The "Wicked" Pickett's Gone.

I had the priviledge of meeting Wilson Pickett once at a music industry party in Detroit. The year was 1966. "Land Of A Thousand Dances" was happening big time. It was a great party at one of the recording studios in the Motor City and many of the prime players and performers were in attendance.

Detroit music was playing from the giant monitors; Motown, Golden World, Ric Tic, Fortune, Revilot; all the great Detroit labels. Oh....and there was some Atlantic music also being played that night.

There were several hundred good folks at this party and Man!....they were having a helluva good time. I remember everyone being dressed their very best. The attire was quite colorful and in some cases....spectacular. Bootsy Collins was there.

Around 10 o'clock in the evening, a voice from the control room announced a special guest; Wilson Pickett.

The lights in studio dimmed and a pin spot lit a small circle in the center of the studio floor. Then the music started. "Land Of A Thousand Dances" times ten. Granted, the track is superb but it was Pickett's showmanship that had the people there screaming. Normally, I'm quite reserved but I must admit, later that evening, I was hoarse to the point of not being heard.

LeBaron Taylor introduced me to Wilson and I found him to be intense and charming. I have heard stories of Wilson's temperament and I'm sure of their honesty but fortunately....I never saw him in a negative light.

I am very sorry to hear of this great performer's passing as I'm sure many of us are. But we will always have his music with which to remember him.

Thank you for everything Mr. Pickett.

John Rhys-Eddins
BluePower.com

To learn more about Wilson Pickett; click here!