Gospel, r&b singer-songwriter Bill Spivery dead at 73

He wrote “Operator” in the 1950s. It had the catchy refrain: “Operator, information, give me Jesus on the line.” The song was featured on the soundtrack of the 2002 film, “Phone Booth.”

Spivery lived in the Cleveland area since the early 1950s. He held various day jobs while pursuing a musical career.

He performed with three groups: the Friendly Brothers, the Sons of Truth and Bill Spivery and the Operators. He also sang at churches throughout the Midwest and appeared on show bills with Diana Ross, Leslie Gore and Bobby Womack.

In 1964, Spivery wrote and recorded “Mr. John” in honor of the late President John F. Kennedy. It became a regional hit, reaching No. 3 on local charts behind the Beatles and the Dave Clark Five. The tune was played on the TV documentary, “Jack,” 11 years ago.

He also wrote “Non-Violent Man,” a musical tribute to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

-- Associated Press