Austin Taylor, b. February 16, 1934 in Okmulgee, OK, d. October 2, 1987 in Lake Charles, LA. Taylor was a veteran of several spiritual groups including the Mighty Clouds Of Joy and the Santa Monica Soul Seekers. This latter group then crossed over to R&B, where they worked a dual career both as the Cadets and the Jacks. Taylor embarked on his solo path in the mid-50s and scored with many regional hits. His most notable early singles were ‘Be Ever Wonderful’, for the Duke label in 1960 and ‘Stay Away From My Baby’, his first R&B chart hit for OKeh Records from 1965. Following a short spell with Atco Records, the singer joined Jewel/Ronn Records. He remained there until the mid-70s although his output never achieved the recognition it deserved. After that Taylor recorded albums for Alarm, MCA and his own Solpugdits/SPG label. Tragically, he was killed in a road accident in October 1987.