Jackie Avery

R&B singer, songwriter and producer, (born, January 21, 1938 - died, December 23, 2024)

As a songwriter, his talent shaped some of the most memorable tracks of the 60s and 70s, earning him an indelible place in the history of soul, R&B, and blues. His works, including the soulful "Aunt Dora's Love Soul Shack" for Arthur Conley and "Make Sure (You Have Someone Who Loves You)" for the Dells, displayed his ability to channel emotion and life experiences into music.

Jackie's contributions didn't stop there. In the 70s, he penned classics like "Sweeter As The Days Go By" for the Dells, the powerhouse hit "Shackin' Up" for Barbara Mason, and worked on the Disco 9000 album for Johnnie Taylor. His time in Macon, Georgia, was particularly fruitful, as he collaborated with Phil Walden and others to produce masterpieces like Oscar Toney Jr.'s "I Wouldn't Be A Poor Boy" and Johnnie Jenkins' "Blind Bats and Swamp Rats."

Jackie's influence extended beyond songwriting. He played piano on Eddie Kirkland's The Devil and Other Blues Demons album, contributed to the production of Charlie Whitehead's Raw Spitt LP, and showcased his unique sense of humor with the "Jackie Avery Tongue and Cheek Choir." His talents as a vocalist shone through in his own releases, including the soulful single "Understanding" and the anthemic "Your Love Has Brought Me A Mighty Long Way."

Husband of singer [a=Ella Brown].