Miami Soul Legend Latimore Dies at 86; Remembered for Voice That 'Would Swallow You Up

Benjamin William Lattimore, widely recognized as Latimore, the soul and blues vocalist whose baritone signature defined a generation, died on August 22 in Tampa, Florida, at 86 years old. Emerging from Charleston, Tennessee, where he was born in 1939, Latimore’s journey was deeply rooted in the musical traditions of gospel, blues, and country that shaped his early life.

Launching his professional career in Florida, Latimore initially made his mark as a pianist before transitioning to a solo artist. His early recordings in the mid-1960s for Henry Stone’s Dade label in Miami marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with the influential Miami music scene. Stone’s Glades label, part of the TK Records family, would later become the platform for some of Latimore’s most notable work during the 1970s.

Latimore’s breakthrough came with his 1973 rendition of “Stormy Monday,” a jazz-infused take on T-Bone Walker’s classic, which gained R&B chart recognition. However, it was his 1974 self-penned track, “Let’s Straighten It Out,” that cemented his place in Southern soul history. The song soared to the top of the Billboard R&B charts and crossed over into the pop Hot 100, becoming a definitive expression of relationship struggles and reconciliation that resonated widely.

Throughout the 1970s, Latimore continued to release songs that combined smooth vocal delivery with heartfelt lyricism. Tracks like “Keep the Home Fire Burnin’” and “Somethin’ ‘Bout ‘Cha” further showcased his ability to blend romantic themes with the Southern soul sound, earning spots on the charts and expanding his audience.

His musicianship extended beyond singing; his piano playing remained a core element of his identity. Latimore’s keyboard work contributed to recordings for other artists and later collaborations with emerging talents such as Joss Stone, where he joined fellow Miami veterans in crafting soulful albums that bridged generations.

In the 1980s, Latimore aligned himself with Malaco Records, a Mississippi-based label revered for its dedication to Southern soul and blues traditions. His tenure there included multiple album releases and ongoing touring, solidifying his reputation as a steadfast presence in the genre.

Never one to rest on past laurels, Latimore co-founded LatStone Records with Henry Stone, continuing to produce music and pay homage to the legacies that influenced him, including a 2013 tribute to Ray Charles. Over his career, he amassed an extensive catalog exceeding twenty-four albums, reflecting his enduring commitment to his craft.

Recognition of Latimore’s contributions came formally in 2017 with his induction into the Blues Hall of Fame, an acknowledgment of his impact beyond commercial success. His voice, often described as both commanding and intimate, carried a depth that captivated audiences in live performances and recordings alike.

As digital platforms introduced his music to new listeners, songs like “Let Me Go” experienced a resurgence, while “Let’s Straighten It Out” maintained its status as a Southern soul classic, frequently covered and sampled by other artists. Latimore’s legacy is preserved not only through his recordings but also through the respect he garnered from peers and fans across decades.

Though details about funeral arrangements have not been widely disclosed, Latimore leaves behind his wife, Yvonne Lattimore, and a profound musical legacy. His passing signifies the loss of a vital voice from Miami’s golden era of soul and the wider Southern soul tradition, marking the end of an era for a musician whose work spanned from humble church beginnings to international stages and whose artistry continues to influence.