Jo Jo Benson

Jo Jo Benson was an American R&B and soul singer best known for his collaboration with Peggy Scott on the hit song "Pickin' Wild Mountain Berries". Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Career Beginnings: Jo Jo Benson was born Joseph Hewell in 1938 in Talladega, Alabama. He began his music career as a gospel singer, performing in church choirs and local talent shows. Benson later transitioned to R&B and soul music, drawing inspiration from artists such as Ray Charles and Sam Cooke.

2. Collaboration with Peggy Scott: Jo Jo Benson's biggest success came in the late 1960s when he teamed up with Peggy Scott to record the duet "Pickin' Wild Mountain Berries". Released in 1968, the song became a major hit, reaching number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 4 on the R&B chart. "Pickin' Wild Mountain Berries" was praised for its soulful vocals, catchy melody, and infectious groove, making it a classic of the genre.

3. Solo Career and Other Collaborations: In addition to his work with Peggy Scott, Jo Jo Benson also pursued a solo career and collaborated with other artists throughout his career. He released several solo singles and albums, including "You're Gonna Miss Me", "I Got My Mojo Working", and "If You're Gonna Love Me". Benson's soulful voice and dynamic stage presence made him a sought-after performer in the R&B and soul circuit.

4. Continued Influence and Legacy: Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of his contemporaries, Jo Jo Benson's music continues to be appreciated by fans of R&B and soul music. His collaboration with Peggy Scott remains a standout moment in his career and a cherished classic in the genre. Benson's soulful vocals and heartfelt performances have earned him a lasting legacy in the world of R&B and soul music.

5. Later Years and Passing: Jo Jo Benson continued to perform and record music into the 1970s and beyond, although he never replicated the success of "Pickin' Wild Mountain Berries". He remained active in the music industry, performing live shows and making occasional appearances on television and radio. Benson passed away on October 23, 2014, but his music lives on as a testament to