J.J. Jackson
J.J. Jackson is an American soul singer and songwriter, best known for his massive 1966 hit "But It's Alright," a powerful, melodic R&B/soul track that became a dance floor classic and charted twice. Born in Brooklyn, NY, Jackson moved to London, becoming an early R&B artist to record in the UK, known for his strong vocal "belter" style and songwriting, but his chart success faded after "But It's Alright," though he continued performing, often in oldies tours.
At 16, he composed "The Lord Will Understand (And Say 'Well Done')". His first singles released were "Shy Guy" and "Time" in 1963 on Crescent Records. Encouraged by his manager, Jackson moved to London, where he recorded his signature song, "But It's Alright." Initially the B-side to "Boogaloo Baby," it became a major hit, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1966 and again in 1969. Jackson returned to the United States in 1985 and largely retired from the mainstream industry, eventually settling in Palmdale, California.
Throughout his career, he collaborated with various artists and worked on numerous projects as a songwriter and arranger, further solidifying his place in the genre. Jackson's contributions to soul music helped shape its evolution and influenced many contemporary musicians.
J.J. Jackson's work and style continue to be celebrated in the soul and R&B communities. His unique vocal delivery and songwriting talent have left a lasting impact on the genre, making him a notable figure in American music history. As of 2026, he remains an iconic figure of the 1960s soul "belter" style. <div hidden>JJ Jackson</div>
The Greatest Little Soul Band In The Land
Written-By – John D. Loudermilk
6:08
A2 Tenement Halls
Written-By – Joe Kookoolis, Scott Fagan
5:17
A3 Something For My People
Written-By – J. J. Jackson
4:02
A4 In The Same Old Way
Written-By – J. J. Jackson, Barnes
2:56
B1 A Change Is Gonna Come
Written-By – Sam Cooke
6:31
B2 Fat, Black And Together
Written-By – Al Stewart, J. J. Jackson, Lew Futterman
3:41
B3 Win, Lose Or Draw
Written-By – Ousley
3:59
B4 That's Woman Loving Her Man
Written By – King-Stewart, J.J. Jackson, Sidney Barnes
4:23
Label: Congress – CS-7000
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1969
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul-Jazz
J.J. Jackson's The Greatest Little Soul Band in the Land, released around 1969, is a vibrant soul-jazz fusion album known for its "big band-inspired horn arrangements," raw vocals, and deep grooves, reminiscent of Ray Charles, with standout tracks like "Tenement Halls" and powerful covers of soul classics, showcasing a blend of funk, soul, progressive soul, and jazz elements.
A strong mix of soul, jazz, and funk, featuring big band horns and walking basslines that emphasizes Jackson's impassioned, raw vocals. It features "tons of horns" and creative arrangements, with no filler.
The album ncludes originals like "Tenement Halls" (co-written with Scott Fagan) and "Fat, Black, & Together," alongside soulful interpretations of songs like Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" and the classic "Tobacco Road".
A definitive late-60s soul record, blending traditional soul with more progressive musical ideas of the time.
In essence, it's a critically acclaimed album celebrated for its energetic, horn-driven sound and J.J. Jackson's commanding vocal performance, making it a gem for soul music enthusiasts.