Singer-songwriter Gary Pinto received a blessing from the family of his musical hero ahead of the release of his new album.

Pinto has worked with many acclaimed artists such as Guy Sebastian, and held the roles of lead vocal coach on shows The Voice and The Masked Singer.

He will head on tour in June following the release of his new album Sam Cooke: The Music.

The singer told Deborah Knight he was contacted by Cooke’s daughter, Carla.

“She said thank you so much for playing dad’s music … she was so pleased.

“We hope to play together when we go to LA.”

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