Written and first recorded by civil-rights activist Oscar Brown in 1963, "The Snake" became a hit single for American singer Al Wilson in 1968. Wilson's single made the Top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1968 and, due to exposure on the UK Northern Soul scene, made the UK Singles Chart in August 1975 when reissued, reaching No. 41 in September. The success of "The Snake" on the northern soul nightclub circuit has led to it being ranked 4 of 500 top northern soul singles, appearing on over 30 pop and northern soul compilation albums. Wilson's recording of "The Snake" was also featured in a Lambrini television advertisement in the UK, and recited by President Trump in his popular campaign rallies. "The Snake" has been characterized as "a celebration of black culture and a repudiation of racism".
- Category
- Music Music Category A Americana
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