Austin Taylor, 16 February 1934, Okmulgee, Oklahoma, USA, d. October 1987. Taylor was a veteran of several spiritual groups including the Mighty Clouds Of Joy and the Santa Monica Soul Seekers.
This latter group then crossed over
to R&B, where they worked a dual career both as the Cadets and the Jacks.
Taylor embarked on his solo path in 1957 and scored with many regional hits.
His most notable early singles were Be Ever Wonderful, for the Duke label in
1960 and Stay Away From My Baby, his first R&B chart hit for OKeh from 1965.
Following a short spell with Atco, the singer joined Jewel/Ronn Records. He
remained there until the mid-70s although his output never achieved the
recognition it deserved. Tragically, Taylor was killed in a road accident in
October 1987.