Eddie Floyd: The Stax Soul Songsmith
Eddie Floyd is an American soul and R&B singer-songwriter, best known for his enduring work with the legendary Stax Records. His signature hit, "Knock on Wood," remains a soul standard and has been covered by hundreds of artists across multiple genres.
Early Career
Born in Montgomery, Alabama in 1937, Eddie Floyd began his musical journey in the 1950s as a founding member of the doo-wop group The Falcons. This Detroit-based band, which also featured future star Wilson Pickett, scored an early R&B hit with "You're So Fine" in 1959, establishing Floyd in the music scene.
After The Falcons disbanded, Floyd turned his focus to songwriting and moved to Washington D.C., where he worked with his cousin's label. His talent for crafting songs eventually led him to Memphis, Tennessee, and the epicenter of Southern soul.
Breakthrough
Eddie Floyd's career skyrocketed after he signed with Stax Records in 1966 as both a writer and performer. His first single for the label, "Knock on Wood," co-written with Steve Cropper and released that same year, became an instant smash, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and crossing over to the pop Top 30.
This success cemented his place in the Stax family, leading to a prolific period where he wrote for other artists like Otis Redding and Sam & Dave while building his own catalog of gritty, danceable soul records.
Key Tracks
Knock on Wood - This 1966 anthem is Floyd's defining song, a timeless soul classic celebrated for its urgent rhythm and infectious energy.
Raise Your Hand - Another Stax-era staple from 1967, this song became a live favorite for artists like Janis Joplin and Bruce Springsteen.
Big Bird - A powerful, deep soul cut written about the plane crash that killed Otis Redding, showcasing Floyd's emotional songwriting depth.
I've Never Found a Girl (To Love Me Like You Do) - This 1968 single exemplifies the smooth, heartfelt balladry Floyd could deliver alongside his uptempo hits.
California Girl - A later-period track that demonstrated his ability to adapt his soulful style to the evolving sounds of the 1970s.
Throughout the 1970s, Floyd continued to record for Stax and other labels, releasing albums like Chronicle and Baby, Lay Your Head Down. While the hits became less frequent, his reputation as a soul pioneer remained intact, leading to consistent touring and recognition on the nostalgia circuit. His songs have been featured in major films and covered by countless acts, from Amii Stewart's disco version of "Knock on Wood" to rock interpretations by David Bowie and Eric Clapton.
Fans of Eddie Floyd's authentic Southern soul sound should also explore the music of Otis Redding, who shared the Stax studios and a similar raw power. The smooth yet passionate delivery of Sam Cooke provides a foundational link to Floyd's style. For the songwriting and musical synergy of the Stax house band, listen to Booker T. & The M.G.'s, who played on many of Floyd's recordings.
Eddie Floyd's music, a cornerstone of the classic Stax sound, continues to be celebrated on soul and R&B radio stations for its timeless energy and masterful craft.
