Mr. Excitement! It's Jackie Wilson's birthdate (June 9, 1934). He was a soul-singing tenor with a four-octave vocal range. And he was a gettum-dancing-in-the aisles performer!

Click the pic of Jackie in action to see and hear him perform, "Lonely Teardrops," his 1958 hit that rocketed him to R&B super stardom.

A master showman and one of the most dynamic and influential performers in R&B and rock 'n' roll history, Jackie Wilson recorded over 50 hit singles that spanned R&B, pop, soul, doo-wop, and easy listening. 

Jackie's break-through hit was a very soulful rendition of "Danny Boy." Clicking this shot of him opens a later performance of this tune and shows his full expressive musical talent.

Due to his fervent  performances, with his dynamic dance moves, singing, and impeccable dress, he was christened "Mr. Excitement." His stagecraft in his live shows inspired James Brown, Michael Jackson, and Elvis Presley, as well as many artists who followed. 

"Reet Petite," released as a single in 1957, was Jackie's first hit. Two decades later it became an international smash hit.

"Doggin' Around" was a big hit for Jackie in 1960. One of the pix in this vid is an autographed photo of Elvis with Jackie Wilson. Elvis' caption reads "You got you a friend for life." Wilson was sometimes called "The Black Elvis."  Reportedly, when asked about this Elvis said, "I guess that makes me the white Jackie Wilson." (The woman with Jackie in another photo in this video is Harlean Harris, his second wife.)

"Feel it! Hey-hey!" Jackie Wilson real live in concert! 1. "Higher & Higher" 2. "That's Why (I Love You So)"  3. "Lonely Teardrops" -  (Reprise) 4. "Standby Me." Ladies and gentlemen, Jackie Wilson!