John Hurley was an American singer-songwriter primarily active during the 1960s and 1970s, best known for his soulful, country-tinged composition style. Hurley, together with his songwriting partner Ronnie Wilkins, penned the hit "Son of a Preacher Man," which was famously recorded by Dusty Springfield and has since been covered by many artists. His own recordings, while not as commercially successful, showcased his distinctive gravelly vocals and a blend of Southern soul, pop, and country influences. Despite his relatively limited output, Hurley's contributions to the pop and soul genres have left an enduring legacy.