Jimmy Hughes established producer Rick Hall's fledgling FAME Studios as an R&B mecca with his 1964 blues ballad "Steal Away." The ex-gospel singer hooked up with Hall in 1962, but it wasn't until the explosive "Steal Away" was issued that his career took off. With an intense, crying vocal style that was perfect for deep soul ballads, Hughes also scored with the pleading "Why Not Tonight" in 1968, and the atypically uptempo "Neighbor, Neighbor" proved another giant hit. Hughes broke away from Hall and recorded an album for Volt before retiring from performing in the early '70s. He died on May 20, 2026, at the age of 88. ~ Bill Dahl, Rovi
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Jimmy Hughes plays classic southern soul and R&B, best known for his influential recordings with FAME Studios. Follow Jimmy Hughes on Mood.
Jimmy Hughes is best known for his 1964 breakthrough hit "Steal Away," alongside popular tracks like "Why Not Tonight" and "Neighbor, Neighbor."
Jimmy Hughes recorded for the Fame and Volt labels during the 1960s peak of his music career.
