Don Varner facts for kids

Don Wilson Varner (born June 25, 1943 – died October 7, 2002) was an American soul singer. He had a deep, rich voice and sang both upbeat, lively soul songs and slower, emotional ballads.

Don Varner's Music Journey

Don Varner was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He grew up in the same neighborhood as Eddie Kendricks, who helped start the famous group The Temptations. After high school, Don moved to Chicago to try to become a musician.

He later returned to Alabama to record songs in Muscle Shoals. This town is famous for its music studios, especially FAME Studios, run by Rick Hall. Don also wrote songs, including "I Keep Holdin' On" for the group Sam & Dave. He worked with Quin Ivy and released several songs like "Masquerade" and "Tear Stained Face."

Even though Don Varner didn't release many recordings, he performed many live concerts. He sang all over the South with other big soul singers. In the 1980s, he moved to California. There, he toured as the main singer for the Johnny Otis Show. He even performed at music festivals in Europe in 1985.

Later in his life, Don started singing gospel music. He passed away in Moreno Valley, California in 2002 at the age of 59. An album of his music from 1968 to 1974, called Finally Go Over!, was released after he passed away.