Curtis Mayfield was a pioneering American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and record producer, celebrated as one of the most influential figures behind soul and politically conscious African-American music. He first achieved success with The Impressions during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and later embarked on a successful solo career. His work, particularly the soundtrack for the film Super Fly, is acclaimed for its social commentary and innovative funk and soul sounds. Despite being paralyzed from the neck down in a 1990 stage accident, he continued to compose and record music until his death in 1999.