PBS celebrates Black History Month with the documentary “Just A Mortal Man – The Jerry Lawson Story.” it premieres on February 10 on PBS. Jerry Lawson was the original lead singer of the legendary a cappella group The Persuasions, first discovered by Frank Zappa in the early ’70s. During his 40-year tenure with the group, Jerry recorded 24 albums, toured internationally and sang alongside Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell, among others.
In the documentary film, Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men says, “It was [Jerry’s] trailblazing, his musical prowess, that helped shape contemporary a cappella.” Rod Stewart has called Jerry, “A true soul singer.” In 2004, Jerry left the group to pursue a solo career.
