Billy Young (singer)

1.1. Birth and Early Life

William D. Young was born on May 25, 1941, in Daingerfield, Texas.

1.2. Career Beginnings

Young later relocated to the West Coast of the United States. His earliest recordings may have been as a member of the group the Classics for the Crest Records label. However, his first 45-RPM recordings released under his own name came out in 1963, issued by Original Sound Records. During this initial period, Young's distinctive vocal style was already apparent, characterized by his high register and frequent use of falsetto phrases. He later established his base of operations in Georgia.

2.1. Music Career and Genres

Young was an active recording artist from 1963 to 1984. His musical output primarily fell within the genres of soul music, rhythm and blues, and deep soul. His vocal style was notable for its high register and frequent application of falsetto.

2.2. Key Collaborations and Mentorship

A pivotal moment in Billy Young's career was his discovery, production, and promotion by the legendary soul singer Otis Redding. After moving to Macon, Georgia, Young's music became heavily influenced by Redding. Their collaboration was formalized through specific recordings, such as "Same Thing All Over," which was recorded under Redding's direct supervision at FAME Studios in Macon, Georgia. Young also released singles on Redding's Jotis Records label, including releases in 1966.

2.3. Notable Works

Billy Young is most recognized for his major success, the 1965 single "The Sloopy." Another significant track from the same year was "Same Thing All Over," which was written by Otis Redding. In 1967, Young released "Nothing's Too Much (Nothing's Too Good)," a song that he wrote himself. He also had a single titled "Burning Up" released in 1974.

3.1. Singles

• "Let Me Dream" / "You're The Prettiest One" (Crest 1063)
• "Glenndora" / "Are You For Me" (Original Sound 29)
• "The Sloopy" / "Same Thing All Over" (Jotis 429, 1965; Atlantic 10277)
• "You Left The Water Running" / "Have Pity On Me" (Chess 1961, 1966)
• "Nothing's Too Much (Nothing's Too Good)" / "Too Much" (Mercury 72693, 1967)
• "A Year, A Month & A Day" / "Let Them Talk" (Mercury 72769, 1967)
• "A Sweet Woman" / "I'm Available" (Shout 236, 1968)
• "Burning Up" (1974)
• "Life Sho' Is Something" / "Country Boy" (Grotto 13735)
• "Still My Life Through" / "What Is Christmas" (JoyJa 001)
• "Love Clause" / "What Is Christmas" (JoyJa 12)
• "Just Cause I Was Talking" / "Just Cause I Was Talking Pt." (JoyJa 4176)
• "I Don Got Over" / "This Time" (Joy Ja 0004)
• "Don't Hung Your Head (In Shame)" / "I'm Gonna Get It Tonight" (Joy Ja 245)
• "Martin Luther" / "A Big Christmas" (Joy Ja 246)
• "I'm in Love" / "I'm in Love Part 2" (Joy-Ja 248)