Linda Womack facts for kids

Linda Womack (born Linda Cooke on April 25, 1953), also known as Zeriiya Zekkariyas, is an American singer and songwriter. She is the daughter of the famous soul singer Sam Cooke. Linda later became very successful as half of the music duo Womack & Womack with her husband Cecil Womack.

Early Life and Family Background

Linda Cooke was born on April 25, 1953. She is the oldest child of Barbara Campbell and Sam Cooke. Her parents got married in 1958. In December 1964, when Linda was 11 years old, her father passed away. A few months later, in March 1965, her mother married Bobby Womack, who was a musician that her father had helped.

Linda Womack's Music Career

Linda Womack started her career as a songwriter. In 1972, she helped write the hit song "Woman's Gotta Have It" for Bobby Womack. Later, in 1979, she signed with Capricorn Records. She became well-known for writing popular soul songs in the late 1970s and 1980s.

Writing Songs for Other Artists

Linda wrote "Love Bankrupt," which was released by the singer Patti LaBelle. She also wrote the beautiful song "New Day" for the talented soul singer and jazz guitarist, George Benson. Her songs were loved by many people.

Womack & Womack Duo

Linda married Cecil Womack, who was Bobby's brother. Together, they formed a successful music duo called Womack & Womack. They released their first album, Love Wars, with Elektra Records. This album was a big hit with music critics. Their song "Baby I'm Scared of You" became a Top 40 R&B single.

Popular Albums and Hits

Womack & Womack released several other albums. These included Radio M.U.S.I.C. Man in 1985 and Starbright in 1986. Their 1988 album, Conscience, featured their most famous song, "Teardrops". This song was a worldwide hit. Linda and Cecil wrote "Teardrops" together, and Linda sang the lead vocals. Their last album as Womack & Womack was Transformation Into The House Of Zekkariyas in 1993.

Later Life and Family Music

In the 1990s, Linda and her family moved to South Africa. There, she continued making music with her seven children. They record together as The House of Zekkariyas. Linda's husband, Cecil Womack, passed away in South Africa on January 25, 2013. He was 65 years old.