Earl Wright


Earl Wright was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and Vietnam veteran from Memphis, Tennessee. Wright helped to shape the sounds of Southern blues in the 1960s before becoming drafted in the Vietnam War.

Early life

Wright was born to parents Robert, Sr. and Clara Wright in Memphis, Tennessee. He was the youngest of six children. Wright attended Manassas High School where he graduated in 1968.

Career

Wright began his writing career in the heart of Memphis, home to Stax Records and the renowned Willie Mitchell. His writing abilities were phenomenal and he assisted in writing hits that are still relevant today. Wright was scheduled to appear on the Memphis' own version of Band Stand, but that dream was short-lived as the Vietnam War broke out. Wright was drafted a few months later and sent to training camp.

Musical career

In 1974, Wright wrote "Six Nights and a Day" for Candi Staton's album, The Best of Candi Staton.
Wright later recorded and wrote two songs which became hits in the United Kingdom, "Them Love Blues" and "I Don't Know". Wright had a distinguished sound that consisted of horns and bass lines.