Wayne Cochran wrote the song "Last Kiss," famously covered by Pearl Jam.
The Original Creator: Wayne Cochran
The iconic song "Last Kiss," widely known through Pearl Jam's rendition, was originally penned and performed by Wayne Cochran. Known by his distinctive nickname, the "White Knight of Soul," Cochran was a talented singer-songwriter who first released his original version of the song in 1961.
It is important to note that despite Pearl Jam's successful cover, the song was not written by any of their members, such as Eddie Vedder or Mike McCready. The credit for its creation belongs entirely to Wayne Cochran.
"Last Kiss" as a Cover Success
Cochran's original composition gained significant popularity through various cover versions. The song notably became a number-two hit on the music charts in two separate instances as a cover. Pearl Jam's powerful charity single cover, released in 1999, introduced the song to a new generation of listeners, further solidifying its place in popular culture and demonstrating its enduring appeal across different musical eras.
Key Details on "Last Kiss" Authorship
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Original Writer | Wayne Cochran |
| Writer's Nickname | The "White Knight of Soul" |
| Original Release | 1961 |
| Pearl Jam's Role | Covered the song; they did not write it |
| Cover Song Success | Reached #2 on charts in two cover versions |
