The Keen Records albums represent Sam Cooke's early work as a secular artist after leading the Soul Stirrers for six years. His voice had become the dominant force in gospel before the release of "You Send Me" and "Summertime." He was destined to become a major force in pop, just as he had been in gospel. Sam Cooke found his voice not by imitating popular singers, but by his own unique interpretation of songs that were considered remarkable by others