16 – RHYTHM AND BLUES
Around 1945, the term "rhythm and blues" began to surface. Currently, R&B encapsulates practically all modern black music styles but it was originally applied to the black electric pre-rock and roll styles of the late 1940's and the 1950's. The origin of rhythm and blues was the fusion of blues and boogie but as the new black music styles became urbanized, the addition of electric instruments gave it a more defined edge. R&B was profoundly different from the sugary white pop dominating the airwaves. Its volume had increased dramatically and the resulting sounds were brash, urgent and above all - earthy. Lyrically, it was extremely personal and at times - downright sexual. Vocally, it combined uncouth blues shouting with the preachy passionate techniques utilized in gospel music. Once again, the call and response formula was common. Simply put - it was gospel with spicy blues lyrics served over a driving heavy beat. R&B was definitely the most aggressive black music to date.
R&B record companies began appearing in most of the major cities in order to accommodate the new record buying public. The majority were small independents - black owned and operated. Their markets were local and their businesses operated out of back rooms, garages, basements and sometimes from the back seats of cars. Since there was little or no overhead, a failed record meant the loss of a few hundred dollars. Mainstream record companies would have had to risk thousands. Consequently, these smaller outfits were able to promote and experiment with newer, more radical styles. Independent labels could afford to listen to and audition more varied artists. They were more likely to take the chance of signing a performer who previously would not even have been considered.
The new crop of labels included Chess out of Chicago, Speciality in Los Angeles and Bluebird, a subsidiary of RCA in New York City. In Oct., 1947, Atlantic Records, the most adventurous new R&B label was founded in New York City by the Turkish ambassador's sons Ahmet and Nesuhi Ertegun and producer Jerry Wexler. The prime objective was to record black music to be sold specifically to black consumers. The term "race music" had finally been eliminated yet bigtime advertisers had absolutely no idea what to call the new sounds. Jerry Wexler apparently suggested using the moniker "rhythm and blues" and it caught on.
Record companies sent their talent scouts into the smaller communities, enlisting interesting locally prominent acts. There was a fascinating range of material virtually unknown outside the areas of its origin. Each city had its own heroes but Chicago remained a mecca for all.
On Oct. 24, 1942, Billboard Magazine debuted its first black oriented music chart, "The Harlem Hit Parade." It was later renamed the "Rhythm & Blues" chart on June 25, 1949. The predominant record buying public was the white teenage female. Often, black artists seemed threatening to her because of the blatant sexual overtones in their music. That at least was the opinion of most white record company executives. At the time, segregation was at its peak and a great number of white parents preferred that black music be kept in black factions, often noting the explicit lyrics in current black music (e.g. "Keep on churnin' till the butter comes" - Wynonie Harris).
By the early 1950's, while black teens were becoming more refined, white teens were becoming more adventurous in their dress and attitude. They began searching for a gutsier, more earthy music which they found simply by tuning into the black radio stations.
R&B artists signed to record labels, never expecting much compensation. Royalties were generally unheard of and the companies raked in the money. Often, a major act might be given a car or some other gift but there was no way for the artist to keep track of sales. They were sent out to promote their records in a never ending series of one-nighters, playing small clubs, county halls, barns and warehouses. The shows usually began as "black folks' nights" and if whites wanted to attend, they were roped off in a specific area of the hall. Many times, because of the music, barriers came down and the races mixed.
Competition for the R&B music market became fierce when white radio disc jockeys realized that if they didn't start programming it, they would soon lose a large percentage of their listeners. The most revolutionary DJ was Alan Freed.
ATLANTIC RECORDS
- (Dec. 15, 1922 - Jan. 20, 1965)
- Disc jockey/impresario/film maker/trombonist born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
- Raised in Salem, Ohio.
- Formed a jazz group called The Sultans Of Swing in high school, playing the trombone.
- Began as a disc jockey at WKST in Newcastle, Pennsylvania.
- 1951 - While working at WJW radio in Cleveland, Ohio, he became interested in what was then termed "race records." His Moondog's Rock N' Roll Party introduced black music to white audiences.
- Freed was an aficionado of the doo-wop vocal groups and featured them regularly on his radio program and in his live concerts. White teens heard the music and sales skyrocketed.
- 1954 - Moved his operations to WINS radio in New York City where he became a key figure in the promotion of the new music.
- Freed was also a film maker who chronicled the rise of "rock and roll" (a term he claimed to have coined) in films including "Rock Around The Clock"(1956) and "Rock Rock Rock"(1957).
- 1958 - His "Rock N' Roll Dance Party TV show was cancelled after black singer Frankie Lymon was seen dancing with a white girl.
- 1959 - His career crumbled when he was fired by WABC and was accused of payola (the act of accepting money to play certain records). He was found guilty in Dec., 1962, receiving a suspended prison sentence and a heavy fine. Many historians believe that Freed was an innocent dupe for a racist industry.
- 1964 - Unemployed, an alcoholic and charged with income tax evasion.
- Jan. 20, 1965 - Died in Palm Springs, California - some say of a broken heart.
- 1978 - His story was chronicled in the fictitious biopic, "American Hot Wax."
Most large record companies either lacked the nerve to promote black artists or just didn't want to take the financial risk. Instead, they often packaged dreary imitations using established white stars who later came to be known as cover artists. The majority of the recordings were pale shadows of the originals. It was the same old story of blacks creating the music and whites reaping the benefits. Along the way, the music was disinfected and made safe for white ears. The original artists were obviously hindered from receiving both the acclaim and financial returns they deserved. Black performers were justifiably disgusted.
Sometimes however, the covers managed to create a hunger for the real thing. White balladeer Pat Boone covered Fats Domino's "Ain't That A Shame" and Little Richard's "Tutti-Frutti" - both with very humourous results. Georgia Gibbs covered Etta James' "Roll With Me Henry," whitewashing it to an antiseptic "Dance With Me Henry." It must have been as equally embarrassing for the cover artists to take part in such out and out thievery. In retrospect, the originals stand clearly as classics while the covers are now merely novelty recordings.
Doo-wop was an all-encompassing term applied to vocal groups using a style which featured nonsensical sounds to back up the lead singer. It was originally a black style, later adopted by white acts. Doo-wop was one of the most interesting examples of the call and response formula. Many purists seem to consider this style to be the epitome of R&B at its best. Writer Mort Shuman called it "tenement music" since it basically originated on street corners and backyards - sung a cappella. Later, when the style was taken to the stage, vocal groups developed elaborate choreography to showcase each song.
The doo-wop groups who perfected the genre owed much to vintage vocal groups such as The Mills Brothers and The Ink Spots. Their phrasing, intonation and close harmony served as a pattern for the later acts. In fact, The Mills Brothers perfected the idea of using the voice to imitate musical instruments as a backdrop for the lead vocal in the 1920's and The Ink Spots developed a unique style centered around bass vocalist Hoppy Jones who recited the lyrics while the high falsetto vocals of Bill Kenny carried the melody. They influenced a whole crop of imitators such as The Ravens, The Five Royales and The Spaniels. However, although these pioneer acts were an influence of sorts, the black street corner singing groups were decidedly oceans apart from their predecessors. Doo-wop was definitely more gritty.
DJ Alan Freed was the original connoisseur of doo-wop, promoting it with a passion. As it increased in popularity, certain fads emerged. There were groups named after birds, insects, animals and cars. For some strange reason, the "bird" groups (e.g. The Crows, The Penguins and The Flamingos) emerged as the most popular, remaining so years after with record collectors.
Later, Italo-American vocal groups adapted doo-wop to their sound, each injecting it with their own individual flavour (see American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Italo Rock). In the late 1950's, the doo-wop craze waned briefly. Then, during rock's transitional period, a neo doo-wop revival (1960-1962) developed on the East Coast with the emergence of groups such as The Edsels, The Capris, The Regents and The Marcels. Also, the doo-wop style influenced various other 1960's rock acts such as Jan And Dean and The Beach Boys. However, the onslaught of The British Invasion and hard rock put an end to the popularity of doo-wop proper.
- 1947 - Vocal group formed originally as The Vibra-Naires in Baltimore, Maryland.
- Their name was changed to The Orioles by their manager, songwriter Deborah Chester. The name came from the Maryland state bird.
- Consisting of Sonny Til (Earlington Carl Tilghman) (Aug. 18, 1925 - Dec. 9, 1981) (lead singer), Alexander Sharp ( – 1959) (tenor), George Nelson ( – 1968) (baritone), Johnny Reed (bass) and Tommy Gaither ( – 1950) (guitar).
- Considered by many to be the very first R&B vocal group.
- Their big break came with an appearance on "Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts" TV show.
- Famous for their holiday classic, "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve"(Dec., 1949)#9 R&B.
- 1954 - Gregory Carroll of The Four Buddies joined the group.
- 1955 - Disbanded and Til recruited new members.
- Hits include "It's Too Soon To Know"(Sept., 1948)#1 R&B, (Nov., 1948)#13, "Tell Me So"(April, 1949)#1 R&B, "Forgive And Forget" (Nov., 1949)#5 R&B and the million selling "Crying In The Chapel" (Aug., 1953)#1-5 wks. R&B, #11.
- Billy Ward (Sept. 19, 1921 – )
- Singer/songwriter/arranger/vocal coach/pianist/artist.
- 1950 - Originally formed as The Ques in New York City by Billy Ward and talent agent Rose Marks.
- Consisting of Clyde McPhatter (lead), Charlie White (tenor), Joe Lamont (baritone), Bill Brown (bass) and Billy Ward (piano).
- 1950 - Won a talent contest at The Apollo Theatre in New York City.
- 1950 - Sang "Goodnight Irene" on "Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts" TV show.
- Late, 1950 - Signed with King/Federal.
- Lead singers included Clyde McPhatter (1950-1953), Jackie Wilson (1953-1957) and Eugene Mumford (1957-1960's).
- McPhatter left in 1953 to form The Drifters, later going solo in 1955. His was one of the most distinctive voices of the period.
- Hits include "Sixty Minute Man"(May, 1951)#1-14 wks. R&B, (Aug., 1951)#17, "Have Mercy Baby"(May, 1952)#1-10 wks. R&B, "The Bells" (Jan., 1953)#3 R&B, the million selling "Star Dust"(June, 1957) #12, (July, 1957)#5 R&B (with The Jack Pleis Orchestra & Chorus) and "Deep Purple"(Sept., 1957)#20.
- 1953 - When Clyde McPhatter left The Dominoes, Atlantic Records formed The Drifters to showcase his talents.
- There were actually 2 sets of Drifters. The first featured Clyde McPhatter until he went solo in 1955. The group continued with various lead singers until 1958. Manager George Treadwell then disbanded the group, bringing in The Four Crowns and renaming them The Drifters. This particular configuration of the group had 3 different lead singers - Ben E. King (1959-1960), Rudy Lewis (1961-1963) and Johnny Moore (1957, 1963-1966).
- The second edition Drifters was a more commercially styled outfit whereas the original group was strictly R&B oriented.
- First period hits include "Money Honey"(Oct., 1953)#1-11 wks. R&B, "Such A Night"(March, 1954)#2 R&B, "Honey Love"(June, 1954) #1-8 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1954)#21 and "Ruby Baby"(May, 1956)#10 R&B.
- Second period hits include "There Goes My Baby"(June, 1959)#1 R&B, #2, "This Magic Moment"(Feb., 1960)#4 R&B, #16, "Save The Last Dance For Me"(Sept., 1960)#1-3 wks., (Oct., 1960)#1 R&B, "Up On The Roof"(Nov., 1962)#5, (Dec.,1962)#4, "On Broadway"(March, 1963)#9, (April, 1963)#7 R&B and "Under The Boardwalk"(June, 1964)#4 R&B, #4.
- 1946 - Trio formed at Washington High School in Washington, D.C.
- 1949 - Became a quintet consisting of John "Buddy" Bailey (1930 – ) (lead), Matthew McQuater (tenor), Harold Lucas (baritone), Harold Winley (bass) and Bill Harris (guitar).
- Discovered by Lou Krefetz at The Rose Cafe in Washington, D.C.
- 1950 - Began recording for Rainbow Records, joining Atlantic Records later that same year.
- 1951-1954 - They had 13 consecutive top 10 R&B hits.
- 1952 - Bailey joined the army, replaced by Billy Mitchell. After Bailey returned, Mitchell remained with the group.
- 1954 - Appeared on the very first Alan Freed Show.
- April, 1955 - Their classic recording of "Blue Velvet" went to #14 R&B. 1961 - Disbanded.
- Hits include "Don't You Know I Love You"(June, 1951)#1 R&B, "Fool Fool Fool"(Sept., 1951)#1 R&B, "Lovey Dovey"(March, 1954)#2 R&B, "Love Love Love"(June, 1956)#4 R&B, #30 and "Love Potion #9" (Sept., 1959)#23, (Dec., 1959)#23 R&B.
- 1947 - Formed as The Robins in Los Angeles, California.
- Hits include "If It's So Baby"(Jan., 1950)#10 R&B and "Smokey Joe's Cafe"(Dec., 1955)#10 R&B.
- Late, 1955 - Carl Gardner (April 29, 1928 – ) (lead) and Bobby Nunn (1925 - Nov. 5, 1986) (bass) of The Robins formed The Coasters with Leon Hughes (tenor), Billy Guy (June 20, 1936 – ) (baritone) and Adolphe Jacobs (guitar).
- Saxophonist King Curtis (1834 - 1971) played on many of their hits.
- Famous for their novelty material, many of their hits were written by Leiber & Stoller.
- Late 1958 - Nunn was replaced by Will "Dub" Jones (1929 - Jan. 16, 2000) of The Cadets.
- 1961 - Earl "Speedy" Carroll of The Cadillacs joined the group.
- 1963 - The Coasters and Leiber & Stoller parted company and their recordings suffered.
- Hits include "Down In Mexico"(March, 1956)#8, "Searchin'"(May, 1957)#1-13 wks. R&B, #3, "Young Blood"(May, 1957)#2 R&B, #8, "Yakety Yak"(June, 1958)#1-7 wks. R&B, #1, "Charlie Brown"(Feb., 1959)#2 R&B, #2, "Along Came Jones"(May, 1959)#9, (June, 1959)#14 R&B, "Poison Ivy"(Aug., 1959)#1-4 wks. R&B, #7 and "Little Egypt" (April, 1961)#23, (June, 1961)#16 R&B.
- 1951 - R&B vocal quartet formed in Harlem, New York.
- Consisting of lead singer Daniel "Sonny" Norton, tenor Harold Major, baritone William Davis and bass Gerald Hamilton.
- 1951 - Spotted at the Amateur Night at The Apollo Theater in New York City by talent scout Cliff Martinez.
- They became the backup for singer/pianist Viola Watkins.
- June, 1953 - Released their recording of "Gee" which initially flopped.
- March, 1954 - "Gee" went to #14, (April, 1954)#2 R&B. It is considered by many to be one of the first recordings of black street corner singing to cross over into the white pop market.
- Hits include "Heartbreaker"(June, 1954), "Untrue"(Aug., 1954) and "Baby Doll"(Jan., 1955).
- 1953 - Formed originally as The Carnations at PS 139 in Harlem, New York.
- Considered to be the first R&B vocal group to perfect the art of stage choreography.
- The quintet featured the vocals of Earl "Speedy" Carroll who later joined The Coasters in 1958.
- Hits include "Speedoo"(Dec., 1955)#17, (Jan.,1956)#3 and "Peek-A -Boo"(Dec., 1958)#28, (Feb., 1959)#20 R&B.
- 1954 - Sextet formed in The Bronx, New York.
- Consisting of Carl Feaster (lead), Jimmy Keyes (tenor), William "Ricky" Edwards (bass), Floyd "Buddy" McRae (tenor), Claude Feaster (baritone) and Rupert Branker (piano).
- Also recorded as The Sh-Booms and The Chordcats.
- Their only charted hit was the classic "Sh-Boom"(July, 1954)#2 R&B, #5. The song was written by The Chords. In July of 1954, it became a #1-9 wks. hit in a cover version by the Canadian group The Crew-Cuts.
- Vocal quintet formed in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Originally called The Crazy Sounds, they later became The Moonlighters.
- Alan Freed renamed them The Moonglows.
- Featured vocalist Harvey Fuqua (July 27, 1929 – ) was the nephew of Charlie Fuqua of The Ink Spots.
- Hits include "Sincerely"(Dec., 1954)#1-2 wks. R&B and "Most Of All"(April, 1955)#5 R&B.
- 1958 - Fuqua left to form Harvey And The Moonglows which included future Motown superstar Marvin Gaye.
- Harvey And The Moonglows' only charted hit was "The Ten Commandments Of Love"(Sept., 1958)#22, (Oct., 1958)#9 R&B.
- 1952 - Vocal quintet formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Consisting of Tony Williams (April 15, 1928 - Aug. 14, 1992) (lead), David Lynch (1929 - Jan. 2, 1981) (tenor), Paul Robi (1931 - 1989) (baritone), Herbert Reed (1931 – ) (bass) and female vocalist Zola Taylor (1934 – ).
- 1954 - Auditioned for songwriter/arranger Buck Ram (Samuel Ram) (Dec. 18, 1908 - Jan. 1, 1991) who signed them immediately.
- 1955 - Ram, who also managed The Penguins wrote "Only You" for The Platters which became their first national hit (July, 1955)#1 R&B, (Oct., 1955)#5.
- July, 1956 - Their debut album, "The Platters" went to #7.
- 1956 - Appeared in the films, "The Girl Can't Help It" and "Rock Around The Clock."
- They became the most successful vocal group of the 1950's.
- Often criticized for sounding too white, the group was able to break down racial barriers with their accessible style.
- Oct., 1957 - Taylor was replaced by Helen Williams, Tony's wife.
- Aug. 10, 1959 - The four male group members were arrested in Cincinnati for having relations with four 19 year old women, three of whom were white. The scandal caused many radio stations to remove the group from their playlist. In December they were acquitted.
- Jan., 1961 - Williams went solo, replaced for the next 5 years by 21 year old Sonny Turner (Charles Turner) from Cleveland, Ohio.
- By 1965, The Platters had earned 9 gold discs.
- 1990 - The group was inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "The Great Pretender"(Dec., 1955)#1-11 wks. R&B, #1- 2 wks., "(You've Got) The Magic Touch"(March, 1956)#4, (April, 1956)#4 R&B, "My Prayer"(July, 1956)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-5 wks., "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"(Nov., 1958)#1-3 wks., (Dec., 1958)#3 R&B and "Harbour Lights"(Jan., 1960)#8, (Feb., 1960)#15 R&B.
- Henry Ballard (Nov. 18, 1927 - March 2, 2003)
- Singer/songwriter born in Detroit, Michigan.
- His birth date is most often incorrectly listed as 1936.
- 1951 - The Midnighters were originally formed as The Royals.
- 1953 - Ballard replaced lead singer Lawson Smith.
- 1954 - Became The Midnighters.
- 1959 - Became Hank Ballard & The Midnighters.
- Ballard was famous for his series of explicit songs concerning a fictitious character called Annie.
- Ballard wrote and recorded the original version of "The Twist" (April, 1959)#16 R&B, (July, 1960)#28. In 1964, Chubby Checker re-recorded it and promoted it as a dance, triggering a major dance craze (see American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - The Twist).
- 1965 - Disbanded, later reforming with different personnel.
- Ballard later performed as a part of James Brown's revue.
- 1990 - Ballard was inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- March 2, 2003 - Died from throat cancer.
- Hits include "Get It"(Aug., 1953)#6 R&B (as The Royals), "Work With Me Annie"(April, 1954)#1-7 wks. R&B, (June, 1954)#22, "Annie Had A Baby"(Sept., 1954)#1-2 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1954)#23, "Teardrops On Your Letter"(March, 1959)#4 R&B, #87, "Finger Poppin' Time"(May, 1960)#2 R&B, #7 and "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go"(Oct., 1960)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Sept., 1960)#6.
- 1955 - Vocal quintet formed as The Premiers in The Bronx, New York.
- Consisting of Frankie Lymon (Sept. 30, 1942 - Feb. 28, 1968) (lead), Sherman Garnes (June 8, 1940 - 1978) (bass), Herman Santiago (Feb. 18, 1941 – ) (tenor), Jimmy Merchant (Feb. 10, 1940 – ) (tenor) and Joe Negroni (Sept. 9, 1940 – ) (baritone).
- Discovered by Valentines lead singer Richard Barrett.
- Film appearances include, "Rock Rock Rock"(1956) and "Mr. Rock And Roll"(1957).
- Lymon's bubbly vocal style served as a major influence for the many lead vocalists of the girl group era.
- 1957 - Lymon pursued a solo career unsuccessfully.
- Feb. 28, 1968 - Lymon died of a drug overdose.
- Jan., 1993 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Why Do Fools Fall In Love"(Feb., 1956)#1-5 wks. R&B, #6, "I Want You To Be My Girl"(April, 1956)#13, (May, 1956) #3 R&B, "The ABC's Of Love"(Oct., 1956)#8 R&B, #77 and "Goody Goody"(July, 1957)#20.
- Anthony Gourdine (Jan. 8, 1940 – )
- Singer born in Brooklyn, New York.
- 1955 - Gourdine recorded with The DuPonts.
- 1957 - The quintet was originally formed in Brooklyn, New York as The Chesters, later becoming The Imperials in 1958.
- Consisting of Gourdine (lead), Tracy Lord, Ernest Wright Jr. (Aug. 24, 1939 – ), Glouster Rogers (1940 – ) and Clarence Collins (March 17, 1939 – ).
- 1963 - Lord was replaced by Sam Strain (Dec. 9, 1940 – ).
- Little Anthony possessed one of the most unique voices in the business, able to draw the listener in with his intense, dramatic tenor vocals.
- Hits include "Tears On My Pillow"(Aug., 1958)#4, (Sept., 1958)#2 R&B, "Shimmy Shimmy Ko-Ko-Bop"(Dec., 1959)#24, (Jan., 1960)#14 R&B, "I'm On The Outside Looking In"(Aug., 1964)#15 R&B, #15, "Goin' Out Of My Head"(Nov., 1964)#6, (Jan., 1965)#22 R&B and "Hurt So Bad"(Feb., 1965)#3 R&B, #10.
- Lee Andrews And The Hearts - "Long Lonely Nights"(Aug., 1957)#1 R&B, #45.
- The Cadets - "Stranded In The Jungle"(July, 1956)#4 R&B, #15.
- The Cardinals - "The Wheel Of Fortune"(March, 1952)#6 R&B.
- The Charms - "Hearts Of Stone"(Oct., 1954)#1-9 wks. R&B, (Nov., 1954)#15.
- The Cleftones - "Heart And Soul"(May, 1961)#10 R&B, #18.
- The Danleers - "One Summer Night"(June, 1958)#7, (July, 1958)#4 R&B.
- The Dubs - "Could This Be Magic"(Nov., 1957)#23.
- The Edsels - "Rama Lama Ding Dong"(May, 1961)#21.
- The Five Keys - "The Glory Of Love"(Aug., 1951)#1-4 wks. R&B.
- The "5" Royales - "Help Me Somebody"(May, 1953)#1-5 wks. R&B.
- The Five Satins - "In The Still Of The Night"(Sept., 1956)#3 R&B, #24.
- The Flamingos - "I Only Have Eyes For You"(June, 1959)#3 R&B, #11.
- The Gladiolas - "Little Darlin'"(April, 1957)#11 R&B, #47.
- The Heartbeats - "A Thousand Miles Away"(Nov., 1956)#5 R&B, (Dec., 1956)#53.
- The Jewels - "Hearts Of Stone"(Aug., 1954).
- The Jive Bombers - "Bad Boy"(March, 1957)#7 R&B.
- The Marcels - "Blue Moon"(March, 1961)#1-2 wks. R&B, #1-3 wks.
- The Olympics - "Western Movies"(July, 1958)#8, (Aug., 1958)#7 R&B.
- The Penguins - "Earth Angel"(Dec., 1954)#1-3 wks. R&B, #8.
- The Rays - "Silhouettes"(Oct., 1957)#3 R&B, #3.
- The Shields - "You Cheated"(Aug., 1958)#12, (Sept., 1958)#11 R&B.
- Shep & The Limelites - "Daddy's Home"(March, 1961)#2, (April, 1961) #4 R&B.
- The Silhouettes - "Get A Job"(Jan., 1958)#1-6 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks.
- The Spaniels - "Goodnite Sweetheart Goodnite"(May, 1954)#5 R&B, (June, 1954)#24.
- The Swallows - "Will You Be Mine"(Aug., 1951)#9 R&B.
- The Vocaleers - "Is It A Dream?"(May, 1953)#4 R&B.
- Maurice Williams & The Zodiacs - "Stay"(Sept., 1960)#3 R&B, (Oct., 1960)#1.
- The Willows - "Church Bells May Ring"(April, 1956)#11 R&B, #62.
Probably the most important venue ever in the history of African-American music, the world famous Apollo has featured almost every major black artist from Bessie Smith to James Brown. Built in 1913 as Hurtig & Seamon's New Burlesque Theatre, the two balconied venue with seating for two thousand was originally a white vaudeville house. In 1935, when the neighbourhood had become predominantly black, Frank Shiffman and Leo Brecher turned the theatre into a showcase for black talent.
The Apollo was famous for its Amateur Nights and its highly critical audiences. Situated at 253 W. 125th St., New York City, the theatre was instrumental in furthering the careers of the great many R&B pioneers who burst upon the scene in the early 1950's.
In the late 1970's, The Apollo was closed down, re-opening in the 1980's and continuing to flourish as "the" temple of modern black music. On June 29, 1983, the building was designated a New York landmark.
- (July 8, 1908 - Feb. 4, 1975)
- Singer/saxophonist/bandleader born in Brinkley, Arkansas.
- 1929 - Began his recording career with The Jungle Band.
- During the 1930's, he worked with pianist Clarence Williams and performed with Charlie Gaines' and Joe Marshall's bands.
- 1936-1938 - Worked with Chick Webb's band.
- 1938 - Formed his revolutionary combo The Tympany Five.
- Pioneered the transition from swing and boogie to R&B. His rhythmic style had a great influence on the course of modern music.
- Nicknamed "The Father Of Modern R&B."
- Appeared in the films, "Junior Prom"(1946) and "Look Out Sister" (1949).
- 1974 - Appeared at The Newport Jazz Festival.
- Hits include "What's The Use Of Getting Sober"(Nov., 1942)#1 R&B, "G.I. Jive"(April, 1944)#1-6 wks. R&B, (May, 1944)#1-2 wks., "Caldonia"(May, 1945)#1-7 wks. R&B, (June, 1945)#6, "Stone Cold Dead In The Market (He Had It Coming)"(June, 1946)#1-5 wks. R&B, (July, 1946)#7 (with Ella Fitzgerald), "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie" (Aug., 1946)#1-18 wks. R&B, #7, "Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens"(Dec., 1946)#1-17 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1947)#6 and "Saturday Night Fish Fry"(Oct., 1949)#1-12 wks. R&B, #21.
- (Aug. 24, 1915 - June 14, 1969)
- Singer/drummer/dancer born in Omaha, Nebraska.
- Originally a tap dancer and comedian.
- 1940 - Moved to Los Angeles, California.
- 1944 - Became the singer for The Lucky Millinder Band and had his first hit with "Who Threw The Whiskey In The Well."
- 1945 - Moved back to the West Coast and went solo.
- 1947 - Organized The Wynonie Harris All Stars which included trumpeter Hot Lips Page and tenor saxman Dexter Gordon.
- Dec., 1947-1957 - Recorded for King Records.
- Nicknamed "Mr. Blues."
- Considered by many to be one of the finest blues shouters in the tradition of Roy Brown and Joe Turner.
- Claimed that Elvis Presley stole his sneer and hip shake.
- Late 1950's - Retired to become a cafe owner.
- 1967 - Enjoyed a brief comeback.
- June 14, 1969 - Died of a heart attack in Oakland, California.
- Hits include "Wynonie's Blues"(Jan., 1946)#3 R&B, "Good Rockin' Tonight"(May, 1948)#1 R&B, "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee"(May, 1949)#4 R&B, "All She Wants To Do Is Rock"(Aug., 1949)#1-2 wks. R&B, "Bloodshot Eyes"(Aug., 1951)#6 R&B and "Lovin' Machine" (Jan., 1952)#5 R&B.
- (Sept. 10, 1925 - May 25, 1981)
- Singer/songwriter born in New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Part black, part Native American (his mother was an Algonquin Indian).
- 1937 - Age 12, formed the gospel group The Rookie Four.
- 1942 - Moved to Los Angeles, California to work as a boxer.
- 1945 - Began his professional singing career.
- He is considered to be one of the originators of New Orleans R&B.
- Writer of the classic "Good Rockin' Tonight"(June, 1948)#13 R&B which was later recorded by Wynonie Harris, Elvis Presley, Pat Boone and numerous others.
- 1949-1952 - Won The Metronome Award for the most-booked band in the U.S for 4 consecutive years.
- 1952-1955 - Signed to the King label.
- Formed his own Friendship label.
- 1970 - He was a great success at The Monterey Jazz Festival.
- Brown was a great influence on soul singer Jackie Wilson.
- May 25, 1981 - Died in Los Angeles, California of heart failure triggered by an insulin reaction.
- Hits include "Long About Midnight"(Oct., 1948)#1 R&B, "Rockin' At Midnight"(March, 1949)#2 R&B, "Boogie At Midnight"(Nov., 1949)#3 R&B, "Hard Luck Blues"(June, 1950)#1-3 wks. R&B and "Let The Four Winds Blow"(May, 1957)#5 R&B, (July, 1957)#29.
- Benjamin Jackson (1919 - July 31, 1989)
- Singer/saxophonist/clarinetist/violinist born in Cleveland, Ohio.
- 1943 - Joined Lucky Millinder's band, later replacing Wynonie Harris as vocalist.
- 1947 - Formed his own band with Millinder sidemen. The new band was named Bull Moose Jackson & His Buffalo Bearcats.
- Hits include "I Love You, Yes I Do"(Nov., 1947)#21, (Dec., 1947) #1-3 wks. R&B, "I Can't Go On Without You"(July, 1948)#1-8 wks. R&B and "Why Don't You Haul Off And Love Me"(Oct., 1949)#2 R&B.
- Aug., 1961 - His re-recorded version of "I Love You Yes I Do" went to #10 R&B, (Sept., 1961)#98.
BIG JOE TURNER
- Ray Charles Robinson (Sept. 23, 1930 – )
- Singer/songwriter/pianist/bandleader born in Albany, Georgia.
- 1937 - Age 7, completely blind due to Glaucoma.
- By age 15, he was an orphan.
- 1937-1945 - Studied classical piano and clarinet at The State School For Blind And Deaf Children in St. Augustine, Florida.
- 1947 - Formed his own band.
- 1948 - Moved to Seattle, Washington where he formed The McSon Trio, also known as The Maxim Trio.
- He later began singing and playing a mixture of jazz, gospel and R&B.
- Signed with Atlantic Records, forming a 16 piece band and a female vocal group called The Raeletts (sometimes spelled Raelettes).
- His emotional, aching vocal style became a model for future singers including Joe Cocker and Steve Winwood.
- Jan., 1955 - His recording of "I Got A Woman" went to #1 R&B.
- 1960 - Signed with ABC Paramount Records.
- 1962 - His landmark album, "Modern Sounds In Country And Western" astonished critics yet became a million seller, crossing over into all charts. Charles had loved country music since his childhood. His experimentation with country by adding lush string arrangements and choral accompaniment contributed to the birth of the term "countrypolitan."
- 1964 - Arrested on drug charges, taking over a year to overcome a heroin addiction.
- 1965-1973 - Recorded 10 albums on his own Tangerine label, distributed by ABC.
- 1973-1977 - Recorded with the Crossover label.
- 1976 - Recorded an album of "Porgy And Bess" material with Cleo Laine.
- 1979 - His autobiography, "Brother Ray" was published.
- June, 1980 - Appeared in the film, "The Blues Brothers."
- Jan. 23, 1986 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- March 2, 1988 - Received The Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award.
- Charles, a true genius, defies pigeon-holing by constantly experimenting and expanding musical boundaries.
- Hits include "A Fool For You"(July, 1955)#1 R&B, "Hallelujah I Love Her So"(June, 1956)#5 R&B, "(Night Time Is) The Right Time" (Jan., 1959)#5 R&B, (Feb., 1959)#95, "What'd I Say (Part 1)" (July, 1959)#1 R&B, #6, "Georgia On My Mind"(Sept., 1960)#3 R&B, #1, "One Mint Julep"(March, 1961)#1 R&B, #8, "Hit The Road Jack" (Sept., 1961)#1-5 wks. R&B, #1-2 wks., "Unchain My Heart"(Nov., 1961)#9, (Dec., 1961)#1-2 wks. R&B, "I Can't Stop Loving You" (May, 1962)#1-10 wks. R&B, #1-5 wks. and "Crying Time"(Dec., 1965)#6, (Jan., 1966)#5 R&B.
- (1921 - Jan. 21, 1999)
- Singer/pianist born in Texas City, Texas.
- Taught at Carver High School in Baytown, Texas.
- 1943 - Moved to Los Angeles, California where he joined Johnny Moore's Three Blazers in 1944, consisting of Brown on vocals and piano, Moore on guitar and Eddie Williams on bass.
- Feb., 1946 - Their recording of "Drifting Blues" went to #2 R&B.
- 1946 - They were voted Best R&B Trio by both Billboard and Cashbox.
- 1949 - Went solo.
- 1947 - Recorded his classic "Merry Christmas Baby."
- 1948 - Formed his own band.
- 1960 - Signed with King Records.
- Brown preferred to call himself a "blue ballad singer."
- A drastically overlooked pioneer artist in the R&B field.
- During the 1990's, he toured as the opening act for Bonnie Raitt.
- Jan. 21, 1999 - Died of congestive heart failure.
- March 15, 1999 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame."
- Hits include "Get Yourself Another Fool"(Feb., 1949)#4 R&B, "Trouble Blues"(April, 1949)#1-15 wks. R&B, "In The Evening When The Sun Goes Down"(Aug., 1949)#4 R&B, "Black Night"(Feb., 1951) #1-14 wks. R&B, "Seven Long Days"(Oct., 1951)#2 R&B and "Please Come Home For Christmas"(Dec., 1960)#21 R&B, (Dec., 1961)#76.
JAMES BROWN
- Clyde Lensley McPhatter (Nov. 15, 1932 - June 13, 1972)
- Singer born in Durham, North Carolina.
- Son of a Baptist minister.
- 1947 - Formed the gospel group, The Mount Lebanon Singers.
- 1950-1953 - Lead singer for Billy Ward & The Dominoes.
- 1953-1954 - Lead singer of The Drifters.
- 1954-1956 - Served in the army.
- 1956 - Went solo.
- McPhatter's distinctive mellow tenor voice was a considerable influence on later artists.
- Recordings after 1962 were unsuccessful.
- June 13, 1972 - Died of a heart attack in Tea Neck, New Jersey.
- 1987 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Seven Days"(Jan., 1956)#2 R&B, (Feb., 1956)#44, "Treasure Of Love"(May, 1956)#1 R&B, #16, "Long Lonely Nights" (Aug., 1957)#1 R&B, #49, "A Lover's Question"(Oct., 1958)#1 R&B, #6, "Ta Ta"(July, 1960)#23, (Aug., 1960)#7 R&B and "Lover Please" (March, 1962)#7.
- (Jan. 31, 1928 - April 10, 1958)
- Singer/songwriter born in Atlanta, Georgia.
- 1946 - Began as vocalist for the bands of Ron Mays and Red McAllister in Atlanta.
- 1951 - First recorded for the Columbia subsidiary label Okeh.
- Called himself "The Sheik Of The Blues."
- April, 1956 - Signed with Atlantic Records.
- 1957 - Dubbed "The King Of The Stroll" after his recording of "C. C. Rider" (considered to be the perfect stroll dance record) became a hit.
- Wrote "Oh What A Dream" for Patti Page, "Let Me Explain" for The Cadillacs, "Close Your Eyes" for The Five Keys and "The Door Is Still Open" for Dean Martin.
- His "It's Too Late" was later recorded by Buddy Holly and Otis Redding.
- April 10, 1958 - Died of peritonitis at The Hugh Spalding Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia.
- Hits include "My Story"(Oct., 1952)#2 R&B, "It's Too Late"(July, 1956)#3 R&B, "Juanita"(Nov., 1956)#7 R&B, "C. C. Rider"(April, 1957)#1-2 wks. R&B, #12, "What Am I Living For"(April, 1958)#9, (May, 1958)#1 R&B and "Hang Up My Rock And Roll Shoes"(April, 1958)#24, (June, 1958)#9 R&B.
BOBBY "BLUE" BLAND
- Johnny Ace - "Pledging My Love"(Jan., 1955)#1-10 wks. R&B, (Feb., 1955)#17.
- Gene Allison - "You Can Make It If You Try"(Dec., 1957)#3 R&B, #36.
- Jesse Belvin - "Guess Who?"(March, 1959)#31, (April, 1959)#7 R&B.
- Eddie Boyd - "Five Long Years"(Oct., 1952)#1-7 wks. R&B.
- Nappy Brown - "Little By Little"(Jan., 1957)#57.
- Floyd Dixon - "Telephone Blues"(Jan., 1951)#4 R&B.
- Roy Hamilton - "You'll Never Walk Alone"(Jan., 1954)#21, (Feb., 1954)#1-8 wks. R&B.
- Screamin' Jay Hawkins - "I Put A Spell On You"(Feb., 1956).
- Clarence "Frogman" Henry - "Ain't Got No Home"(Dec., 1956)#3 R&B, #20.
- Ivory Joe Hunter - "I Almost Lost My Mind"(Jan., 1950)#1-5 wks. R&B.
- Joe Liggins & The Honeydrippers - "Honeydripper"(Aug., 1945)#1-18 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1945)#13.
- Willie Mabon - "Poison Ivy"(Dec., 1954)#7 R&B.
- Jimmy McCracklin - "The Walk"(Feb., 1958)#7, (March, 1958)#5 R&B.
- Johnny Otis - "Willie And The Hand Jive"(June, 1958)#3 R&B, #9.
- Huey "Piano" Smith & The Clowns - "Rockin' Pneumonia"(July, 1957) #5 R&B, (Aug., 1957)#52.
- Ruth Weston (Jan. 30, 1928 – )
- Singer/actress born in Portsmouth, Virginia.
- Sang spirituals in The Emmanuel A.M.E. Church under her father's direction.
- During World War II, sang at various soldiers' clubs in Virginia.
- 1944 - Joined Lucky Millinder's band.
- 1945 - Married trumpeter Johnny Brown.
- 1949 - Signed by Herb Abramson to Atlantic Records.
- During the early 1950's, Brown became Atlantic's top selling artist. One particular catch phrase was "Atlantic - the label Ruth built."
- Nicknamed "Miss Rhythm."
- Managed by Blanche Calloway (Cab Calloway's sister).
- 1953-1954 - Toured with Count Basie and Billy Eckstine.
- In the mid 1960's, retired to raise a family.
- Later, she appeared in various TV sitcoms including "Hello Larry" and "Checkin' In."
- Film appearances include "Under The Rainbow"(1981) and "Hairspray"(1988).
- In the 1980"s, made a triumphant comeback in the Broadway show, "Black And Blue."
- 1993 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "So Long"(Sept., 1949)#4 R&B, "Teardrops From My Eyes"(Oct., 1950)#1 R&B, "5-10-15 Hours"(April, 1952)#1 R&B, "(Mama) He Treats Your Daughter Mean"(Feb., 1953)#1 R&B, (March, 1953)#23, "Lucky Lips"(Feb., 1957)#6 R&B and "This Little Girl's Gone Rockin'"(Sept., 1958)#24, (Oct., 1958)#7 R&B.
- Delores Williams (Nov. 11, 1929 - March 10, 1997)
- Singer born in Chicago, Illinois.
- Also known as Bea Baker.
- Nicknamed "Little Miss Sharecropper."
- 1952-1953 - Worked with The Todd Rhodes Orchestra.
- 1953 - Signed with Atlantic Records.
- By the mid 1950's, she was one of the most commercially successful R&B artists of the period.
- She is reputed to have taught Johnnie Ray to sing the blues.
- Her backup group was The Gliders.
- 1957 - Appeared in the film, "Rock Rock Rock."
- Her career waned with the coming of soul music.
- 1991 - Became the second woman to be inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- 1995 - Lost both legs to diabetes.
- Hits include "Tweedlee Dee"(Jan., 1955)#4 R&B, #14, "Jim Dandy" (Dec., 1956)#1 R&B, #17, "I Cried A Tear"(Dec., 1958)#2 R&B, #16, "Bumble Bee"(Nov., 1960)#46, "Saved"(April, 1961)#37, (May, 1961) #17 R&B and "See See Rider"(Dec., 1962)#9 R&B, #34.
- Jamesetta Hawkins (Jan. 25, 1938 – )
- Singer born in Los Angeles, California.
- Charismatic artist capable of singing blues, R&B, soul, jazz, rock and pop.
- 1953 - Age 15, formed a vocal trio with Abbye and Jean Mitchell.
- Feb., 1955 - Her solo recording of "Roll With Me Henry" went to #1 R&B. Often titled "The Wallflower," the song was written as an answer to Hank Ballard's "Work With Me Annie." Later, Georgia Gibbs had a huge hit covering it as "Dance With Me Henry."
- 1959 - Began her 15 year association with the Argo subsidiary of Chess Records.
- Nicknamed "Miss Peaches."
- A survivor of heroin addiction, James remains one of the earthiest, most powerful artists in the business.
- 1987 - Appeared in the Chuck Berry film documentary, "Hail Hail Rock And Roll."
- 1995 - Released her autobiography, "Rage To Live."
- Hits include "Good Rockin' Daddy"(Nov., 1955)#6 R&B, "At Last" (Jan., 1961)#2 R&B, #47, "Trust In Me"(March, 1961)#30, (April, 1961)#4 R&B, "Pushover"(April, 1963)#25, (May, 1963)#7 R&B, "Tell Mama"(Nov., 1967)#10 R&B, #23 and the classic "I'd Rather Go Blind"(Nov., 1967).
- Other classic tracks include "Leave Your Hat On" and "Burn Down The Cornfield."
- Recommended track - "Beware" from the 1990 album, "Stickin' To My Guns."
- Mabel Louise Smith (May 1, 1924 - Jan. 23, 1972)
- Singer/pianist born in Jackson, Tennessee.
- A big woman with a vocal style in the tradition of Bessie Smith.
- Began with The Dave Clark Band in Memphis, Tennessee, later joining The Sweethearts Of Rhythm all girl band.
- 1944 - Recorded with The Christine Chatman Orchestra.
- 1947 - Her first solo records appeared on the King label.
- 1953 - Began recording for Okeh.
- 1956 - Signed with the Savoy label.
- 1959 - Appeared in the film, "Jazz On A Summer's Day" which captured the performances at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival.
- Often dubbed "The Mother Of Soul."
- Jan. 23, 1972 - Died in Cleveland, Ohio during a diabetic coma.
- Hits include "Gabbin' Blues"(Jan., 1953)#3 R&B, "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On"(March, 1955), "Candy"(June, 1956)#11 R&B and "96 Tears"(Jan., 1967)#23 R&B, #96.
BIG MAMA THORNTON
- Faye Tuell
- Singer from Newark, New Jersey.
- Also recorded as Faye Scruggs.
- Age 5 - Joined her 2 sisters as The Tuell Sisters.
- 1942 - Married Tommy Scruggs.
- 1952 - Joined The Joe Morris Cavalcade.
- Because of her big gospel sound, she was later tagged "Atomic Adams."
- Hits include "Shake A Hand"(Aug., 1953)#1-10 wks. R&B (Oct., 1953)#22, "I'll Be True"(Dec., 1953)#1 R&B and "Hurts Me To My Heart"(Aug., 1954)#1-5 wks. R&B.
- Esther Mae Jones (Dec. 23, 1935 - Aug. 7, 1984)
- Singer/multi-instrumentalist born in Galveston, Texas.
- Influenced by Dinah Washington.
- 1940 - Moved to Los Angeles, California.
- 1949 - Began recording with Johnny Otis, touring with his show from 1950 to 1953.
- Became known as Little Esther.
- The youngest female ever to have a #1 R&B hit.
- 1954-1962 - Inactive in music, recording briefly in 1956 and 1959.
- 1962 - Started using the professional name Esther Phillips.
- 1963 - Signed with Atlantic Records.
- 1966 - Appeared at The Newport Jazz Festival.
- 1966-1969 - Underwent drug rehabilitation.
- Aug. 7, 1984 - Died of liver and kidney failure in Los Angeles, California.
- Hits include "Double Crossing Blues"(Feb., 1950)#1-9 wks. R&B, "Mistrustin' Blues"(April, 1950)#1-4 wks. R&B, "Cupid's Boogie" (June, 1950)#1 R&B, "Release Me"(Nov., 1962)#1-3 wks. R&B, (Oct., 1962)#8 and "What A Difference A Day Makes"(July, 1975)#10 R&B, (Aug., 1975)#20.
- Antoine Domino (Feb. 26, 1928 – )
- Singer/songwriter/pianist born in New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Cites Fats Waller and Albert Ammons as his major influences.
- 1938 - Age 10, began playing local roadhouses.
- 1945 - Joined Billy Diamond's band.
- 1949 - Joined trumpeter Dave Bartholemew's band. Bartholomew (Dec. 24, 1920 – ) later became his song writing partner.
- 1949 - Formed his own band and was signed by Lew Chudd to Imperial Records.
- Written and recorded in 1949, Domino's classic "The Fat Man" (Feb., 1950)#2 R&B is considered by many critics to be the very first rock and roll recording.
- His understated vocal style and big full piano sound made him a sure bet on both the pop and R&B charts.
- May, 1955 - His recording of "Ain't That A Shame" went to #1 R&B, (July, 1955)#10. It was covered by pop singer Pat Boone.
- Nov., 1955 - Released his debut album, "Carry On Rockin'."
- 1957 - Voted R&B Personality Of The Year.
- Film appearances include "Shake Rattle And Rock"(1956), "The Girl Can't Help It"(1956), "The Big Beat"(1957) and "Jamboree"(1957).
- April, 1963 - Left Imperial to sign with ABC Paramount.
- Domino once stated that what was later called rock and roll, he had been playing 15 years previous as R&B.
- Jan. 23, 1986 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- By the 1990's, he had amassed 20 gold discs and his record sales had exceeded 60 million.
- Nov. 5, 1998 - Awarded The National Medal Of The Arts from President Clinton at The White House.
- Hits include "Goin' Home"(April, 1952)#1 R&B, (June, 1952)#30, "I'm In Love Again"(April, 1956)#1-9 wks. R&B, #3, "Blueberry Hill"(Oct., 1956)#1-11 wks. R&B, #2, "Blue Monday"(Dec., 1956)#1- 8 wks. R&B, (Jan., 1957)#5, "I'm Walkin'"(March, 1957)#1-6 wks. R&B, #4, "Wait And See"(Oct., 1957)#23, (Nov., 1957)#7 R&B, "Whole Lotta Loving"(Nov., 1958)#2 R&B, #6, "I Want To Walk You Home"(Aug., 1959)#1 R&B, #8, "Walking To New Orleans"(June, 1960) #6, (July, 1960)#2 R&B and "Let The Four Winds Blow"(July, 1961) #2 R&B, #15.
- Charles Edward Anderson Berry (Oct. 18, 1926 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in St. Louis, Missouri.
- 1932 - Sang in The Antioch Baptist Church choir.
- 1944 - Convicted of armed robbery.
- Later, worked as a hairdresser.
- During the early 1950's, he led a trio in St. Louis featuring pianist Johnny Johnson.
- May, 1955 - Recorded his classic "Maybellene"(Aug., 1955)#1-11 wks. R&B, #5. It had originally been titled "Ida Red."
- He introduced his famous "duck walk" at an Alan Freed show at The Paramount Theatre in Brooklyn, New York.
- Berry was the definitive rock and roll guitarist.
- Dec. 21, 1959 - Berry brought a 14 year old girl from Texas to work at his own club in St. Louis. He was arrested for violation of The Mann Act.
- Feb. 19, 1962 - After 2 trials, he was sentenced to 2 years in The Terre Haute Penitentiary in Indiana. He was released 22 months later.
- May, 1964 - First European tour.
- Aug., 1972 - After a considerable dry spell, Berry enjoyed a brief comeback with a ridiculous little ditty titled "My Ding-A- Ling." It went to #1-2 wks. and hit #42 R&B in Sept., 1972.
- Aug., 1979 - Spent time in The Lompoc Prison Camp for tax evasion.
- Jan., 1986 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Feb., 1987 - The Berry documentary, "Hail Hail Rock And Roll" was released. It was spearheaded by Keith Richards.
- Berry set the standards for all rock guitarists. His riffs have been plundered ad infinitum.
- Hits include "Roll Over Beethoven"(June, 1956)#2 R&B, #29, "School Day"(April, 1957)#1-5 wks. R&B, #3, "Rock And Roll Music" (Nov., 1957)#6 R&B, #8, "Sweet Little Sixteen"(Feb., 1958)#1-3 wks. R&B, #2, "Johnny B. Goode"(April, 1958)#8, (May, 1958)#2 R&B, "Carol"(Aug., 1958)#18, (Sept., 1958)#9 R&B, "Almost Grown" (March, 1959)#32, (April, 1959)#3 R&B and "No Particular Place To Go"(May, 1964)#10 R&B, #10.
- Richard Wayne Penniman (Dec. 25, 1935 – )
- Singer/songwriter/pianist/actor born in Macon, Georgia.
- Learned to play piano and organ.
- 1949 - He became the soloist at a local church in Macon.
- 1950 - Began singing and dancing, selling herb tonic in medicine shows.
- First billed as Little Richard when he sang with the B. Brown Orchestra.
- Later, worked as a dishwasher.
- 1951 - Won a talent contest in Atlanta, Georgia.
- His first contract with Victor was a failure.
- 1952 - Joined The Temple Toppers who recorded for Peacock Records.
- Later, joined The Upsetters.
- Nov., 1955 - His recording of "Tutti Frutti" went to #2 R&B, (Jan., 1956)#17.
- 1956 - Appeared in the films, "Don't Knock The Rock" and "The Girl Can't Help It."
- 1958 - Quit show business to enter The Oakwood Adventurist College Of Religious Studies.
- 1960 - Returned to music.
- 1961 - Began recording gospel music to the dismay of his fans.
- By 1968, his disc sales had totalled over 32 million with "Tutti Frutti" alone selling 3 million.
- Adopting a more flamboyant look and attitude, he enjoyed a successful comeback in the late 1960's.
- 1986 - His recording of "Great God Almighty" was featured on the soundtrack of the hit movie, "Down And Out In Beverly Hills."
- Notoriously homosexual, he has vacillated between religion and show business all of his life.
- Definitely the most influential and copied male vocalist of the rock era. His inspired fusion of gospel and zesty blues shouting combined with sly double entendres made him a true original. Famous for his boisterous whoops and hollers.
- Unfortunately, he has never received the accolades he so richly deserves.
- 1986 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Long Tall Sally"(April, 1956)#1-8 wks. R&B, #6, "Rip It Up"(June, 1956)#1-2 wks. R&B, (July, 1956)#17, "Lucille" (March, 1957)#1-2 wks. R&B, #21, "Jenny Jenny"(June, 1957)#2 R&B, #10, "Keep A Knockin'"(Sept., 1957)#2 R&B, #8 and "Good Golly Miss Molly"(Feb., 1958)#4 R&B, #10.
- Otha Ellas Bates McDaniel (Dec. 30, 1928 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in McComb, Mississippi.
- In his teens, studied violin and trained to be a boxer.
- 1935 - Moved to Chicago, Illinois.
- 1951 - Teamed with harmonica player Billy Boy Arnold.
- June, 1955 - Began recording on the Chess label.
- His stage name was derived from the African expression, "bo diddley" designating a stringed musical instrument.
- His guitar style features a heavy thumping rhythmic blast to the ear, repetitive and aggressive.
- Critics often compare his sound to a southern rhythmic music form known as "hambone."
- 1958 - Began designing unique odd shaped guitars.
- 1962 - Guitarist Norma Jean Wofford (later known as "The Duchess") joined his act. It was said that she was his half sister yet they really were not related.
- April, 1976 - After the demise of Chess, he was signed to RCA.
- 1987 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Bo Diddley"(May, 1955)#1-2 wks. R&B, "Diddley Daddy"(July, 1955)#11 R&B, "Pretty Thing"(Jan., 1956)#4 R&B, "Say Man"(Sept., 1959)#3 R&B, #20, "Road Runner"(Feb., 1960)#75, (April, 1960)#20 R&B and "You Can't Judge A Book By The Cover" (Aug., 1962)#21 R&B, #48.
By the mid 1950's, R&B had blended with hillbilly music and western swing, giving birth to rock and roll. Later, R&B itself began splintering into several new factions including the more gospel oriented style called soul, the satin smooth commercial sounds of Motown, and in the years to follow, disco, funk, hip hop and rap.
Black music strived to become increasingly more black as the century progressed and by the late 1980's, the effect was astonishingly tribal, coming full circle back to its African roots. The black community was flaunting a new found pride in the strength and purity of its music.
ALSO SEE
- Chapter 5: The Blues
- Chapter 17: Rock And Roll
- Chapter 21: The Girl Groups
- Chapter 22: Motown
- Chapter 23: Soul
- Chapter 32: Disco
- Chapter 35: Funk And The New R&B
- Chapter 36: Rap
- Chapter 37: Eighties Revue
- Chapter 38: The Nineties And Beyond
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