Born in 1929 in Cleveland, Ohio, he was a pioneering American musician and actor known for his theatrical performances and powerful voice. Initially aspiring to be an opera singer, he instead became a blues and rock 'n' roll artist, gaining fame with his 1956 hit "I Put a Spell on You." His eccentric stage persona included macabre props and costumes, influencing shock rock. He appeared in several films, bringing his unique style to the screen. He passed away in 2000, leaving a lasting impact on music and film.