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Gospel legend IRA TUCKER SR. died from severe heart problems in Philadelphia on Tuesday (24Jun08). He was 83.
The Grammy winning lead singer of gospel group the Dixie Hummingbirds died at home after a long battle with heart problems, according to the musician’s son, Ira Tucker Jr.
The singer started the band in 1928, and acted as early inspiration for a string of artists, including James Brown, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and Al Green.
The Dixie Hummingbirds enjoyed hits with Loves Me Like A Rock, and the group’s Still Keeping It Real LP was nominated for a Grammy for best traditional gospel album at last year’s ceremony (07).
His son remembers him fondly: "He was an extraordinary performer. I recognised that from the time I was little. Having his name didn’t help me, because I couldn’t sing."

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