We are sad to let SoulTrackers know of the death of Joe Russell, one of the founding members and the beautiful tenor voice of the legendary Persuasions. Raised in Brooklyn, Russell was a butcher who used to sing on the corner with his friends. That corner singing ultimately led to perhaps the greatest a cappella soul group of all time.
Read full Persuasions biography
Joe had been sick for some time and had been seeking a kidney transplant. While not a household name by any means, nor a performer who accumulated monetary wealth, Joe Russell defined the “soul warrior,” singing with his group for a half century and bringing delight to fans and critics. His musical legacy will continue for years and years to come.
Funeral Services for “Sweet” Joe will be held on Wednesday May 9, at Woodward Lawrence H Funeral Home – 1 Troy Avenue, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11213. Viewing will be from 2PM-6PM with Funeral Services at 6PM
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