The Legendary James & Bobby Purify: Everything You Need to Know
Singer’s Bio and Early Life
James & Bobby Purify was a soul music duo composed of James Purify and his cousin, Robert Lee Dickey, also known as Bobby Purify. James was born on May 12, 1944, in Pensacola, Florida, while Bobby was born on May 23, 1939, in Tallahassee, Florida. The two met while they were still teenagers and started performing together in local clubs. Their partnership continued until James’s untimely death in 2021.
Relationships and Children
Information about personal relationships, marriages or children of James and Bobby Purify is scarce. Their public life was dominated by their music career.
Career
In 1965, James & Bobby Purify signed with Bell Records and released “I’m Your Puppet,” which became an instant hit and reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100. The duo continued to release songs that became classics in the soul genre. Among their hits were “Let Love Come Between Us,” “Shake a Tail Feather,” and “You Left Me.” In 2007, “I’m Your Puppet” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Top Songs
Some of James & Bobby Purify’s top songs include:
● “I’m Your Puppet”
● “Let Love Come Between Us”
● “Shake a Tail Feather”
● “You Left Me”
● “I Was Born to Lose”
Net Worth
The exact net worth of James & Bobby Purify is not public knowledge. However, their music has continued to be popular, and the royalties from their hit songs continue to provide financial benefits to their families.
FAQs
What was James & Bobby Purify’s biggest hit?
James & Bobby Purify’s biggest hit was “I’m Your Puppet,” which reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965.
What inspired James & Bobby Purify’s music?
James & Bobby Purify were inspired by the soul and gospel music they grew up listening to, as well as the rhythm and blues sound popular in the ’50s and ’60s.
Did James & Bobby Purify write their own songs?
Although James & Bobby Purify were known for their extraordinary talent, they didn’t write many of their own songs. However, their unique style of interpreting other people’s songs gave their music an original and recognizable sound.
How did James & Bobby Purify come up with their name?
James & Bobby Purify got their name from their first producer, Papa Don Schroeder, who named them after a brand of balsamic vinegar called “Jim and Bob Pure Food Co.”
What was James & Bobby Purify’s influence on soul music?
James & Bobby Purify were considered one of the most significant acts of the ’60s soul music scene. Their sound and style influenced many other popular artists such as Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Sam & Dave.
Did James & Bobby Purify perform live shows?
Yes, James & Bobby Purify performed live shows regularly during their career. They toured extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe.
What was James Purify’s contribution to the duo’s success?
James Purify’s exceptional vocal range and emotive delivery were central to the duo’s success. His voice added an emotional depth to their music that set them apart from other soul acts of their time.
Did James & Bobby Purify ever receive any music awards?
James & Bobby Purify did not receive any major music awards during their career. However, their music has continued to be recognized for its artistic and cultural value.
How long did James & Bobby Purify work together?
James & Bobby Purify worked together from the early 1960s until James’s death in 2021, with occasional breaks for solo projects and other endeavors.
Where can I find James & Bobby Purify’s music?
James & Bobby Purify’s music is available online on platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music, as well as on CD and vinyl records.
What was Bobby Purify’s contribution to the duo’s success?
Bobby Purify’s tenor vocals served as an excellent counterpoint to James’s singing. It added a unique dimension to their harmonies, making their music instantly recognizable.
Why did James & Bobby Purify stop recording music together?
James & Bobby Purify did not stop recording music together. They continued to perform together until James’s death.
Did James & Bobby Purify have any legal issues during their career?
James & Bobby Purify didn’t have any significant legal issues during their career.
Where did James & Bobby Purify get their start in the music industry?
James & Bobby Purify got their start in the music industry by performing in local clubs in their hometown of Florida. They were discovered by Papa Don Schroeder, who helped them record their first single, “Shake a Tail Feather.”
How did James & Bobby Purify meet?
James & Bobby Purify were cousins who met while they were still teenagers. They bonded over their shared passion for music and started performing together in local clubs.
How tall was James Purify?
There is no public record of James Purify’s height.
What was James Purify’s cause of death?
James Purify passed away due to complications from COVID-19 on February 12, 2021.
Conclusion
James & Bobby Purify’s contributions to the soul music scene will remain an essential part of the genre’s history. Their unique sound and incredible talent have influenced countless artists and continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Although James’s passing is a significant loss, his legacy will live on through their unforgettable music.
