MACON, Ga. — Macon blues legend Robert Lee Coleman and Stax recording artist William Bell were honored with the Tubman Medal of Freedom award.
Coleman, a native of Macon, toured with Percy Sledge and James Brown. Although he does not share formal writing credit, Coleman is widely recognized for writing the signature guitar lick on the hit song “Hot Pants.”
“Everybody out there is special to me, and I know over half of you,” Coleman said speaking to the crowd. All these beautiful faces; Without y’all, it would be double-hard.”
Bell, born in Memphis, was the first male solo artist to sign with Stax Records and played a key role in developing the “Memphis Sound.” His first single in 1961, “You Don’t Miss Your Water,” later became a hit for Macon’s own Otis Redding.
“This is very important to me…Nothing is more important than freedom,” Bell said after accepting his award. “Nothing is more important than letting the younger people know that freedom – above everything else – to follow your dream in life, that’s the most important thing.”
Both musicians were celebrated for their significant contributions to the music industry, and African American history.
More on this story tonight at 11 p.m. on ABC16.