
Garland Green
American soul singer and pianist
- Lifespan
- June 14, 1942 – February 9, 2026Jun 14, 1942 – Feb 9, 2026
- Location
- California, U.S.CA, U.S.

American soul singer and pianist
Garland Green, the esteemed American soul singer and pianist, passed away in February 2026 at the age of 83. Known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery, Green left an indelible mark on the soul music landscape, particularly with his signature hit, "Jealous Kind of Fella." His career spanned decades, captivating audiences with his distinctive sound and emotive performances.
Born Garfield Green Jr. on June 14, 1942, in Dunleith, Mississippi, Green was the tenth of eleven children. His musical journey began early, leading him to Chicago in 1958, where he honed his craft. He furthered his education at the Chicago Conservatory of Music, dedicating himself to the study of voice and piano, which laid the foundation for his professional career.
Green's breakthrough arrived in 1969 with the release of "Jealous Kind of Fella," a song that resonated deeply with listeners and became a major national success. The track soared to No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart and achieved million-selling status by March 1971, solidifying his place in soul music history. He continued to achieve success with other notable recordings, including the R&B Top 20 hit "Plain and Simple Girl" in 1971.
After moving to California in 1979, Green continued to record and perform, demonstrating his enduring passion for music. In 2012, he released "I Should've Been The One," an album of new material that marked his return after nearly three decades, showcasing his timeless talent. His contributions to soul music were recognized with the Denise La Salle Recording For Excellence Award in 2013.
Garland Green's legacy will be remembered through his powerful voice and the soulful melodies that touched countless lives. His music remains a testament to his artistry and dedication, ensuring his place among the revered figures of American soul. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and a devoted fanbase.
Those who wish to honor Garland's memory are invited to .
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I first became aware of Garland Green's music here in the UK in the early 1990's - his tracks were soul favourites on the Northern Soul here, tapes given by Dj's always contained a Garland number. I was fortunate enough to purchase his 'Jealous kind of fella' CD from a specialised music store and it became a fave ...'Let the good times roll '' even got played at our wedding . At the 6t's Rhythm and Soul Society's Christmas Do last December at the 100 Club in Oxford Street, London, Garland was mentioned and at least one of his tracks were played. I went looking for him on social media only to find he has recently passed. So very sorry, Garland Green will always remain in my mind as one of my favourite Soul Music singers and my heart goes out to his family and friends that knew the real man. God Bless You Garland and I hope to meet you one day in Heaven . Matt Bilby

R. I. P. Mr. Green, Deepest Heartfelt Condolences to the family. 🙏🏾🙏🏾He was truly "The GOAT" "Jealous kinda fella" Needless to say was the IT SONG! LOVE IT! You are MISSED! 🙏🏾🙏🏾
RIP Garland. Great memories with you Flo!

Never had the opportunity to meet Garland in person however he attended school with my older siblings in Leland,MS. I’ve met his sister several times at the Leland reunion. I’m an avid fan of his music. Condolences & prayers to his family
WE ARE PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY & LONG TIME FRIENDS OF GARLAND GREEN FROM THE LONGTIME FRIENDS OF THE RECENTLY BELATED " TEXAS YOUNG BLOOD" JAMES E. BROWN YOU BOTH ARE WALKING AROUND HEAVEN WITH OTHER FRIENDS & RELATIVES... " TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH GOD "
Garland played billiards here at the Hawthorne Senior Center for some years and would sing at each of our 4 dances each year. He was a kind man and pleasant to be around. Now I know he's in heaven really enjoying life......
I MEET GARLAND WHEN I WAS 18.....DATED FOR 1 YEAR...REST BABY.....
I first became aware of Garland Green's music here in the UK in the early 1990's - his tracks were soul favourites on the Northern Soul here, tapes given by Dj's always contained a Garland number. I was fortunate enough to purchase his 'Jealous kind of fella' CD from a specialised music store and it became a fave ...'Let the good times roll '' even got played at our wedding . At the 6t's Rhythm and Soul Society's Christmas Do last December at the 100 Club in Oxford Street, London, Garland was mentioned and at least one of his tracks were played. I went looking for him on social media only to find he has recently passed. So very sorry, Garland Green will always remain in my mind as one of my favourite Soul Music singers and my heart goes out to his family and friends that knew the real man. God Bless You Garland and I hope to meet you one day in Heaven . Matt Bilby

R. I. P. Mr. Green, Deepest Heartfelt Condolences to the family. 🙏🏾🙏🏾He was truly "The GOAT" "Jealous kinda fella" Needless to say was the IT SONG! LOVE IT! You are MISSED! 🙏🏾🙏🏾
RIP Garland. Great memories with you Flo!

Never had the opportunity to meet Garland in person however he attended school with my older siblings in Leland,MS. I’ve met his sister several times at the Leland reunion. I’m an avid fan of his music. Condolences & prayers to his family
WE ARE PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY & LONG TIME FRIENDS OF GARLAND GREEN FROM THE LONGTIME FRIENDS OF THE RECENTLY BELATED " TEXAS YOUNG BLOOD" JAMES E. BROWN YOU BOTH ARE WALKING AROUND HEAVEN WITH OTHER FRIENDS & RELATIVES... " TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH GOD "
Garland played billiards here at the Hawthorne Senior Center for some years and would sing at each of our 4 dances each year. He was a kind man and pleasant to be around. Now I know he's in heaven really enjoying life......
I MEET GARLAND WHEN I WAS 18.....DATED FOR 1 YEAR...REST BABY.....