2013
I listened to your records every day in the 70's and was privileged to see you live in concert twice in Des Moines, Iowa. You were cooler than cool!
Thank you. I will always love your music.
frankie melito
January 27, 2013
Lou ...your a great person & entertainer.
Linda Forbes
November 3, 2012
We were blessed with your voice. Sing in the Heavenly Choir.
Andrew J Aguirre
August 25, 2012
Sergeant Lou Rawls, my Airborne Brother; well done Sir! I was honored to see you at Ft Bragg and at UNC Pembroke; rest in Peace!
Tandra Watts
January 12, 2012
Man I love your silky smooth voice & still nobody can come close to you Mr. Rawls. Tobacco Rd, Love Lady, You'll never find & I could go on. You are one of kind, May God Bless you & keep you. RIP
J.L. Graham
September 29, 2011
The one and only distinct voice that will be sorely missed. May God bless his soul. Rest in peace. J.L. Graham. Northport, AL
August 5, 2011
To the family of Lou Rawls, I send my condolences to you, what a singer, what a voice. He will always be in my mind and heart. John 5: 28, 29.
M M
May 27, 2011
Lou was a gifted singer, his music touched many lives. He will always be remembered. As we reflect on his life may the thoughts found at Revelation 21:3,4 bring the needed comfort to all of us.
Fr. Nicholas V. Gamvas
April 7, 2011
MAY YOUR MEMORY BE ETERNAL!
Jilyna ryann Hodge
February 6, 2011
I was blessed to meet him at bass performance hall fort worth tx and i told him i hold you in good stead with late nat king cole at your right and at present johnny mathis at your right and you centered before me to be at last blessed as to my 3 favorite best! And you have just made my day! He hugged me and said your words just made my life! And i told him whenever you go to the lord hug sam cooke for me too! I will forever treasure meeting you jilyna for such love of me and my craft and i said hearing you at last and meeting you in person mr rawls i will forever treasure! So as to his family and friends and fans he lives in my musical heart and forever will!
Dyan Bruneau
December 21, 2010
No other voice but Lou Rawls! He is as fresh in my mind as the day I saw him on the balcony in New Orleans and he looked down at me , smiled and gave me such a special warm acknowledgement
that he knew I was there, I will never forget that day. I have all of his music and still listen to it regularly. No one but Lou Rawls! Dyan
September 19, 2010
I miss u Grandaddy Lou.....
July 13, 2010
Gone but not forgotten. Memories will continue to give us comfort and sustain us as the years goes by.
He is healing the broken hearted ones, and is binding up their painful spots.
Hagan Thomas
May 1, 2010
A wonderful talent and gentleman in Lou Rawls has passed from our midst into God's. Such a calming yet powerful voice in song and speaking was Lou Rawls. He positively dripped class on every word he sang or spoke the many, many times he entertained was interviewed or just conversed before the audience he had just entertained and just about anywhere.
An example of Mr. Rawls' class is read by me in the news item reporting his life that even though in a deep cancer battle Mr. Rawls still found time and strength to perform his customary Parade Of Stars Telethon duties.
Such is the doing of a nice man in such a condition.
He will be missed but maybe his example in witness will not be forgotten and continue to inspire others whether singers or not.
Condolences to The Family, Friends,
and Fans of Lou Rawls.
May he rest well and in Christ' Peace.
nazarene Mckinney
April 18, 2010
Soul Music, R & B, Jazz,and Blues are our Heritage. It is a wonderful heritage given to us by many talented and gifted individuals. Lou Rawls is part of that history of beautiful music. He will be missed. I am thankful to Jesus Christ for giving us the resurrection hope.
April 2, 2010
For Lou...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Patsy Buter
March 3, 2010
Coulda, shoulda, woulda..
Lou, your voice and your songs were so special.
Catherine Marshall
February 11, 2010
I miss your velvety voice, I had the pleasure of meeting youin Cincinnati, Oh.
January 17, 2010
To Lou Rawls,
I wish you were still alive to hear you sing my favorite song you'll never find another love like mine which made me swoon. Lisa Weiner
Tish Graham
January 17, 2010
Another year has pass but I keep the though of our long dinners and chats close to my heart. Midnight Sunshine.
Martina Blakeney
January 15, 2010
Your music got me through rough times. I love listening to you voice. "Thank You" God bless you and your family.
A Guest
January 15, 2010
To the Family ~ Those we love left us with gifts in the form of memories that no one can take away. They gave us wisdom that we can still recall, companionship when we were alone, comfort when we needed it, and memories of their laughter and smile. These are gifts of love that are ours to keep. - Isaiah 41:10 & 13.
January 1, 2010
To Lou Rawls,
When you sang my favorite song You'll never find another love like mine it made me swoon. I miss listening that great voice of yours. I will have fond memories of you. God bless you . Lisa Weiner.
Jim McGuirk
November 24, 2009
Lou you were responsible for some of my fondest memories in the 70's. Thank you and God bless you. RIP Lou.
BETTY E BARTON
October 3, 2009
LOVE THAT VOICE, YOU'RE NEVER FIND
Ann Cuddeford
October 3, 2009
I love his voice in'Oh Happy Day'and am using his joyful version with my 'Singing For The Brain' Alzheimers group for my Christmas Special this year 2009. I need now the lyrics to match the C.D.
Brandon Barnes
August 27, 2009
i love the song love like mine.....sorry for the loss and rest in peace lou rawls
July 1, 2009
LISTENING TO YOUR SONG MANY GOOD MEMORIES THANKS LOU
paula taylor
March 29, 2009
just watched a you tube clip you,god bless you Mr.Rawls thanks for the music.
Denny Gore
March 24, 2009
Hello Again...Another year has passed and everyday I still think of you as my best friend. I sometimes just think of show line-ups to share with you, and talk about the "right" curve of emotions for the audience, the time and place of our performing. Conducting an orchestra for you is still my favorite musical feeling on earth. I re-live wonderful performances with you everyday. Hope to al-ways remember more about our years together on the road of music memories.
Ronald Muschetto
February 11, 2009
My wife and I chose Mr. Lou Rawls' "Wind Beneath My Wings" as one of "our songs" on our first date in June 1983. Forget all other renditions. Lou's beautiful baritone still brings tears to my eyes; both for his no longer being with us, as well as how fast the 25 years have elapsed. My wife and I got to see him perform in the 90s at, of all places, the Solano County Fair.
We never tire of listening to such a wonderful singer.
Eternal peace, Lou.
- Ron & Glenda M.
Sylvania S Shoola
January 25, 2009
IT IS 2009 AND I MISS YOUR TENDER MUSIC STILL:MAY YOU BE SINGING IN HEAVEN A NEW TUNE THAT WILL FOREVER BE BLOSSOM. LOU SEE YOU WHEN I GET THERE!
LOVE YOU MY DEAR FRIEND:
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