Soul music open in acknowledging the influence of Pilgrim Travelers vocalist Jesse Whitaker on his singing style. Little Richard, who inspired Otis Redding, and James Brown both were equally influential. Brown was nicknamed the "Godfather of Soul Music", and Richard proclaimed himself as the "King of Rockin' and Rollin', Rhythm and Blues Soulin'", because his music embodied elements of all three, and since he inspired artists in all three genres. Sam Cooke and Jackie Wilson also are often acknowledged as soul forefathers. Cooke became popular as the lead singer of the gospel group The Soul Stirrers, before controversially moving into secular music.
Comfort to the Soul with seasoned musicians who have backed other blues luminaries, such as Reese Wynans who had played with Stevie Ray Vaughan as part of Double Trouble, as a statement that she was a blues player to be reckoned with. Musicians Production Comfort to the Soul Comfort to the Soul is Ana Popović's second studio album, released on October 7, 2003 on Ruf. The album was recorded in Memphis and produced by Jim Gaines. The album consists of five songs by Popović and six covers, showcasing not just the well-known blues artists (Howlin' Wolf), but lesser known performers (Susan Marshall), and even