Gene Allison may not be a household name today, but in the late 1950s, his voice reached national audiences and inspired countless fans. Best known for his uplifting single “You Can Make It If You Try,” Allison’s journey from a church choir in Tennessee to the national charts tells a powerful story of perseverance, faith, and music rooted in gospel traditions.
Though his time in the spotlight was brief, his impact left a lasting imprint on rhythm and blues. Here’s a closer look at his life, his career, and the legacy of his timeless hit.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Versie Eugene Allison |
| Stage Name | Gene Allison |
| Birth Date | August 29, 1934 |
| Birthplace | Pegram, Tennessee |
| Genres | Gospel, R&B, Soul |
| Breakout Hit | You Can Make It If You Try (1957/1959) |
| Peak Chart Position | #3 R&B, #36 Billboard Hot 100 |
| Notable Labels | Vee-Jay, Calvert, Decca, Monument, Ref-O-Ree |
| Other Known Songs | Have Faith, Everything Will Be Alright, I Understand |
| Later Career | Opened Gene’s Drive-In (Nashville soul food restaurant) |
| Died | March 6, 2004 (Age 69) |
Early Life and Gospel Beginnings
Gene Allison was born Versie Eugene Allison on August 29, 1934, in Pegram, Tennessee. In 1941, his family relocated to Nashville, where Gene’s musical journey began in church choirs.
He and his brother, Levert Allison, showed early promise. Levert would later sing under the name Levert Allison, and the two often performed together. Their voices caught the attention of producer Ted Jarrett, who would play a pivotal role in launching Gene’s professional music career.
Gospel to Rhythm and Blues
Before breaking into secular music, Allison sang with respected gospel groups like The Fairfield Four and The Skylarks. In fact, he often filled in as lead singer for Sam McCrary in the Skylarks, honing his vocal control and stage presence.
Encouraged by Jarrett, Gene made the transition to secular R&B music. His first recordings came through Calvert Records, a label founded by Jarrett. These early attempts didn’t chart, but they opened the door for something greater.
The Breakthrough: “You Can Make It If You Try”
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In 1957, Jarrett wrote a hopeful, soulful track titled “You Can Make It If You Try.” Recognizing its potential, he had Allison record it and arranged a deal with Vee-Jay Records to ensure broader distribution.
The single slowly gained traction and peaked in 1959 at #36 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the R&B chart. It remains Gene Allison’s most recognized and enduring song. Its message of persistence resonated with audiences, making it a signature tune of encouragement in the late ‘50s.
Later Releases and Commercial Decline
Allison tried to follow up on the success of his hit. Songs like “Have Faith” and “Everything Will Be Alright” saw moderate success on the R&B charts but didn’t match the crossover appeal of his debut.
“You Can Make It If You Try” was re-released multiple times on different labels, including Oldies, Trip, and Ref-O-Ree, underlining its lasting popularity. But Gene never again reached the national charts with the same impact.
Life Beyond the Charts
Despite fading from the national spotlight, Allison remained active in music and business. He recorded for labels like Monument, Valdot, Paradise, and Ref-O-Ree, showcasing a wide range of R&B and soul influences.
He also became a successful entrepreneur, opening a 24-hour soul food restaurant in Nashville called Gene’s Drive-In. It became a favorite local hangout and further cemented his legacy in his hometown.
Final Years and Legacy
Gene Allison passed away from kidney failure on March 6, 2004, at the age of 69. Though he only had one major hit, his voice, optimism, and crossover sound influenced gospel-rooted R&B for years to come.
Today, collectors and R&B fans still seek out his singles and remember the sincerity and strength in his music.
Notable Songs
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You Can Make It If You Try
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Have Faith
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Everything Will Be Alright
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My Heart Remembers
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Tell Me the Truth
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I Don’t Know Why
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If I Ever Needed Your Love
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I’m A Fool For Wanting You
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Stay A Little Longer
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Let There Be Women
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I Understand
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I’ll Be Waiting For You