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Joe Cocker, the Wild, Raspy-Voiced Mentor of Rock 'n' Roll, Passes Away at 70

A most resounding voice in all of rock 'n' roll, Joe Cocker, the mad man, has died. He was 70.

The English rocker found a unique formula for covering some of the greatest rock songs in history. His covers of songs like The Beatles's "With a Little Help from My Friends" have made their way into the most-favorited songs and performances of all time.

A rich musical legacy, Cocker was a victim of lung cancer. Perhaps it is his performance at Woodstock — which my father has been able to describe to me with the most intricate detail — that defined the crazed singer's style, but he has also been a major figure in pop culture.

John Belushi gave a most comical and perfect rendition of Cocker's unique voice. His movements, breath, startling presence on stage and raspy voice that sounds like the calling of the wild all gave way to the musician's impact on music of the 1960s and beyond.

He learned by studying his predecessors, according to The Daily Beast, and was indebted to Ray Charles. The Sheffield rocker was often criticized for almost perfectly emulating Charles and ripped off the pianist's style. This, however, has been discredited.

Maybe an induction is set for the future for Joe Cocker, but it is a wonder why he has not been placed long ago. But for the time being, we reflect on a most astounding artist and his voice that echoed a generation.

Check him out below:

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