Biography
Norman Richard West, Jr., born on October 30, 1939, in Monroe, Louisiana, grew up singing in church alongside his brothers Joe, James, and Robert, which laid the foundation for his musical career. He entered the professional music scene early, replacing William Bell in The Del-Rios in 1962 and later recording several unsuccessful solo singles in Memphis. West also performed with Colors Incorporated, a rock band formed by members of Jerry Lee Lewis' band, before joining The Soul Children in 1968, a vocal quartet assembled by Stax Records producers Isaac Hayes and David Porter.[1][3]
As a key member of The Soul Children alongside John Colbert (J. Blackfoot), Anita Louis, and Shelbra Bennett, West contributed to the group's soul and disco sound, co-writing hits like 'Hearsay,' which reached No. 5 on the R&B chart. The group achieved success with singles such as 'I'll Be the Other Woman' and performed at the iconic Wattstax concert in 1972. After Stax's collapse in 1975, West continued with a trio on Epic Records before the group disbanded. He persisted in nightclub performances and gospel music, reforming The Soul Children in 2007 with J. Blackfoot, Ann Hines, and Cassandra Graham for the album Still Standing, and released a solo single 'Long Ride Home' in 2008.[1]
West's style rooted in R&B and soul reflects his gospel upbringing and Stax-era experiences, contributing to the label's legacy of gritty, emotive vocal harmonies. Though not a solo superstar, his enduring nightclub and gospel work underscores a steadfast commitment to music into later years.[1][3]
Fun Facts
- Norman West began his professional career at age 11, performing on the Gladys Knight Variety Show with the second generation of Gladys Knight and the Pips.
- He briefly sang with Colors Incorporated, a rock band formed by ex-members of Jerry Lee Lewis' band, showcasing his versatility beyond soul.
- West co-wrote 'Hearsay,' one of The Soul Children's biggest hits, reaching No. 5 on the R&B chart in 1972.
- After Stax folded, he continued as a gospel singer and musician while working nightclubs, later reforming the group in 2007.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Isaac Hayes and David Porter - Producers who formed and produced The Soul Children (Group's debut 'Give 'Em Love' and early recordings) [1968]
Key Collaborators
- J. Blackfoot (John Colbert) - Fellow original member and co-writer ('Hearsay', Still Standing album) [1968–1979, 2007–2011]
- Anita Louis - Original member of The Soul Children (Stax albums including Friction) [1968–1979]
- Shelbra Bennett - Original member of The Soul Children ('I'll Be the Other Woman') [1968–1975]
- Ann Hines and Cassandra Graham - New members in reformation (Still Standing) [2007–2008]
Connection Network
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Norm West has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 2, 2026 | 15:41 | Baby Pleasefrom MOC 45 | The Blues Breakdown |