Bill Medley is a singer and songwriter who was born on September 19, 1940, in Santa Ana, California. He is best known as one half of the musical duo The Righteous Brothers, which he formed in 1963 with his partner Bobby Hatfield.
Medley began his career as a member of the Paramours, a five-member band in which Bobby Hatfield was also a member. The Paramours eventually evolved into The Righteous Brothers, and the duo quickly gained popularity with their soulful sound and Medley’s distinctive bass-baritone voice.
In 1964, The Righteous Brothers released their signature hit, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” which became one of the best-selling singles of all time. The duo went on to record several other hit songs, including “Unchained Melody” and “Soul and Inspiration.”
After the breakup of The Righteous Brothers in 1968, Bill Medley pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles over the years. Medley has collaborated with many other artists throughout his career, including Jennifer Warnes, who he recorded the Oscar-winning duet “The Time of My Life” with for the soundtrack of the film “Dirty Dancing.” His music has also made other numerous appearances on television and in movies such as Top Gun and Ghost. As a solo artist, Medley strained his voice to such a point that he lost it for a time. So, in 1974, he and Bobby Hatfield rekindled The Righteous Brothers until Hatfield’s death in 2003. The Righteous Brothers was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 by fellow hall of famer, Billy Joel.
Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame via YouTube screen grab
Bill Medley continues to perform music to this day, and his contributions to the world of music have earned him a place among the greatest vocalists of all time. Currently, The Righteous Brothers performs in Las Vegas, but since Bobby Hatfield’s death, Medley has a new partner in Bucky Heard. Watch this video of Bill Medley with daughter, McKenna Medley, perform his hit song, “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” from Larry’s Country Diner. There’s plenty more Country Music and Entertainment over at www.countryroadtv.com!
