Written by: Isabel Sanchez

Charlie Foxx: The Soulful Voice Behind the 1960s Hit "Mockingbird"

Charlie Foxx, an American rhythm and blues and soul singer-songwriter, is best known for his iconic hit "Mockingbird" with his sister Inez Foxx, which reached the top 10 on both the US rhythm and blues and pop charts in 1963. As the creative force behind the duo, Charlie's soulful voice and guitar playing brought a unique sound to the music scene of the 1960s.

Early Life and Career

Born Charlie James Fox on October 23, 1933, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Charlie grew up in a musical family with his sister Inez. The siblings began singing together in a gospel choir as children, and Charlie later developed his skills as a guitarist. In the early 1950s, Charlie started his music career, performing in local bands and eventually moving to New York City with Inez to pursue a recording contract.

The Rise to Fame with "Mockingbird"

In 1963, Charlie and Inez introduced themselves to Henry Juggy Murray, the owner of Sue Records, and sang him their arrangement of the traditional lullaby "Hush, Little Baby," which they retitled "Mockingbird." The single was released on Sue's subsidiary label Symbol Records and became an instant hit, selling over one million copies and earning a gold disc from the RIAA.

"Mockingbird" was not only a commercial success but also became a timeless classic, with its soulful harmonies and catchy melody. The song has since been covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin, James Taylor and Carly Simon, Dusty Springfield, Etta James with Taj Mahal, and Toby Keith.

Challenges and Legacy

Despite the success of "Mockingbird," the Foxx siblings struggled to follow it up with another hit. The record company's decision to promote Inez as a solo singer led to confusion about the duo's identity and contributions. However, Charlie's talent and legacy extend beyond "Mockingbird," with his unique voice and guitar playing leaving an indelible mark on the rhythm and blues and soul genres.

Personal Life and Later Years

Charlie Foxx passed away on September 18, 1998, but his music continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of sibling harmony and the enduring appeal of 1960s soul music.

Interesting Facts

• Charlie and Inez Foxx changed their professional names to Foxx with a double "x" to distinguish themselves from other artists.
• Casey Kasem, a famous music DJ, mistakenly believed that Charlie and Inez were husband and wife.
• "Mockingbird" was originally recorded as a demo, but the raw, soulful energy of the performance convinced Sue Records to release it as a single.