Lou Rawls was an American singer, songwriter, and actor, born on December 1, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois. He was known for his smooth, deep voice and his ability to blend various music genres, including jazz, blues, and soul. Over his career, he released numerous albums and won several Grammy Awards, making him a prominent figure in the music industry. In addition to his music career, Rawls was also an actor and appeared in various television shows and films. He was involved in charitable work, particularly with the United Negro College Fund, and hosted telethons to raise money for education. Lou Rawls passed away on January 6, 2006, leaving behind a rich legacy in music and philanthropy.