Hilliard “Sweet Pea” Atkinson passed away on May 5, 2020, yet his loss resonated quietly, overshadowed by the pandemic. Revered for his raw, powerful voice and unique style, he rose to prominence with the band Was (Not Was), captivating audiences with tracks like “Walk the Dinosaur.” Born in 1945 and discovered by Don Was, Sweet Pea’s gritty, soulful sound was a throwback to an era that seemed to fade away but found fresh expression in the eclectic music scene of the ’80s. His legacy includes collaborations with legends and a successful stint as a backing vocalist, underscoring his versatility.
As we reflect on Sweet Pea’s contributions to music, it raises questions about the lasting impact of artists who don’t always receive the recognition they deserve. Are there contemporary artists whose brilliance might be overlooked in our rapidly changing musical landscape?
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