Wayne Cochran

Wayne Cochran was a soul singer, known for his outlandish outfits and white pompadour hairstyle. He was sometimes referred to as The White Knight of Soul.

Cochran is best known today for writing the song "Last Kiss", which he performed with the C.C. Riders.  Although it was not a success for him, a contemporary cover by J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers and a much later take by Pearl Jam became hits.

With his band, Cochran made many guest appearances on television variety shows, including The Jackie Gleason Show, The Merv Griffin Show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Mike Douglas Show, Dinah!, and Late Night with David Letterman.

Cochran and his revue also influenced Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi's Blues Brothers musical venture; Cochran is referenced in the 1980 film featuring the Blues Brothers characters and a cover of his song "Going Back To Miami" is featured on the live album Made In America.

Cochran died November 21, 2017, in Miramar, Florida. He was 78.