Here's the original gospel tune that inspired "Chain Of Fools". In 1967 Houston's Reverend Elijah Fair with the Sensational Gladys Davis Trio recorded "Pains Of Life" (C. Davis).

Don Covay (Randolph) and The Good Timers released an instrumental of "Chain Of Fools" almost at the same time as the hit. The composer produced the single that he wrote more than a decade earlier. Don had Jimi Hendrix in his group at one time.

Even though the song was originally meant for Otis Redding, Atlantic Records had Aretha Franklin record "Chain Of Fools" (Don Covay) in 1967. Backing vocalists include The Sweet Inspirations, Carolyn and Erma Franklin along with Ellie Greenwich. The single topped the R&B chart and reached number two pop on Billboard. This was on the album "Lady Soul".