Musician. Also known as Sonny Clarke and Albert Forrest. He was a popular singer and guitarist of both doo wop and rhythm and blues. A native of Pendleton, North Carolina, he sang with the likes of Big Jay McNeely, Jackie Wilson, Sil Austin, and Dee Clark, but he is primarily remembered for his work with the Coasters. In 1959, he was hired by the Coasters as a contract player for studio and stage work (he was never actually a member of the group as it has been said) to replace former guitarist Adolph Jacobs, who left the same year. Forriest stayed with the Coasters until 1961. In 1962, Forriest joined Ray Charles' Orchestra and toured with them as a touring stage guitarist. He also worked with Hank Crawford for the Atlantic Record Label, and played vibes on a 1966 album. As a solo artist he turned to jazz and recorded several albums including, "Tuff Pickin", for the Decca Record Label. A veteran of the Korean War, he served in the United States Air Force. He continued to work up until his death in 1999.
Musician. Also known as Sonny Clarke and Albert Forrest. He was a popular singer and guitarist of both doo wop and rhythm and blues. A native of Pendleton, North Carolina, he sang with the likes of Big Jay McNeely, Jackie Wilson, Sil Austin, and Dee Clark, but he is primarily remembered for his work with the Coasters. In 1959, he was hired by the Coasters as a contract player for studio and stage work (he was never actually a member of the group as it has been said) to replace former guitarist Adolph Jacobs, who left the same year. Forriest stayed with the Coasters until 1961. In 1962, Forriest joined Ray Charles' Orchestra and toured with them as a touring stage guitarist. He also worked with Hank Crawford for the Atlantic Record Label, and played vibes on a 1966 album. As a solo artist he turned to jazz and recorded several albums including, "Tuff Pickin", for the Decca Record Label. A veteran of the Korean War, he served in the United States Air Force. He continued to work up until his death in 1999.
Bio by: The Silent Forgotten
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