To put it simply, Sam Cooke possessed the most sublime and attractive voice in the history of American R&B, or as Atlantic Records' Jerry Wexler put it: "Sam was the best singer who ever lived, no contest!" He was also recognised for his personal qualities by his friend Aretha Franklin: "Sam was a singer's singer who was loved, respected and revered as a unique and extraordinary artist and person." These, and many other plaudits from artists he influenced, are a testament to the man's supreme talent.