Gwinnett Daily Post

NORCROSS -- Soul music lovers, there's a new exhibit for you.

Today, an exhibit titled "Wilson Pickett: 25 at the Top" opens in The Norcross Arts Center celebrating the life of an R&B legend.

In a span of approximately 40 years, "The Wicked" Pickett recorded more than 50 songs that made the U.S. R&B charts -- some of which crossed over to the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

He's known for his hits "Land of 1,000 Dances," "Mustang Sally," "In the Midnight Hour," "Don't Knock My Love," "634-5789 (Soulsville, U.S.A.)" and "Funky Broadway."

In 1991, the singer-songwriter was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The exhibit "25 At the Top" is a pictorial overview of Pickett's career, which includes original programs, clothing, posters, scores, photos, recordings, awards, video footage and gold records.

For the opening, Pickett's brother Maxwell and widow Brenda will be in attendance, telling stories about the late performer. Pickett passed away Jan. 19, 2006, of a heart attack.

Atlanta-based musician, songwriter and producer Jerome Olds will be on hand to perform many of Pickett's hits during the event.

Today's reception is free and open to the public.

The exhibit will remain open to the public every Thursday in February from 1 to 5 p.m. and by appointment. In addition to tonight's opening, the Norcross Arts Center will be open from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday and Feb. 22, when Olds is performing Pickett's hits again for the public.