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 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 rock songs that work well in the blues environment (Steely Dan's "Night by Night"). Popović introduced some jazz elements into "Comfort to the Soul", and the album won a jazz award in France, 'Jazz a Juan-Revelation 2004'. She surrounded herself