Benny Lattimore, the soul singer, songwriter, and pianist known mononymously as Latimore, died on August 22 at his home in Riverview, Florida. He was 86. His passing was confirmed by his wife, Yvonne Lattimore.

Latimore rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with his smooth baritone voice and a series of hits that blended soul, blues, and contemporary R&B. He first gained recognition in the 1960s working with Miami-based producer Henry Stone, releasing singles such as "Rain from the Sky" and "Let’s Move and Groove Together" on Stone’s Blade and Dade labels. In 1973, he released his self-titled debut album on Stone’s Glades label, which featured the track "(They call it) Stormy Monday," a song that received substantial airplay, particularly in Chicago, and helped establish his career.

Latimore went on to write and perform many of his own songs, with his biggest hit, “Let’s straighten it Out,” reaching the top of the R&B charts in 1974. The song, which appeared on his album “More, More, More,” became a signature piece for Latimore and was frequently performed at his concerts throughout his career. It was later covered by notable artists including Monica, Usher, Etta James, B.B. King, and Millie Jackson.

Throughout his career, Latimore remained closely linked to Henry Stone’s music operations, and the two reunited in later years to produce several albums under their Latstone label. Among these was the 2013 release “Latimore Remembers Ray Charles.” In 2017, Latimore was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the genre.

Born Benny William Lattimore on September 7, 1939, in Charleston, Tennessee, he was raised in a musical household where both parents played string instruments. His early musical influences were diverse, including gospel, country, and blues. Latimore began singing in his local Baptist church and developed a passion for blues, which he described as something that naturally “found” him. He attended Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State College (now Tennessee State University) but left to pursue music full-time, joining an R&B combo in Nashville led by saxophonist Louis Brooks, who taught him piano.

In the early 1960s, Latimore toured with Joe Henderson after Henderson’s hit “Snap Your Fingers” garnered attention. Latimore eventually settled in Florida, where his career would flourish. He married Yvonne Fernandez in 1971.

Latimore continued performing well into his later years. In 2014, he appeared with the Roots on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon* and remained a draw at festivals. Known for his engaging live performances, he often emphasized the importance of leaving audiences with a memorable and enjoyable experience. In a 2009 interview, Latimore expressed his desire to ensure fans departed “with a good taste in their mouth and a good sound in their ears.”

His legacy endures through his recordings and the influence he had on soul and blues music over several decades.