Edward Patten facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Patten
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Patten (second from left) with Gladys Knight & the Pips, 1974
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Edward Roy Patten |
| Born | August 27, 1939 Atlanta, Georgia |
| Died | February 25, 2005 (aged 65) Livonia, Michigan |
| Genres | R&B, Pop music, Soul music |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, producer |
| Associated acts | Gladys Knight & the Pips |
Edward Roy "Eddie" Patten (August 27, 1939 – February 25, 2005) was an American singer. He was famous for being a member of the group Gladys Knight & the Pips. Eddie was also a cousin of the lead singer, Gladys Knight.
Eddie was part of the group from 1959 until they stopped performing together in 1989. He won several Grammy Awards with the group. In 1996, Eddie and Gladys Knight & the Pips were welcomed into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Early Life and Music
Edward was born in Atlanta, Georgia. His father was a musician who played the piano very well. Eddie grew up singing in church. He also sang with local "doo wop" groups in Atlanta.
Joining Gladys Knight & the Pips
While still a teenager, Eddie was invited to join a group called the Pips. This happened after two members left. The group later became known as Gladys Knight & the Pips.
The group had a big hit song called "Every Beat of My Heart". After this success, they moved to New York. Later, they moved to Detroit, Michigan. There, they joined Motown Records, a very famous music company.
Later Years
Even after Gladys Knight & the Pips officially stopped performing in 1989, Eddie stayed close with his bandmates. They remained lifelong friends.
Eddie Patten passed away in 2005 at the age of 65. He died in Livonia, Michigan. He is buried in Detroit's historic Woodlawn Cemetery.
