Wilson Pickett died: key facts and verified timeline
Wilson Pickett died on January 19, 2006, at his home in Reston, Virginia, at age 64. The cause of death was myocardial infarction associated with coronary artery disease. Pickett was an influential American soul singer and songwriter best known for hits such as “In the Midnight Hour,” “Land of 1000 Dances,” and “Mustang Sally.” His energetic voice and dynamic performances shaped the sound of Southern soul and R&B during the 1960s and 1970s. Below is a concise, verified overview of his death and enduring impact.
How Wilson Pickett died
On January 19, 2006, Wilson Pickett died from a heart attack at his residence. Medical reports indicated acute myocardial infarction with underlying coronary artery disease as contributing factors. He was discovered at home and pronounced dead at a hospital. The news was announced by family representatives and confirmed through local authorities and emergency records. No suspicious circumstances were reported, and the event was consistent with his known cardiac history.
Timeline of final days and death
| Date | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| January 19, 2006 | Wilson Pickett found at home in Reston, VA; pronounced dead at hospital | Confirms time, place, and official status of death |
| Earlier 2000s | Hospitalized for heart issues; underwent angioplasty | Context for underlying coronary disease |
| 1990s–2000s | Continued recording and touring, including soul revival appearances | Shows sustained professional activity despite health challenges |
Age, identity, and basic biographical anchors
Wilson Pickett was born March 18, 1941, in Prattville, Alabama, and died at age 64 in Reston, Virginia. He was an American soul singer and songwriter whose recordings remain staples of classic radio and streaming playlists. Legal and official documents consistently list the date and location above, establishing a reliable public record.
Primary cause of death and contributing health factors
Official reports indicate that Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack, specifically acute myocardial infarction, in the context of coronary artery disease. Prior hospitalizations for cardiac issues and an angioplasty procedure in the early 2000s reflect long-term cardiovascular disease. While lifestyle and genetic factors can influence such conditions, the immediate cause was cardiovascular events documented by medical professionals.
Professional legacy and cultural impact
Wilson Pickett helped define the sound of Southern soul with his gritty delivery and charismatic stage presence. Signature songs such as “In the Midnight Hour,” “Land of 1000 Dances,” and “Mustang Sally” remain foundational to soul and rock repertoires. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, received Grammy nominations, and influenced generations of artists across R&B, rock, and pop. His recordings continue to generate performance royalties and streaming revenue, underscoring a durable commercial footprint.
Comparison with near-contemporaries
Placing Pickett alongside peers clarifies his distinctive role in soul history. The table below compares key attributes among major figures of the same era.
Soul contemporaries at a glance
| Artist | Peak decade | Distinguishing traits | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Pickett | 1960s | High-energy vocals; Southern soul | Died 2006 |
| James Brown | 1960s–1970s | Rhythm architect; funk pioneer | Died 2006 |
| Sam Cooke | 1950s–1960s | Velvety voice; crossover appeal | Died 1964 |
| Otis Redding | 1960s | Emotional intensity; Stax sound | Died 1967 |
Financial and estate context
While precise current figures are not publicly detailed, Wilson Pickett generated income through recordings, performances, and publishing royalties for decades. His estate continues to benefit from catalog usage, licensing, and retrospective releases. In net worth breakdown terms, his enduring catalog contributes to a legacy income stream that supports his estate and affiliated rights organizations.
Public memory and commemoration
Wilson Pickett is remembered for both his vocal power and his role in breaking racial barriers on radio and television during the civil rights era. Documentaries, retrospective programs, and Hall of Fame honors have sustained public awareness. New listeners encounter his work through streaming platforms, film soundtracks, and classic soul compilations, ensuring that his influence remains active in contemporary music culture.
Frequently asked questions
- When did Wilson Pickett die? He died on January 19, 2006.
- How old was Wilson Pickett when he died? He was 64 years old at the time of his death.
- Where did Wilson Pickett die? He died at his home in Reston, Virginia, United States.
- What did Wilson Pickett die of? The immediate cause was a heart attack (myocardial infarction) linked to coronary artery disease.
- Is Wilson Pickett still influential? Yes, his recordings remain staples of classic soul radio and streaming playlists, and he is recognized as a key architect of Southern soul.