Lead vocalist of The Coasters, known for his smooth, soulful voice and hits like "Yakety Yak" and "Charlie Brown".
Cornell Gunter is best known for his iconic vocals as a member of the legendary doo-wop group, The Coasters, and his contributions to the rhythm and blues genre. With a career spanning over two decades, Gunter left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him a well-deserved place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
Born on November 14, 1936, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Gunter's musical journey began in the 1950s. He was an original member of The Platters, recording backup vocals on Big Jay McNeely's "Nervous Man Nervous" in 1953. Shortly after, he joined The Flairs, where he honed his skills as a singer and performer.
In 1958, Gunter joined The Coasters, replacing Bobby Nunn and Leon Hughes. This marked the beginning of his most notable and successful period as a musician. With The Coasters, Gunter's soulful voice was featured on hits like "Yakety Yak," "Charlie Brown," and "Poison Ivy." His unique vocal style and energetic performances catapulted The Coasters to fame, earning them a place in the hearts of music lovers across the globe.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Gunter embarked on a solo career, releasing several singles, including a cover of Sam Cooke's "You Send Me" on Dot Records in 1957. He also collaborated with other notable artists, such as Dinah Washington, with whom he toured in 1961. During this period, Gunter formed his own group, The Fabulous Coasters, which continued to thrill audiences with their energetic performances.
Gunter's contributions to the music industry extended beyond his work with The Coasters. He was a pioneer in the rhythm and blues genre, paving the way for future generations of musicians. His soulful voice and charismatic stage presence inspired countless artists, including The Dells, whose members Charles Barksdale and Johnny Carter were part of Gunter's group, D's Gentleman, in the early 1960s.
Gunter's legacy also extends to his family, with his sisters Shirley and Gloria also pursuing careers in music. Shirley's recordings from the 1950s were compiled into a compilation album, "Oop Shoop: The Flair and Modern Recordings 1953-1957," released by Ace Records in 2006. Gloria's singles, including "Move On Out" and "Your Love Reminds Me," have been digitized and made available on CD.
Tragically, Cornell Gunter's life was cut short on February 26, 1990, when he was shot and killed in his automobile in Las Vegas, Nevada. His untimely passing marked the end of an era, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the music industry, Cornell Gunter was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 as a member of The Coasters. This honor is a testament to his enduring impact on the rhythm and blues genre.
Through his music, Cornell Gunter left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring generations of musicians and music lovers alike. His legacy continues to thrill and entertain audiences, ensuring that his music will never be forgotten.
98 Years Old
Lead vocalist of The Coasters, known for hits like "Yakety Yak" and "Charlie Brown", bringing doo-wop and rock 'n' roll to the mainstream .
89 Years Old
Lead vocalist of the Coasters, known for energetic stage performances and hits like "Yakety Yak" and "Charlie Brown".
82 Years Old
A soulful singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, blending funk, soul, and R&B to create a unique sound, with hits like "Teenie Weenie" and "Thank You John".
88 Years Old
A popular singer and Broadway performer of the 1920s and 1930s, known for his smooth, baritone voice and charismatic stage presence.
