From Gospel standout to R&B superstar and recording industry entrepreneur, Sam Cooke's great-nephew Erik Greene has compiled intimate memories and never-before-seen photographs of Soul music's first and foremost pioneer. After years of collective silence, Sam's brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, and children have collaborated to lend an introspective look into the private life of "The Man Who Invented Soul"--from his early influences, to his strong family ties, to his unwavering insistence on controlling his destiny.

Our Uncle Sam: The Sam Cooke Story from His Family’s Perspective

Sam Cooke was inarguably, one of the biggest artists of his time.  Well known as “The Man Who Invented Soul,” his life and accomplishments are what dreams are made of.  His music is considered some of the most soulful music ever created, and in spite of his death in 1964, the timeless quality of his singing will stay in the hearts of his fans forever.

Erik Greene, author of “Our Uncle Sam,” is Sam Cooke’s great-nephew and was born 1-½ years after Sam’s death.  Though he never knew his famous relative, he was born into the “Cook” family which meant that he was touched everyday, in some way, by Sam’s spirit that was kept alive by his proud relatives.  Growing up, Greene would hear Sam stories from elder family members, but didn’t fully embrace the incredible power of the music until a declining relationship forced him to find solace in the songs of his great-uncle.  He finally discovered for himself, the magic that ran through Sam’s music.

Inspired by die-hard Sam Cooke fans, Greene decided to write Sam’s story, from the perspective of his family, from those who knew him as a brother, cousin, father, and uncle.  He has put together a wide range of personal stories, recollections, and photographs which I found to be very interesting, entertaining, and revealing.  He makes no claims that this is a definitive biography, and that is true ; but at the same time, Greene’s book gives an alternate perspective.

From Sam’s gospel beginnings with the Highway QC’s and Soul Stirrers to his solo efforts in R&B, Greene punctuates his family’s memories with the songs/albums he was releasing, creating an interesting timeline for Cooke connoisseurs.  He talks about the most important women in Sam’s life, and reveals who was the true love of Sam’s life.  Most interesting to me was Greene’s emphasis on Sam’s savvy business side.  During a time where artists were routinely stripped of ownership of their music, Sam held his ground with his record label, and became the first black artist to retain publishing rights.  His charisma and confidence were undeniable.

Greene has also compiled some very interesting information regarding Sam’s untimely passing.  The strange circumstances surrounding his death never made sense to Sam’s family, and loved ones.  There were many inconsistencies in the investigation and Greene parallels the bizarre situation with the fact that Sam was in the process of making major changes in his personal/business life.  He was in the process of cutting the bad seeds from his life, including business associates; all stood to be crushed financially by Sam’s new plan.   

“Our Uncle Sam” is a great read for the die-hard Sam Cooke fans, and anyone wanting a family perspective on this unforgettable icon.  Greene’s personal point-of-view, drawn from the Cook ancestral line, pulled me in and left the strong impression of gratitude for his insiders look; and a renewed appreciation for Sam and his beautiful music.