Developed from various sources (see below) by Dik de Heer over a period of two decades at the rock ’n’ roll newsgroup ‘Shakin’ All Over’, and formerly hosted on-line by Henk Gorter, the files have been recently updated, but the authors are always interested to hear of any omissions or errors.
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Primary online sources :
Praguefrank’s Country Music discographies:
45cat.com (for release dates)
Terry Gordon’s RCS site:
John Klompenhouwer’s “706 Union Avenue” site for Sun material:
https://www.706unionavenue.nl/86140931
Marv Goldberg’s R&B Notebooks (especially for some images used):
Write to Dik de Heer at: dik.de.heer@ziggo.nl
January 4, 1954 : EARL PETERSON records his only single for the Sun label, "Boogie Blues"/"In the Dark" (Sun 197), released on February 20. The label credit goed to "Earl Peterson, Michigan's Singing Cowboy". Two other songs are recorded, "Nothing To Lose But My Heart" and "I'm Leaving My Heart Up To You", which stay in the vaults until 1986, when Bear Family issues the box-set "The Sun Country Years, 1950-1959" (BFX 15211). Peterson will re-record "Boogie Blues" for Columbia in October 1954. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis.
January 4, 1954 : On this day ELVIS PRESLEY also visits the Memphis Recording Service to cut a ten-inch acetate disc for his own enjoyment, or possibly for a girlfriend. "I'll Never Stand In Your Way" eventually gets a commercial release in 1999, on the CD "Sunrise Elvis Presley" (RCA BMG 07863 67675 2-2-4). The other side, "It Wouldn't Be the Same (Without You)" is first released in 1997, on the CD "Platinum - A Life In Music" (RCA BMG 07863 67469 2-1). Elvis is backed by his own acoustic guitar. Marcus Van Story was present at the session and probably contributes some guitar licks. Produced by Sam Phillips.
January 5, 1954 : SMOKEY HOGG records seven songs in Los Angeles. Two singles will be released : "Tear Me Down"/"When I've Been Drinking" (Imperial 5269, February) and "Train Whistle"/"My Baby's Gone" (Imperial 5290, June). Unissued from this session are "I Gotta Ride", "Peace Of Mind" and "Oo Oo Wee".
January 5, 1954 : SLIM WHITMAN cuts four tracks in Tampa, Florida. "We Stood At the Altar" will become the B-side of his big hit "Rose Marie" (recorded on March 1, 1954), released in April on Imperial 8236. Three other tracks will get their first release on the LP "Slim Whitman And His Singing Guitar, Vol. 2" (London HAU 2015, UK) in 1956 : "There's A Love Knot In My Lariat" (also a UK single, London HLU 8350, December 1956), "Too Late Now" and "I Leave the Milky Way". Produced by Lew Chudd.
January 6, 1954 : SKEETS McDONALD does an afternoon session at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood. "Remember You're Mine" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Capitol 2774, March, c/w "I Love You, Mama Mia" from a session on February 25, 1954). "Your Love Is Like A Faucet" is the subsequent single (Capitol 2885, August, c/w "But I Do", also from the February session). "I Love You, I Love You, I Love You" is first issued on the LP "Rockin' Rockin' Skeets McDonald" (Bear Family BFX 15191) in 1986 and "You Talk About Me, I'll Talk About You" on the box-set "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes" (Bear Family BCD 15937) in 1998. Personnel : Billy Strange, Jimmy Bryant (guitars) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Allan J. Williams (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Harold Hensley (fiddle) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
January 6, 1954 : The backing musicians on the session above stay in the studio for an evening session of four instrumentals, credited to SPEEDY WEST and JIMMY BRYANT. "Blue Bonnet Rag", "Hop Skip And Jump", "Country Capers" and "Low Man On A Totem Pole" are first issued on an 8-track LP, "Two Guitars, Country Style" (Capitol H 520) in 1954, later (1956) on a 12-track with the same title (Capitol T 520). Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on the Skeets McDonald session.
January 7, 1954 : Four-track session by BOBBY MITCHELL at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. Selected for the new single are "Sister Lucy" and "Baby's Gone" (Imperial 5270, February). "Schoolboy Blues" will be released in April on Imperial 5282 ; the other side is "Angel Child", which was recorded on February 9, 1953. "She Couldn't Be Found" (Imperial 5309) is a September release (c/w "I'm A Young Man", also from the session on February 9, 1953). Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Gabriel Fleming (piano) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax); Earl Palmer (drums). Backing vocals by the Toppers (Lloyd Bellaire, Frank Bocage, Willie Bridges and Joseph Butler).
January 7, 1954 : MUDDY WATERS records the single "I'm Your Hoochie Coochie Man" / "She's So Pretty" in Chicago, released on Chess 1560 at the end of January. A # 3 R&B hit. Pressings exist where the A-side is titled "I'm Your Hoochie Kooche Man" or "I'm Your Hoochie Cooche Man". Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals / electric guitar) ; Jimmy Rogers (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Little Walter (harmonica) ; Elgin Evans (drums).
January 7, 1954 : This Muddy Waters session was probably a split session with JIMMY ROGERS, who records the tracks "Chicago Bound" (Chess 1574, June) and "Blues All Day Long" (Chess 1616, January 1956) on the same day. Label credit goes to "Jimmy Rogers and His Rocking Four". The B-sides, "Sloppy Drunk" and "You're the One" were recorded on April 13, 1954 and February 3, 1955 respectively. Personnel : Jimmy Rogers (vocals / guitar) ; Muddy Waters (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Henry Gray or Johnny Jones (piano) ; Little Walter (harmonica) ; Elgin Evans or Fred Below (drums).
January 8, 1954 : COY 'HOT SHOT' LOVE records a single for the Sun label : "Wolf Call Boogie"/"Harmonica Jam" (Sun 196, February 20). A third track, "Harpin' On It", will get its first release in 1996 on the box "Sun Records : The Blues Years 1950-1958" (Charly CD SUNBOX 7, CD 7), which also includes the other two songs. Personnel : Coy Love (vocals / harmonica) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Kenneth Banks (bass) ; Mose Vinson (piano) ; Houston Stokes (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis.
January 8, 1954 : In Cincinnati, Ohio, saxophonist BIG JAY McNEELY records material for two singles : “Mule Milk”/“Ice Water” (Federal 12168, February) and “Hot Cinders”/“Whipped Cream” (Federal 12179, April). Personnel : Big Jay McNeely (tenor sax) ; Bob McNeely (baritone sax) ; Cecil E. Harris (bass) ; Jimmy O’Brien (piano) ; Darnell Cole (drums). Produced by Ralph Bass.
January 10, 1954 : Second and last Chance session by THE MOONGLOWS. Six tunes are recorded, released on three singles. First issued is "Secret Love"/"Real Gone Mama" (Chance 1152, February), followed by "I Was Wrong"/"Ooh Rocking Daddy" (Chance 1156, May) and "219 Train"/"My Gal" (Chance 1161, September). The Moonglows are : Harvey Fuqua, Bobby Lester, Prentiss Barnes and Pete Graves. The lead vocals are shared between Bobby Lester and Harvey Fuqua. Backing by Red Holloway and his orchestra. Location is Chicago.
January 11, 1954 : BILLY 'THE KID' EMERSON does a four-song session for Sun Records. Sam Phillips chooses "No Teasing' Around" and "If Lovin' is Believing" for single release (Sun 195, February 20). "Hey Little Girl" is first released in 1976 on the LP "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 3 : Delta Rhythm Kings" (Charly CR 30103). "Satisfied" sees its first appearance in 1992, on the CD box "The Sun Blues Archives, Vol 4 : Way After Midnight" (CD SUN 36). Personnel : Billy Emerson (vocals / piano) ; Ike Turner (guitar) ; Jesse Knight Jr (electric bass) ; Oliver Sain (trumpet) ; Eugene Fox (tenor sax) ; Willie Sims (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis.
January 11, 1954 : ERNEST TUBB records his next two singles on this day. "Till We Two Are One"/"Jealous Loving Heart" is released in the second week of February on Decca 29020. "Your Mother, Your Darling, Your Friend"/"Baby Your Mother" follows in April (Decca 29103). The location is the Castle Studio at the Tulane Hotel in Nashville. Personnel : Grady Martin, Dickie Harris (guitars) ; Billy Byrd (steel guitar) ; Jack Drake (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
January 14, 1954 : An important session by HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters, who record the single "Work With Me Annie"/"Until I Die" (Federal 12169, February). It will spend seven weeks at the top of the R&B charts. The first pressings are credited to the group's original name, The Royals, later pressings to The Midnighters. Also laid down is "Give It Up", which will appear on Federal 12177 in April (c/w "That Woman" from a session on August 14, 1953). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Charles Sutton, Henry Booth, Sonny Woods (background vocals) ; Arthur Porter (guitar) ; Alonzo Tucker (bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Robert Darby (tenor sax) ; Robert Boswell (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan and Ralph Bass at the King studio in Cincinnati.
January 14, 1954 : One-track session by DAVE BARTHOLOMEW, who records his version of "When the Saints Go Marching In". It will be released on Imperial 5273 in February (c/w the instrumental "Texas Hop", from a session on August 26, 1953). Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet / producer) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Clarence Hall (tenor sax) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). The location is Cosimo Matassa's J&M Studio in New Orleans.
January 14, 1954 : Another Imperial session on this day, at the same location, by LITTLE SONNY JONES. He records two singles, "I Got Booted"/"Tend To Your Business Blues” (Imperial 5275, March) and "Winehead Baby"/"Going Back To the Country" (Imperial 5287, June). Backing by Dave Bartholomew and his band.
January 16, 1954 : JOHNNY BOND records "Ten Little Bottles" (a recitation), coupled with "They Got Me" and released on Columbia 21222 in February. Bond will record an extended live version of "Ten Little Bottles" in March 1962, which became a # 2 country hit when it was released as a Starday single in 1965. Recorded at Bond's Home Studio in Burbank, California.
January 18, 1954 : CHUCK MILLER is at the Capitol Recording Studio, then located at 5515 Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. He records four tracks. "Hopahoola Boogie" is released in June on Capitol 2841 (c/w "i'll Know My Love (By the Way She Talks)", recorded on February 2, 1954). "No Baby Like You"/"Rogue River Valley" is saved until July 1955 for release on Capitol 3187. Unissued from this session is "Singing' and Playin' (And Roamin')".
January 18, 1954 : Last LLOYD PRICE session before his induction into the US Army. Six songs are recorded but only "Trying To Find Someone To Love" is released at the time (Specialty 540, January 1955, c/w "Lord Lord Amen" from a session on April 16, 1953). "Oh Love" and "What A Life" see their first release in 1973, on the LP "Personality Plus" (Specialty SP 2156). "Night And Day" and "All Alone" will be included on the LP "Walkin' the Track"(Specialty LP 2163) in 1986. "Little Bea" is first issued in 1993 on the CD "Lloyd Price. Vol. 2 : Heavy Dreams" (Specialty SPCD 7047). Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Warren Bell (sax) ; Oliver Berry (drums). Produced by Lloyd Price at J&M Recording Studio in New Orleans.
January 19, 1954 : On this day GEORGE JONES undertakes his very first session, at the Jack Starns Studio in Beaumont, Texas. "No Money in This Deal"/"You're In My Heart" becomes his first release, issued on March 6 on Starday 130. The subsequent single is "Play It Cool Man, Play It Cool" (Starday 146, May 29, c/w "Wrong About You" from an April session). Two other tracks stay in the vaults for 53 years. "If You Were Mine" will eventually be released in 2007 on the Gusto CD "Early Gold Hits". "For Sale Or For Lease" also stays on the shelf until 2007, when it is included on the CD "Early Hits : The Starday Recordings" (Time/Life 19487). Personnel : George Jones (vocals / guitar) with The Western Cherokees, who are possibly Blackie Crawford (lead guitar) ; Buck Crawford (bass) ; Corlue Bordelon (steel guitar) ; Johnny Rector (unknown instrument) ; Olen 'Big Red' Hays, Kenneth 'Little Red' Hays (fiddles). Produced by Jack Starns.
January 19, 1954 : BILLY 'RED' LOVE records five songs at the Sun studio in Memphis, none of which is originally released by Sam Phillips. Three tracks will appear in 1977 on the LP "The Legendary Sun Performers : Junior Parker and Billy Love" (Charly CR 30135) : "Gee I Wish", "The News Is All Around Town" and "If You Want To Make Me Happy". "Hey Now" is first issued in 1992, on the CD "The Sun Blues Archives, Vol 4 : Way After Midnight" (Sun CD 36) and "Way After Midnight" on SUNBOX 105 in 1986 (Sun Records, The Blues Years, 1950-1956). "Personnel : Billy Love (vocals / piano) ; Charles McGown (guitar) ; Kenneth Banks (bass) ; Jewel Briscoe, Lucian Coleman, Harvey Simmons (saxophones) ; Houston Stokes (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio on 706 Union Avenue.
January 19, 1954 : THE SPIDERS have their second session for Imperial, at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Tears Begin To Flow (Sneaky Pete)" is released on Imperial 5280 in April (c/w "I'll Stop Crying", recorded on March 11, 1954). "Lost and Bewildered (Slowly Losing My Mind)" will follow in October (Imperial 5331, c/w "That's Enough" from a session on August 3, 1954). "For A Thrill" will be used as the B-side of "Bells In My Heart" (recorded on October 27, 1954, Imperial 5354) in June1955. "Mellow Mama" stays in the vaults until Bear Family issues the double CD "The Spiders - The Imperial Sessions" (BCD 15673) in 1992. The Spiders are : Chuck Carbo, Leonard 'Chick' Carbo, Joe Maxon, Mac West and Oliver Howard. Backing by Dave Bartholomew's band, including Lee Allen and Earl Palmer. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 20, 1954 : BIG MAYBELLE cuts four numbers in New York City. "I've Got A Feeling"/"You'll Never Know" is her next single (OKeh 7026), released in April. "My Big Mistake" is the subsequent single (OKeh 7042, October, c/w "I'm Gettin' 'Long Alright" from a session on March 2, 1954). The fourth track from this session, "No Troubles Out Of Me", is first issued on the double LP "Big Maybelle - The OKeh Sessions" (Charly R&B CDX 27, UK) in 1983. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Paul Ricci (alto sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Joe Wilder (trumpet) ; Jimmy Crawford (drums). Arranged and conducted by Danny Mendelsohn. Produced by Fred Mendelsohn.
January 21, 1954 : Five-track session by ROY ACUFF at the Castle Studio in Nashville. First released is "I Closed My Heart's Door" (Capitol 2820, May, c/w "Sunshine Special", recorded on Dcember 2, 1953 ). "I'm Planting A Rose" and "Streamline Heartbreaker" are coupled for release on Capitol 2901 in September. "Please Daddy Forgive Me" and "River of Crystal" will appear as LP tracks in 1964 and 1965 respectively. Personnel : Lonnie Wilson, Jess Easterly (guitars) ; Brother Oswald (dobro / banjo/ harmony vocals) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Jimmy Riddle (harmonica) ; Howdy Forrester (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
January 25, 1954 : JOHNNY ACE does a five-track session with the Johnny Otis band in Los Angeles. It will yield his biggest hit, "Pledging My Love" (Duke 136, December) : # 1 R&B for 10 weeks, also # 17 pop. Unfortunately, Johnny will not live to see this success, as he accidentally kills himself on December 24, 1954. The B-side is "No Money", from the last session before his death, held in November. Prior to this release, Duke issues the single "You've Been Gone So Long" (Duke 128, April, the B-side of the # 6 R&B hit "Please Forgive Me", probably recorded on January 28, 1953). Also recorded on January 25 (and the early hours of January 26) is "Anymore", which will come out in July 1955 and will peak at # 7 on the R&B charts (Duke 144). Its flip is "How Can You Be So Mean", recorded in July 1954. "So Lonely" is a January 1956 release (Duke 148, B-side of "I'm Crazy Baby”, also from the July session). Finally, "I Still Love You So" is another posthumous release, in August 1956 (Duke 154, again coupled with a track from the July session, "Don't You Know"). On most of these five singles, the accompaniment is wrongly credited to the Johnny Board Orchestra (instead of Johnny Otis). Personnel : Johnny Ace (vocals / piano) ; Pete Lewis (guitar) ' Albert Winston (bass) ; James Von Streeter (tenor sax) ; Johnny Otis (vibes / producer) ; Leard Bell (drums).
January 28, 1954 : The gospel group THE JONES BROTHERS records five tracks for Sun Records. "Look To Jesus"/"Every Night" is saved until January 8, 1955, for release on Sun 213. "I'm Sealed" is eventually released in 2013 on "The Sun Blues Box, 1950-1958" (Bear Family BCD 17310). "Do You Know the Man" and "Somewhere In Glory" remain unreleased. Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis.
January 1954, unknown date : HARDROCK GUNTER records the single "Gonna Dance All Night"/"Fallen Angel", which will be released on Sun 201 on May 1. "Gonna Dance All Night" was previously recorded by Gunter for the Bama label in 1950. Recorded at an unknown studio location in Birmingham, Alabama. Personnel : Hardrock Gunter (vocals / guitar) ; Ted Crabtree (steel guitar) ; Linda Lane (bass) ; Alvin Tunkle (piano) ; Tony Duke (tenor sax) ; Bob Summer (drums).
January 1954, unknown date : BILL HALEY and his Comets do their final session for the Essex label, resulting in the single "Chattanooga Choo Choo"/"Straightjacket" (Essex 348, March). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Art Ryerson (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Marshall Lyle (double bass) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Billy Gussak (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (backing vocals on "Chattanooga Choo Choo"). Produced by Dave Miller at Coastal Recording Company, New York City.
January 1954, unknown date(s) : After 15 years with Decca Records, LOUIS JORDAN is now contracted to Aladdin and records twelve titles during this month, all at Audio Video Studios in New York City. With three exceptions, all titles will be released as singles : Aladdin 3223 : Dad Gum Ya Hide, Boy / Whiskey Do Your Stuff (late January) Aladdin 3227 Ooo Wee / I'll Die Happy (March) Aladdin 3246 I Seen What'Cha Done (June, c/w "Messy Bessy" from a February session) Aladdin 3270 The Dripper (an instrumental, December, c/w "Fat Back And Corn Liquor", also from that February session) Aladdin 3279 Gal You Need A Whippin' / Time's A-Passin' (February 1955) Aladdin 3295 It's Hard To Be Good Without You (October 1955, c/w "Gotta Go" , recorded in February 1954). Three tracks, "For You", "Private Property" and "Till We Two Are One" are first released in 1983 on the French LP "Go Blow Your Horn, Part 2" (Pathe-Marconi 1546680). Personnel : Louis Jordan (vocals / alto sax) ; Bert Payne (guitar) ; Sammy Guy (bass) ; Chester Lane (piano) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Bob Mitchell (trumpet) ; Johnny Kirkwood (drums).
January 1954, unknown date : DANNY OVERBEA records four tracks at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Ebony Chant" is coupled with "Stomp and Whistle", for release on Checker 788 in March. The two other numbers, "The Pain" and "Ooh", remain unissued. Backing by King Kolax and his orchestra.
January 1954, unknown date : ARTHUR SMITH and his Cracker-Jacks record a cover of the current Four Knights hit "(O Baby Mine) I Get So Lonely" (MGM 11704, April). The other side, the instrumental "Outboard", is waxed at the same session. A third track, "Every Now and Then", is still lingering in the vaults. Personnel : Arthur 'Guitar Boogie' Smith (lead vocals / electric guitar / producer) ; Sonny Smith (guitar) ; Tommy Faile (bass) ; Don Reno (banjo). The location is Charlotte, North Carolina.
FEBRUARY 1954
February 1, 1954 : YOUNG JOHN WATSON (later known as Johnny 'Guitar' Watson) records three vocal numbers and a futuristic instrumental, "Space Guitar". This number is coupled with "Half Pint Of Whiskey" for release in late March on Federal 12175. The other two tracks, "Gettin'" Drunk" and "You Can't Take It With You", are also released back to back, on Federal 12183 (May). Personnel : John Watson (vocals / guitar) ; Mario Delagarde (bass) ; Bill Gather (tenor sax) ; Devonia Williams (piano) ; Charles Pendergraph (drums).
February 2, 1954 : The vocal group THE PRISONAIRES records three tracks for the Sun label, but none of them is issued at the time. "Don't Say Tomorrow" is first released in 1976, on the Various artists LP "Sun : The Roots of Rock, Vol. 4 : Cotton City Country" (Charly CR 30104, UK). The other two songs, "I Wish" and "No More Tears", stay in the can until 1990, when Bear Family releases the CD "Just Walkin' In the Rain" (BCD 15523). The Prisonaires are : Johnny Bragg (lead vocals), John Drue, Ed Thurman, William Steward and Marcell Sanders. Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
February 2, 1954 : WYNN STEWART makes his debut as a recording artist, at an unknown Hollywood studio. Selected for single release are "I've Waited A Lifetime"/"After All" (Intro 6088, March). The other two tracks, "Throw A Little Wood On the Fire" and "Castaway Heart", originally scheduled for release on Intro 6090, stay in the vaults until 2000, when Bear Family issues the box-set "Wishful Thinking" (BCD 15886). Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar). More details unknown.
February 3, 1954 : IVORY JOE HUNTER records material for two singles at the RCA Studio in New York City. "I Feel So Good"/"I Have A Secret" will be released on MGM 11702 in March and "Do You Miss Me"/"Whose Arms Are You Missing" on MGM 11818 in September. Personnel : Ivory Joe Hunter (vocals / piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Harold Holmes (bass) ; Budd Johnson, Elmer Williams (tenor saxes) ; Joe Evans (alto sax) ; Leo Williams (trombone) ; Reunald Jones (trumpet) ; Chuck Walker (drums).
February 4, 1954 : COWBOY COPAS does a four-track session at the King studio in Cincinnati. His new single is "I'll Be There (If You Ever Need Me)"/"Stranger In My Home" (King 1329, March). "I Saw the Light" and "When Jesus Beckons Me Home" are first released on the LP "Hymns and Sacred Songs" (King LP 619) in May 1959 and later (August 1962) coupled for single release on King 5676. Produced by Syd Nathan.
February 4, 1954 : A fruitful session by CLYDE McPHATTER & THE DRIFTERS, which will result in three R&B Top 10 hits. "Honey Love" is released in May (Atlantic 1029, c/w "Warm Your Heart" from a session on November 12, 1953) ; it will top the R&B charts for eight weeks. "What'Cha Gonna Do" is saved until February 1955 for release on Atlantic 1055 (c/w "Gone", which was laid down on August 9, 1953). A # 2 hit. The release of "White Christmas"/"The Bells Of St. Mary's" is understandably postponed until November (Atlantic 1048). This one also peaks at # 2 and will chart again in late 1955, 1956 and 1960. Clyde McPhatter shares the lead vocals with Bill Pinkney on "White Christmas". Personnel : Clyde McPhatter (lead vocals) ; Andrew Thrasher, Bill Pinkney, Gerhart Thrasher (background vocals); Jimmy Oliver, Mickey Baker (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dick Hyman (piano / organ) ; Connie Kay (drums) ; Unknown (vibes on "White Christmas"). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 5, 1954 : CHUCK WILLIS is in New York City to record four songs. "Need One More Chance" is used as the B-side of the future # 8 R&B hit "I Feel So Bad", which was recorded on September 17, 1953 (OKeh 7029, May). "Keep-A Knockin'" will see its first release on the LP "Be Good Or Be Gone" (Edsel LP 159, UK) in 1986. "You Win This Time" and "If I Had A Million" stay in the can even longer, until 2003 (2-CD "Chuck Willis Wails! : The Complete Recordings 1951-1956" on Sundazed).
February 6, 1954 : At the King studio in Cincinnati, LULA REED records the single "Bump On A Log"/"Troubles On Your Mind", which is released in March on King 4703. She is backed by the band of SONNY THOMPSON, who also records two vocal numbers : "I Ain't No Watch Dog" (King 4712, April) and "I'm Beggin' and Pleadin'" (King 4718, June). The flip sides of the latter two singles are instrumentals by Thompson from an earlier session.
February 9, 1954 : JIM REEVES records five tracks for the Abbott label at Western Recorders in Hollywood. "Hillbilly Waltz" and "Let Me Remember (Things I Can't Forget)" will be coupled for single release (Abbott 186) in January 1956, by which time Reeves is recording for RCA. Three other songs, "Spanish Violins", "A Woman's Love" and "You're the Sweetest Thing" are first released on the LP "The Abbott Recordings, Vol. 2" (RCA INTS 5223, UK) in 1982. Personnel " Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Roy Lanham, Gene Mombeck (guitars) ; Don Rhodes (steel guitar) ; Speedy West (bass) ; Lionel Taylor (piano) ; Marion Adams, Harold Hensley (fiddles). Produced by Fabor Robison.
February 15, 1954 is the recording date of a real classic, JOE TURNER's "Shake, Rattle and Roll". It is released on Atlantic 1026 in April and will top the R&B charts for three weeks. The reverse is "You Know I Love You", recorded on December 3, 1953. "Well All Right" will also chart (peaking at # 9 R&B) after its release on Atlantic 1040 in October (c/w "Married Woman", also from the session on December 3, 1953). "In the Evening" is first released on an EP (Atlantic EP 565) in 1956. Two tracks remain unissued : "Time After Time" and "How Deep Is the Ocean". Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Wilbur De Paris (trombone) ; Jesse Stone (piano / arranger) ; Connie Kay (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 16, 1954 : JOHNNY BOND visits Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record four tracks. First released is "Firewater", on April 26 (Columbia 21243, c/w "Old Man Blues" from a session in late 1952). "Stealin'"/"My Darling Lola Lee" is issued on August 9 (Columbia 21294). "I Lose Again" follows in the last week of 1954 (Columbia 21335, c/w "Everybody Knew the Truth But Me", which was laid down on June 10, 1953).
February 17, 1954 : TERRY FELL records the original versions of "Don't Drop It" (also recorded by Wilbert Harrison and Jerry Lee Lewis) and "Truck Drivin' Man". They are coupled for release on X 0010 in April. "Don't Drop It" will peak at # 4 on the country charts. "You Don't Give A Hang About Me" will be released in December (X 0078, c/w "Get Aboard My Wagon", recorded on August 20, 1954) and "Mississippi River Shuffle" in April 1955 on X 0114 (c/w "He's In Love With You", also from that August session). Personnel : Wesley Tuttle, Jack Rivers (guitars) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Hank Caldwell (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Harry Sims (fiddle) ; Marilyn Tuttle (background vocals). Produced by Ed Kissack at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood.
February 17, 1954 : THE FLAMINGOS cover the Patti Page hit "Cross Over the Bridge" in Chicago. It is released in March on Chance 1154, coupled with "Listen To My Plea" from the same session. The Flamingos are : Sollie McElroy, Zeke Carey, Jake Carey, Johnny Carter and Paul Wilson.
February 17, 1954 : MERLE TRAVIS records his new single : "Jolie Fille"/ "I Can't Afford the Coffee (I'm Tired Of Drinkin' Tea Blues)", which is released in March on Capitol 2757. Personnel : Merle Travis (vocals / guitar) ; Dick Subbs, Jimmie Widener (guitars) ; Harrie Patterson (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Joe Maphis (fiddle) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood.
February 21, 1954 : MOON MULLICAN waxes his next two singles at the Castle Studio in Nashville : "Good Deal Lucille"/"Wanted" (King 1337, March) and "(Don't Let Temptation) Turn You Around"/"All I Need Is You" (King 1343, late April). Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano) ; poss. Grady Martin (guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Bud Isaacs (steel guitar) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus).
February 22, 1954 : EUGENE FOX does a session with Ike Turner and his band at WROX radio station in Clarksdale, Mississippi. The result is the single "Stay At Home"/"Sinner's Dream" (Checker 792, March). The female voice on the record belongs to Annie Mae Wilson, who also plays piano. Produced by Ike Turner.
February 22, 1954 : CURTIS GORDON records his final two RCA singles : "Caffeine And Nicotine"/"Divided Heart" (RCA 47-5760, July) and "Baby Me"/"I'd Like To Tell You" (RCA 47-5818, September). Personnel : Curtis Gordon (vocals / guitar) ; C.L. Hare, Dusty Harrell (guitars) ; Slick Gillespie (bass) ; Bud Isaacs (steel guitar) ; Curly Gainous (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle). Produced by Steve Sholes at Thomas Productions in Nashville.
February 22, 1954 : At the Chess studio in Chicago, LITTLE WALTER records three instrumentals and one vocal number, "Oh Baby", which is also known as "I Love You So". "Oh Baby" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Checker 793, April), coupled with "Rocker". "Come Back Baby" stays in vaults until 1978 when the album "Southern Feeling" (Le Roi du Blues 2012) is released. A first attempt at "Blue Light" has never been issued. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Louis Myers (guitars) ; Wille Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
February 23, 1954 : WEBB PIERCE records "Sparkling Brown Eyes", which will become the B-side of "Even Tho'" (recorded on November 29, 1953). Released in May on Decca 29107. Both sides will chart, with "Sparkling Brown Eyes" peaking at # 4 and the A-side at # 1. The second track from this session is an early attempt at "Yes I Know Why" that has never been released. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Unknown (second guitarist) ; Bud Isaacs (steel guitar) ; Jack Kay (fiddle) ; The Wilburn Brothers (harmony vocals). Produced by Owen Bradley at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
February 24, 1954 : LUKE McDANIEL does his second session for the King label, at KWKH Radio in Shreveport, Louisiana. Two singles are the result, "The Automobile Song"/"I Can't Steal Another's Bride" (King 1338, April) and "Honey Won't You Please Come Home"/"Crying My Heart Out For You" (King 1356, June). Johnny Horton and Jack Cardwell were present at this session and may have played acoustic guitars. Produced by Bernie Pearlman.
February 24/25, 1954 : JOHNNY OTIS cuts a single for the Peacock label : "Shake It"/"I Won't Be Your Fool No More" (Peacock 1636, October), in Los Angeles. Personnel : Johnny Otis (vocals /vibes) ; Pete Lewis (guitar / harmonica) ; Albert Winston (bass) ; Devonia Williams (piano) ; Leard Bell (drums) ; Unknown (backing vocal group).
February 25, 1954 : SKEETS McDONALD waxes four tracks at the Capitol studio in Hollywood. "I Love You Mama Mia" becomes the B-side of "Remember You're Mine" (Capitol 2774, March), which was recorded on January 6, 1954. "But I Do" is also used as the B-side of a track from the January session ("Your Love Is Like A Faucet", Capitol 2885, August). "Smoke Comes Out Of My Chimney Just the Same" and "Each Time A New Love Dies" are coupled for release on Capitol 2976 in November. Personnel : Skeets McDonald (vocals / leader) ; Fuzzy Owen, Lewis Talley (guitars) ; Red Murrell (bass) ; Joe Maphis (fiddle) ; Bill Woods (piano) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 1954, unknown date : THE CARLISLES record the future # 15 country hit "Shake-A-Leg"/"Let Me Hold Your Little Hand" (Mercury 70351, April), in Nashville. Personnel : Bill Carlisle (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Roy Sneed (bass vocal / electric guitar) ; Betty Amos (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Chet Atkins (lead guitar) ; Tillman Franks (bass). Produced by Dee Kilpatrick.
(Circa) February 1954, unknown date : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records two singles for the Abbott label : "Jolly Cholly"/"Oh Suzanna" (Abbott 159, March) and "Rag-A-Tag"/"Aunt Dinah's Quilting Party" (Abbot 181, July). Both singles will also be released in the UK on London (HL 8062 and 8195 respectively). Backing by the Louisiana Hayride Band. Produced by Fabor Robison at KWKH Radio Station in Shreveport, LA.
February 1954, unknown date : During his second session for Aladdin, LOUIS JORDAN records six tracks. "Messy Bessy" is released in June on Aladdin 3246 (c/w "I Seen What'Cha Done", recorded in January). "Louie's Blues" follows in August (Aladdin 3249, c/w "If I Had Any Sense" from a later session). "Put Some Money In the Pot Boy"/"Yeah, Yeah Baby" is an October release (Aladdin 3264). "Fat Back and Corn Liquor" is coupled with "The Dipper" (from the January session) for release on Aladdin 3270 in December. "Gotta Go" is saved until October 1955 when it is issued on Aladdin 3295 (c/w "It's Hard To Be Good Without You", which was laid down in January 1954). Personnel (probably) : Louis Jordan (vocals / alto sax) ; Bert Payne (guitar) ; Thurber Jay (bass) ; Chester Lane (piano) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Bob Mitchell (trumpet) ; Johnny Kirkwood (drums). The location is Audio/Video Studios in New York City.
Dik
MARCH 1954
March 1, 1954 : DALLAS FRAZIER makes his debut as a recording artist. All four tracks from this session will be released, on two singles. First comes "Ain't You Had No Bringin' Up At All"/"Space Command" (Capitol 2813, May), then "Love Life At Fourteen"/"I"m Gonna Move Over Yonder" (Capitol 2895, August). The location is the Capitol Studio on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. Backing by Cousin Herb Henson's Trading Post Gang.
March 1, 1954 : JAMES WAYNES is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood where he records his next two singles : "All the Drinks Are Gone"/"My Greatest Love" (Aladdin 3231, release unconfirmed) and "Crying In Vain"/"Lonely Room" (Aladdin 3234, April).
March 1, 1954 : SLIM WHITMAN records the song "Rose Marie", from the 1924 musical of the same name. A strange case. In the USA there is no chart action whatsoever. In the UK, the song is released in July 1954 (London HL 8061), but doesn't enter the charts until a year later. Eventually, "Rose Marie" will top the UK charts for eleven consecutive weeks in 1955. The other side is "We Stood At the Altar", recorded on January 5, 1954. One other track stems from this March session (held at Radio Station Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana) : "Heart Full of Love", first released on the LP "Slim Whitman And His Singing Guitar, Vol. 2" (London HA-U 2015) in 1956. Personnel : Sugarfoot Collins (guitar) ; Tinker Fry (steel guitar) ; Curly Harris (string bass) ; Sonny Harville (piano). Produced by Lew Chudd.
March 2, 1954 : SAM COOKE and the Soul Stirrers record five tracks in Hollywood, probably at Master Recorders. The single "Jesus I'll Never Forget"/"Any Day Now" is released in September on Specialty 868. "He'll Make A Way" is first issued in 1970 on the LP "Gospel Soul of Sam Cooke with the Soul Stirrers, Vol. 2" (Specialty SP 2128) and "All Right Now" on the album "That's Heaven To Me" (Specialty SP 2146, 1970), credited to The Soul Stirrers with Sam Cooke. Unissued from this session is "Dear Lord". Personnel : Sam Cooke (lead vocals) ; Paul Foster, S.R. Crain, Jesse Farley, Bob King, R.B. Robinson (background vocals) ; Faidest Wagoner (piano). Produced by Art Rupe.
March 2, 1954 : BIG MAYBELLE does another session for OKeh Records in New York City. "I'm Gettin' 'Long Alright" will be coupled with "My Big Mistake" (recorded on January 20, 1954) for release on OKeh 7042 in May. "Ain't No Use" is also released as a single (OKeh 7053, October, c/w "Don't Leave Poor Me", from a later session, on September 23, 1954). Two other tracks, "You'll Be Sorry" and "Hair Dressin' Woman" will see their first release on the double LP "The OKeh Sessions" (Charly CDX 27, UK) in 1983. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Paul Ricci (alto sax) ; Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Jimmy Crawford (drums). Arranged and conducted by Danny Mendelsohn.
March 2, 1954 : JUNIOR PARKER cuts three songs at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis : "Sittin' Drinkin' and Thinkin'", "Sittin' At the Bar" and "Sittin' At the Window". (Apparently Parker liked to sit.) All three remained originally unissued. In 1977 the UK label Charly released the LP "The Legendary Sun Performers : Junior Parker And Billy Love" (CR 30135), which includes these three recordings. Personnel : Herman Parker (vocals) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Kenneth Banks (bass) ; Raymond Hill, James Wheeler (tenor saxes) ; Unknown (alto sax) ; Bill Johnson (piano) ; Houston Stokes (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 2, 1954 : A big session by BILLY WARD AND HIS DOMINOES : eight tracks are recorded at the King Studio in Cincinnati. First released is "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts of Town"/"Tootsie Roll" (Federal 12178, late March). "Tenderly"/"A Little Lie" (both with lead vocals by Jackie Wilson) follows already in April (King 1342). "Lonesome Road" is a June release (King 1364, c/w "Three Coins in the Fountain" from a session on May 25). "Little Black Rain" is another Federal release (12193, August, c/w "Above Jacob's Ladder", recorded on October 12, 1953). "Love Me Now Or Let Me Go" appears in April 1955 (Federal 12218, c/w "Cave Man", also from the October 1953 session). Finally, "St. Louis Blues" is issued belatedly in July 1957 (Federal 12301, c/w "One Moment With You", a leftover from December 3, 1953). The Dominoes are : Jackie Wilson, Billy Ward, Cliff Givens, Milton Merle and David McNeal.
March 5, 1954 : WERLY FAIRBURN's first Capitol session results in two singles : "Good Deal Lucille"/"Baby He's A Wolf" (Capitol 2770, April) and "Love Spelled Backwards Is Evol"/"Nothin' But Lovin'" (Capitol 2844, June). The location is New Orleans. Personnel : Werly Fairburn (vocals / guitar) ; poss. Johnny Bonvillian (steel guitar) ; poss. Joe Martin (bass) ; Unknown (fiddle).
March 6, 1954 : RAY PRICE records his next two singles at the Castle Studio in Nashville. "Much Too Young To Die"/"I Love You So Much I Let You Go" is released on May 10 (Columbia 21249) and reaches # 13 on the country charts. "I Could Love You More"/"What If He Don't Love You" follows on August 28 (Columbia 21299). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Sherman Collins, Rusty Gabbard (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Kenny Carlisle (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 9, 1954 : BOB WILLS and his Texas Playboys record six tracks at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Texas Blues" is the A-side of a single released in July (MGM 11767). "I've Got A New Road Under My Wheels" is an October release (MGM 11832). "Cadillac In Model A"/"Waltzing in Old San Antone" follows in November (MGM 11883). "So Long, I'll See You Later"/"I Live For You" is saved until April 1955 for release on MGM 11985. Lee Ross is the lead vocalist on all tracks, except for "Cadillac In Model A" (Billy Jack Wills). Personnel : Bob Wills (fiddle) ; Eldon Shamblin (guitar) ; Lee Ross (vocals / bass) ; Billy Jack Wills (vocals / bass) ; Billy Bowman (steel guitar) ; Claude Powell (banjo) ; Louis Tierney (fiddle /sax) ; Johnny Megetto (drums).
March 11, 1954 : Four-track session by THE SPIDERS at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "I'll Stop Crying" becomes the B-side of "Tears Began To Flow" (recorded on January 19, 1954) and will appear on Imperial 5280 in April. "Mmm mmm Baby" will be coupled with "The Real Thing" (from a session on August 3, 1954) for release on Imperial 5305 in September. "Love's All I'm Putting Down" and "Why Do I Love You" have to wait until 1992 for a release, on the 2-CD "The Imperial Sessions" (Bear Family BCD 15673). The Spiders are: Chuck Carbo, Chick Carbo, Joe Maxon, Matthew West and Oliver Howard. Produced by Dave Bartholomew whose band also provides the backing.
March 12, 1954 : The vocal group THE CHECKERS records their next two singles at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Don't Stop Dan"/"House With No Windows" appears in April (King 4710), "You've Been Fooling Around"/ "Over the Rainbow" in June (King 4719). "Don't Stop Dan" is a belated answer to "Sixty Minute Man". The lead singer on this track is Bill Brown, who also sang the lead part on the Dominoes original. The Checkers are : Bill Brown, Buddy Brewer, Teddy Williams and Dave Baughan. Produced by Henry Glover.
March 12, 1954 : The final Specialty session by JOE LIGGINS yields four tracks. "Make Love To Me" and "Tears On My Pillow" are coupled for release on Specialty 492 in April. "Do You Love Me Pretty Baby" follows in August (Specialty 529, c/w "Whisky, Women and Loaded Dice", recorded on June 8, 1953). "Tenderly" stays in the vaults until 1992, when it in included on the CD "Dripper's Boogie" (Specialty SPCD 7025). Personnel : Joe Liggins (vocals / piano) ; Harold Grant (guitar) ; Teddy Shirley (bass) ; Floyd Turnham, Jr. (sax / clarinet) ; Lawrence Lofton (trombone) ; Earl Carter (drums) ; Candy Rivers (vocals on "Tenderly" and harmony vocals on "Make Love To Me"). Produced by Art Rupe at Universal Recorders in Hollywood.
March 13, 1954 : Another Specialty session, this time at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. Singer WILLIE JOHNSON records the single "Say Baby"/ "That Night" (Specialty 493), for release in May.
March 13, 1954 : OTIS WILLIAMS and the Charms do a four-song session at the King Studio in Cincinnati. Selected as their new single are "Quiet Please" and "Fifty-five Seconds" (DeLuxe 6050, April). The other two tracks are also released back to back, but somewhat later, in May 1955 : "It's You, You, You"/"One Fine Day" (DeLuxe 6089). Produced by Henry Glover.
March 14, 1954 : FATS DOMINO records his next single, "Baby Please"/"Where Did You Stay" (Imperial 5283, first week of May) and "You Can Pack Your Suitcase", the A-side of the subsequent single (Imperial 5301, August, c/w "I Lived My Life", recorded on July 10, 1954). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
March 14, 1954 : CLYDE McPHATTER AND THE DRIFTERS record four tracks at the Atlantic Studio in New York City. "Someday You'll Want Me To Want You" will be released in October (Atlantic 1043), as the B-side of "Bip Bam" (recorded on November 12, 1953). The other tracks will appear several years later, under the name of Clyde McPhatter : "Try Try Baby" in June 1959 (Atlantic 2028), "There You Go" in October 1959 (Atlantic 2038) and "If I Didn't Love You Like I Do" in November 1960 (Atlantic 2082). Personnel : Clyde McPhatter (lead vocals) ; Gerhart Thrasher, Charlie Hughes, Bill Pinkney (background vocals) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (sax) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Chris Columbus (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 15, 1954 : The vocal group THE CHORDS records the original version of "Sh-Boom" (Cat 104, April). Originally the other side (intended as the A-side) is "Cross Over the Bridge", but in June it is replaced by "Little Maiden". Both songs also stem from this session. The single will reach # 2 on the R&B charts and # 5 on the pop charts (outsold by a white cover by the Crew Cuts). A fourth track, "Hold Me, Never Let Me Go", is still lingering in the vaults. The Chords are: Carl Feaster, Claude Feaster, Jimmy Keyes, Floyd McRae and William Edwards. Sam Taylor plays the sax, more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
March 16, 1954 : MEMPHIS SLIM and his House Rockers record seven tracks in Chicago. "Sassy Mae" and "Wish Me Well" are coupled for single release in May (United 176). "Four Years Of Torment" will also be issued as a single (United 182, September, c/w "I Love My Baby" recorded on July 30, 1953). "Banana Oil" and "Little Piece Of Mind" see their first release in 1978, on the LP "Memphis Slim U.S.A." (Pearl PL-10). A first attempt at "Got To Find My Baby" is eventually released on a CD also called "Memphis Slim U.S.A." (Delmark DE-710) in 1998. "Chocolate Colored Baby" has never been issued. Personnel : Memphis Slim (vocals / piano) ; Matt Murphy (guitar) ; Henry Taylor (bass) ; Jim Conley, Neal Green (tenor saxes) ; Otho Allen (drums).
March 16, 1954 : The second session of THE PLATTERS (at an unknown studio in Hollywood) yields two singles : "Beer Barrel Boogie"/"Roses of Picardy" (Federal 12181, April) and "Tell the World"/"Love All Night" (Federal 12188, June). At this time the Platters are : Tony Williams (lead), David Lynch, Alex Hodge and Herb Reed.
March 16, 1954 : Another Capitol session by FARON YOUNG. "They Made Me Fall In Love With You" is released in April (Capitol 2780), coupled with "You're Right (But I Wish You Were Wrong)", which was laid down on December 20, 1953. "If You Ain't Lovin" (You Ain't Livin'")/"If That's the Fashion" will follow on October 28 and will peak at # 2 on the country charts. A first attempt at "I've Got Five Dollars and it's Saturday Night" stays in the vaults until Bear Family issues the 5-CD set "Faron Young : The Classic Years, 1952-62" (Bear Family BCD 15493) in 1991. Personnel : Chet Atkins or Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Jack Shook (acoustic guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass / percussion) ; Bob Foster (steel guitar) ; poss. Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Tommy Vaden (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
March 17, 1954 : DUB DICKERSON records his next single, "Count Me In"/ "You Started It All" (Capitol 2821, June). Also "Look, Look, Look", for release on Capitol 2947 in October (B-side of "My Gal Gertie", recorded on September 24, 1953). "No One Could Ever Love You" has to wait for a release until 2000, on the CD "Boppin' in the Dark" (Bear Family BCD 16372). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Castle Studio, the Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
March 17, 1954 : PIANO RED (Willie Perryman) does an afternoon session at RCA Victor Studio 1 in New York City. "Decatur Street Blues"/"Big Rock Joe From Kokomo" is the resulting single, released on Groove G-0023 in July. A third track, "I Ain't Fattening Frogs For Snakes" stays in the vaults until the release of the 4-CD set "The Doctor's In" (Bear Family BCD 15685) in 1993. Personnel : Piano Red (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Edward Small (bass) ; Buddy Lucas (sax) ; Marty Wilson (drums). Arranged by Leroy Kirkland. Produced by Danny Kessler.
March 21, 1954 : CHUCK MURPHY records two singles at the Castle Studio in Nashville. First released is "Hocus Pocus"/"Hard Headed" (Columbia 21258, June). "Rhythm Hall"/"Riding the Sunshine" follows in October on Columbia 21305. Personnel : Chuck Murphy (vocals / piano) ; Hardrock Gunter, Huel Murphy (guitars) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 21, 1954 : One of the strangest records in the Atlantic catalog is waxed on this day : "Oh That'll Be Joyful" by JESSE STONE (Atlantic 1028, April). The lower deck, "Runaway", is an instrumental, also recorded at this session. Personnel : Jesse Stone, Millie Bosman (vocals) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dave McRae (alto sax) ; Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Unknown (vocal ensemble). Arranged by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
March 23, 1954 : PERCY MAYFIELD is at Universal Recorders in Hollywood to record four songs. Two of them are coupled for single release : "You Don't Exist No More"/"Sugar Mama, Peachy Papa" (Specialty 499, July). The B-side is a duet with Joy Hamilton. "Nightmare" is first released in 1990 on the CD "Percy Mayfield : Poet of the Blues" (Specialty SPCD 7001) and "It's Good To See You Baby" in 1992 on the CD "Percy Mayfield, Vol. 2 : Memory Pain" (Specialty SPCD 7027). Personnel : Herman Mitchell (guitar) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Maxwell Davis (tenor sax / arranger) ; Bumps Myers (tenor sax) ; Floyd Turnham (baritone sax) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax) ; Willard McDaniel (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
March 23, 1954 : HANK THOMPSON records material for two singles at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. "Jersey Bounce"/"Sunrise Serenade" is an April release (Capitol 2792). "Johnson Rag"/"Dardanella" will appear in December (Capitol 2998). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / leader) ; Floyd White, Wayma Whitewing (steel guitars) ; Billy Briggs Stewart (bass) ; Gil Baca (piano) ; Dubert Dobson (trumpet) ; Amos Hedrick, Bob White (fiddles) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
March 24, 1954 : LaVERN BAKER cuts four tracks at the Atlantic studio in New York City. Her new single is "I Can't Hold Out Any Longer"/"I'm Living My Life For You" (Atlantic 1030, May). "I'm In A Crying Mood" will get a place on the LP "LaVern" (Atlantic LP 8002) in 1956. "Stop Pulling On My Man" remains in the vaults until this day. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 24, 1954 : Sixteen-year old WANDA JACKSON makes her debut as a recording artist, at the Decca Recording Studio in Hollywood. "Lovin' Country Style"/"You Can't Have My Love" becomes her first single (Decca 29140, May). "The Right To Love"/"If You Knew What I Know" will follow in August (Decca 29253). "The Heart You Could Have Had" is saved until December 1956 for release on Decca 30153 (c/w "You Won't Forget", from a session on December 8, 1955). Personnel : Billy Strange (guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / recitation on "You Can't Have My Love") ; Billy Stewart (bass) ; Gilbert Baca (piano) ; Amos Hedrick (fiddle) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Tom Mack.
March 26, 1954 : At the J&M Studio in New Orleans, EARL KING records a single that will be credited to THE KINGS. "'Til I Say Well Done"/"What Can I Do" is released on Specialty 497 in June. Personnel : Earl King (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Cook (vocals) ; Peter Badie (bass) ; Huey Smith (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
March 26, 1954 : AMOS MILBURN is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood where he records three songs. "Milk and Water" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Aladdin 3240, May, c/w "I'm Still A Fool For You" from a session on August 21, 1952). "Baby Baby All the Time" is the subsequent single, issued on Aladdin 3248 in July (c/w "Glory of Love", recorded on September 21, 1950). "After While" is first released on the French LP "13 Unreleased Masters" (Pathe Marconi 1546701) in 1983. Arranged by Maxwell Davis.
March 26, 1954 : Saxophonist RED PRYSOCK records four instrumentals, to be released on two singles. "Jump, Red, Jump"/"Body and Soul" is issued on Mercury 70367 in May and "Happy Feet"/"Blow Your Horn" on Mercury 70419 in July. The location is Fine Sound Studios in New York City. Personnel : Red Prysock (tenor sax) ; Clarence Wright (baritone sax) ; Donald Cole (trombone) ; Joe Jordan (trumpet) ; James Neeley (piano) ; Herbert Gordy (bass) ; Roland Johnson (vibraphone) ; Cornelius Thomas (drums).
March 29, 1954 : JOHNNIE RAY is at the Columbia Recording Studio in New York City where he cuts three songs. "Hernando's Hideaway"/"Hey There" is released on April 12 (Columbia 40224). The A-side will peak at # 14 in the USA and # 11 in the UK, where the B-side is an even bigger hit, reaching # 5. "Going - Going - Gone!" is the lower deck of the subsequent single (Columbia 40252, release date June 7) ; the other side is "To Ev'ry Girl - To Ev'ry Boy (The Meaning Of Love)", from a session on February 16, 1954. Orchestra conducted by Joe Reisman. Produced by Mitch Miller.
March 30, 1954 : A marathon session by LITTLE MILTON will result in the release of two singles : "If You Love Me"/"Alone And Blue" (Sun 200, April 15) and "Homesick For My Baby"/"Lookin' For My Baby" (Sun 220, June 21, 1955). Seven other songs are recorded, all released at later dates, between 1976 and 1998, on various compilations. Personnel : Milton Campbell (vocals / guitar) ; Cleophus Robinson (bass) ; prob. Jesse Knight, Jr. (electric bass) ; Ike Turner (piano) ; C.W. Tate (tenor sax) ; Lawrence Taylor (alto sax) ; Lonnie Will Haynes (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis.
March 31, 1954 : NAPPY BROWN does a four-song session in New York City, resulting in two singles. First released is "That Man"/"I Wonder" (Savoy 1129, May), followed by "Is It True, Is It True"/"Two Faced Woman" (Savoy 1135, October). Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Al Sears, Sam Taylor (tenor saxes) ; George Berg (baritone sax) ; Howard Biggs (piano / arranger) ; Jimmy Crawford (drums).
March 1954, unknown date : THE CREW-CUTS record their first disc, "Crazy 'Bout Ya Baby"/"Angela Mia", which is released on Mercury 70341 at the end of April. A # 8 pop hit. Location : Universal Recording Studios, Chicago. The Crew-Cuts are : John Perkins, Ray Perkins, Pat Barrett and Rudy Maugeri. Backing by David Carroll and his orchestra.
March 1954, unknown date : HOWLIN' WOLF records his next single, "Rocking Daddy"/"No Place To Go" (Chess 1566, May) and two tracks that are saved until 1967 for inclusion on the LP "More Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1512) : "I'm the Wolf" and "Neighbors". Location is the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals / harmonica) ; Lee Cooper (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
March 1954, unknown date : In Clarksdale, Mississippi, DENNIS BINDER records three tracks with Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm. The single "I Miss You So"/"Early Times" is released on Modern 930 in May. "You Got Me Way Down Here" is first issued in 1980 on the LP "Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm" (Ace CH 22, UK), which also includes the other two tracks. Personnel : Ike Turner (guitar / piano / producer) ; Jesse Knight Jr. (bass) ; Eugene Fox, Bobby Fields, Raymond Hill (tenor saxes) ; Willie Sims (drums).
March 1954, unknown date : IKE TURNER (guitar) and his orchestra record four instrumental tracks in Clarksdale, Mississippi. "Loosely"/"Cubano Jump" appears in May on Flair 1040 and "Cuban Get Away"/"Go To It" in March 1955, on Flair 1059.
With thanks to Neil Slaven / Mike Leadbetter, Bear Family, Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
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APRIL 1954
April 1, 1954 : The "5" ROYALES enter the
studio for the last time as Apollo recording artists. Their final Apollo
single, "With All Your Heart"/ "Six O'Clock In the Morning"
(Apollo 467) is not released until January 1955. The A-side is also known under
the title "Put Something In It". A third track, "See, Hear and
Know Nothing" will eventually be released in 1987, on the CD "Laundromat
Blues" (Relic 8016). The "5" Royales are : Lowman Pauling (lead
vocals), John Tanner, Eugene Tanner, James Moore and Obidah Carter.
April 2, 1954 : ROY BROWN is at the King Studio in Cincinnati to record his next two singles : "Up Jumped the Devil"/"This Is My Last Goodbye" (King 4715, May) and "Don't Let It Rain"/"No Love At All" (King 4722, June). Personnel : Jimmy Davis (guitar) ; Leonard Jefferson (bass) ; Teddy Riley (trumpet) ; Sammy Parker, Victor Thomas (tenor saxes) ; Jimmy Thomas (piano) ; Albert Gardner (drums).
April 5, 1954 : Also at the King studio, TINY BRADSHAW records two vocal and two instrumental numbers. The resulting singles are : "Don't Worry 'Bout Me"/"Overflow" (King 4713, late April) and "The Gypsy"/"Spider Web" (King 4727, June). Personnel : Tiny Bradshaw (vocals on "Don't Worry 'Bout Me" and "The Gypsy") ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Jimmy Robinson (piano) ; Bill Hardman (trumpet) ; Andrew Penn (trombone) ; Sil Austin, Rufus Gore (tenor saxes) ; Philip Paul (drums).
April 5, 1954 : FERLIN HUSKY records four songs at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. The recitation "The Drunken Driver" is coupled with "Homesick" for release on Capitol 2835 in June. "Peter Weather Bird" sees its first release in 1970, on the LP "Green Green Grass of Home" (Hilltop JS 6086). "I'm Satisfied With You" has never been issued. Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 5, 1954 : It's a busy day for Ferlin Husky, for he also cuts four tracks as his "hayseed" alter ego SIMON CRUM. Two singles are the result : "Cuzz Yore So Sweet"/"My Gallina" (Capitol 3063, March 1955, a # 5 country hit) and a funny parody of the recitation "Deck of Cards", which he calls "A Hillbilly's Deck of Cards" (Capitol 3270, October 1955), coupled with "Ooh, I Want You". Produced by Ken Nelson in Hollywood.
April 8, 1954 : STUART HAMBLEN records the original
version of his own song, "This Ole House" (RCA 47-5739, May). It
reaches # 2 on the country charts and # 26 on the pop charts, but is outsold by
a cover version by Rosemary Clooney. The other side, "When My Lord Picks
Up the Phone", also stems from this session, held at the RCA Victor Studio
in New York City.
April 8, 1954 : Saxophonist BIG JAY McNEELY records four tracks in Los Angeles, released on two singles. First issued is "Hard Tack"/"Let's Work" (Federal 12186, June), followed by "Beachcomber"/"Strip Tease Swing" (Federal 12191, August). Personnel : Big Jay McNeely (tenor sax) ; Bob McNeely (baritone sax) ; Cecil Harris (bass) ; Edward Moody (piano) ; Leonard Hardiman (drums).
Monday, April 12, 1954 : A landmark session if ever there was one. Freshly signed to Decca, BILL HALEY and his Comets record their first single for the label. Initially, "Thirteen Women (And Only One Man in Town)" is promoted as the A-side (Decca 29124, release date May 10), with "(We're Gonna) Rock Around the Clock" relegated to the B-side. The latter will spend two weeks on the Cashbox charts, at # 36 and # 38, in July. After its inclusion in the feature film "Blackboard Jungle", "Rock Around the Clock" is reissued in May 1955 (same catalogue number, same reverse) and will subsequently top the Billboard charts for eight weeks in the summer of 1955. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Danny Cedrone (lead guitar) ; Marshall Lytle (double bass) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Billy Gussak (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
April 12, 1954 : BILLY "THE KID" EMERSON waxes three numbers at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis. "I'm Not Going Home" and "The Woodchuck" are coupled for release on Sun 203 on May 1. The third track, "Hey Little Girl" makes its first appearance in 1976, on the LP "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 3 : Delta Rhythm Kings" (Charly CR 30103, UK). Personnel : Billy Emerson (vocals / guitar) ; Ike Turner (bass) ; Jesse Knight (bass) ; Raymond Hill, Bobby Fields (tenor saxes) ; Robert Prindell (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
April 12, 1954 : The above is a split session with sax player RAYMOND HILL who records two instrumentals, "The Snuggle" and "Bourbon Street Jump" for release on Sun 204 on May 1. Personnel, studio and producer are the same as above, except that Billy Emerson plays piano (and doesn't sing).
April 13, 1954 : TOMMY COLLINS is at the Capitol Studio on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. The single "Whatcha Gonna Do Now"/"You're For Me" will come out in August on Capitol 2891. A # 4 country hit. "Untied" (Capitol 3017, January 1955) will also chart, peaking at # 10. The B-side is "Boob-I-Lak" from a session on September 8, 1953. The fourth track from this session, "Love-A-Me, S'il Vous Plait" will get a place on the LP "Words and Music Country Style" (Capitol T 776) in January 1957. Personnel : Tommy Collins (vocals / rhythm guitar / leader) ; Buck Owens (lead guitar) ; Lewis Talley (rhythm guitar) ; Fuzzy Owen (bass) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Bill Woods (piano). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 13, 1954 : The vocal group THE HAWKS does a session for Imperial at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Good News"/"She's All Right" is released in May on Imperial 5281. "Why Oh Why" is saved until September 1955 for release on Imperial's Post subsidiary (2004), coupled with "These Blues" from a later session (November 4, 1954). "He's the Fat Man" is first issued in 1968 on the LP "Rhythm and Blues, Vol. 1 : The End Of An Era" (Imperial LM-94003). Personnel : Allen Matthews, Albert Veal, Joseph Gaines, Buddy Morris, Willie Thrower (vocals) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
April 13, 1954 : ELLA MAE MORSE does a five-song session at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. A cover of the Spaniels hit "Goodnight Sweetheart, Goodnight" is coupled with "Happy Habit" for release on Capitol 2800 in May. "Lovey Dovey" will follow in November (Capitol 2992, c/w "Bring My Baby Back To Me" from a later session). "Dedicated To You" and "It's You I Love" have to wait until 1997 for release on the 5-CD set "Barrelhouse, Boogie And the Blues" (Bear Family BCD 16117). Backing by Big Dave's Orchestra (14 musicians, including Red Callender on bass, Si Zentner on trombone and Roy Harte on drums). Arranged and conducted by Dave Cavanaugh. Produced by Lee Gillette.
April 13, 1954 : MUDDY WATERS records the single "Just Make Love To Me"/ "Oh! Yeh" (Chess 1571, May). The A-side, better known as "I Just Want To Make Love To You", reaches # 4 on the R&B charts. Also recorded is "Sloppy Drunk" with a vocal by JIMMY ROGERS, and credited to "Jimmy Rogers and his Rocking Four" (Chess 1574, June, c/w "Chicago Bound", recorded on January 7, 1954). The location is the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Rogers (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Little Walter (harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below or Elgin Evans (drums).
April 15, 1954 : THE SPIDERS are at the J&M Studio in New Orleans for an Imperial session. "I'm Slippin' In" is coupled with "I'm Searchin'" for release on Imperial 5291 in July. It will be the only Spiders single to be released in the UK (London HL 8086). "Walking Around In Circles" and a new version of "Mmm mmm Baby" will be used as tracks for the LP "I Didn't Wanna Do It" (Imperial LP 9140, 1961). Lead vocals by Chuck Carbo. The other members are Chick Carbo, Joe Maxon, Matthew West and Oliver Howard. Produced by Dave Bartholomew whose band also provides the backing.
April 16, 1954 : THE CLOVERS record "Your Cash Ain't Nothin' But Trash", which is released on Atlantic 1035 in June. A # 6 R&B hit. The other side, "I've Got My Eyes On You", recorded on September 24, 1953, will chart as well. "In the Morning Time" is also released as a single (Atlantic 1060, April 1955, the B-side of "Love Bug" from a session on December 16, 1954). A third track, "Nobody But You", remains in the vaults. The Clovers are : Billy Mitchell (lead vocals) , Matthew McQuater, Harold Winley and Hal Lucas. Sam Taylor plays the tenor sax, more details unknown. Arranged by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler at Fulton Studios in New York City.
April 16, 1954 : GUITAR SLIM (Eddie Jones) is at Universal Recording in Chicago to record three songs. "Later For You Baby"/"Trouble Don't Last" is an August release (Specialty 527). "Bad Luck Blues" will eventually be released on the LP "The Things I Used To Do" (Specialty SP 2120) in 1970. Personnel : Guitar Slim (vocals/ guitar / leader) ; Lloyd Lambert (bass) ; John Gerard (piano) ; Gus Fontenette (alto sax) ; Joseph Tillman, Oeth Mallard (tenor saxes) ; Oscar Moore (drums). Produced by Johnny Vincent.
April 17, 1954 : PAPA LIGHTFOOT does a four-song session in New Orleans. "Wine, Women, Whiskey" and "Mean Old Train" are coupled for single release on Imperial 5289 in July. "When the Saints Go Marching In" is first issued on the Various artists LP "Saturday Night Function : Rural Blues, Vol. 2" (Imperial LM 94001) in 1968. "Jump the Boogie" will be included on the LP "Down Home Stomp : Rural Blues, Vol. 3" (Imperial LM 94006), also in 1968. George "Papa" Lightfoot (vocals / harmonica) is probably accompanied by Edgar Blanchard and the Gondoliers (guitar, piano, drums).
April 21, 1954 : JESSE ALLEN records material for two singles at the J&M Studio in New Orleans : "Sittin' And Wonderin'"/"I Wonder What's the Matter" (Imperial 5285, June) and "The Things I'm Gonna Do"/"What A Party" (Imperial 5303, September). Personnel : Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
April 21, 1954 : MOON MULLICAN also records four songs for two singles, at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "The End of the Rainbow"/"Where Beautiful Flowers Grow" will hit the market in May (King 1355). "I'm Hanging Up All My Work Clothes"/"No Stranger" is the subsequent single (King 1366, July). Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano) ; Boyd Bennett (drums). More details unknown.
April 22, 1954 : TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD does a four-song session at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. Two singles are the result : "River Of No Return"/"Give Me Your Word" (Capitol 2810, May 31) and "Losing You"/"Eins, Zwei, Drei (One, Two, Three)" (Capitol 2876, August). Backing by Billy May and his orchestra. Produced by Lee Gillette.
Saturday, April 24, 1954 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters record the follow-up to their big hit "Work With Me Annie" : "Sexy Ways", coupled with "Don't Say Your Last Goodbye" (Federal 12185, June). A # 2 R&B hit. Label credit goes to "The Midnighters, formerly The Royals". The third track from this session, "Work Baby" remains originally unissued, but an edited version will eventually come out in 1966 on the double-LP "Hank Ballard Sings 24 Great Songs" (King LP 981). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Charles Sutton, Henry Booth, Sonny Woods (background vocals) ; Arthur Porter (guitar) ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Sil Austin (tenor sax) ; Eddie Smith (piano) ; Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan at the King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio.
April 25, 1954 : DOUG POINDEXTER and the Starlite Wranglers record the single "Now She Cares No More"/"My Kind Of Carrying On" (Sun 202). It is rush-released on May 1. Personnel : Doug Poindexter (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Clyde Rush (rhythm guitar) ; Millard Yeow (steel guitar) ; Bill Black (upright bass) ; Tommy Seals (fiddle). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio (Memphis Recording Service) in Memphis, Tennessee.
April 28, 1954 : FLOYD DIXON does his first session for Cat Records, an Atlantic subsidiary. "Moonshine"/"Roll Baby Roll" is released on Cat 106 in August. "Is It True" will follow in March 1955 (Cat 114), as the B-side of "Hey Bartender", recorded on November 10, 1954. "Your Fool Is On the Line" is still unissued. Personnel : Floyd Dixon (vocals / piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Walter Champion (bass) ; Joe Howard, Fred M. Lee (saxes) ; Bugs Daniel (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
April 28, 1954 : STAN FREBERG cuts "Person To Pearson" (with Daws Butler), which will be released as the B-side of the # 15 pop hit "Point Of Order" (from a session on May 18) in the first week of June (Capitol 2838). One other track is recorded, "Nothing Special Events Men", which is still lingering in the vaults. Backing by George Bruns and his orchestra. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood.
April 29, 1954 : Four-song session by PEE WEE CRAYTON at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. It yields two singles: "Do Unto Others"/"Every Dog Has His Day" (Imperial 5288, June) and "Win-O"/"Hurry Hurry" (Imperial 5297, August). Personnel : Pee Wee Crayton (vocals / guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).
April 29, 1954 : FREDDIE HART is at the Capitol Recording Studio in Los Angeles where he records three songs. The single "It Just Don't Feel Like Home (When You're Gone)"/"Caught At Last" is released in July (Capitol 2873). "Miss Lonely Heart" will follow in April 1955 (Capitol 3090, c/w "Oh, Heart Let Her Go" from a session on October 20, 1954). Personnel : Freddie Hart (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Jimmy Bryant, Wesley Tuttle (guitars) ; Noel Boggs (steel guitar) ; Red Murrell (bass) ; Les Taylor (piano) ; Joe Maphis (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 29, 1954 : JUSTIN TUBB records two duets with GOLDIE HILL, released back to back on Decca 29145 in May. The A-side, "Looking Back To See" will peak at # 4 on the country charts. The B-side is "I Miss You So". Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen at the Castle Studio, Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
April 1954, unknown date : THE EAGLES record the original version of "Tryin' To Get To You" (Mercury 70391, May), a song that Elvis Presley will record in 1955. However, "Please, Please" (also from this session) is chosen as the A-side. Three other songs were recorded, "Do You Need Me (Like I Need You)?”, "Just Right" and "I Stole A Rose". They are first released on the LP “Trying To Get To You" (Bear Family BF 15232) in 1989. The location is Fine Recording Studios, New York City.
April 1954, unknown date : LOUIS JORDAN's third (and last) session for the Aladdin label yields the single "A Dollar Down"/"Hurry Home" (Aladdin 3243, May) and "If I Had Any Sense I'd Go Back Home", which will be coupled with "Louie's Blues" (recorded in February 1954) for release on Aladdin 3249 in August. The location is Audio/Video Studios in New York City. Personnel (probably) : Louis Jordan (vocals / alto sax) ; Bert Payne (guitar) ; Thurber Jay (bass) ; Chester Lane (piano) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Earl Warren (alto sax) ; Bob Mitchell (trumpet) ; Johnny Kirkwood (drums).
(Probably) April 1954, unknown date : THE ROBINS undertake their first (four-song) session for the Spark label of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. First released is "Riot In Cell Block Number Nine"/"Wrap It Up" (Spark 103, May). "One Kiss" will be issued on Spark 113 in March 1955 (c/w "I Love Paris" from a session in January 1955). "The Hatchet Man" is saved until May 1955 for release on Spark 116 (c/w "I Must Be Dreamin'", recorded in August 1954). Richard Berry (not a group member, guest appearance) is the lead singer on "Riot", Carl Gardner on "One Kiss" and "Wrap It Up" and Bobby Nunn on "The Hatchet Man". The other members of the group are Ty Terrell, Roy Richards and Billy Richards. Personnel : Chuck Norris (guitar) ; Ralph Waldo Hamilton (bass) ; Gil Bernal (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Willard McDaniel (piano on "The Hatchet Man) ; Jessie Sailes (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
April 1954, unknown date : SHIRLEY AND LEE record the single "Keep On"/ "Confessin'", for release in June on Aladdin 3244. Lee also cuts two songs without Shirley, "Tryin' To Fool Me" and "When the Sun Goes Down", which are coupled for release on the Aladdin subsidiary Lamp (8001) in July, credited to Leonard Lee. Produced by Dave Bartholomew, whose band also supplies the backing. The location is the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
April 1954, unknown date : HAYDEN THOMPSON records his very first single, "I Feel the Blues Coming On"/"Act Like You Love Me" (Von HT-1001, May). Label credit goes to "Hayden Thompson, the South's Most Versatile Singer, and his Southern Melody Boys". The location is WBIP Radio Station in Booneville, Mississippi. Personnel : Hayden Thompson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Cricket Grissom (harmony vocals) ; Clyde Hill (lead guitar) ; Perry King (steel guitar) ; Marlin Grissom (bass) ; Junior Johnson (fiddle).
With thanks to Peter and Mike Stoller, Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli and Steve Walker.
MAY 1954
(Possibly) May 3, 1954 : BILLY LOVE records two songs at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis : "Hart's Bread Boogie" and "Blues Leave Me Alone". The former is released as a promotional 78 by the Hart's Bread Company, with the same song on both sides (Hart's H B-66). Both songs get their first commercial release in 1977 on the album "The Legendary Sun Performers : Junior Parker & Billy Love" (Charly CR 30135, UK). Personnel : Billy Love (vocals / piano) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Unknown (bass, drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Tuesday, May 4, 1954 : BERTICE READING records an R&B version of the Kitty Kallen smash "Little Things Mean A Lot" (Groove 0022, released in June), coupled with "I Wash My Hands". The location is New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Pinky Williams (baritone sax) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Marion Morris (organ) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland.
May 4, 1954 : ARTHUR SMITH and his Crackerjacks record four tunes at Radio Station WBT in Charlotte, North Carolina. The instrumental "Half Moon" is coupled with "Lonesome" (with vocals by Tommy Faile) for release on MGM 11817 in October. "Texas Hop", another instrumental, will be released on a UK single (MGM 779) in November (c/w "Redheaded Stranger" from a session in June 1954). "It Must Be Love" (also sung by Tommy Faile) has never been issued. Personnel : Arthur Smith (electric guitar / producer) ; Sonny Smith (guitar) ; Tommy Faile (vocals / bass) ; Don Reno (banjo).
May 4, 1954 : Another MGM session on this day, at Fulton Studios in New York City. Saxophonist SAM 'THE MAN' TAYLOR and his Cat Men record four instrumentals, released on two singles : "This Can't Be Love"/"Please Be Kind" (MGM 11758, June) and "My Reverie"/"S'posin'" (MGM 11791, August).
May 5, 1954 : MICKEY BAKER records two of his own compositions, with his band. The resulting single, "I'm Tired"/"Where Is My Honey" (Groove 0020, late May) is credited to BIG RED McHOUSTON and his orchestra. Two other songs are recorded, "Stranger Blues" and "I Wish I Knew", which stay in the can until Bear Family releases the Mickey Baker CD "Rock With A Sock" (BCD 15654) in 1993. The location is New York City (studio unknown). Personnel : Larry Dale (vocals / guitar) ; Mickey Baker (guitar / leader) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Pinky Williams (baritone sax) ; Al Williams (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums).
May 7, 1954 : In New York City, RUTH BROWN cuts four songs, all of which will be released as singles. "Oh What A Dream"/"Please Don't Freeze" is released in the third week of July (Atlantic 1036) and will top the R&B charts for eight weeks. "Somebody Touched Me" will be used as the B-side of "Mambo Baby" (recorded on August 11, 1954), in October (Atlantic 1044). "Old Man River" has to wait until December 1955 for a release (Atlantic 1082) as the lower deck of "I Want To Do More" (from a session on October 22, 1955). Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Benny Moten (bass) ; Edward 'Tiger' Lewis (trumpet) ; Dickie Harris (trombone) ; Arnett Cobb (tenor sax) ; Sylvester Thomas (baritone sax) ; Bu Pleasant (piano) ; Noruddin Zafar (drums) ; The Cues (as the Rhytmakers) (male vocal group). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
May 8, 1954 : THE PRISONAIRES record their fourth and final Sun single : "There Is Love In You"/"What'll You Do Next", released on July 1 (Sun 207). The location is printed on the label : "Recorded in the Tennessee State Prison, Nashville, Tenn.". The Prisonaires are : Johnny Bragg (lead tenor) ; John Drue (second tenor) ; William Steward (baritone vocal, guitar) ; Ed Thurman (tenor) ; Marcell Sanders (bass). The bongo player is probably Hubbard Brown. Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 11, 1954 : JIMMY BRYANT and SPEEDY WEST record four instrumentals at the Capitol Studio in Los Angeles. First released is "Bustin' Thru"/"Our Paradise" (Capitol 2892, August). "Cotton Pickin'"/"Sleepwalker's Lullaby" follows in June 1955 (Capitol 3150). Personnel : Jimmy Bryant (electric guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Billy Strange (rhythm guitar) ; George Bruns (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 12, 1954 : LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS records the single "Blackeyed Joe's"/ "Take Me As I Am (Or Let Me Go)" (Columbia 21296, August). Also released as a single is "The Ribbon and the Rose" (Columbia 21384, May 1955, c/w "Salty Boogie" from a session on October 30, 1954). "Where's Willie" stays in the can until April 1964, when it is included on the LP "Little Jimmy Dickens' Best" (Harmony HL 7311). "Slow Suicide" has to wait even longer, until 1984 (LP "Columbia Historic Edition", Columbia FC 38905). Personnel : Kenneth 'Thumbs' Carlisle (electric guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (rhythm guitar) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Joel Price (bass) ; Louie Dunn (fiddle) ; Del Wood (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at the Castle Studio, Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
May 12-13, 1954 : Two-day session by JOHN LEE HOOKER at Esquire Recording Studios in Detroit. Of the nine tracks recorded, only two are released as a single : "I'm Mad"/"Everybody's Blues" (Specialty 528, August). Three songs make their first appearance on the LP "Hooker, Hopkins & Hogg" (Specialty SNTF 5013) in 1973 : "Locked Up In Jail", "I Been Done So Wrong" and "I Do Like I Please". The remaining four songs - "Anybody's Blues (I Love You Baby)", "Boogie Rambler", "I Keep the Blues" and "No More Doggin'" - are eventually released on the CD "Everybody's Blues" (Specialty SPCD 7035-2) in 1993. Personnel: John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Theophilus Roosevelt (bass) ; Johnny Hooks (tenor sax) ; Johnny Griffith (piano) ; Tom Whitehead (drums). Produced by Johnny Vincent.
May 13, 1954 : CARL SMITH cuts four tracks for single release. "Go Boy Go"/ "If You Saw Her Through My Eyes" is selected as the new single (Columbia 21266, June, a # 4 country hit). "More Than Anything Else In the World" is used as a B-side (of the # 1 hit "Loose Talk", recorded on September 5, 1954), but will chart on its own strength (# 5). It is an October release (Columbia 21317). "No, I Don't Believe I Will" will also enter the country charts (# 13), after its release on Columbia 21340 in January 1955 ; the flip side is "Kisses Don't Lie" from a session on October 29, 1954. Personnel : Sammy Pruett, Jimmy Smith (guitars) ; Johnny Sibert (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Gordon Stoler (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
(Circa) May 14, 1954 : OTIS BLACKWELL cuts a single for the NYC label Jay-Dee, "My Josephine"/"Ain't Got No Time" (Jay-Dee 794, October). "I'm Coming Back Baby" will be released in February 1955 on Jay-Dee 798, coupled with "Go Away Mr. Blues" (recorded on December 30, 1953). On May 26, Blackwell records the single "Nobody Met the Train"/"I'm Standing At the Doorway To Your Heart", which is selected as his new single (Jay-Dee 792, June). Personnel : Tony Gottuso (guitar, May 26 only) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Conrad Frederick (piano) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax, May 14 only) ; Lem Johnson (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Joe Davis in New York City.
May 14, 1954 : Another Detroit session (at United Sound Studios) for the Specialty label. SISTER WYNONA CARR records three gospel numbers : "Operator, Operator", "Dragnet For Jesus" and "15 Rounds For Jesus", all her own compo- sitions. All three stay in the vaults until the release of the CD "Dragnet For Jesus" in 1992 (USA : Specialty SPCD 7016-2, UK : Ace CDCHD 411). Personnel : Wynona Carr (vocals / piano) ; Austin Upshaw (organ) ; George Washington (bass) ; Zaref Mailik (drums). Produced by Johnny Vincent.
May 14, 1954 : JAMES COTTON is at the Memphis Recording Service in Memphis to record the single "Cotton Crop Blues"/"Hold Me In Your Arms" (Sun 206, July 1). Personnel : James Cotton (vocals / possibly percussion) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Mose Vinson (piano) ; John Bowers (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 14, 1954 : The above is a split session with guitarist PAT HARE, who records two vocal numbers. "I'm Gonna Murder My Baby" (aka "Cheatin' and Lyin' Blues") is first issued in 1973, on the Dutch LP "706 Blues" (Redita 111). An alternate take is included on the Charly box-set "Sun Records : The Blues Years, 1950-1956" (Sunbox 105) in 1986. The other title is "Bonus Pay (Ain't Gonna Be That Way)", first released on the CD "Mystery Train" (Rounder CD SS 38-13) in 1990. Personnel : Pat Hare (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Love (piano) ; Unknown (bass) ; Israel Franklin (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Monday, May 17, 1954 : ONIE WHEELER records six songs at the Castle Studio in Nashville. "Little Mama" is first released on OKeh 18049 in August and then on Columbia 21371 in March 1955 (with a different flip-side). The single "Would You Like To Wear a Crown"/"I Saw Mother God Last Night" will appear in December 1954 (OKeh 18058). "My Home Is Not A Home At All" is a Columbia release (21418, July 1955, c/w "That's What I Like" from a session on October 28, 1954). "No, I Don't Guess I Will" is saved until February 1956 for release on Columbia 21500 (c/w "I Tried and I Tried", recorded on November 22, 1953). "Hazel" will see its first release in 1986, on the box-set "The Sun Country Years, 1950-'59" (Bear Family BFX 15211, 11 LP's). Personnel : Onie Wheeler (vocals / harmonica / leader) ; Alden Nelson (lead guitar / tenor vocal) ; Doyal Nelson (rhythm guitar / high tenor vocal) ; Benny Martin (fiddle) ; Ernest Thompson (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 19, 1954 : BILL DOGGETT and his combo record three instrumental tracks, released on three different singles. First released is "High Heels" (King 4732, first week of August), soon followed by "Honey" (King 4738). "Afternoon Jump" is eventually issued on King 5419 in November 1960, but prior to that it is included on the EP "Bill Doggett, Vol. 3" (King EP 393) in 1956. The location is the King Studio in Cincinnati. Personnel : Clifford Bush (guitar) ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Bill Doggett (organ) ; Irving 'Skinny' Brown (tenor sax) ; Shep Shepherd (drums).
May 20, 1954 : In Hollywood, THE PLATTERS record the first version of "Only You", which will not be released until November 1955 (Federal 12244, c/w "You Made Me Cry" from the same session), following the success of the new version on Mercury. Two other tracks, "Don't Tickle" and "Humble Bumble Bee" stay in the vaults until the release of the LP "19 Original Hits" (King K-5002X) in 1977. It is the first session with Zola Taylor who was recently added to the line-up. The other members are Tony Williams, David Lynch, Alex Hodge and Herb Reed. Backing by : Warren McOwens (bass) ; Christine Chatman (piano) ; Chuck Thomas (tenor sax) ; Peppy Prince (drums).
May 21, 1954 : JOHNNIE AND JACK record a country cover of the Spaniels hit "Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight" (RCA 47-5775, June). A # 3 country hit. The reverse, "Honey I Need", also from this session, will chart in its own right, peaking at # 15. "All the Time" is saved until March 1957 for release on RCA 47-6857 (c/w "Pleasure Not A Habit In Mexico", recorded on December 23, 1953). "I Ain't Got Time" is first released on the 6-CD box set "Tennessee Mountain Boys" (Bear Family BCD 15553) in 1992. Personnel : Johnnie Wright, Jack Anglin (vocals) ; Chet Atkins, Louis Innis (guitars) ; Shot Jackson (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Benny Martin (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Culley Holt (bass vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes at Thomas Productions in Nashville.
May 21, 1954 : At the King Studio in Cincinnati, LULA REED records her new single, "I'll Upset You Baby"/"Wonderful Love", which will be released in July on King 4726. She is accompanied by SONNY THOMPSON (and his orchestra), who records an instrumental single of his own, "Cotton Ball, Parts 1 and 2" (King 4729, also July). Personnel : Clarence Kenner (guitar) ; James Royal (bass) ; Fred Clark (alto sax) ; David Brooks (tenor sax) ; Tommy Purkson (baritone sax) ; Sonny Thompson (piano / arranger) ; Robert Boswell (drums).
May 22, 1954 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, ROSEMARY CLOONEY records a cover of Stuart Hamblen's "This Ole House", which will give her a # 1 hit. The other side, "Hey There" is also recorded at this session (Columbia 40266, June). A duet with Marlene Dietrich, "Besides (He's A Man)" is not released in the USA, only in the UK (Philips PB 314, c/w "Land, Sea and Air", from a session five days later, also with Marlene Dietrich).
May 23, 1954 : MARTY ROBBINS records four duets with RAY EDENTON (as RAY AND ROY), all originally unissued. "Pain and Misery" is first released in 1982 on the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Robbins" (Bear Family BFX 15082). The other three tracks - "What Made You Change Your Mind", "The Way of a Hopeless Love" and "Juarez" - make their first appearance on "The Marty Robbins Files, Vol. 2 : 1953-54" (Bear Family BFX 15096) in 1983. Personnel : Marty Robbins, Ray Edenton (vocals / guitars) ; Chet Atkins, Grady Martin, Louis Innis (guitars) ; Joe Vincent (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Donald Slayman (fiddle). Produced by Don Law at the Castle Studio, Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
May 24, 1954 : OTIS WILLIAMS and the Charms record six tunes at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "My Baby Dearest Darling"/"Come To Me Baby" is chosen as their next release (DeLuxe 6056, June). "Who Knows" ends up on the B-side of the # 1 R&B hit "Hearts Of Stone" (recorded on September 1, 1954), which is released in the fourth week of September on DeLuxe 6062. "The First Time We Met" will also be coupled with a Top 10 hit from a later session ("Two Hearts", recorded on September 13, 1954) and is issued in November on DeLuxe 6065. Two tracks from this session remain unissued : It's Only You" and "This Love Of Mine".
May 25, 1954 : One-song session by THE DOMINOES in Cincinnati. With Jackie Wilson on lead, the groups records the Four Aces / Frank Sinatra hit "Three Coins in the Fountain" (King 1364, June). The B-side is "Lonesome Road", recorded on March 2, 1954.
May 26, 1954 : MERLE KILGORE makes his debut as a recording artist, at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. Two singles are the result : "More And More"/ "What Makes Me Love You" (Imperial 8256, July) and "It Can't Rain All the Time"/"Seein' Double, Feelin' Single" (Imperial 8266, October). The latter will also be released in the UK, on London HL 8103. Label credit goes to "Merle Kilgore, the Tall Texan". Produced by Lew Chudd.
May 27, 1954 : Saxophonist EARL BOSTIC does a session in Los Angeles. Four singles are the result, first "Blue Skies"/"Mambolino" (King 4723) in June, soon followed by "Mambostic"/"These Foolish Things" (King 4730) in July. "Ubangi Stomp"/"Time On My Hands" (King 4741) is a September release. All these tracks are instrumentals. "Oh Baby"/"There Is No Greater Love" has a vocal by Sonny Carter and is credited to "Sonny Carter With Earl Bostic Orchestra" (King 4739, September). Personnel : Earl Bostic (alto sax) ; Stanley Turrentine (tenor sax) ; Blue Mitchell, Eldredge Morris (trumpets) ; Tiny Webb (guitar) ; George Tucker (bass) ; Stash O'Laughlin, Celia Lopez (piano) ; Granville T. Hogan (drums) ; Bob Bustamente, Bill Gallardo, Jose Mendoza (Latin percussion).
May 27, 1954 : ROY BROWN does a session at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Ain't It A Shame"/"Gal From Kokomo" is released in August on King 4731. "Queen Of Diamonds" will be used as the B-side of "Fannie Brown Got Married" (recorded on September 2, 1954) in January 1955 (King 4761). "Ain't No Rocking No More" is saved until September 1959 for release on King 5247 (c/w "School Bell Rock" from a session on May 7, 1959). Personnel : Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Tommy Shelvin (bass) ; Philip Scott (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Thomas (piano) ; Frank Parker (drums).
Saturday, May 29, 1954 : Second MARTY ROBBINS session of this month. This time all four songs are released, on two singles : "Call Me Up"/"I'm Too Big To Cry" (Columbia 21291, August 2) and "Time Goes By"/"It's A Pity What Money Can Do" (Columbia 21324, October 25). Both A-sides will peak at # 14 on the country charts. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Rollins, Joe Knight (guitars) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Grundy Harbert (bass) ; Harold Carmack (piano) ; Johnny Gimble, Cecil Brower (fiddles). Produced by Don Law at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas, Texas.
May 1954, unknown date : SUGAR BOY CRAWFORD records four songs in New Orleans, two of which are coupled for single release : "I Bowed On My Knees"/"No More Heartaches" (Checker 795, June). The two other tracks, "Wandering Baby" and "What's Wrong" are first released on the double LP "Sugarboy Crawford" (Chess 2ACMB 209) in 1976.
May 1954, unknown date : THE CREW-CUTS cover the Chords' "Sh-Boom". Their version (Mercury 70404, June) will top the pop charts for nine weeks. The flip side, "I Spoke Too Soon", also stems from this session. A third track, "All I Wanna Do", will be released as a single in September(Mercury 70490), coupled with "The Barking Dog" from a later session. Arranged and conducted by David Carroll at Universal Studios in Chicago.
With thanks to John Klompenhouwer and Bill Daniels.
JUNE 1954
June 3, 1954 : HOMER AND JETHRO record parodies of four current hits : "Secret Love", "I Really Don't Want To Know", "Hernando's Hideaway" and "Wanted" The latter two tracks are released on a single (RCA 47-5788, July). All four tracks will appear on an untitled EP (RCA EPA 580) in 1955. Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocals / mando- lin) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Charles Grean (bass) ; Marty Gold (piano) ; Philip Kraus (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at the RCA Victor Studio in New York.
June 6, 1954 : 14-year old James Booker makes his debut as a recording artist, under the name LITTLE BOOKER. "Doing the Hambone"/"Thinkin' 'Bout My Baby" is released on Imperial 5293 in July. Personnel : James Booker (vocals / piano) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Herb Hardesty, Clarence Hall (tenor saxes) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
June 6, 1954 : DAVE COLLINS AND THE SCRUBS (who are in fact The Hawks, see June 14) also record a single for Imperial on this day : "Bluesy Me"/ "Don't Break My Heart" (Imperial 5294, July). Personnel unknown, but not the same as on the Little Booker tracks. Lee Allen is clearly recognizable on the sax solo. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
Monday, June 7, 1954 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record their second Decca single, "Shake, Rattle and Roll"/"ABC Boogie" (Decca 29204), released on July 12. It will reach # 7 on the pop charts, Haley's first million seller. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Danny Cedrone (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Marshall Lytle (double bass) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Dick Richards (triangle). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
June 7, 1954 : BILLY
WARD AND THE DOMINOES record two songs during their final session for King, "Little
Things Mean A Lot" (at that time # 1 on the pop charts, by Kitty Kallen)
and "I Really Don't Want To Know" (King 1368, late June). Jackie
Wilson and Billy Ward share the lead vocals on the A-side, Ward sings lead on
the flip-side. The location is New York City.
June 10, 1954 : LITTLE JUNIOR PARKER and the Blue Flames do a session in Houston, Texas. "Backtracking" and "I Wanna Ramble" are coupled for single release in April 1955 (Duke 137). "Can You Tell Me Baby" will see its first release on the LP "I Wanna Ramble" (Ace CH 42, UK) in 1982. "Bachelor's Blues" is eventually released on the CD "The Earls Of Duke : Bobby 'Blue' Bland and Little Junior Parker" (Rev-Ola CRBAND 15) in 2007. Personnel : Herman Parker (vocals) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Hamp Simmons (bass) ; Jimmy Stewart (trumpet) ; Joe Fritz (alto sax) ; Jimmy Johnson (tenor sax) ; Rayfield Devers (baritone sax) ; Donnie McGowan (piano) ; Sonny Freeman (drums).
June 10, 1954 : After three years with Apollo, THE "5" ROYALES now record for King Records. Their first session for the label, in Cincinnati, Ohio, results in two singles : "Behave Yourself"/"I'm Gonna Run It Down" (King 4740, August) and "Monkey Hips and Rice"/"Devil With the Rest" (King 4744, October). At this time the "5" Royales are : Lowman Pauling (lead), Johnny Tanner, Eugene Tanner, Obidah Carter and James Moore.
June 10, 1954 : JIMMY WITHERSPOON records the single "When the Lights Go Out"/"Big Daddy" (Checker 798, August) and two tracks that will first see a release in 1990 on the LP "Spoon So Easy" (Chess CHD 93003) : "Danger" and "Live So Easy".
June 14, 1954 : The vocal group THE HAWKS records two singles at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. First released is "Give It Up"/"Nobody But You" (Imperial 5306, September), followed by "All Women Are the Same"/"That's What You Are" (Imperial 5317) in November. The Hawks are : Allen Matthews, Albert Veal, Joseph Gaines (lead), John 'Buddy' Morris and Willie Thrower. Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
June 14, 1954 : In New Orleans, EARL WILLIAMS records a single with the band of Lee Allen : "Let's Make Love Tonight"/"I Can't Go On" (Savoy 1133, August). LEE ALLEN also records two sax instrumental tracks during this session, "The Eel" and "Creole Alley", but they remain in the can until 1979, when they are included on the Various Artists double-album "Honkers and Screamers : The Roots of Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 6" (Savoy LP 2234). Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Jack Willis (trumpet) ; Waldron Joseph (trombone) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Earl Williams (vocals).
Thursday, June 17, 1954 : MILT TRENIER cuts the single "Day Old Bread"/ "Give A Little Time" (Groove 0028, July). Two other songs are laid down, "Lady Luck" and "When You Finished Talkin' (Let's Make Some Love)", both of which stay in the vaults until the release of the Treniers CD "Hey Sister Lucy" (Bear Family BCD 15418) in 1988. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Leslie Johnakins (sax) ; Freddie Washington (piano) ; Wayne Robinson (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Leroy Kirkland. Produced by Danny Kessler at RCA Victor Studio 1 in New York City.
June 18, 1954 : Four-track session by guitarist GRADY MARTIN, resulting in two instrumental singles : "Alexander's Ragtime Band"/"Jalousie" (Decca 29213, July) and "What's the Use"/"A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody" (Decca 29328, December). Both singles are credited to Grady Martin and the Slew Foot Five, a group made up of members of the Nashville A-Team. Produced by Paul Cohen at the Castle Studio, the Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
June 19, 1954 : Second Capitol session for WERLY FAIRBURN. "Prison Cell Of Love" will be released on Capitol 2963 in October, coupled with "I Feel Like Cryin'" from a later session (circa September 1954). "Spiteful Heart" comes out in April 1955 (Capitol 3101), also coupled with a song from that same later session, "It's A Cold Weary World". Two other tracks,"Won't It Be Nice" and "A Little Bit Of Nothing" make their first appearance on the CD "Everybody's Rockin'" (Bear Family BCD 15578) in 1993. Personnel : Werly Fairburn (vocals / guitar) ; poss. John Bonvillian (steel guitar) ; poss. Joe Martin (bass) ; Unknown (fiddle). Location unknown, possibly New Orleans.
June 20, 1954 : Guitarist CHET ATKINS records "San Antonio Rose", which will become the A-side of his next single in August (RCA 47-5813). Three other tracks all feature a vocal by Red Kirk : "Mister Misery" (flip side of "San Antonio Rose"), "Set A Spell" (used as the B-side of "Mr. Sandman", recorded on November 17, 1954) (RCA 47-5956, December) and "Get Up And Go", which has to wait until 1993 for a release, on the box-set "Galloping Guitar" (Bear Family BCD 15714). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Red Kirk (vocals) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). The location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 20, 1954 : RED SOVINE records material for two singles : "Don't Drop It" (cover of the Terry Fell song) /"Don't Be the One" (Decca 29211, July) and "Outlaw"/"Which One Should I Choose" (Decca 29335, November). Produced by Paul Cohen at the Castle Studio, the Tulane Hotel, Nashville.
June 23, 1954 : BILL DOGGETT and his combo record four instrumental tracks, all of which will be released as B-sides, on four different singles. First issued is "Sweet Slumber" (King 4732, first week of August), soon followed by "The Nearness Of You" (King 4738) a few weeks later. "My Reverie" is a January 1955 release (King 4769) and "I'll Be Around" appears in March 1955 (King 4784). The A-sides are respectively "High Heels" (recorded on May 19, 1954), "Honey" (also May 19), "King Bee" (December 15, 1953) and "Wild Oats" (October 27, 1954). Arranged and conducted by Bill Doggett (who also plays organ) in New York City.
June 23, 1954 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, AMOS MILBURN records four songs, released on two singles. "Vicious Vicious Vodka"/"I Done Done It" is issued on Aladdin 3253 in August, followed by "One Two Three Everybody"/ "That's It" (Aladdin 3269) in November. Personnel : Amos Milburn (vocals / piano) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Clifford Solomon, Claude McLin (tenor saxes) ; Jewel Grant (baritone sax) ; Harry Parr Jones (trumpet) ; Oscar Lee Bradley (drums). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone, who possibly also plays piano on one or more tracks.
June 24, 1954 : OTIS BLACKWELL records four tracks in New York City, two of which are coupled for single release : "Oh! What A Babe"/"Here I Am" (Groove 0034, November). The other two songs, "O-O-O-Oh!" and "I Face This World Alone" will eventually be included on the CD "The Chronological Otis Blackwell, 1952-54" (Classics 5140) in 2005. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Fred Washington (piano) ; Martin Wilson (drums).
June 24, 1954 : In New York City, CHUCK WILLIS cuts his next single, "Change My Mind"/"My Heart's Been Broke [sic] Again" (OKeh 7041, August). Also laid down is "I Don't Mind If I Do", which is first released on the LP "Be Good Or Be Gone"(Edsel LP 159, UK) in 1986. Orchestra directed by Freddy Jackson.
Friday, June 25, 1954 : HANK LOCKLIN records material for two singles at the Castle Studio in Nashville. "Whispering Scandal"/"Baby, You Can Count Me In" is a September release (Decca 29270). "Let Me Confess"/"I'll Always Be Standing" will follow in July 1955 (Decca 29599). Personnel : Chet Atkins, Sam Pruett (guitars) ; Howard Watts (bass) ; Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano / producer).
June 28, 1954 :
Pianist MEADE LUX LEWIS records six long tracks at Radio Recorders in
Hollywood, accompanied by drummer Louis Bellson. They will be released on an LP
called "Yancey's Last Ride" (Down Home MGD 7) in 1956. Titles:
"Spooney Sam", "Mama's Bounce", "Shoobody",
"Hangover Boogie", "Yancey's Last Ride" and "Bush
Street Boogie". Produced by Norman Granz.
June 28, 1954 : SHORTY LONG records two singles for the RCA subsidiary X. First released is "Hi-Yi"/"Cry, Cry Darlin'" (X-0039, July), followed by "Roll, Rattler, Roll"/"Just Like Me" in August (X-0045). The latter is credited to The Dalton Boys (Shorty Long and Bob Newman). The location is RCA Victor Studio 2 in New York City.
June 29, 1954 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, JIMMY LIGGINS does a session for Aladdin, his only one for the label. Two singles are released in quick succession : "I Ain't Drunk"/"Talking That Talk" (Aladdin 3250, August) and "Boogie Woogie King"/"No More Alcohol (Aladdin 3251, October).
June 29, 1954 : THE ORIOLES cover the Kitty Kallen hit "In the Chapel in the Moonlight" (Jubilee 5154, July), at an unknown studio in New York City. The B-side, "Thank the Lord! Thank the Lord!" also stems from this session. Backing by Sid Bass and his orchestra.
June 30, 1954 : BIG DAVE (Dave Cavanaugh) and his orchestra record the single "Rock, Roll, Ball and Wail"/"The Big Goof" (Capitol 2884, August). The A-side features a vocal by the Red Tops, the B-side is an instrumental. A third track, "Let Me In There, Baby" has never been issued. The location is the Capitol studio in Los Angeles. Arranged and conducted by Dave Cavanaugh.
(Circa) June 1954, unknown date : GEORGE JONES records three tracks (at Gold Star Studio in Houston), which will be released on three different singles. "You All Goodnight" comes out on Starday 162 (c/w "Let Him Know" from a later session) on September 25. "Heartbroken Me" is a duet with Sonny Burns (Starday 165, November, c/w "Tell Her" by Sonny Burns). "Hold Everything" is issued on May 14, 1955 (Starday 188, c/w "What's Wrong With You", cut in March 1955). Personnel (probably) : George Jones (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Biggar (steel guitar) ; Bob Heppler (bass) ; Milburn Annett (piano) ; Red Hayes, Kenneth Hayes (fiddles). Produced by Jack Starns and Pappy Daily.
June 1954, unknown date : RALPH MARTERIE and his orchestra record the South African song "Skokiaan" (Mercury 70432, first week of August). Coupled with "Crazy 'Bout Lollipop" from the same session, it will peak at # 3 on the pop charts. Several other songs are laid down, for EPs and LPs, plus the single "Chicken Boogie" (Mercury 70588, March 1955, c/w "Silver Moon" from an earlier session). Arranged and conducted by Ralph Marterie, who also plays trumpet. The location is Universal Recording in Chicago.
June 1954, unknown date : Guitarist ARTHUR SMITH records a vocal single, "Redheaded Stranger"/"Sobbin' Women" (MGM 11784, July), at Radio Station WBT in Charlotte, North Carolina. The label credit goes to "Arthur Smith and his Cracker-Jacks". Personnel : Arthur Smith (guitar / vocals / producer) ; Sonny Smith (guitar) ; Don Reno (banjo) ; Tommy Faile (bass).
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Marv Goldberg, Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Dik
JULY 1954
July 1, 1954 : THE FIVE KEYS record four tracks for the Groove label in New York City. "Lawdy Miss Mary"/"I'll Follow You" is released on Groove 0031 in August (promo only). The other two tracks, "Teeth and Tongue Will Got You Hung"/"When Will My Troubles End" are first issued in 1989 on the Detour LP "The Five Keys & The Nitecaps : The Best Of Doo- wop Classics, Vol. 2". Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lee Stanfield (bass) ; Sam Taylor (sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Marty Wilson (drums).
July 1, 1954 : HARMONICA FRANK (Frank Floyd) records a single for Sun Records : "The Great Medical Menagerist"/"Rockin' Chair Daddy" (Sun 205), for release later in the month. There are no backing musicians : Harmonica Frank sings and plays harmonica and guitar. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Memphis Recording Service.
July 1, 1954 : In Chicago, LITTLE WALTER and his Jukes record the classic "My Babe", which will be released on Checker 811 in February 1955 (c/w the instrumental "Thunder Bird", recorded on January 25, 1955). It will top the R&B charts for five weeks. One other track is laid down, "Last Night" (Checker 805, November), which will precede "My Babe" on the charts, peaking at # 6. The other side is "Mellow Down Easy", from a session on October 5, 1954. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood Jr., Dave Myers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
July 2, 1954 : One-track session by BILLY WALKER, who records "Going - Going - Gone!" (Decca 21290, first week of August). The flipside is "I'm A Fool To Care", which was laid down on March 15, 1954. Backing by six unknown musicians. Produced by Don Law at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas, Texas.
July 2, 1954 : SLIM WHITMAN is at KWKH Radio Station in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he records three tracks. His new single is "Singing Hills"/"I Hate To See You Cry" (Imperial 8267, August). "Haunted Hungry Heart" is saved for release until October 1959, when it is used as the B-side of an overdubbed version of "Indian Love Call" (Imperial 8323). Personnel : Sugarfoot Collins (guitar) ; Tinker Fry (steel guitar) ; Curly Harris (string bass) ; Sonny Harville (piano).
July 3, 1954 : SMILIN' JOE cuts the single "ABC's, Part 1 and Part 2" (Imperial 5304, September). The artist is also known as Pleasant Joseph and Cousin Joe. Also recorded is "In the Morning", which is still lingering in the vaults. Produced by Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans.
July 3, 1954 : BLANCHE THOMAS also records a single for Imperial on this day (maybe it was a split session) : "You Ain't So Such A Much"/"Not the Way That I Love You" (Imperial 5302, August). Backing by Cosimo's Matassa's studio band. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
July 5-6, 1954 : Around 8: 00p.m. on July 5, ELVIS PRESLEY arrives at the Memphis Recording Service, unaware that he is about to write history. Also present are guitarist Scotty Moore, bass player Bill Black and producer/engineer Sam Phillips. First recorded is "Harbor Lights", which will make its first appearance on the album "Elvis - A Legendary Performer, Vol. 2" (RCA CPL 1-1349) in 1976. Next comes "I Love You Because", which will be included on Presley's debut LP, simply titled "Elvis Presley" (RCA LPM 1254, March 1956). The Arthur Crudup song "That's All Right Mama" is initially approached as a slow blues number, but Elvis sounds laboured. After a break, the three musicians start to fool around with the song at a faster pace and take 4 will become the master take. The other side, "Blue Moon Of Kentucky", is recorded the next evening. The single is released on Sun 209 on July 19 and will bring Elvis regional fame. Several other songs were attempted, but these tapes have not survived. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Scotty Moore (electric lead guitar) ; Bill Black (upright bass). Produced by Sam Phillips.
July 7, 1954 : JIMMY HEAP records four songs that will be released on two singles : "I Told You So"/"Sharpshooter" (Capitol 2990, November) and "Just For Tonight"/"My First Love Affair" (Capitol 3253, October 1955). The location is an unknown studio in Texas. Label credit goes to Jimmy Heap and the Melody Masters with Perk Williams. Personnel : Jimmy Heap (vocals / lead guitar) ; Perk Williams (vocals / fiddle) ; Horace Barnett (guitar) ; Butterball Harris (steel guitar) ; Bill Glendening (bass) ; Arlie Carter (piano). Produced by Ken Nelson.
July 10, 1954 : While touring on the West Coast, FATS DOMINO records three tracks with his road band. "I Lived My Life" is selected as his new single (Imperial 5301, August, c/w "You Can Pack Your Suitcase", recorded on March 14, 1954). "I Know" will be released in December (Imperial 5323), coupled with "Thinking Of You", from a session on December 14, 1953. "Little Mama" will eventually be issued on the LP "Walking To New Orleans" (Imperial LP 9227) in January 1963. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Billy Diamond (bass) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
July 10, 1954 : THE PLAYBOYS record a single for the Atlantic subsidiary Cat : "Rock, Moan And Cry"/"Tell Me (Are You Really Mine)" (Cat 108, August). Unissued from this session is "Pretty, Pretty Girl". Personnel : Charlie White (lead vocals) ; The Cues (background vocals) ; Harry Van Walls (pian) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax). More details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
July 14, 1954 : Second record date for LITTLE WALTER this month, again a two-track session. "You'd Better Watch Yourself" is coupled with "Blue Light" for release on Checker 799 in August. The location is the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Dave Myers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
July 14, 1954 : Four-song session by WEBB PIERCE at the Castle Studio in Nashville. Both "I'm Gonna Fall out Of Love" (Decca 29391, December) and ""Your Good For Nothing Heart" (Decca 29480, March 1955) will be used as B-sides of future # 1 country hits ("In the Jailhouse Now" and "I Don't Care" respectively). "Just Imagination" and "I Love You Dear" make their first appearance on the album "Just Imagination" (Decca DL 8728) in August 1958. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Teddy Wilburn, Doyle Wilburn (guitar / harmony vocals) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Jack Kay, Tommy Jackson (fiddles) ; Owen Bradley (piano). Produced by Paul Cohen.
July 15, 1954 : THE TRENIERS record the single "Out Of the Bushes"/"Say Hey (The Willie Mays Song)" (Epic 9066, end of July). The latter, probably the A-side, is credited to "Willie Mays of the New York Giants with the Treniers". The location is the Columbia Studio in New York City. Personnel (15 musicians) includes Danny Perri on guitar and Boomie Richman on sax. Arranged by Quincy Jones, produced by Marv Holtzman.
July 22, 1954 : JOHNNY ACE records three tracks with the Johnny Board orchestra in Los Angeles, all of which will be released after his untimely death on December 24, 1954. All three will be coupled with tracks recorded on January 25, 1954. "How Can You Be So Mean" (Duke 144, July 1955) is used as the B-side of "Anymore". "I'm Crazy Baby" is a January 1956 release (Duke 148, c/w "So Lonely"). "Don't You Know" will follow in August 1956 (Duke 154, c/w "I Still Love You So"). Produced by Johnny Board.
July 26, 1954 : SONNY JAMES does two three-hour sessions on this day, resulting in eight tracks. First released is "Ocean Of Tears"/"She Done Give Her Heart To Me" (Capitol 2906, September). "I Forgot To Remember Santa Claus"/"Christmas Is My Hometown" follows in November (Capitol 2958). "This Kiss Must Last Forever" is a January 1955 release (Capitol 3025, c/w "Lovin' Season" from a session on December 19, 1954). "'Til the Last Leaf Shall Fall"/"You Don't Have To Walk Alone" will appear in June 1955 on Capitol 3163. A first attempt at "Just Ask Your Heart" remains unissued. Personnel : Neal Jones (guitar / harmony vocals) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar / harmony vocals) ; Slim Harbert (bass / harmony vocals) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Buddy Brady (fiddle) ; Mollie Ann Harbert (harmony vocals). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas.
July 27, 1954 : LUKE McDANIEL does his third and last session for the King label in Cincinnati. Two singles are the result : "Money Bag Woman"/"Hurts Me So" (King 1380, September) and "One More Heart"/"Living In A House Of Sin" (King 1426, February 1955). Personnel : Luke McDaniel (vocals / guitar) ; Floyd Robinson (lead guitar) ; Noel Boggs (steel guitar) ; Louis Innis (string bass) ; Ernie Newton (fiddle) ; Freddie Langdon (drums). Produced by Bernie Pearlman.
July 29, 1954 : FERLIN HUSKY records his next single, "King Of A Lonely Castle"/"Very Seldom, Frequently Ever" (Capitol 2914, September). Credited to Ferlin Husky and his Hush Puppies. A third track, "I Might As Well Stop Living", has never been issued. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood.
July 30, 1954 : THE MIDNIGHTERS record a sequel to their big hit "Work With Me Annie" : "Annie Had A Baby" (Federal 12195, August). Again a # 1 R&B hit. The other side, "She's the One", also stems from this session. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Charles Sutton, Henry Booth, Sonny Woods (background vocals) ; Arthur Porter (guitar) ; Clarence Moten (bass) ; Arnett Cobb (tenor sax) ; Florence Pleasant (piano) ; Nooruddin Zafar (drums). Produced by Ralph Bass and Sydney Nathan in Washington, D.C.
July 1954, unknown date : The vocal group THE CADILLACS undertakes their first session, resulting in the single "Gloria"/"I Wonder Why" (Josie 765, August). Both sides are written by Esther Navarro, their manager, who also produces the session (in New York City). The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, James Clark, Laverne Drake, Bobby Phillips and Gus Willingham.
July 1954, unknown date : ALVADEAN COKER records two singles with her relatives, the Sandy Coker Band. "I Sold Out My Heart"/"Crying Heart" is released in August (Abbott 169), followed by the instrumental record "Meadowlark Melody"/"Toss Over" (Abbott 171) in October. The latter is credited to the Sandy Coker Band. Personnel : Alvadean Coker (vocals) ; Al Coker, Sr. (guitar) ; Sandy Coker, Jr. (guitar / fiddle) ; possibly Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Geraldine Coker (bass) ; possibly Linda Coker (piano). Produced by Fabor Robinson in Shreveport, Louisiana.
July 1954, unknown date : The female vocal group THE DREAMERS records their first single, "Bye Bye"/"At Last" (Flair 1052, early September), with singer Richard Berry, who gets a label credit. It is a split session with THE CHIMES (a.k.a. the Flairs), a group that still included Richard Berry at that time. Their two numbers are "My Heart's Crying For You" and "Love Me, Love Me, Love Me" (Flair 1051, also September), with background vocals by the Dreamers. On this record the Dreamers are still a sextet : Annette Williams, Nanette Williams, Gloria Jones, Fanita Barrett, Jewel Cobb and Pat Howard. Arranged by Maxwell Davis in Los Angeles.
(Circa) July 1954, unknown date : EDDIE NOACK records four tracks at the Gold Star Studio in Houston. "Don't Trade"/"Take It Away Lucky" is released on Starday 159 in September. "Fair Today, Cold Tomorrow" is saved until November 1955 for release on Starday 213 (c/w "Don't Worry About Me, Baby" from a session in October 1954). Unissued from this session is "The Last Word" (probably lost). Personnel : Eddie Noack (vocals / guitar) ; Blackie Crawford (lead guitar) ; Joe Callahan (bass) ; Curley Chalker (steel guitar) ; Pee Wee Reid (bass) ; Jerry Desmoreaux (piano) ; Olen 'Big Red' Hays, Kenneth 'Little Red' Hays (fiddles). Produced by Pappy Daily.
July 1954, unknown date : DOCTOR ROSS is at the Sun Recording Studio in Memphis, where he records the single "Boogie Disease"/"Jukebox Boogie" (Sun 212), which will be released on November 10. Also recorded are "Doctor Ross Boogie", "Feel So Sad" and "Downtown Boogie", which will be released on the LP "His First Recordings" (Arhoolie LP 1065, 1972). Personnel : Isaiah Ross (vocals / harmonica / guitar) ; Tom Troy (guitar) ; Roosevelt "Barber' Parkes (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
July 1954, unknown date : The first session by BILLY VAUGHN and his orchestra will produce a million seller in the shape of "Melody of Love" (Dot 15247, October, a # 2 hit). The flip-side, Joyride", is also laid down at this session. "Silver Moon" is the A-side of a later single (Dot 15347, March 1955), while "Drifting On A Cloud" will serve as a track for Vaughn's first LP, "Sweet Music and Memories" (Dot DLP 3001). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn at an unknown studio.
With thanks to John Klompenhouwer and Henk Gorter (and of course the usual sources like Praguefrank, Michel Ruppli and Bear Family). Dik
AUGUST 1954
August 3, 1954 : Four-song session by THE SPIDERS at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "The Real Thing" is released on Imperial 5305 in September (c/w "Mmm Mmm Baby", recorded on March 11, 1954). "She Keeps Me Wondering" is coupled with "21 (3 x 7 = 21)" for release on Imperial 5318 in November. "That's Enough" is the subsequent single (Imperial 5331, January 1955) ; the other side is "Lost and Bewildered" from a session on January 19, 1954. The Spiders are : Leonard 'Chick' Carbo, Mac West, Oliver Howard and Bill Moore. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
August 6, 1954 : CLIFFIE STONE and his Hepcats record three numbers at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. "Please, Please"/"Blue Moon of Kentucky" is their new single (Capitol 2910, late August). Also released as a single is "Barracuda", a duet of Billy Strange and Speedy West (Capitol 3131, May 1955, c/w "The Popcorn Song" from a later session, which has a vocal by Bob Roubian). Personnel : Cliffie Stone (bass) ; Homer Esk (vocals on "Please, Please") ; Billy Strange (vocals / guitar) ; Speedy West (vocals / steel guitar). More details unknown.
Saturday, August 7, 1954 : First Mercury session by JOE LIGGINS, resulting in the single "Yeah Yeah Yeah"/"They Were Doin' the Mambo" (Mercury 70440, late August). Two other tracks, "Honeydrippin' Daddy" and "Boogie Woogie" are still lingering in the vaults. The location is Los Angeles. Personnel : Joe Liggins (vocals / piano) ; Gene Phillips (guitar / backing vocals) ; Willie Jackson (alto sax / baritone sax / backing vocals) ; William Woodman (tenor sax) ; Preston 'Peppy' Prince (drums).
August 8, 1954 : TOMMY RIDGLEY records four tracks at the J&M Studio in New Orleans, but only one track will be released, the instrumental "Jam Up" (Atlantic 1039, September, c/w "Wish I Had Never", from a session on 1st December, 1953). Reissued as "Jam Up Twist" in February 1962 (Atlantic 2136). The unissued titles are : "She's Gone", "Love Me Long And Slow" and "Why Not Talk It Over". Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Larry Marioneaux, Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
August 9, 1954 : The vocal group THE DODGERS records material for two singles : "You Make Me Happy"/"Let's Make A Whole Lot Of Love" (Aladdin 3259, September) and "Cat Hop"/"Drip Drop" (Aladdin 3271, March 1955). The location is Fulton Studios in New York City.
August 11, 1954 : Another Atlantic session by RUTH BROWN. The three tracks will be released on three different singles. "Mambo Baby" appears first, in October (Atlantic 1044, c/w "Somebody Touched Me", recorded on May 7, 1954) and will reach # 1 on the R&B charts. "Bye Bye Young Men" will follow in December (Atlantic 1051, c/w "Ever Since My Baby's Been Gone", a leftover from 1st November 1953). A # 13 R&B hit. "My Heart Is Breaking Over You" is saved until January 1957, for release on Atlantic 1125 (flip of "Lucky Lips", recorded on September 25, 1956). Atlantic 1044 and 1051 are credited to Ruth Brown and her Rhythmakers, who are in fact the vocal group The Cues (Ollie Jones, Abel De Costa, Jimmy Breedlove, Robie Kirk and Eddie Barnes). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
August 11, 1954 : WEBB PIERCE records "More And More", which will top the country charts for ten weeks (Decca 29252, first week of September). The other side is "You're Not Mine Anymore" from a session on April 15, 1954. Only one other song is laid down, a first attempt at "I Found Someone That's True", which has never been issued. Personnel : Grady Martin, Doyle Wilburn, Teddy Wilburn, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Dale Potter, Tommy Jackson (fiddles). Produced by Paul Cohen at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
August 13, 1954 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records the single "Jump Children"/ "Cat Music" (Imperial 5308, September), at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. Personnel (probably) : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / producer) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Fats Domino (piano) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Herb Hardesty, Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).
August 13, 1954 : The session above is a split session with FATS DOMINO, who records his new (non-charting) single, "Love Me"/"Don't You Hear Me Calling You" (Imperial 5313, October). Same personnel ; Dave Bartholomew probably plays trumpet on "Don't You Hear Me Calling You".
August 13-14, 1954 : Orchestra leader PEREZ PRADO records "Cherry Pink And Apple Blossom White", a French tune he had first recorded in 1951. This new version is included in the film "Under Water" and comes out in December (RCA 47-5965, c/w "Rhythm Sticks" from a later session). It will become the biggest hit of 1955, spending 10 weeks at the top of the Bill- board charts. (Also number one in the UK.) Also recorded are "Skokiaan"/ "The High and the Mighty" (RCA 47-5839, rush-released) and "Marilyn Monroe Mambo" (RCA 47-5892, October). Trumpet solo by Bill Regis. Prado himself plays piano and arranges the session. There are ten other musicians. Produced by Herman Diaz, Jr., at Webster Hall in New York City.
Sunday, August 15, 1954 : THE CHORDS record the follow-up to "Sh-Boom" : "Zippity Zum (I'm in Love)"/"Bless You (For Being An Angel)" (Cat 109, September). No chart success this time. Also recorded is the subsequent single, "Hold Me Baby" (Cat 112, November, c/w "A Girl To Love", recorded on October 13, 1954). Cat 109 was also released as by the Chordcats, Cat 112 was issued as by the Chordcats. The location is New York City. The Chords are : James Keyes, Carl Feaster, Claude Feaster, Floyd McRae and William Edwards.
August 16, 1954 : JIM REEVES records his next single at KWKH Radio Station in Shreveport, Louisiana. "Penny Candy"/"I'll Follow You" is released in September on Abbott 170. A # 5 country hit. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Leo Jackson (guitar) ; Jimmy Latham (steel guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Floyd Cramer or Evelyn Rowley (piano) ; poss. Jerry Rowley (fiddle). Produced by Fabor Robinson.
August 18-19, 1954 : B.B. KING records two tracks at Modern Studios, Culver City, California. "You Upset Me Baby" is released in October on RPM 416 and will top the R&B charts for two weeks. The other side is "Whole Lotta' Love" from a session on February 6, 1954. "Sneakin' Around" will hit the market in December (RPM 421), on the B-side of "Every Day I Have the Blues" (recorded on March 2, 1954). Both sides will enter the R&B charts, with "Sneakin' Around" peaking at # 14. Personnel : B.B. King (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Harry D. Jones (trumpet) ; Maxwell Davis (tenor sax / arranger) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax) ; Floyd Turnham (alto/baritone saxes) ; Willard McDaniel (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Produced by Joe and/or Jules Bihari.
August 19, 1954 : CHUCK HIGGINS and his band record the single, "Broke"/ "I'll Be There", which will be issued in late September (Specialty 532). Also laid down are "Eye Balling" and the instrumental "Special Tea" (!) ; these stay in the can until 1992, when they are included on the CD "Pachuko Hop" (Specialty SPCD 2175-2). Personnel : Daddy Cleanhead (Fred Higgins) (lead vocals) ; Jimmy Nolen (guitar) ; Winston Williams (bass) ; Chuck Higgins (leader / tenor sax) ; Jason Hogains. Jr. (baritone sax) ; Don Epstein (trombone) ; H.B. Barnum (piano) ; James A. Lee (drums). Produced by Art Rupe at Master Recorders in Hollywood. See also August 31.
August 19, 1954 : At her second recording session, WANDA JACKSON records two tracks, both duets with BILLY GRAY. They be coupled for single release in September : "If You Don't Somebody Else Will" and "You'd Be the First One To Know" (Decca 29267). The location is Hank Thompson's house in North May, Oklahoma. Personnel : Unknown (guitar) ; Bobby White (steel guitar) ; Billy Stewart (bass) ; Gilbert Baca (piano) ; Amos Hedricks (fiddle) ; Roy Harte (drums).
August 20, 1954 : VARETTA DILLARD records the single "Send Me Some Money"/ "Love", which is released in September on Savoy 1137. The location is New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Fred Johnson (piano) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums). Arranged by Leroy Kirkland. Produced by Fred Mendelsohn in New York City.
August 20, 1954 : The above is a split session with WILBERT HARRISON, who records "Don't Drop It"/"The Ways of a Woman" with the same personnel, arranger and producer (Savoy 1138, September).
August 24, 1954 : GENE O'QUIN does his last session for Capitol ; the tracks will appear on the Intro label, on two singles, both released in November of 1955. "Joe, Joe, Joe" is coupled with "Convicted" (Intro 6089) and "That's My Desire" with "I Searched the Crowd" (Intro 6090). Personnel : Jimmy Bryant (lead guitar) ; Jerry Miller (steel guitar) ; Billy Strange, Harold Rodcay (guitars) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Harold Hensley (fiddle) ; Les Taylor (piano) ; Homer Escamilla (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
Wednesday, August 25, 1954 : ANNISTEEN ALLEN records two singles for the Capitol label, in New York City. "Take A Chance On Me"/"No More Loving" is released on Capitol 2937 in October and "I've Got Troubles"/"Nothing Can Replace You" on Capitol 3000 in January 1955. Backing by Howard Biggs' orchestra, featuring Mickey Baker on guitar.
August 26, 1954 : STAN FREBERG records a satirical version of "Sh-Boom", released on Capitol 2929 on September 27. A # 14 hit. The other side, "Wide-Screen Mama Blues", also stems from this session. Label credit goes to "Stan Freberg with the Toads and orchestra conducted by Billy May". Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
August 26, 1954 is also the recording date of the PAUL GAYTEN single "Get It"/"I'm Tired" (Checker 801, October), laid down at the J&M studio in New Orleans. It is Gayten's first session for the Chess/Checker/Argo group of labels. Personnel : Paul Gayten (vocals / piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
August 27, 1954 : BIG JOHN GREER is in New York City to record four songs. "Wait Till After Christmas"/"(We Wanna See Santa) Do the Mambo" will come out in November (Groove 0038). "Will I Be the One" is also a single release (Groove 0100, March 1955, c/w "Lucky Lucky Me", laid down on February 8, 1955). "Play Me Some Loud Music" is first released in 1992 on the 3-CD set "Rockin' With Big John" (Bear Family BCD 15554) Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; George Berg (alto sax) ; Budd Johnson, Sam Taylor (tenor saxes) ; Lamar Wight (trumpet) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Jimmy Crawford (drums) ; Willie Rodriguez (percussion).
August 28, 1954 : A not so productive session by THE CLOVERS in New York City. Only "Alrighty, Oh Sweetie" is released, in November (Atlantic 1046, c/w "I Confess", recorded on March 4, 1953). "Only When I Dream" and a first attempt at "Love Bug" remain unissued. The Clovers are : Buddy Bailey, Billy Mitchell, Matthew McQuater, Harold Lucas and Harold Winley. Personnel : Howard Biggs (piano / arranger) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax). More details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
August 28, 1954 : RAY PRICE records material for two singles at the Castle Studio in Nashville. Yet another version of "If You Don't, Somebody Else Will" is coupled with "Oh Yes Darling" for release on Columbia 21315 on September 13. A # 8 country hit. "I'm Alone Because I Love You"/"One Broken Heart (Don't Mean A Thing)" follows on December 7 (Decca 21354). Backing by Ray's new band, the Cherokee Cowboys : Pete Wade (lead guitar) ; Tommy Hill (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Biggar (steel guitar) ; Tom Pritchard (bass) ; Bob Heppler, Big Red Hayes (fiddles) ; Burney Arnett (piano) ; Jimmy Dennis (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 30, 1954 : First Capitol session by THE FIVE KEYS. "Ling Ting Tong"/ "I'm Alone" is issued on October 11. It reaches # 5 on the R&B charts and # 28 on the pop charts. The other two tracks from this session, "Trapped, Lost, Gone" and "I'm Just A Fool", remain unissued. Lead vocal by Maryland Pierce. Produced by "Big Dave" Cavanaugh at the Capitol Studio in New York City.
August 31, 1954 : RUDY GRAYZELL does a four-song session in Dallas, probably at the Jim Beck Studio. The two resulting singles are credited to RUDY GRAY. First released is "Hearts Made of Stone"/"There's Gonna Be A Ball" (Capitol 2946, October), followed by "Ca-Razy!"/"You Better Believe It" (Capitol 3044) in February 1955. Personnel : Charlie Harris (lead guitar) ; Wayne Wood (steel guitar) ; Joe Prunea or Bobby Brown (bass) ; Greg Nanus (piano) ; Rusty Hornbeak (fiddle) ; Gerald Carnes or Kermit Baca (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 31, 1954 : Second session by CHUCK HIGGINS during this month. "Something's Going On In My Room"/"Let Me Come Back Home" will be credited to DADDY CLEANHEAD (Specialty 541, January 1955). "Is It Real" and "I Know What You're Talking About" are eventually released in 1992, on the album "Pachuko Hop" (Specialty SPCD 2175-2). It is a shared session with the vocal group THE HOLIDAYS, who record the single "Irene"/"Aw-Aw Baby" (Specialty 533, November). They sing background vocals on the other four tracks. Personnel : Daddy Cleanhead (Fred Higgins) (lead vocals, except on the two Holidays tracks) ; Jimmy Nolen (guitar) ; Ralph Watson (bass) ; Chuck Higgins (leader / tenor sax) ; Jason Hogains (baritone sax) ; H.B. Barnum (piano) ; James A. Lee (drums). Produced by Art Rupe at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
August 1954, unknown date : The vocal group THE CHEERS records three compositions by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. "Bazoom" (aka "I Need Your Lovin'") is coupled with "Arivederci" [sic] for release on Capitol 2921 in September. A # 15 pop hit. Also released as a single is "Can't We Be More Than Friends" (Capitol 3075, March 1955, c/w "Blueberries" from a later session). Backing by Buddy Bregman and his orchestra. The Cheers are : Bert Convy (lead vocals), Gil Garfield and Sue Allen. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in Hollywood.
August 1954, unknown date : THE CREW-CUTS cover Shirley Gunter's R&B hit "Oop-Shoop" (Mercury 70443, September), resulting in a # 13 pop hit. The other side, "Do Me Good Baby", comes from the same session. The location is probably Chicago. Backing by David Carroll and his orchestra.
(Circa) August 1954, unknown date : BUD DECKELMAN is at the Meteor Studio in Memphis to record the single "Daydreamin'"/"Let's Not Pretend" (Meteor 5014, September). Credited to Bud Deckelman with the Daydreamers. Personnel : Bud Deckelman (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Quinton Claunch (rhythm guitar) ; Dood Deckelman (acoustic guitar) ; Eddie Emanus (steel guitar) ; Dan Chambers (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle). Produced by Bill Cantrell and Quinton Claunch.
August 1954, unknown date : WILLIE MABON is at the Chess Studio in Chicago to record four tracks. Only "Come On Baby" is released at the time (Chess 1592, March 1955, c/w "Wow, I Feel So Good", recorded in January 1955). "Lonely Blues" and "Willie's Blues" are first released on a German LP in 1984 ("Willie Mabon : Blues Roots, Vol. 16", Chess 6.24806AG). "Heartbroken Blues" has not been released at all.
(Probably) August 1954, unknown date : Second Spark session by THE ROBINS, in Los Angeles. "Framed"/"Loop De Loop Mambo" is issued in September (Spark 107). "I Must Be Dreamin'" will appear in June 1955 (Spark 116, c/w "The Hatchet Man" from a session in April 1954). "Just Like A Fool" will be used as the B-side of "Smokey Joe's Cafe" (recorded in January 1955), released on Spark 122 in August 1955. Carl Gardner is the lead singer on three of the four tracks ; Bobby Nunn leads on "Framed". Personnel : Carl Gardner, Bobby Nunn, Ty Terrell, Roy Richards, Billy Richards (vocals) ; Barney Kessel (guitar) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Gil Bernal (tenor sax) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
(Probably) August 1954, unknown date : WAYNE WALKER records a single at the KWKH Radio Station Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. "Now Is the Time For Love"/"You Got the Best Of Me (I Got the Worst Of You)" is placed with the Chess label (4860) and released in October. Backing by the Louisiana Hay Ride Stars, which include Dobber Johnson on fiddle and Sonny Trammell on steel guitar.
With thanks to Peter Stoller and the Mickey Baker discography by Surfinbird Chroniques.
SEPTEMBER 1954
September 1, 1954 : TINY BRADSHAW records four instrumentals with his orchestra, at the King Studio in Cincinnati. These are released on two singles : "Cat Fruit"/"Stack of Dollars" in October (King 4747) and "Light"/"Choice" in December (King 4757).
September 1, 1954 : THE CHARMS record only one song on this day, but it is the one that will take them to the top of the R&B charts : "Hearts Of Stone" (DeLuxe 6062, late September), originally recorded by the California group The Jewels. Also a # 15 pop hit. The other side, "Who Knows", was laid down on May 24, 1954. See also September 13.
Thursday, September 2, 1954 : ROY BROWN is still contracted to King and records three tracks for the label, in New Orleans. "Worried Life Blues"/ "Black Diamond" is released in October (King 4743). "Fannie Brown Got Married" will follow in December (King 4761, c/w "Queen of Diamonds", recorded on May 27, 1954). Personnel : Jimmy Davis (guitar) ; Tommy Shelvin (bass) ; Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Sammy Parker, Johnny Fontennette (tenor saxes) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Placide Adams (drums).
September 2, 1954 : JIMMY BRYANT and SPEEDY WEST are at the Capitol Studio on Melrose Avenue in Hollywood. They record four instrumental tracks, to be released on two singles : "Stratosphere Boogie"/"Deep Water" (Capitol 2964, November) and "Flippin' the Lid"/"West Of Samoa" (Capitol 3026, January 1955). Personnel : Jimmy Bryant (guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Billy Strange (rhythm guitar) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 4, 1954 : In the wake of Elvis Presley's recording of "Blue Moon Of Kentucky", BILL MONROE records a new, "hotter" version of his signature song. Release on Decca 29289 on October 4. The reverse is "Close By", from a session on June 26, 1954. Personnel : Edd Mayfield (guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Gordon Terry, Red Taylor, Charlie Cline (fiddles). Location : the Castle Studio at the Tulane Hotel in Nashville.
September 5, 1954 : One-song session by CARL SMITH. "Loose Talk" is released in October (Columbia 21317) and will top the country charts for seven weeks. The other side,"More Than Anything Else in the World" (recorded on May 13, 1954) will also chart, peaking at # 5. Personnel : Sammy Pruett, Jimmy Smith (guitars) ; Johnny Sibert (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; John Gordy (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at the Castle Studio, Nashville.
September 8, 1954 : THE AMES BROTHERS record the future # 3 hit "The Naughty Lady Of Shady Lane" (RCA 47-5897, November, c/w "Addio", recorded on the previous day). Three other tracks are laid down, all released on different singles. The location is the RCA Victor Studio at Webster Hall in New York City. Orchestra directed by Hugo Winterhalter.
September 9, 1954 : HOMER AND JETHRO are at the RCA Victor Studio in New York City to record four songs. "Hey There" (a parody of the # 1 hit by Rosemary Clooney) is coupled with "They Were Doin' the Mambo" on RCA 47-5867 in October. "Santy Baby"/"The Night After Christmas" comes next, in late November (RCA 47-5903). Personnel : Henry Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Kenneth Burns (vocals / man- dolin) ; Eddie Thomas (guitar) ; Charles Grean (bass) ; Marty Gold (piano) ; Philip Kraus (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes.
September 9, 1954 : LULA REED records the single "Sick and Tired"/"Jealous Love" (King 4748, late October) in Cincinnati, backed by SONNY THOMPSON (her husband) and his orchestra. Thompson also records an instrumental single of his own, "Cat On the Keys, Parts 1 & 2" (King 4746, October). Personnel : Clarence Kenner (guitar) ; James Royal (bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Fred Clark (alto sax) ; Tommy Purkson (baritone sax) ; David Brooks (tenor sax) ; Robert Boswell (drums).
September 9, 1954 : SHIRLEY AND LEE are at the J&M Studio in New Orleans where they record the single "Takes Money"/"Comin' Over" (Aladdin 3258, November). Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
September 9-10, 1954 : ELVIS PRESLEY records his second Sun single, "Good Rockin' Tonight"/"I Don't Care If the Sun Don't Shine" (Sun 210, issued on September 22). "I'll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin')" and "Just Because" will be included on Presley's first LP, "Elvis Presley" (RCA LPM 1254, March 23, 1956). "Tomorrow Night" will stay in the can until August 1965, when the song is released in an overdubbed and slowed down version on the LP "Elvis For Everyone" (RCA LPM 3450). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Friday, September 10, 1954 : Second session by THE BEES within a week. "Toy Bell"/"Snatchin' Back" is selected as their new single (Imperial 5314, rush-released on September 15). "Sunny Side of the Street" is first issued in 1987, on the Various artists LP "Lost Dreams : The New Orleans Vocal Groups" (EMI America ST 17232). "Why Don't You Do Right" is consigned to the vaults. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
September 13, 1954 : Second session by THE CHARMS this month, this time a regular four-song date. "Two Hearts" is released in November (DeLuxe 6065) and will peak at # 8 on the R&B charts. "Crazy Crazy Love" follows quickly, in December (DeLuxe 6072). "When We Get Together" and "Let the Happenings Happen" are coupled for release on DeLuxe 6087 in April 1955. The location is the King Studio in Cincinnati.
September 13, 1954 : The vocal group THE CUES does a session for Aladdin at Fulton Studios in New York City. The resulting single, "Scoochie Scoochie"/"Forty 'Leven Dozen Ways" is released on the Lamp subsidiary (8007) in November. The Cues are at this time : Abel De Costa, Robie Kirk, Ollie Jones and Eddie Barnes.
September 13, 1954 : Saxophonist RED PRYSOCK does a four-song session in New York City. "Fats Place" and "Hey There" are coupled for release on Mercury 70460 in November. "Red Speaks" is saved until January 1956 and is paired with "Zip" (recorded on January 12, 1955), on Mercury 70787. Unissued from this session is "Shake A Hand". Personnel : Red Prysock (tenor sax) ; Herbert Gordy (bass) ; Jimmy Neeley (piano) ; Frank Gailbreath (trumpet) ; Clarence Eugene Wright (baritone sax) ; Julius Sparrow (trombone) ; Roland Johnson (vibes) ; Cornelius Thomas (drums).
September 13, 1954 : MUDDY WATERS records four tracks at the Chess studio in Chicago. "I'm Ready"/"I Don't Know Why" is an October release (Chess 1579). "Smokestack Lightning" is first released in 1972 on the 4-LP set "Genesis, Vol. 3 : Sweet Home Chicago" (Chess 6641174). "Shake It Baby" is unissued and probably lost. Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Rogers (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Little Walter (harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
September 17, 1954 : BUCK GRIFFIN records two singles for the Lin label at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. "Rollin' Tears"/"One Day After Pay Day" is an October release (Lin 1007). "Going Home All Alone"/"Looking' For the Green" is his subsequent single, in December (Lin 1008). Backing by members of Bill Wimberley's band and James Loden (Sonny James) on fiddle. Produced by Joe Leonard.
September 18, 1954 : SMILEY LEWIS records the single "Too Many Drivers"/ "Ooh La La" at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. Released in October on Imperial 5316. Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Herb Hardesty or Clarence Hall (tenor sax). More details unknown. Produced by Dave Bartholomew, who wrote both sides.
September 18, 1954 : This was a split session with JESSE ALLEN, who cut the single "Rockin' and Rollin'"/"I Love You So" (Imperial 5315, October). Same personnel and producer.
Tuesday, September 21, 1954 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record their next single, "Dim Dim the Lights (I Want Some Atmosphere)"/"Happy Baby" (Decca 29317, November 1). A # 11 hit. The location is the Pythian Temple (Decca Studio) in New York City. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Marshall Lytle (double bass) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Billy Gussak (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
September 23, 1954 : BIG MAYBELLE does a four-song session in New York City. "Don't Leave Poor Me" appears in April 1955 (OKeh 7053, c/w "Ain't No Use", which was laid down on March 2, 1954). "One Monkey Don't Stop No Show" will be used as the B-side of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" (from a session on March 21, 1955) in September 1955 (OKeh 7060). "New Kind Of Mambo" is saved until October 1956 for release on OKeh 7069 (c/w a reissue of "Gabbin' Blues", recorded on October 8, 1952). "Ain't To Be Played With" is first released on the 2-LP "The OKeh Sessions" (Charly R&B CDX 27) in 1983. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Norman Keenan (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sam Taylor, Maurice Sinon (tenor saxes) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland.
September 23, 1954 : JOHNNY HORTON records three tracks for Mercury at KWKH Radio Station, Shreveport, Louisiana. Nothing is released at the time. "Where Are You" and "Meant So Little To You" are first released in 1991 on the 7-LP box-set "Johnny Horton : The Early Years" (Bear Family BFX 15289). "Take My Word" is unissued and considered lost. Personnel : Jack Ford (electric guitar) ; Joe Hunt (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Charles Wigginton (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano). Produced by Dee Kilpatrick.
September 23, 1954 : THE MIDNIGHTERS, who usually record in Cincinnati, do a session in Hollywood (Radio Recorders). The four songs are quickly released on two singles : "Annie's Aunt Fannie"/"Crazy Loving (Stay With Me") in October (Federal 12200, a # 10 R&B hit) and "Stingy Little Thing"/ "Tell Them" in December (Federal 12202). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Charles Sutton, Henry Both, Sonny Woods (background vocals) ; Cal Green (guitar / leader) ; Joe Williams (bass) ; Louis Stephens (tenor sax) ; Harold Wallace (baritone sax) ; Christine Chatman (piano) ; George DeHart (drums).
September 24, 1954 : WERLY FAIRBURN records two tracks at an unknown location, possibly New Orleans. First released is "I Feel Like Cryin'", (Capitol 2963, October), followed by "It's A Cold Weary World" (Capitol 3101, April 1955). Both songs are coupled with tracks from a session on June 19, 1954 : "Prison Cell of Love" and "Spiteful Heart" respectively. Personnel : Werly Fairburn (vocals / guitar) ; poss. Johnny Bonvillian (steel guitar) ; poss. Joe Martin (bass) ; Unknown (fiddle).
September 24, 1954 : ELLA MAE MORSE is at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood to record five tracks. "The Point Of No Return"/"Give A Little Time (To Your Lover)" is selected as her new single (Capitol 2929, October). "Bring Back My Baby To Me" is released in late November (Capitol 2992, c/w "Lovey Dovey" from an earlier session). "Livin', Livin', Livin'" is also a single release (Capitol 3167, June 1955). "All I Need Is You" is first issued in 1997 on the 5-CD box-set "Barrelhouse, Boogie and the Blues" (Bear Family BCD 16117). Backing by Big Dave's orchestra : Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Mike Rubin (bass) ; Gerald Wiggins (piano) ; Benny Carter (alto sax) ; Don Lodice, Ted Romersa (tenor saxes) ; Joe Koch (baritone sax) ; Roy Harte (drums). Conducted by Dave Cavanaugh.
September 27, 1954 : At his first session for Chess, LOWELL FULSON cuts the original version of "Reconsider Baby"(later recorded by Elvis Presley) and its flip-side, "I Believe I'll Give It Up" (Checker 804, November). Personnel : Lowell Fulson (vocals / guitar) ; Bobby Nicholson (bass) ; Paul Drake (piano) ; David 'Fathead' Newman, Choker Campbell (tenor saxes) ; Julian Beasley (alto and baritone sax) ; Phatz Morris (trombone) ; Phillip Gilbeaux (trumpet) ; Chick Booth (drums). Produced by Stan Lewis in Dallas, Texas.
September 28, 1954 : THE FIVE JETS do their final session for DeLuxe. "Everybody Do the Chicken"/"Crazy Chicken" is released in October, on DeLuxe 6064. "Down Slow"/"Please Love Me Baby" will follow in December (DeLuxe 6071). Joe Murphy is the lead singer on all four tracks. The location is probably Cincinnati.
September 28, 1954 : GUITAR SLIM (Eddie Jones) is at Universal Recorders in Hollywood where he records six tracks. First released is "Sufferin' Mind" (Specialty 536, November, c/w "Twenty-Five Lies" from a session on April 16, 1954). This is followed by "Stand By Me"/"Our Only Child" in January 1955 (Specialty 542). "Reap What You Sow" and "Guitar Slim" are first released on the album "The Things I Used To Do" (Specialty SP 2120) in 1970 and "I Want To Love-A You" on the CD "Sufferin' Mind" (Specialty SPCD-7007-2) in 1991. Personnel : Guitar Slim (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Lloyd Lambert (bass) ; Lawrence Cotton (piano) ; Roosevelt Brown (trumpet) ; Joe Tillman (tenor sax) ; Gus Fontenette (alto sax) ; Oscar Moore (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
September 28, 1954 : BILLY WALKER is at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas where he records the single "Kissing You"/"You're the Only Good Thing" (Columbia 21326, November). A third track, "Let Me Hear From You" remains in the can until Bear Family releases the 6-CD box-set "Cross the Brazos At Waco" in 1992 (BCD 15657). Personnel : Jimmy Rollins, Paul Buskirk (guitars) ; Slim Harbert (bass) ; Dale Gilley (steel guitar) ; Elaine Nix (piano) ; Fred Cantu (drums). Produced by Don Law.
September 29, 1954 : The final United session of MEMPHIS SLIM yields six tracks, released on three singles. "Memphis Slim USA"/"Blues All Around My Head" appears in November (United 186). "She's Alright"/"Two Of A Kind" will follow in May 1955 (United 189). A remake of "Blue And Lonesome" is coupled with "Got To Find My Baby" for release on United 201 in June 1956. All three singles are credited to Memphis Slim and his House Rockers. The location is Chicago.
September 29, 1954 : THE PLATTERS, still struggling for a hit, record their next two singles at an unknown Hollywood studio. "Voo Vee Ah Bee"/"Shake It Up Mambo" hits the market in November (Federal 12198), followed by "Maggie Doesn't Work Here Anymore"/"Take Me Back, Take Me Back" in January 1955 (Federal 12204).
September 1954, unknown date : RICHARD BERRY records material for two singles in Los Angeles. First released is "The Big Break"/"What You Do To Me" (Flair 1055, late September). "Oh! Oh! Get Out of the Car"/"Please Tell Me" follows in February 1955 (Flair 1064). Vocal backing by the Crowns.
September 1954, unknown date : The vocal group THE CHORDETTES records the future number one single "Mr. Sandman" (Cadence 1247, October). The flip, "I Don't Wanna See You Cryin'", comes from the same session. Produced and conducted by Archie Bleyer in New York City.
September 1954, unknown date : Another female vocal group, THE COOKIES, makes its debut as a recording unit, at Fulton Studios in New York City. "Don't Let Go"/"All Night Mambo" is rush-released at the end of September on Lamp 8008. The Cookies are : Dorothy Jones, Darlene McCrea and Beulah Robertson.
September 1954, unknown date : THE MOONGLOWS hold their first session for the Chess label in Chicago. First released is "Sincerely"/"Tempting" (Chess 1581, October). A # 1 R&B hit (also a # 1 pop hit in the cover version by The McGuire Sisters). "Shoo Doo-Be-Doo"/"So All Alone" appears on Checker 806 in November, credited to Bobby Lester and the Moonlighters. "Such A Feeling" has never been released. The Moonglows are : Harvey Fuqua, Bobby Lester, Prentiss Barnes and Pete Graves.
September 1954, unknown date : Last Sun session by the PRISONAIRES. None of the three tracks recorded is originally released. "What About Frank Clement (A Mighty Man)" will appear in 1976 , on the LP "Sun, the Roots of Rock, Vol. 4 : Cotton City Country (Charly CR 30104, UK). "Friends Call Me A Fool" and "Two Strangers" see their first release in 1990, on the CD "Just Walking In the Rain" (Bear Family BCD 15523). Lead vocals by Johnny Bragg. Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels and Marv Goldberg.
Dik
OCTOBER 1954
October 1, 1954 : The vocal group THE CHECKERS records four tracks at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "I Wasn't Thinking, I Was Drinking" is coupled with "Mama's Daughter" for release on King 4751 in November. "Can't Find My Sadie"/"Trying To Hold My Gal" (King 4764) follows only one month later. Lead vocals by Eddie "Monkey Man" Harris and Bill Brown ; "Can't Find My Sadie" is led by Eddie alone.
Saturday, October 2, 1954 : JAYE P. MORGAN records her first and biggest hit, "That's All I Want From You"/"Dawn" (RCA 47-5896, mid-October). Peaks at # 3 on the Billboard pop charts. "Danger! Heartbreak Ahead" is the subsequent single (RCA 47-6016, February 1955) and also sells well (# 12). The other side is "Softly, Softly", recorded on January 20, 1955. Arranged and conducted by Hugo Winterhalter at the RCA Victor studio in New York City.
October 3, 1954 : During an afternoon session, CHET ATKINS and HANK SNOW record the instrumental single "Silver Bell"/"The Old Spinning Wheel" (RCA 47-5995, January 1955). Two other instrumentals, "Darktown Strutter's Ball" and "Under the Double Eagle", stay in the can until they are included on Atkins's 4-CD set "Galloping Guitar" (Bear Family BCD 15714) in 1993. Personnel : Chet Atkins, Hank Snow (guitars) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at Thomas Productions in Nashville.
October 3, 1954 : HANK SNOW also does a session of his own on this day, in the evening. "That Crazy Mambo Thing" is selected as his next single (RCA 47-5912, late October, c/w "The Next Voice You Hear" from a session on 21st September 1953). "Let Me Go, Lover"/"I've Forgotten You" follows quickly (RCA 47-5960, December). "Love's Call From the Mountain" is first released on the 4-CD box-set "The Singing Ranger, Vol. 2 (1954-1958)" (Bear Family BCD 15476) in 1990. Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Jack Shook (guitar) ; Joseph Talbot III (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Tommy Vaden, Chubby Wise (fiddles). Produced by Steve Sholes at Thomas Productions in Nashville.
October 4, 1954 : JIMMIE DOLAN records material for two singles at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood. "A Sailor's Letter"/"I Wonder If I Can Lose the Blues This Way" is released on Capitol 2977 on November 9. "What's Another Broken Heart"/"Jolly Captain Huddlestead" will follow on June 18, 1955 (Capitol 3157). Personnel : Jimmie Dolan (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Jimmy Bryant, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Red Murrell (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Tex Atchison (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 5, 1954 : LEFTY FRIZZELL records his next single, "I Love You Mostly"/"Mama!" (Columbia 21328, November 18). Two other tracks are laid down, "Let It Be So" and "You're There, I'm Here". These remain in the vaults until the release of the 12-CD box-set "Life's Like Poetry" (Bear Family BCD 15550) in 1992. Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Rollins (lead guitar) ; Joe Knight (rhythm guitar) ; Paul Blunt (steel guitar) ; Slim Harbert (bass) ; Johnny Gimble (fiddle) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Fred Cantu (drums). Produced by Don Law, probably at the Jim Beck studio in Dallas, Texas.
October 5, 1954 : In Chicago, LITTLE WALTER records his next single, "Last Night"/"Mellow Down Easy" (Checker 805), for release in November. A # 6 R&B hit. Also laid down is an untitled instrumental, which is first released in 1978 under the title "Instrumental", on the LP "Blue Midnight" (Le Roi du Blues LP 2017). Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
October 5, 1954 : CHUCK WILLIS records seven tracks in New York City, five of which will be released on singles. "Give and Take"/"I've Been Away Too Long" is his next single (OKeh 7048, November). "Love Struck"/"Lawdy Miss Mary" is released in February 1955 (OKeh 7051). "It Were You" is saved until February 1956, for release on OKeh 7067 (c/w "Come On Home" from a later session). "Welcome Home Dear" is issued posthumously on the LP "A Tribute To Chuck Willis" (Epic LN 3728, September 1960). "Peace And Love" stays in the vaults until 2003, when it is included on the 2-CD "Chuck Willis Wails. The Complete Recordings 1951-1956" (Sundazed SC 11122). Freddy Jackson plays the saxophone ; more details unknown.
October 6, 1954 : J.B. LENOIR cuts four titles for the Parrot label, in Chicago. "Mama Talk To Your Daughter"/"Man Watch Your Woman" is released in January 1955 (Parrot 809). "Fine Girls"/"I Lost My Baby" will follow in November 1955 (Parrot 821). Both singles are credited to J.B. LENORE. Personnel : J.B. Lenoir (vocals / guitar) ; Lorenzo Smith, Ernest Cotton (tenor saxes) ; Joe Montgomery (piano) ; Al Galvin (drums).
October 8, 1954 : Sax player EARL BOSTIC records four tracks in New York City. "Song of the Islands" and "Liebestraum" are coupled for release on King 4754 in November. "Night and Day" will be paired with "Embraceable You" (recorded the next day) and appears on King 4765 (January 3, 1955). "Cherry Bean" is an April 1955 release (King 4799, c/w "Remember" from a later session). Personnel : Earl Bostic (alto sax) ; Jimmy Shirley (guitar) ; George Tucker (bass) ; Benny Golson (tenor sax) ; Blue Mitchell, Eldridge Morris (trum- pets) ; Stash O'Laughlin (piano) ; Teddy Charles (vibraphone) ; Granville Hogan (drums).
Sunday, October 10, 1954 : MALCOLM YELVINGTON records his first Sun single, "Drinkin' Wine Spodee-O-Dee"/"Just Rolling Along" (Sun 211, November 10). Personnel : Malcolm Yelvington (vocals / guitar) ; Gordon Mashburn (guitar) ; Red Winn (steel guitar) ; Jake Ryles (bass) ; Reece Fleming (piano on "Drinkin' Wine") ; Lavern Fleming (piano on "Just Rolling Along"). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis.
October 11, 1954 : THE DUKES record the single “Ooh Bop She Bop”/“Oh Kay” in Los Angeles. It will be released in March 1955 on Specialty 543. The group also adds backing vocals to two unreleased Lloyd Price recordings from a session on March 13, 1952 : “Oo-Ee Baby” and “Chee-Koo Baby”. Credited to Lloyd Price and The Dukes, these two tracks are issued on Specialty 535 in the last week of October 1954. Unissued from this session is “I Was A Fool”. Produced by Art Rupe.
October 12, 1954 : TOMMY COLLINS does a four-song session at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood. "It Tickles"/"Let Down" is an April 1955 release (Capitol 3082) and also features the voice of Wanda Collins, though she is not credited on the label. "I'll Be Gone" is issued in December 1955 (Capitol 3289, c/w "I Love You More and More Each Day", from a session on June 25, 1953). "Wait A Little Longer" is saved until March 1956, when it appears on Capitol 3370 (c/w "What Kind of Sweetheart Are You", recorded on November 30, 1955). Personnel : Tommy Collins (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Buck Owens, Lewis Talley (guitars) ; Fuzzy Owen (bass) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle)
October 13, 1954 : THE CHORDS do another session for the Atlantic subsidiary Cat. "A Girl To Love" will be released on Cat 112 in November ; the reverse is "Hold Me Baby", recorded on August 15, 1954. The single is credited to The Chordcats. "Could It Be" is saved until October 1955, for release on Cat 117 (credited to the Sh-Booms), coupled with "Pretty Wild" from a later session (February 23, 1955). The Chords are : James Keyes, Claude Feaster, Carl Feaster, Floyd McRae and William Edwards. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 18, 1954 : JOHN LEE HOOKER does his second session for Specialty, again in Detroit. None of the four songs recorded is originally released. "Don't Trust Nobody" is first issued on the Various artists LP "This Is How It All Began : The Specialty Story, Vol. 1" (Specialty SP 2117) in 1970. "Nothin' But Trouble" and "I Need Love So Bad" are included on another Various artists LP, "Dark Muddy Bottom Blues" (Specialty SP 2149) in 1971. Finally, "Odds Against Me" gets a place on the UK album "Hooker, Hopkins and Hogg" (Specialty SNTF 5013) in 1973.
October 18, 1954 : PERCY MAYFIELD records his next two singles at Universal Recorders in Hollywood. "My Heart Is Cryin'"/"You Were Lying To Me" appears in December (Specialty 537). "The Voice Within"/"Baby You're Rich" follows in March 1955 (Specialty 544). Personnel : Harold Grant (guitar) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Maxwell Davis (tenor sax / arranger) ; Floyd Turnham (baritone sax) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax) ; Willard McDaniel (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums) ; The Maytones (= the Meadowlarks : Don Julian, Ronald Barrett, Earl Jones) (background vocals). Produced by Art Rupe.
October 19, 1954 : JOE TURNER does a session for Atlantic in New York City, but all four titles are rejected / unissued. The titles are : "Morning, Noon and Night", "Country Love", "Hide and Seek" and "Heavy Hittin' Mama". Joe will return to the first and third song on January 28, 1955.
October 20, 1954 : LaVERN BAKER is at the Atlantic Studio in New York City to record four songs. "Tweedlee Dee"/"Tomorrow Night" is chosen as her new single (Atlantic 1047, November), credited to LaVern Baker and the Gliders. A # 4 R&B hit (# 14 pop), but it could have been even bigger but for the competition of a note-for-note cover by Georgia Gibbs, which went to # 2 pop. "Of Course I Do" gets a place on the LP "LaVern" in 1956 (Atlantic LP 8002) and "You Better Stop" eventually ends up on the album "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071) in early 1963. Personnel : Howard Biggs (piano / arranger) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Connie Kay (drums) ; The Gliders (who are in fact The Cues) (background vocals ) ; Unknown (guitar, bass, baritone sax). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
October 20, 1954 : Three-song session by FREDDIE HART at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. "Please Don't Tell Her"/"I'm Going Out on the Front Porch and Cry" becomes his new single (Capitol 2991, November). "Oh, Heart, Let Her Go" is coupled with "Miss Lonely Heart" (recorded on April 29, 1954) for release on Capitol 3090 in April 1955. Personnel : Don Evans, Jack Rogers (guitars) ; Noel Boggs (steel guitar) ; Cliffie Stone (bass) ; Tex Atchison (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Thursday, October 21, 1954 : PEE WEE CRAYTON records four tracks at the J&M Studio in New Orleans, which will be released on two singles. First, "You Know Yeah"/"I Need Your Love" (Imperial 5321, December), then "Eyes Full Of Tears"/"Runnin' Wild" (Imperial 5345, April 1955). Personnel (probably) : Pee Wee Crayton (vocals / guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 24, 1954 : CLYDE McPHATTER and the Drifters record the future single "Everyone's Laughing"/"Hot Ziggety" (Atlantic 1070, July 1955). "Three Thirty Three" is first released in 1971 on the LP "The Drifters - Their Greatest Recordings" (Atco 33-375). "Sugar Coated Kisses" is not released at all. Personnel : Clyde McPhatter (lead vocals) ; Andrew Thrasher, Gerhart Thrasher, Bill Pinkney (background vocals) ; Jimmy Oliver (guitar) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; poss. Harry Van Walls (piano). More details not known. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 25, 1954 : OTIS SPANN does the first session under his own name, at the Chess studio in Chicago. The resulting single couples a vocal side ("It Must Have Been the Devil") with a piano instrumental ("Five Spot"). Release on Checker 807 in December. Personnel : Otis Spann (vocals / piano) ; George Smith (harmonica) ; Jody Williams, B.B. King (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
October 25, 1954 : The above is a split session with HOWLIN' WOLF (Chester Burnett), who records the single "Forty Four"/"I'll Be Around" (Chess 1584, January 1955). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (vocals / harmonica) ; Hubert Sumlin, Jody Williams (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
October 25, 1954 : JUSTIN TUBB records three duets with GOLDIE HILL in Nashville (Castle Studio). "Sure Fire Kisses"/"Fickle Heart" is released on Decca 29349 in November. "Waterloo" is first issued on the Various artists LP "Country Star Parade, Vol. 3" (Vocalion VL 3836) in 1968. Personnel : Grady Martin or Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
October 25, 1954 : One-song session by 14-year old MAGGIE SUE WIMBERLY at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "How Long" is held in the can until December 1, 1955, when it is released on Sun 229. The other side, "Daydream Come True" will be recorded on March 18, 1955. Personnel : Quinton Claunch (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Marcus Van Story (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle). Produced by Bill Cantrell and Quinton Claunch.
October 26, 1954 : Saxophonist SAM 'THE MAN' TAYLOR records three tracks with his Cat Men. "Tara's Theme" and "The High and the Mighty" are paired for single release on MGM 11882 in November. "Harlem Nocturne" will also appear as a single, in April 1955 (MGM 11977, c/w "Red Sails in the Sunset" from a session on July 21, 1954). The location is the Capitol Studio in New York City.
October 27, 1954 : BILL DOGGETT and his combo do another session at the King studio in Cincinnati. "Tara's Theme" and "Gumbo" are selected for the new single (King 4759, December). "Wild Oats" is the subsequent single (King 4784, March 1955, c/w "I'll Be Around" from a session on June 23, 1954). "A Lover's Dream" is first released in August 1960 (King 5387, c/w "Trav'lin' Light" from an unknown session). Personnel : Bill Doggett (organ) ; Bill Jennings (guitar) ; Jimmy Glover (bass) ; Pigmeat Garner (tenor sax) ; Shep Shepherd (drums).
October 27, 1954 : BILLY EMERSON records three titles at the Sun studio (Memphis Recording Service). "Move Baby Move" is coupled with "When It Rains It Pours" for release on Sun 214 on January 8, 1955. The third track, "Shim Sham Shimmy" is shelved until 1978, when it is included on the Various artists LP "Sun Sound Special : Shoobie Oobie" (Charly CR 30148, UK). Personnel : Billy 'The Kid' Emerson (vocals / piano) ; Eleven Parr (guitar) ; Charles Smith (bass) ; Luther Taylor (alto sax) ; Bennie Moore (tenor sax) ; Robert Prindell (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
October 27, 1954 : Another Imperial session by THE SPIDERS. Four tracks are recorded at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Sukey, Sukey, Sukey"/"Am I the One" will be released in March 1955 on Imperial 5344. "Bells In My Heart" is a June 1955 release (Imperial 5354, c/w "For A Thrill", from a session on January 19, 1954). "Don't Knock" is first released on the LP "I Didn't Wanna Do It" (Imperial LP 9140) in 1961. The Spiders are : Chick Carbo, Mac West, Oliver Howard and Bill Moore. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 28, 1954 : ONIE WHEELER is at the Castle Studio in Nashville where he records four songs. "She Wiggled and Giggled" is the first track to be released, in February 1955 (Columbia 21371, c/w "Little Mama", recorded on May 17, 1954). "That's What I Like" is a July 1955 release (Columbia 21418, c/w "My Home Is Not A Home At All", also from that May session). "That's What I Like" and "I'm Satisfied With My Friend" are paired for release on Columbia 21454 in October 1955. Personnel : Onie Wheeler (vocals / harmonica) ; Alden J. Nelson (lead guitar / harmony vocals) ; Doyal Nelson (rhythm guitar / harmony vocals) ; Delbert Hale (fiddle) ; Ernest G. Thompson (drums). Produced by Don Law.
October 28-29 1954 : Marathon session by MOON MULLICAN at the King Studio in Cincinnati. Sixteen tracks are recorded in two days, all released as singles : King 1408 You Got the Best Of Me / Downstream (November) King 1421 Put Your Arms Around Me Honey / Yearning (December) King 1427 Crippled For Life / There Goes the Bride (January 1955) King 1441 I'll Sail My Ship Alone / The Honey Song (February 1955) King 1447 What's the Matter With the Mill / When Love Dies, Where Does It Go? (March 1955) King 1461 San Antonio Rose / Cedarwood Blues (May 1955) King 1467 Jose, the Mexican Boy / Someone More Lonesome Than You (June '55) King 1481 Mexicali Rose / Panhandle Rag (August 1954) Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano / organ) ; Boyd Bennett (drums). More details unknown.
October 29, 1954 : First Atlantic session for IVORY JOE HUNTER. His debut single for the label is ""It May Sound Silly"/"I Got To Learn To Do the Mambo"/ (Atlantic 1049, first week of 1955). The other two tracks, "It's A Doggone Crying Shame" and "I'll Never Leave You Baby" will be included on the LP "Ivory Joe Hunter" (Atlantic LP 8008) in June 1957. Personnel : Ivory Joe Hunter (vocals / piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Sam Taylor, Budd Johnson (tenor saxes) ; probably The Cues (vocal group). More details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 30, 1954 : Pianist LLOYD GLENN records two singles at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Still Waters"/"Nite-Flite" is rush-released in November (Aladdin 3268). "Glenn's Glide"/"Footloose" will follow in April 1955 (Aladdin 3288). Personnel : Lloyd Glenn (piano) ; Jesse Ervin (guitar) ; Billy Hadnott (bass) ; Bob Harvey (drums).
October 1954, unknown date : GLENN BARBER records material for two singles at the Starday studio in Beaumont, Texas. "Ring Around the Moon" is coupled with "Ice Water", released on Starday 166 (October). "Married Man"/"Poor Man's Baby" will appear in July 1955 on Starday 196. Personnel : Herby Remington (steel guitar) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; more details unknown. Produced by Pappy Daily.
October 1954, unknown date : THE CADILLACS record their next two singles in New York City. "I Want To Know About Love"/"Wishing Well" is released in November (Josie 769), "No Chance"/"Sympathy" in February 1955 (Josie 773). The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll (lead), Charles Brooks, Laverne Drake, Bobby Phillips and Earl Wade. Produced by Esther Navarro.
Late October, 1954 : CARL PERKINS records the A-side of his first single, "Movie Magg" (Flip 501, February 1955) at the Sun Studio in Memphis. The other side, "Turn Around" will be recorded about two weeks later, with additional personnel. Also laid down are five takes of "Honky Tonk Gal". That title makes its first appearance in 1974, on the Various artists LP "Sun Rockabillys, Vol. 3 : Rockin' & Boppin'" (Sun 6467028, UK). Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) ; Jay B. Perkins (guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, Frank Frantik and John Klompenhouwer.
NOVEMBER 1954
November 1, 1954 : In Chicago, HAROLD BURRAGE records the single "I Feel So Fine"/"You're Gonna Cry" (States 144, December). On the label the singer is erroneously credited as Harold Barrage. Personnel : Harold Burrage (vocals / piano) ; Lee Cooper (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Red Holloway, John Cameron (tenor saxes) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Fred Below (drums). Produced by Leonard Allen.
November 2, 1954 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW is at the J&M Studio in New Orleans to record four songs. "Another Mule"/"I Want To Be With Her" is chosen as his new single (Imperial 5322, December). "Every Night, Every Day" will be used as the B-side of "Four Winds" (recorded in March 1955) and issued in May 1955 on Imperial 5350. "Shout Sister Shout" is first released on the French LP "The Monkey" (Pathe-Marconi 1561331) in 1985. Personnel: Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet) ; Pee Wee Crayton (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
November 2, 1954 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) records four tracks in Jackson, Mississippi. Three of them will be released on the LP "Clownin' With the World" (Trumpet 700, which also includes tracks by Willie Love) : "I'm Not Beggin' Nobody", "Shuckin' Mama" and the instrumental "Clownin' With the World". The latter will also be released on Ace 511 in late 1955 under the title "Boppin' With Sonny". The fourth track is Empty Bedroom", issued in February 1955 on Trumpet 228 (c/w "From the Bottom", which is recorded ten days later). Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; J.V. Turner (guitar) ; Johnny Morgan (bass) ; Dave Campbell (piano) ; Junior Blackman (drums). See also November 12.
Thursday, November 4, 1954 : Another Imperial session, by the vocal group THE HAWKS. Their next single is "It's Too Late Now" (Imperial 5332, February 1955). The other side, "Can't See For Looking", is recorded later in the month (unknown date). "These Blues" will be released on the Post subsidiary (catalog nr 2004) in September 1955. "I Want My Loving Now" is first released on the LP "Dave Bartholomew Presents the Hawks" (Pathe-Marconi 1561371, 1985, France). "School Girl" remains unissued. Personnel : Joseph Gaines (lead vocals) ; Allen Matthews, Albert Veal, Buddy Morris, Willis Thrower (background vocals) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
November 4, 1954 : FERLIN HUSKY records his next single, "I Feel Better All Over"/"Little Tom" (Capitol 3001, December). Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 6 and # 7 respectively. "I Saw Her Today" is first released in 1970, on the LP "Green Green Grass of Home" (Hilltop JS 6086). "This Boy's Gonna Love Again" is still lingering in the vaults. Credited to Ferlin Husky and his Hush Puppies. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
November 4, 1954 : JERRY 'BOOGIE' McCAIN records the single "Stay Out Of Automobiles"/"Love To Make Up", which will be released in March 1955 on Trumpet 231. The location is Jackson, Mississippi.
November 6, 1954 : Four-song session by MARTY ROBBINS at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. "It Looks Like I'm Just In Your Way"/"I"ll Love You Till the Day I Die" will be issued in June 1955 on Columbia 21414. "This Broken Heart Of Mine" is used as the B-side of "Maybellene" (recorded August 9, 1955) in August 1955 (Columbia 21446). "Don't Let Me Hang Around (If You Don't Care)" is also a B-side, of "Pretty Mama" (from that same August 1955 session), and released on Columbia 21461 on October 17, 1955. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Knight (guitar) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Grundy Harbert (bass) ; Bill Simons (piano) ; Johnny Gimble (fiddle). Produced by Don Law.
November 8, 1954 : BOBBY MITCHELL records material for two singles in New Orleans. "Nothing Sweet As You"/"I Wish I Knew" is released on Imperial 5326 in January 1955. "I Cried"/"I'm In Love" will follow in April on Imperial 5346. Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Gabriel Fleming (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Toppers (Lloyd Bellaire, Frank Bocage, Willie Bridges, Joseph Butler), vocal group. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
November 10, 1954 : FLOYD DIXON records six songs in New York City, but only "Hey Bartender" is released at the time (Cat 114, April 1955, c/w "Is It True", from a session on April 28, 1954). "When I Get Lucky", "Two Piano Blues" and "Floyd's Blues" are first released on the Various artists LP "Blues Piano : Chicago Plus" (Atlantic SD 7227) in 1972. "Fine Fine Thing" and "Razzle Dazzle" have not been released at all. Personnel : Floyd Dixon (vocals / piano) ; Mickey Baker or Jimmy Lewis (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Earl Warren (baritone sax) ; Connie Kay (drums). Arranged by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 11, 1954 : THE FEATHERS, a vocal group from Los Angeles, record two singles at an unknown L.A. studio. "Shake 'em Up"/"Johnny Darling" is released on Aladdin 3267 in late November, followed by "I Need A Girl"/ "Standing Right There" in February 1955 (Aladdin 3277). Lead vocals by Johnny Staton.
November 11, 1954 : Four-song session by SMILEY LEWIS at the J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Jailbird"/"Farewell" is selected as his next single (Imperial 5325, January 1955). "Real Gone Lover" will be coupled with "Nobody Knows" (recorded on June 14, 1954) for release on Imperial 5349 in May 1955. "Lost Week End" is saved until 1959, when it is released on Knight 2011 (c/w "By the Water" from a session on March 17, 1956). Knight is a subsidiary of Imperial Records. Personnel : possibly Joe Robichaux (piano) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer). More details unknown.
November 12, 1954 : Saxophonist CHUCK HIGGINS does a four-song session for Specialty, at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Dye-Oooh Mambo"/"One More Time" is issued on Specialty 539 in December. "One Chord Instrumental" and "Middle of the Mambo" are first released in 1992 on the CD "Pachuko Hop" (Specialty SPCD 2175-2). "One More Time" and "Middle of the Mambo" feature a vocal by Daddy Cleanhead. Produced by Art Rupe.
November 12, 1954 : STICKS McGHEE records four songs in New York City, only two of which are released : the single "Things Have Changed"/"Help Me Baby" (Savoy 1148, January 1955). The unissued titles are "Ease My Worried Mind" and "Travelin' On". Personnel : Sticks McGhee (vocals / guitar) ; Prince Babbs (bass) ; Bubba Brooks (tenor sax) ; Fletcher Smith (piano) ; Irving Brown (drums).
November 12, 1954 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON does his last session for the Trumpet label before moving on to Chess. The single "From the Bottom" will be released on Trumpet 228 in February 1955, c/w "Empty Bedroom" (from a session on 2nd November). Also recorded is "No Nights By Myself", which will appear on Ace 511 in late 1955 (c/w "Boppin' With Sonny", recorded on November 2). Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; B.B. King, Carl 'Wimpy' Jones, J.V. Turner (guitars) ; Raz Roseby (bass) ; Dave Campbell (piano) ; Glenn Rickets (drums). The location is Diamond Studios in Jackson, Mississippi.
November 15, 1954 : The vocal group THE MELLOW DROPS records four songs in New Orleans. "The Crazy Song" and "When I Grow Too Old To Dream" are coupled for release on Imperial 5324 in December. "I Want Your Love" is first issued on the Various artists LP "Rhythm 'n' Blues, Vol. 1 : The End of an Era" (Imperial LM-94003) in 1968. Unissued from this session is "She'll Stand Up For You". The Mellow Drops are : Robert Kidd (lead vocals), Adolph Smith, Louis Caliste, Clarence Phoenix and Billy Tircuit.
November 15, 1954 : ELVIS PRESLEY records seven takes (five complete) of what is now known as the "slow version" of "I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone". The version that appeared as Presley's fourth Sun single was laid down on March 5, 1955. All seven takes are now available on the 3-CD set "A Boy From Tupelo : The Complete 1953-55 Recordings" (Follow That Dream Records, 2012). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at his Sun studio in Memphis.
November 15, 1954 : THE TRENIERS do a session at the Columbia Recording Studio in New York City. "Get Out of the Car"/"Who Put the 'Ungh' in the Mambo" is released on OKeh 7050 in February 1955. "Go! Go! Go!"/ "Doin' 'Em Up" comes out on the Epic label (9127) in October 1955. Arranged and conducted by Quincy Jones, except "Doin' 'Em Up", conducted by Gene Gilbeaux. Don Hill on alto sax is credited on the label.
Tuesday, November 16, 1954 : LINK DAVIS records material for two singles at the ACA Studio in Washington, D.C. "Va T'Cacher (Go Hide Yourself)" is coupled with "Kajalena" for release in December (Columbia 21350). "Cajun Love"/"Every Time I Pass Your Door" will follow in August 1955 (Columbia 21431). Personnel : Link Davis (vocals/ fiddle / leader) ; Cameron Hill (guitar) ; Herb Remington (steel guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Smitty Smith (piano) ; Doug Hudson (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 16, 1954 : Second Capitol session for THE FIVE KEYS, in New York City. Five songs are recorded. "Close Your Eyes"/"Doggone It, You Did It" is released in January 1955 (Capitol 3032). "Don't You Know I Love You" will appear in July 1955 (Capitol 3185, c/w "I Wish I'd Never Learned To Read", recorded on April 25, 1955). "Cause You're My Lover" is the subse- quent single (Capitol 3267, October 1955, c/w "Gee Whittakers", from a session on August 26, 1955). "So Glad" remains unissued. The Five Keys are : Maryland Pierce, Rudy West, Ripley Ingram, Ramon Loper and Bernie West. Produced by Big Dave Cavanaugh.
November 17, 1954 : CHET ATKINS records an instrumental version of the Chordettes hit "Mr. Sandman" (RCA 47-5956, December). The other side is "Set A Spell", recorded on June 20, 1954. One other track is recorded, "New Spanish Two Step", which stays in the can until the release of the 4 CD-set "Galloping Guitar" (Bear Family BCD 15714) in 1993. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Bud Isaacs (steel guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 18, 1954 : RAY CHARLES does an important session in Atlanta, Georgia. All four sides will enter the R&B charts. "I've Got A Woman"/ "Come Back" is released in December on Atlantic 1050. Peak positions : A-side # 1, B-side # 4. "Greenbacks"/"Blackjack" comes out in October 1955 on Atlantic 1076 ; peak positions # 5 and # 6 respectively. Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals /piano / arranger) ; Wesley Jackson (guitar) ; Jimmy Bell (bass) ; Joe Bridgewater, Charles Whitley (trum- pets) ; Don Wilkerson (tenor sax) ; Dave Newman (baritone sax) ; Glenn Brooks (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 18, 1954 : RED FOLEY records one of the many covers of "Hearts of Stone". It will reach # 4 on the country charts and is coupled with "Never", also from this session (Decca 29375, December). Also laid down is the gospel song "I See God", which is saved until January 1956 for release on Decca 29775 (c/w "Someone To Care", a leftover from a session on March 18, 1953). Produced by Paul Cohen at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
November 18-19, 1954 : THE "5" ROYALES record material for their next two singles. "One Mistake"/"School Girl" is released in December (King 4762) and "You Didn't Learn It At Home"/"Every Dog Has His Day" soon afterwards, in January 1955 (King 4770). The location is Cincinnati.
November 19, 1954 : WILBERT HARRISON cuts his next single, "Women and Whiskey"/"Da Dee Ya Da" (Savoy 1149, January 1955), in New York City. Label credit goes to "Wilbert Harrison and the Roamers" (vocal group). THE ROAMERS also cut a single of their own, "Deep Freeze"/"I'll Never Get Over You" (Savoy 1147, December). Personnel : Wilbert Harrison (guitar / vocals) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Cleveland (trombone) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland. Produced by Fred Mendelsohn.
November 19, 1954 : BILLY TATE records the single "Single Life"/"You Told Me" (Imperial 5337, March 1955). Two other songs from this session, "Tougher and Tougher" and "My Heartache", are lingering in the vaults. Earl Palmer plays drums, more details unknown. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
November 19, 1954 : CHARLIE WALKER is at the Castle Studio in Nashville to record four songs. "The Chocolate Song"/"Hurry Back Home" will hit the market in February (Decca 29416). "Only You, Only You"/"You Can't Get There From Here" is saved until December 1955 for release on Decca 29715 and will become Walker's first chart entry, peaking at # 9 on the country charts. Personnel : Grady Martin, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bob Foster (steel guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
November 19, 1954 : SLIM WHITMAN records four tracks at KWKH radio station in Shreveport, Louisiana. "When I Grow Too Old To Dream"/"Cattle Call" is released in the first week of December on Imperial 8281. "I Talk To the Waves" will be included in the album "Slim Whitman Favorites" (Imperial LP 9003) in 1956. "Song of the Wild" remains unissued. Personnel : Sugarfoot Collins (guitar) ; Tinker Fry (steel guitar) ; Curly Harris (string bass) ; Sonny Harville (piano) ; Bill Peters (fiddle).
Monday, November 22, 1954 : At the King studio in Cincinnati, Ohio, THE CHARMS record covers of "Bazoom, I Need Your Lovin'" (The Cheers) and "Ling Ting Tong" (The Five Keys). They are coupled for release on DeLuxe 6076 in December. Both sides will enter the R&B charts, peaking at # 15 and # 5 respectively. "Mambo Sh-Mambo" (DeLuxe 6072, also December) was probably also cut at this session (or on November 18). The Charms are : Otis Williams (lead), Donald Peak, Roland Bradley, Joe Penn and Richard Parker.
November 23, 1954 : ANNISTEEN ALLEN records the original version of "Fujiyama Mama" and its flip-side, "Wheels of Love" (Capitol 3048, February 1955). Three other tracks are laid down, which all stay in the vaults until 1986, when the French LP "Fujiyama Mama" is released on Pathe-Marconi 1566291. The titles are : "Everybody Knows I Love You", "G'wan About Your Business" and "Slow But Sure". Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs in New York City.
November 29, 1954 : LULA REED records the single "Rock Love"/"I'm Gone Yes I'm Gone" in Cincinnati (King 4767, January 1955). Also laid down is "Without Love (Ain't It A Shame)", which will be released on King 4796 in May 1955 (c/w "Caught Me When My Love Was Down" from a later session). Personnel : Clarence Kenner (guitar) ; Albert Winston (bass) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax) ; David Brooks (tenor sax) ; Tommy Parkson (baritone sax) ; Sonny Thompson (piano / producer) ; Albert Bartee (drums).
November 29-30, 1954 : Extensive two-day session by WYNONIE HARRIS in Cincinnati, his last one for the King label. Ten tracks are recorded, which will be released on five singles : King 4774 Good Mambo Tonight / Git To Gittin' Baby (February 1955) King 4789 Mr. Dollar / Fishtail Blues (April 1955) King 4814 Drinkin' Sherry Wine / Git With the Grits (July 1955) King 4826 Man's Best Friend / Wine, Wine, Sweet Wine (August 1955) King 4839 Shotgun Wedding / I Don't Know Where To Go (October 1955) Personnel : Clarence Kenner (guitar) ; James Royal (bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Rufus Gore, David Brooks (tenor saxes) ; Tommy Parkson (baritone sax) ; Steve Boswell (drums).
November 1954, unknown date : CARL PERKINS cuts the B-side of his first single, "Turn Around". (The A-side is "Movie Magg", which was recorded in late October). Release on Flip 501 in February 1955. Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) ; Jay B. Perkins (guitar) ; Quinton Claunch (electric guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
November 1954, unknown date : SMILIN' JOE records the single "Sleep- walking Woman"/"How Long Must I Wait" (Imperial 5327, January 1955) in New Orleans. A third song from this session, "Railroad Blues", has never been issued.
(Circa) November 1954, unknown date : JIM REEVES cuts his next single, "Where Does A Broken Heart Go"/"The Wilder Your Heart Beats, The Sweeter You Love" (Abbott 174, December). UK release on London HLU 8351 in December 1956. Also recorded is "Give Me One More Kiss", released in July 1955 (Abbott 180, c/w "Tahiti", recorded in the spring of 1953). Produced by Fabor Robinson, probably at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
DECEMBER 1954
December 2, 1954 : BILLY WALKER records his next single, "Hey!"/"Let Me Hear From You" (Columbia 21348, end of December), at KWKH Radio Station Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. Personnel : Billy Walker (vocals / producer) ; Dale Noe (guitar) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Red Hayes (fiddle).
December 3, 1954 : WEBB PIERCE records three tracks : the future # 1 country hit "In the Jailhouse Now" (Decca 29391, late December), the LP track "Sneakin' All Around" and the unissued " I Found Someone That's True". The B-side of "In the Jailhouse Now" is "I'm Gonna Fall Out Of Love With You", recorded on July 14, 1954. Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley, Teddy Wilburn, Doyle Wilburn (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Dale Potter, Jack Kay (fiddles). Produced by Owen Bradley at the Castle Studio in Nashville.
December 3, 1954 : The vocal group THE SHEIKS records a single for the Atlantic subsidiary Cat. "Walk That Walk"/"The Kissing Song (Sweetie Lover)" hits the market in March 1955 (Cat 116). Two other songs, "Two Of A Kind" and "Drinkin'", remain unissued. The Sheiks are : William Collins, Kenneth Kimball, Alton Parker, Horace Jenkins and John Wilson. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
December 6, 1954 : THE CHEERS (Bert Convy, Sue Allen and Gil Garfield) do a four-song session at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. "Whadaya Want"/ "Bernie's Tune" is released on Capitol 3019 in January 1955. "Blueberries" follows in March 1955 (Capitol 3019, c/w "Can't We Be More Than Friends", from a session in August 1954). "I Must Be Dreaming" appears in June 1955 (Capitol 3146, c/w "Fancy Meeting You Here" from an earlier session). The producers, Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, also recorded both "Whadaya Want" and "I Must Be Dreaming" with the Robins around the same time. Orchestra conducted by Buddy Bregman.
Tuesday, December 7, 1954 : MARTY ROBBINS is at the Castle Studio in Nashville to record four songs. They will be released on two singles. "That's All Right" (the Elvis song) is coupled with "Gossip" for release on Columbia 21351 on December 27. Peak chart position : # 7 (country). "Daddy Loves You"/"Pray For Me, Mother Of Mine" comes out on April 11, 1955 (Columbia 21388). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Ray Edenton (guitar) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Dale Potter, Donald Slayman (fiddles). Produced by Don Law.
December 8, 1954 : There are indications that ELVIS PRESLEY recorded three songs in the Sun studio on this day, although no tapes have ever been found. The titles are : "Uncle Pen", "Tomorrow Night" and "Juanita". They have never been issued and are considered lost.
December 9, 1954 : CHARLIE WHITE AND THE PLAYBOYS do a four-song session in New York City, for the Atlantic subsidiary Cat. "Good Golly Miss Molly" (not the Little Richard number) is paired with "Honey Bun" for release on Cat 115 in March 1955 (as by the Playboys). "My Buddy Done Stole My Chippy" sees its first release on a Collector's Choice Various artists CD (CCM 0028-2) in 1998, along with an alternate take of "Good Golly Miss Molly". "Worry About My Baby" has never been issued. Sam Taylor plays the tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 10, 1954 : Four-song session by THE LAMPLIGHTERS, probably in Los Angeles. "I Wanna Know"/"Believe In Me" is a January 1955 release (Federal 12206). "Roll On"/"Love, Rock and Thrill" follows soon thereafter (Federal 12212, February 1955). The Lamplighters are : Thurston Harris (lead), Willie Rockwell, Al Frazier and Matt Nelson.
December 11, 1954 : HARDROCK GUNTER does a session at the King studio in Cincinnati, Ohio, which results in the single "First, Last and Always Game of Love"/"I Won't Tell Who's To Blame" (King 1416, January). Personnel : Hardrock Gunter (vocals / guitar) ; Zeke Turner (guitar) ; Louis Innis (rhythm guitar) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Vik Willis (piano) ; Unknown (bass, drums, sax). Credited to Hardrock Gunter and His Pebbles.
December 11, 1954 : LITTLE SYLVIA (Sylvia Vanderpool) records four tracks at Engineering Society Hall in New York City, for the Atlantic label. None of the tracks has ever been issued. Titles : "Nobody But You", "Will Love Ever Come", "Fe Fo Fo Fum" and "Till My Baby Comes Home".
Between 12 and 20 December 1954 : ELVIS PRESLEY records his third single, "Milkcow Blues Boogie"/"You're A Heartbreaker" (Sun 215, January 9, 1955). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio (Memphis Recording Service) in Memphis.
Monday, December 13, 1954 : HANK THOMPSON is at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood to record two singles. "Wildwood Flower"/"Breakin' In Another Heart" will come out on Capitol 3106 in April 1955. The A-side, an instrumental, is credited to "Hank Thompson And His Brazos Valley Boys With Merle Travis". "Simple Simon"/"Most Of All" (Capitol 3188) is issued in July 1955. Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / leader) ; Merle Travis guitar) ; Floyd White (steel guitar) ; Billy Briggs Stewart (bass) ; Donald McDaniel (piano) ; Amos Hedrick, Bob White (fiddles) ; Paul McGhee (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 14, 1954 : THE FOUR KNIGHTS record their next single, "Honey Bunch"/"Write Me Baby" (Capitol 3024, January 1955), as well as "Inside Out", which will be released on Capitol 3093 in April 1955. "Foolishly Yours", from a later session, is the other side. "Only You, Only You" is rejected for release. The Four Knights are : Gene Alford, John Wallace, Oscar Broadway and Clarence Dixon. Arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle in Los Angeles.
December 16, 1954 : CHARLES BROWN records at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Honey Sipper"/"By the Bend of the River" becomes his new single (Aladdin 3272, January 1955), followed by "Nite After Nite"/"Walk With Me" (Aladdin 3284) in April 1955. "I'm Savin' My Love For You" is eventually released in 1963, on Imperial 5961 (c/w "Please Don't Drive Me Away", recorded on May 20, 1955 and previously released on Aladdin 3316). Personnel : Charles Brown (vocals / piano) ; Johnny Moore (guitar) ; Eddie Williams (bass) ; Maxwell Davis (tenor sax). More details unknown.
December 16, 1954 : THE CLOVERS do a three-song session in New York City. "Blue Velvet" is coupled with "If You Love Me (Why Don't You Tell Me So)" for release on Atlantic 1052 in February 1955. A # 14 R&B hit. Also laid down is "Love Bug", which will appear on Atlantic 1060 in April 1955 (c/w "In the Morning Time" from a session on April 16, 1954). Lead vocals by Billy Mitchell. Willis Jackson plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 16, 1954 : THE FIVE STRINGS, led by Sid King, do their first session for Columbia, at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. Two singles are the result : "I Like It"/"Put Something In the Pot Boy" (Columbia 21361, March 1955) and "Drinkin' Wine Spoli Oli"/"Crazy Little Heart" (Columbia 21403, July 1955). Personnel : Sid Erwin (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Billy Erwin (lead guitar) ; Jack Leroy Peterson (guitar) ; Kenneth Massey (bass) ; Mel Robinson (steel guitar) ; David White (drums / background vocals) ; Freddie Cantu (drums on two tracks) ; Frank Kilgo (kettle drums on two tracks). Produced by Don Law.
December 18, 1954 : JUSTIN TUBB records three songs ar the Castle Studio in Nashville. "I Gotta Go Get My Baby" is coupled with "Chuga Chuga Chica Marga" for release on Decca 29401 in January 1955. The third number, "I'm A Damn Good Man" is first released on the 2-CD "Rock It Down To My House" (Bear Family BCD 15761) in 1996. Personnel : Chet Atkins, Grady Martin (or Hank Garland), Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
December 19, 1954 : SONNY JAMES is at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas where he cuts four songs. "Lovin' Season" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Capitol 3025, January 1955, c/w "This Kiss Must Last Forever", recorded on July 26, 1954). "Ain't Gonna Take No Chance"/"Deceive Me Once Again" is the subsequent single (Capitol 3112), released in April 1955. "Here I Go (Falling For You Again)" is first issued on the 6-CD box-set "Young Love, 1952-62" (Bear Family BCD 16373) in 2002. Personnel : Neal Jones (guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (electric mandolin) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar) ; Bill Noble (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Buddy Brady (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 20, 21, 28, 1954 : During this month MERLE TRAVIS records nine tracks for the LP "The Merle Travis Guitar". On December 20 : "Blue Bell" and "Memphis Blues". On December 21 : "The Sheik Of Araby", "On A Bicycle Built For Two" and "Black Diamond Blues". And on December 28 : "Blue Smoke", "Walking the Strings", "Saturday Night Shuffle" and "The Waltz You Saved For Me". The remaining three tracks will be recorded in April 1955. Released in February 1956 on Capitol T 650. Most of the tracks are instrumentals. Personnel : Merle Travis (guitar, also vocals on December 28) ; Dick Stubbs (guitar) ; Bert Dodson (bass). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
December 23, 1954 : BIG DAVE AND HIS ORCHESTRA record the single "Rock and Roll Party"/"Your Kind of Love" (Capitol 3024, January 1955) at the Capitol studio in Hollywood. Unissued from this session is "Cool Chick". Personnel : Dave Cavanaugh (tenor sax / leader) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Meyer Rubin (bass) ; Benny Carter, Plas Johnson, Mort Friedman, Ted Romersa (saxes) ; Don Robertson (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums) ; The Hard Tops (vocal group).
December 23, 1954 : THE MOONGLOWS record six tracks in Chicago, resulting in two singles (both issued in February 1955) and two unissued numbers ("Doubtful" and "He Lied"). "Hug And A Kiss"/"New Gal" is credited to Bobby Lester and the Moonlighters (Checker 813). "Most Of All"/"She's Gone" is issued as by the Moonglows (Chess 1589).
Friday, December 31, 1954 : BILL MONROE is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record four tracks. Two instrumentals, "Cheyenne" and "Roanoke" are coupled for release on Decca 29406 on February 7, 1955. A third instrumental, "Wheel Hoss" is released on Decca 29645 in October 1955 (c/w "Put My Little Shoes Away", recorded on June 26, 1954). "You'll Find Her Name Written There" is first issued in January 1957 (Decca 30178, c/w "Sitting Alone in the Moonlight", from a session on January 9, 1954). Personnel : Bill Monroe (vocals / mandolin) ; Jackie Phelps (guitar) ; Hubert Davis (banjo) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Bobby Hicks, Charlie Cline (fiddles).
December 1954, unknown date : THE BIG BOPPER (J.P. Richardson) has his first recording session, at the Jay Miller Studio in Crowley, Louisiana. "Bopper's Boogie Woogie" is eventually released on the Various artists LP "Louisiana Swamp Pop" (Flyright LP 532, UK) in 1977. The two other tracks from this session, "Pet Names" and "Sippin' Cider", are unissued and lost. Leon 'Peaches' Sterling plays piano, more details unknown. Produced by Jay Miller.
(Probably) December 1954, unknown date : JOHNNY CASH records four tracks at the Sun Studio in Memphis, intended as demos. "My Treasure" will be released, with overdubs, on Sun 363 on May 21, 1961 (with the title printed on the label as "My Treasurer"). "Show Me the Green" is unissued and lost. The other two tracks, "Wide Open Road" and "You're My Baby", were released in their original form on the box-set "Johnny Cash : The Sun Years" (Sunbox 103), issued by Charly Records in the UK in 1984. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (upright bass). Produced by Sam Phillips.
(Circa) December 1954, unknown date : CURTIS GORDON records the single "Don't Trade"/"Chopsticks Mambo" (Mercury 70538, January 1955) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personeel : Dusty Stewart (gitaar) ; Freddie Calhoun (steel guitar) ; Slick Gillespie (bass) ; Curly Gainous (piano) ; Charles Mitchell Maynard (fiddle). Produced by Chet Atkins.
(Probably) December 1954, unknown date : THE PRISONAIRES return to the Sun studio in Memphis to record three songs, all of which will stay in the vaults for decades. "Surleen" is first issued in 1976 on the Charly LP "Sun, the Roots of Rock, vol. 4 : Cotton City Country" (CR 30104). "All Alone and Lonely" is released in 1979 on the LP "Five Beats Behind Bars" (Charly CR 30176). "Rockin' Horse" will be included on the CD "Just Walkin' in the Rain" (Bear Family BCD 15523) in 1990. Personnel : Johnny Bragg (lead tenor) ; poss. John Drue (second tenor) ; William Steward (baritone vocal / guitar) ' Ed Thurman (tenor vocal) ; poss. Marcell Sanders (bass vocal) ; L.B. McCollough (electric guitar) ; Henry 'Dish Rag' Jones (piano) ; George Williams (trumpet) ; Hubbard Brown (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Late December 1954 (or early January 1955) : THE ROBINS do their last session for the Spark label. "Whadaya Want"/"If Teardrops Were Kisses" is released on Spark 110 in January 1955. "I Love Paris" will come out on Spark 113 in April 1955 (c/w "One Kiss", recorded in April 1954). "Smokey Joe's Cafe" is first released on Spark 122 in August 1955, then on Atco 6059 two months later. The other side of this single is "Just Like A Fool", from a session in August 1954. On this session, the Robins are a sextet : Carl Gardner, Grady Chapman, Bobby Nunn, Ty Terrell, Billy Richards and Roy Richards. Personnel : Barney Kessel (guitar) ; Ralph 'Waldo' Hamilton (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger / celeste on "If Teardrops Were Kisses") ; Gil Bernal (tenor sax) : Jesse Sailes (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in Los Angeles.
With thanks to Peter Stoller, John Klompenhouwer and Frank Frantik.
Dik
JANUARY 1955
January 4, 1955 : BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record two singles at the King studio in Cincinnati. "You Upset Me Baby"/ "Poison Ivy" is issued on King 1432 in February, and "Seventeen"/ "Little Ole You All" on King 1470 in May. A third single, "Boogie At Midnight"/"Everlovin'" (King 1443) was also recorded in January, but at a later session. Personnel : Boyd Bennett, vocals (except on "Seventeen", where the lead vocalist is "Big Moe" James Muzey) ; Bobby Jones, tenor sax ; Roy Ayres, guitar ; Mickey Allen, rhythm guitar ; Kenny Cobb, bass.
Wednesday, January 5, 1955 : BILL HALEY and his Comets are at the Pythian Temple in New York City to record their next single, "Mambo Rock"/"Birth Of the Boogie" (Decca 29418, released on February 21). The Comets are at this time : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Franny Beecher (lead guitar), Billy Williamson (steel guitar), Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax), Johnny Grande (piano), Marshall Lytle (double bass), Cliff Leeman (drums), Dick Richards (tom-toms). Produced by Milt Gabler.
January 6, 1955 : THE DOMINOES (Jackie Wilson, Prentice Moreland, Milton Merle, Cliff Givens) do a session in Cincinnati. "Can't Do Sixty No More"/"If I Never Get To Heaven" becomes their new single (Federal 12209, February). "Give Me You" comes out on King 1502 in August, and "Bobby Sox Baby" on Federal 12263 in April 1956.
January 10, 1955 : A PEE WEE KING session in Chicago (RCA Victor Studio A), produced by Steve Sholes. "Tweedle Dee"/"You Can't Hardly Get Them No More" is issued on RCA 6005 in February. "Woodchopper's Ball" comes out on RCA 6054 in March. "Flying Home" is an EP track. Personnel : Pee Wee King, accordion ; Redd Stewart, vocal / fiddle ; Homer Haynes, guitar ; Jethro Burns, mandolin ; Charles Tichy, electric guitar ; Robert Koefer, steel guitar ; Chuck Wiggins, bass ; Sticks McDonald, drums ; Johnny Frigo, fiddle ; Fred Herron, fiddle ; Forry Engle, piano.
January 11, 1955 : In Hollywood, SKEETS McDONALD records "Number One In Your Heart" and "I Can't Stand It Any Longer" for his next single (Capitol 3038, February). A further track, "You're Too Late", will be used for a single in May (Capitol 3117, b/w "A Losing Hand" from an earlier session). Skeets (vocal) is supported by Lewis Augustin Talley (guitar), Ralph Mooney (steel guitar), "Fuzzy" Owen (bass), "Jelly" Sanders (fiddle) and William Floyd (unknown instrument). Producer, as usual, Ken Nelson.
January 11, 1955 : In Cincinnati, TINY BRADSHAW's orchestra records four instrumentals : "Stomping Room Only"/"Cat Nap" (King 4777, February) and "Pompton Turnpike"/"Come On" (King 4787, April). Session musicians : Bill Hardman (trumpet) ; Rufus Gore (tenor sax) ; Leon Burns, Lovejoy Coverson (saxes) : Andrew Penn (trombone) ; Jimmy Robinson (piano) ; Clifford Bush (guitar) ; Sam Jones (bass) ; Philip Paul (drums).
January 12, 1955 : RED PRYSOCK records five instrumentals at Fine Sound Studios in New York City. "Rock 'n' Roll"/"Little Jamie" is released on Mercury 70540 in February, and "Zonked"/"The Horn Blows" on Mercury 70602 in April. The fifth track is "Zip" (Mercury 70787, January 1956). Musicians : Red Prysock (tenor sax), Harold "Money" Johnson (trumpet), Clarence Wright (baritone sax), Roland Johnson (vibraphone), Joe Oliver Blair (piano), Herbert Gordy (bass), Purnell Rice (drums).
Also on January 12, 1955 : MALCOLM YELVINGTON has his 2nd session for Sun Records in Memphis. Recorded are two versions of "Yakety Yak" and also two versions of "I've Got the Blues", all originally unissued, though a re-recording of "Yakety Yak" in mid- 1955 would be released on Meteor 5022. One Sun version of this song is first released on the LP "Sun Rockabillys, Vol. 3" in 1974 (Sun 6467028, UK), when it was still believed that this had been recorded in May 1956. The other version remains in the can until the release of "Malcolm Yelvington : The Sun Years, Plus" (Bear Family BCD 16757) in 2006. "I've Got the Blues": one version first released on Charly CR 30150 in 1979 ("Tennessee Country" LP, UK), the other on Bear Family in 2006. Yelvington (vocal / guitar) is accompanied by Gordon Mashburn (guitar), Red Winn (steel guitar), Jake Ryles (bass) and Reece Fleming (piano). Produced by Sam Phillips.
January 13, 1955 : In Chicago, LOWELL FULSON records material for two singles : "Check Yourself"/"Loving You (Is All I Crave)" (Checker 812, February) and "Lonely Hours"/"Do Me Right", which is released on Checker 820 in June. Personnel : Lowell Fulson, vocal / guitar ; Earl Brown, alto sax ; Eddie Chamblee, tenor sax ; Lloyd Glenn, piano ; Willie Dixon, bass ; Fred Below, drums.
January 18, 1955 : THE CARDINALS record their biggest hit, "The Door Is Still Open"/"Misirlou" (Atlantic 1054, # 4 R&B). Release date is February 26. Two other tracks, "Love Comes Tumbling Down" and "Bang-A-Lang", remain in the vaults. The Cardinals are : Meredith Brothers, John Douglas, Leon Hardy, Donald Johnson and Ernie Warren. Personnel includes Sam Taylor (tenor sax) and Jesse Stone (piano / arranger). More details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
January 19, 1955 : THE "5" ROYALES do a session in New York City. "How I Wonder" is coupled with "Mohawk Squaw" for release on King 4785 in March 1955. "I Can't Stand Losing You" is eventually released in 1978 on the LP "17 Original Greats" (Gusto G 5014). One other, unissued title was laid down, of which the title is not known. Personnel includes Mickey Baker (guitar) and Maurice Simon (tenor sax). More details unknown.
January 19, 1955 : A LEFTY FRIZZELL session in Dallas (Jim Beck Studio) yields two singles : "Making Believe"/"A Forest Fire" (Columbia 21366, released January 31) and "Moonlight, Darling And You"/"I'll Sit Alone And Cry" (Columbia 21393, May 2). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocal / guitar) ; Jimmy Rollins (lead guitar) ; Joe Knight (rhythm guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (mandolin) ; Dale Gilley (steel guitar) ; Slim Harbert (bass) ; Buddy Brady (fiddle) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Freddie Cantu (drums). Produced by Don Law.
January 22, 1955 : At 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, CARL PERKINS and his brothers Jay B. & Clayton enter the Sun studio to record "Movie Magg" and "Turn Around" for their first single, to be released in March on the subsidiary Flip label (501). Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocal, guitar) ; Jay B. Perkins, Quinton Claunch (guitars); Clayton Perkins (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle) and W.S. Holland (drums). The session is produced by Sam Phillips.
January 27, 1955 : On this day FATS DOMINO records his next 45, "Don't You Know"/"Helping Hand (A Long Way From Home)", which is released on Imperial 5340 in February. Personnel : Fats Domino, vocal, piano ; Herb Hardesty and Lee Allen, tenor saxes ; Cornelius Coleman, drums ; Walter "Papoose" Nelson, guitar ; Frank Fields, bass ; poss. Dave Bartholomew, trumpet. Location : J&M Studio, New Orleans. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 28, 1955 : JOE TURNER records his next single, "Flip, Flop And Fly"/"Ti-Ri-Lee" (Atlantic 1053, first week of March), as well as the future singles "Hide And Seek" (Atlantic 1069, August) and "Morning, Noon And Night" (Atlantic 1080, January 1956). Backing by Jesse Stone's Orchestra : Al Sears (tenor sax), Jesse Stone (piano) and probably Connie Kay (drums), more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
January 1955, unknown date : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records the original version of "Let the Four Winds Blow" (as "Four Winds"), with Wendell Duconge (alto sax), Clarence Hall and Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes), Salvador Doucette (piano), Walter Nelson (guitar), Frank Fields (bass) and Cornelius Coleman (drums). "Four Winds" is released on Imperial 5350 in April. Flip is "Every Night, Every Day", recorded on November 2, 1954.
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
FEBRUARY 1955
February 1, 1955 : NAPPY BROWN records four tracks in New York City. "Don't Be Angry"/"It's Really Love" is selected for the new single (Savoy 1155, March). "Just A Little Love" is issued on Savoy 1167 in August. "It's All Yours" remains unreleased. Personnel : Sam Taylor and Bud Johnson (tenor saxes), Maurice Simon (baritone sax), Howard Biggs (piano), Abie Baker (bass), Mickey Baker (guitar), Dave Bailey (drums).
February 3, 1955 : In Chicago, MUDDY WATERS lays down material for two singles : "I Want To Be Loved"/"My Eyes Keep Me In Trouble" (Chess 1596, May) and "Manish Boy"/"Young Fashioned Ways" (Chess 1602, July). Also recorded is the LP track "This Pain". Backing by Little Walter (harmonica), Willie Dixon (bass), Jimmy Rogers (guitar), Otis Spann (piano) and possibly Francis Clay, drums.
February 7, 1955 : Recording date of TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD's version of "The Ballad Of Davy Crockett". Released on Capitol 3058 on March 1. Produced by Lee Gillette at Capitol's Melrose Avenue studio in Hollywood. (The Capitol Tower wasn't built until 1956.)
February 8, 1955 : Second Capitol session by RUDY GRAYZELL, in Dallas, Texas. “My Spirit Is Willing” is coupled with “Please Big Mama” for release on Capitol 3149 in June (credited to Rudy Gray). The other two tracks from this session, “Be Mine Forever” and Yes Daddy Yes”, are first released in 2010 on the CD “Let’s Get Wild” (Bear Family BCD 16837). Personnel : Charlie Harris (lead guitar) ; Wayne Wood (steel guitar) ; Joe Pruneda or Bobby Brown (bass) ; Rusty Hornbeak (fiddle) ; Ernie Cortez (sax) ; Gerald Carnes or Kermit Baca (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 9, 1955 : LITTLE RICHARD and the Upsetters record two demos at WMBL Studio in Macon, Georgia : "Baby" and "All Night Long". These will arrive at the office of Specialty Records on February 17, but Richard is still contracted to Peacock and his first Specialty session will not take place until September. Accompanying Richard on these demos (available on the 6-CD set "The Specialty Sessions", Ace Box 1) are Danny Carmichael and Wilbert Smith (tenor saxes), Luke Gonder (piano), Thomas Harwell (guitar), Jimmy Rice (bass) and Charles Connor (drums).
February 9, 1955 : JIMMY HEAP records material for two singles, probably in Nashville. “Sebbin Come Elebbin”/“That’s All I Want From You” is issued on Capitol 3071 in March. “Go Ahead On”/“Love Can Move Mountains” follows in June (Capitol 3156). Both singles are credited to Jimmy Heap and the Melody Masters with Perk Williams. Personnel : Jimmy Heap (vocals / lead guitar) ; Perk Williams (vocals / fiddle) ; Horace Bennett (rhythm guitar) ; Cecil ‘Butterball’ Harris (steel guitar) ; Bill Glendenning (bass) ; Arlie Carter (piano) ; George Harrison (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 14, 1955 : PIANO RED records at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Jump Man Jump" and "Pay It No Mind" are chosen for the next single release (Groove 0101, March), "She Knocks Me Out" will be released on Groove 0136 in January 1956 and "Do She Love Me" is first issued on the LP "Piano Red In Concert" (Groove LG 1002) in May 1956. Personnel : Piano Red (Willie Perryman), vocals / piano ; Wes Jackson, guitar ; Kid Miller, bass ; James Jackson, drums ; Clyde 'Blow Top' Lynn, tenor sax. Produced by Bob Rolontz.
February 14, 1955 : THE REGALS record the single "Got the Water Boiling"/ "I'm So Lonely" (Atlantic 1062, April). Also recorded are "Gotta Find My Baby" and "Cha Cha", both unissued. The Regals are : Harold Wright (lead vocal) ; Tex Cornelius, Billy Adams, Albert 'Diz' Russell and Jerry Rodriguez. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 15, 1955 : A session by JACK DUPREE in New York City yields four tracks, released on two singles : "Blues For Everybody"/ "Two Below Zero" (King 4779, late March) and "Harelip Blues"/"Let the Doorbell Ring" (King 4797, May). Musicians : Jack Dupree, vocals, piano ; Sidney Grant, tenor sax ; Jerome Darr, guitar ; Cedric Wallace, bass ; Cornelius Thomas, drums.
February 16, 1955 : SAM COOKE and the Soul Stirrers do a session at Universal Recording Studios in Chicago. The harvest is four songs, released on two singles : "Nearer To Thee"/"Be With Me Jesus" (Specialty 878) and "One More River"/"I'm So Glad (Trouble Don't Last Always)" (Specialty 882). Vocals by Sam Cooke, Paul Foster, Silas Roy Crain (who also acts as A&R man), Jesse J. Farley and R.B. Robinson. Backing by Wille Webb (organ) and Edward Robinson (piano).
February 17, 1955 : CHARLIE FEATHERS has his first Sun session, at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. Six titles are recorded, but only "Peepin' Eyes" is released, on April 30 (Flip 503, also Sun 503). The unissued songs are "Crazy Love For You", "Baby Pay Me No Mind", "I Want To Go Where the Good Girls Go", "Pretty Little Flower" and "Hammer Hammer". The tapes have not been found and were probably re-used by Sam Phillips.
February 20, 1955 : LaVERN BAKER pays another visit to Atlantic's studio in New York City. "That''s All I Need"/"Bop-Ting-A-Ling" will become the next single (Atlantic 1057, April). "Lots And Lots Of Love" gets a place on the LP "LaVern" (Atlantic LP 8002) in 1956. Personnel includes Sam Taylor on tenor sax, Mickey Baker on guitar and Connie Kay on drums. Vocal group : The Gliders. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 23, 1955 : SLIM RHODES and his band record four tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis, all four of which - rather unique for a Sun session! - will be released : "Don't Believe"/"Uncertain Love" on Sun 216 (April 1) and "The House Of Sin"/"Are You Ashamed Of Me?" on Sun 225 (August). On "Don't Believe" and "Are You Ashamed Of Me", the lead vocal is by Brad Suggs, on the other two tracks by Dusty and Dot Rhodes. Produced by Sam Phillips.
February 23, 1955 : THE SH-BOOMS (formerly The Chords) cut four songs in New York City, but only one of them is released : “Pretty Wild” (Cat 117, October, c/w “Could It Be”, from a session on October 13, 1954). The three unissued titles are : “Lulu”, “Love On Love”and “Heartbeat”. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 24, 1955 : JOHNNIE RAY covers Joe Turner's "Flip Flop And Fly", for release on Columbia 40471 in March. No further session details available.
February 28, 1955 : In Cincinnati, Ohio, COWBOY COPAS (real name Lloyd Estel Copas) is in the King Studio to record "Pledging My Love"/"Ashamed Of Myself" for his next single (King 1456), a remake of his 1946 hit "Tragic Romance", to be used for a future single (King 1486) and "Faithful And True Love", which will see a belated release in 1960 (King 5437). Personnel : Cowboy Copas (vocal / guitar) ; poss. Zeb Turner and Zeke Turner (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Louis Innis (bass) ; Tommy Jackson and Dale Potter (fiddles).
February 1955, unknown date : In Memphis TN, CLYDE LEOPPARD and his Snearly Ranch Boys record "Split Personality" and "Lonely Sweetheart" for Sam Phillips. The tracks will be released on Sun's sub-label Flip (502) in April. Personnel : Bill Taylor (vcl), "Smokey" Joe Baugh (vcl, piano), Buddy Holobaugh (guitar), Stan Kesler (steel guitar) and Clyde Leoppard (drums). The same group, minus Leoppard, will record again later this year, albeit under the name of Smokey Joe!
February 1955, unknown date : First session by FREDDIE BELL and the Bell Boys, in Philadelphia. Two singles are the result : “Hound Dog”/“Move Me Baby” (Teen 101, March) and “5-10-15 Hours”/“Old Town Hall” (Teen 103, April). Personnel : Freddie Bell (vocals) ; Frankie Brent (bass / guitar) ; Jack Kane (sax) ; Jerry Mayo (trumpet) ; Russ Conti (piano) ; Chick Keeney (drums).
(Probably) February 1955, unknown date : FRANK STARR (aka Andy Starr) records four tracks at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas, produced by Joe Leonard. "The Dirty Bird Song"/"Dig Them Squeaky Shoes" is rush-released on Lin 1009, "Tell Me Why"/ "For the Want Of Your Love" comes out on Lin 1013 in July. Personnel : Frank Starr (vocals, guitar), Marvin Pace (bass), Paul Buskirk (fiddle, mandolin), Johnny Pace (piano).
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MARCH 1955
March 1, 1955 : RUTH BROWN is in the Atlantic studio in New York City. Producers Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler select "As Long As I'm Movin'" and "I Can See Everybody's Baby" for Ruth's next single (Atlantic 1059, first week of May). "What 'd I Say" (not the Ray Charles number) is released on Atlantic 1072 in August. There is also a first attempt at "I Want To Be Loved" (unissued). Personnel includes Sam "the Man" Taylor on tenor sax and Mickey Baker on guitar.
March 1, 1955 : Bear Family mentions this as the recording date of MERRILL MOORE's "Rock Rockola" session. However, "Rock Rockola" was already reviewed in Billboard of February 5, 1955, so this can't be correct. Probably a case of 1/3/1955 interpreted as March 1 instead of January 3. Recorded were "Rock Rockola"/ "Cow Cow Boogie" (Capitol 3034), "Yes Indeed" (Capitol 3140, June) and "Boogie My Blues Away" (first issued on the UK Capitol LP "Rockabilly Originals", CAPS 1009, in 1977). Personnel : Merrill Moore (vocal / piano) ; Jimmie Widener (rhythm guitar) ; Dave Carpenter (steel guitar) ; Bernie Rogers (bass) ; Johnny Sokes (drums) ; Johnny Duschel (tiple). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio, 5515 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood.
March 2, 1955 : First recording session by BO DIDDLEY, at Universal Recording Studio in Chicago. "Bo Diddley"/"I'm A Man" is chosen for Bo's debut single (Checker 814, April). The other two songs recorded, "Little Girl" and "You Don't Love Me (You Don't Care)" will be included on Bo's second LP "Go Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 1436) in 1958. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals, guitar), Otis Spann (piano), James Bradford (bass), Billy Boy Arnold (harmonica), Clifton James (drums), Jerome Green (maracas).
March 2, 1955 : CHARLIE FEATHERS lays down two titles at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "I've Been Deceived" is issued as the flip of "Peepin' Eyes" (recorded two weeks earlier) on Flip 503 at the end of April. (Also released as Sun 503.) "Runnin' Around" is first released on Bear Family BFX 15211 (10-LP box-set "Sun Records : The Country Years, 1950-59") in 1986. Charlie Feathers (vocal, guitar) is accompanied by Quinton Claunch (guitar), Stan Kesler (steel guitar), William Diehl (bass) and Bill Cantrell (fiddle).
Saturday March 5, 1955 : Also at the Sun Studio, ELVIS PRESLEY records "I'm Left, You're Right, She' Gone", which will be released on Sun 217 in late April, coupled with "Baby Let's Play House", recorded exactly one month earlier. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Scotty Moore (lead guitar), Bill Black (bass), Jimmie Lott (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips. According to drummer Jimmie Lott, "How Do You Think I Feel" and "You're A Heartbreaker" were tried out at this session. It's rather strange if "You're A Heartbreaker" was rehearsed two months after it was issued as a single.
March 14, 1955 : Recording date of the fourth and last single on the Sun subsidiary Flip : "Someday You Will Pay"/"You Didn't Think I Would" by THE MILLER SISTERS. First released by Sam Phillips on Flip 504 at the end of April, then on Sun 504, after legal action from the Flip label in Los Angeles. Also recorded that day is "Look What You Done To My Heart", which will remain unissued. Personnel : Elsie Jo Miller and Mildred Wages (vcl duet), Quinton Claunch and Roy Miller (guitars), Marcus Van Story (bass) and Bill Cantrell (fiddle). On "Someday You Will Pay" Charlie Feathers can be heard playing spoons.
March 15, 1955 : First of two March sessions for FATS DOMINO. Recorded are "Ain't It A Shame" (Imperial 5348, April), "All By Myself" (Imperial 5357, August), "Oh Ba-A-By" (Imperial LP 9239, May 1963) and "Help Me" (first issued on the LP "New Orleans Bounce", Imperial LM-94004, in March 1970). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Billy Diamond (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Samuel Lee (sax). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at J&M Studio in New Orleans (or Master Recorders in Hollywood, according to Bear Family).
March 15, 1955 : In Chicago, BIG JAY McNEELY records "Big Jay's Hop" and "Three Blind Mice" for his next single (Vee Jay 142, July), while "Jay's Rock" will be used for a future single (Vee Jay 212, Sep- tember 1956). A fourth track, "All Night Long", will not see a release. Personnel : Big Jay (tenor sax), Bob McNeely (baritone sax), Earl DeWitt (piano, organ), Cecil E. Harris (bass), Johnny Walker (drums).
March 16-18, 1955 : Almost a year after his final session for Aladdin, LOUIS JORDAN is in New York to record for his new label X (an RCA subsidiary). After several first takes on March, 16 (all unissued), two days later "Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets" and "It's Been Said" are put on tape for his new single (X 0116), while "Baby Let's Do It Up" and "Bananas" will be used for a follow-up single (X 0148). A fifth track, "Slow Smooth And Easy", will stay on the shelves until 1986 (LP "Rock And Roll Call", Bear Family 15247). Personnel : Louis Jordan (vcl and alto sax), Jerome Richardson, Lowell Hastings, David McRae and Maurice Simon (saxes), Bob Mitchell (tpt), Bert Payne and Thurber Jay (guitars), Dave McRae (bass), Chester Lane (piano), John Kirkwood (drums). The session is produced by Jimmy Hilliard.
Thursday March 17, 1955 : JESSE BELVIN is at Master Recorders in Hollywood where he lays down material for two singles: "Gone"/ "One Little Blessing" (Specialty 550, Aprl) and "Where's My Girl"/ "Love, Love Of My Life" (Specialty 559, October). Backing by Hubert Myers (tenor sax), Clifton White (guitar), Ernie Freeman (piano), Adolph Alsbrook (bass), Charles Blackwell (drums) and Bobby Relf and the Laurels (vocal group). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
March 18, 1955 : MAGGIE SUE WIMBERLY records "Daydreams Come True" at the Sun studio. Backed with "How Long" from an earlier session this becomes her sole release for Sam Phillips (Sun 229, December). On this session Maggie is supported by Quinton Claunch (guitar), Stan Kesler (steel guitar), Marcus Van Story (bass) and Bill Cantrell (fiddle).
March 21, 1955 : On this day, BIG MAYBELLE records her version of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" (Okeh 7060, August), in New York City. Personnel : Billy Byers (trombone) ; Jerome Richardson (alto sax) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Herbie Lovelle (drums). Arranged and conducted by Quincy Jones.
March 21, 1955 : THE FLAMINGOS hold their first session for Chess' Checker subsidiary, in Chicago. "(Chick-A-Boom) That's My Baby"/ "When" is released in April on Checker 815, and "Need Your Love" in January 1956 on Checker 830.
March 23, 1955 : THE MARIGOLDS are a group formed by Johnny Bragg, the ex-lead singer of the Prisonaires. This is their first session, held in Nashville at the Tennessee State Penitentiary. The single “Rollin’ Stone”/ “Why Don’t You” is released on Excello 2057 in April. The A-side will peak at # 8 on the R&B charts. The third song from this session, “Don’t Say Tomorrow”, will stay in the vaults until 2011, when it is included on a CD by the Prisonaires called “Only Believe” (Bear Family BCD 16893). Personnel : Johnny Bragg (lead vocals) ; Ed Thurman, Harold Hebb, Willy Wilson (background vocals) ; William Stewart (baritone vocal / guitar) ; L.B. McCullough (guitar) ; Henry ‘Dishrag’ Jones (piano) ; Hubbard Brown (drums) ; Unknown (maracas). Produced by Ernie Young.
March 23, 1955 : Five-song session by ELLA MAE MORSE at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. "Smack Dab in the Middle"/"Yes, Yes I Do" will be released in April on Capitol 3105. "Heart Full Of Hope" (Capitol 3167, June 1955) and "Won't You Listen To Me Baby" (Capitol 3320, January 1956) are also released as singles. "Afraid" is first released on the 5-CD set "Barrel- house, Boogie and the Blues" (Bear Family BCD 16117) in 1997. Personnel : Bob Bain (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Plas Johnson, Babe Russin (tenor saxes) ; Henry Gruen (alto sax) ; Butch Stone (baritone sax) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Don Robertson (organ) ; Roy Harte (drums). Plus a male vocal group. Arranged and conducted by Dave Cavanaugh.
March 24, 1955 : WANDA JACKSON records four songs that will be released on two singles : “Tears At Grand Ole Opry”/“Nobody’s Darlin’ But Mine” (Decca 29514, May) and “It’s the Same Old World”/“Don’t Do Things He’d Do” (Decca 29677, November). More details unknown. Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 26, 1955 : IVORY JOE HUNTER and his Ivorytones do a four-song session in New York City. "Heaven Came Down To Earth"/"I Need Somebody" is issued on Atlantic 1066 in June. "I Need You" and "That's Why" will be included on the LP "Ivory Joe Hunter" (Atlantic LP 8008, 1957), along with the other two tracks. Personnel : Ivory Joe Hunter (vocals / piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; The Gliders (aka The Cues, vocal group). More details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 28, 1955 : Recording date of SAMMY LEWIS's "I Feel So Worried"/"So Long Baby" (Sun 218, end of April). Sammy Lewis is the vocalist and harmonica player, Willie Johnson plays guitar. A third track from this session, "Gonna Leave You Baby" was first issued on the 9-LP set "Sun Records : The Blues Years, 1950-1958" (Sun Box 105) in 1984.
March 28, 1955 : In New Orleans, SHIRLEY AND LEE record one of their biggest hits, "Feel So Good" and its flip "You'd Be Thinking Of Me". Released on Aladdin 3289 in the last week of May.
March 30, 1955 : Second FATS DOMINO session this month (same personnel and studio details as March 15). "La La" will become the B-side of "Ain't It A Shame" (Imperial 5348). "Blue Monday" is held in the can until December 1956, when it comes out on Imperial 5417.
March 1955, unknown date : A HOWLIN' WOLF session in Chicago yields two singles : "Who Will Be Next"/"I Have A Little Girl" (Chess 1593, April) and "Don't Mess With My Baby"/"Come To Me Baby" (Chess 1607, October).
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
APRIL 1955
April 1, 1955 : THE DU DROPPERS are in New York's RCA studio to record four tracks, with their new lead singer, Charlie Hughes (who would later sing with the Drifters). "Talk That Talk"/"Give Me Some Consideration" is released on Groove 0104 in the third week of April and "You're Mine Already" on Groove 0120 in August. "I Wanna Thank You" is first released on Detour LP 33-009 in 1988.
April 6, 1955 : At the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville, HANK SNOW records four tracks. "It's Only You That I Love"/"Keep Your Promise, Willie Thomas" (featuring Anita Carter) is released on RCA 47-6500 in April 1956. The other two tracks, "Can't Have You Blues" and Mitchell Torok's "Caribbean" are included on the LP "Just Keep A-Movin'" (RCA LPM 1113) in May 1955. Produced by Steve Sholes.
Thursday, April 7, 1955 : STAN FREBERG and DAWS BUTLER record the single "The Honey-Earthers"/"The Lone Psychiatrist" (Capitol 3138, May). Both sides also feature the voice of June Foray. Backing by Billy May and his orchestra (13 musicians). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol studio in Hollywood.
April 7, 1955 : THE CLOVERS have another session at the Atlantic studio in New York City. "Nip Sip"/"If I Could Be Loved By You" is selected for single release (Atlantic 1073, August). "Love, Love, Love" is an early version of this song (not the single), eventually released on the LP "The Clovers : Their Greatest Recordings : The Early Years" (Atco 33-374) in 1971. "Kiss Me Before You Go" remains unissued. At this time the Clovers are : Buddy Bailey, Billy Mitchell, Harold Winley and Mathew McQuater.
April 17, 1955 : A live show by BILL HALEY and his Comets at the Masonic Temple in Cleveland, Ohio, is recorded and eventually released in 1997 on the 2-CD set "Rock 'n' Roll Show" (Hydra BCK 27105).
Monday, April 18, 1955 : Driving home from a gig in Las Vegas, THE DOMINOES stop off at Cincinnati, to record four tracks in the King Studio. "How Long, How Long Blues" sees a release in May 1956 on Federal 12263, and "That's How You Know When You're Growing Old" (led by Jackie Wilson) is held in the can until February 1961 (King 5463). "I Need Somebody In My Arms" and "Take Me To the Altar" are not released at all.
April 21, 1955 : THE DRIFTERS (David Baughn, Gerhart Trasher, Andrew Thrasher, Bill Pinkney) record four tracks in New York City, of which "Drifting Away From You" and a first try-out of "Steamboat" have never been issued. "Honey Bee" finally sees a release in March 1961 as the B-side of "Some Kind Of Wonderful" (Atlantic 2096) and "No Sweet Lovin'" is issued on the flip of "Please Stay" (Atlantic 2105) in May 1961. ". Personnel includes Sam "the Man" Taylor (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Oliver (guitar) ; Connie Kay (drums). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
April 21, 1955 : After four years with Imperial, T-BONE WALKER now records for Atlantic. During a session in Chicago, six tracks are laid down. "Papa Ain't Salty"/"T-Bone Shuffle" is selected for the next single (Atlantic 1065, July) and "Why Not"/"Play On Little Girl" comes out on Atlantic 1074 in early October. "T-Bone Blues Special" stays in the can until 1972, when it is released as an LP track on Atlantic SD 7226 (Various artists : "Texas Guitar : From Dallas To L.A."). "All I Want Is One More Chance" from this session remains unissued.
April 22, 1955 : OTIS WILLIAMS and a new group of Charms record their next two singles in Cincinnati : "Miss the Love That I've Been Dreaming Of"/"Tell Me Now" (DeLuxe 6088, May) and "Gum Drop"/ "Save Me, Save Me" (DeLuxe 6090, June). "Gum Drop" was covered by the Crew Cuts, whose version went to # 10 (pop), whereas the Charms' version did not chart at all.
APRIL 22, 1955 : In New York City, JESSE STONE records the Coral single "Come And Dance With Me"/"Tom, Dick, and Harry" (61439, June). The disc is credited to Charles Calhoun (Stone's alter ego) with Al Sears and his Rock 'n' Rollers : Al Sears and Sam 'the Man' Taylor (alto saxes) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lawrence Brown (trombone) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Bob Thiele. Earlier in the month (exact date unknown), Stone had recorded "Smack Dab In the Middle"/"(I Don't Know) Why the Car Won't Go" (MGM 11989, May) at Olmsted Studio in New York City, produced by Jim Vienneau. The record was issued as by "Charlie Calhoun"
April 22, 1955 : BILLY BROWN records his next single, “High Heels But No Soul”/“Drunk, Drunk Again” (Decca 29559, July), at the Decca Recording Studio in Hollywood. Personnel : Charly Morgan (guitar) ; Richard Paul Morgan, Dickie Phillips (electric guitars) ; Wayne Burdick (steel guitar) ; Bob Morgan (bass) ; Bobby Bruce Berg (fiddle) ; Fred Haynes (piano) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Arranged by Hank Penny. Produced by Tom Mack.
April 23, 1955 : A Miami session for RAY CHARLES yields four tracks. "A Fool For You"/"This Little Girl Of Mine" becomes the new single in June (Atlantic 1063). The two other songs stay in the can for several years. The instrumental "A Bit Of Soul" is first released on Atlantic 2094 in March 1961 and "Hard Times (No One Knows Better Than I)" on Atlantic 2118 in September 1961. Personnel : Ray Charles (vocal, piano) ; Riley Webb, Joe Bridgewater (trumpets) ; Don Wilkerson (tenor sax) ; Dave Newman (sax) ; Roosevelt Sheffield (bass) ; William Peeples (drums).
April 25, 1955 : GUITAR SLIM (real name Eddie Jones) is in Hollywood to record four tracks, which will be released on two subsequent singles : "I Got Sumpin' For You"/"You're Gonna Miss Me" (Specialtry 551) and "Quicksand"/ "Think It Over" (Specialty 557). Personnel : Guitar Slim (vocal / guitar) ; Roosevelt Brown (trumpet) ; Gus Fontenette and Luther Hill Jr (alt saxes) ; Joe Tillman (tenor sax) ; Lawrence Cotton (piano) ; Lloyd Lambert (bass) ; Oscar Moore (drums).
April 25, 1955 : THE FIVE KEYS are at the Capitol studio in New York City to record four tracks. "Me Make Um Pow Wow" is coupled with "The Verdict" for release on Capitol 3127 on May 23. "I Wish I'd Never Learned To Read" is issued on Capitol 3185 on July 18 (c/w "Don't You Know I Love You" from a session on November 16, 1954). "Peace And Love" will appear in June 1956 (Capitol 3455, c/w "My Pigeon's Gone"). The Five Keys are : Rudy West (lead vocals), Ripley Ingram, Ramon Loper, Maryland Pierce and Bernie West. Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs.
April 26, 1955 : At Capitol's L.A. studio, THE PLATTERS record "Only You" and "Bark, Battle And Ball", which are rush-released on May 6 (Mercury 70633). "Only You" was previously recorded for Federal in 1953. The two other tracks from this session are "I Wanna" (Mercury 71093, April 1957) and "Why Should I" (Mercury MG 20146, LP track). Produced by Bob Shad. The Platters are : Tony Williams, Zola Taylor (who sings lead on "Bark, Battle And Ball"), Paul Robi, Herb Reed and David Lynch.
April 26, 1955 : ANNISTEEN ALLEN records her next single, "I'm Still In Love With You"/"Mine, All Mine" (Capitol 3161, June) in New York City. Mickey Baker plays guitar, more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs.
April 28, 1955 : In Chicago, LITTLE WALTER (vocals, harmonica) records the single "Roller Coaster"/"I Got To Go", for release on Checker 817 in June. Accompaniment by Luther Tucker, Robert Lockwood, Jr (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
April 1955, unknown date : CURTIS GORDON records material for two singles in Nashville (probably Bradley Film & Recording Studio). "Baby Please Come Home"/"Blue Lifetime" is released on Mercury 70648 in June and "Our Secret Rendezvous"/"(You're A) Girl With A Future" on Mercury 70708 in September. Personnel : Curtis Gordon (vocal, guitar) ; Eddie Hill (guitar) : Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Slick Gillespie (bass) ; Charlie Mitchell (fiddle) ; Curly Gainous (piano). Produced by Owen Bradley.
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MAY 1955
May 2, 1955 : BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets return to the King studio in Cincinnati to record four tracks. "Tennessee Rock 'n' Roll"/ "Oo-Oo-Oo" is released as a single (King 1475) at the end of May, "Dig Like You Never Dug" becomes an EP track and "Switchie, Witchie, Tichie" is first issued on the Charly CD "Tennessee Rock 'n' Roll" (CD 282) in 1991. Personnel : James "Big Moe" Muzey (vocals) ; Bobby Jones (tenor sax) ; Boyd Bennett (drums) ; Ron Ayres (guitar) ; Mickey Allen (rhythm guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass).
May 6, 1955 : THE "5" ROYALES record material for their next two singles at Beltone Studios in New York City. "I Need Your Lovin' Baby"/"When I Get Like This" comes out on King 4806 in June and "Women About To Make Me Go Crazy"/"Do Unto You" on King 4819 in August. The "5" Royales are : Lowman Pauling, Johnny Tanner, Obadiah Carter, Jimmy Moore and Otto Jefferies.
Tuesday, May 10, 1955 : BILL HALEY and his Comets arrive at the Pythian Temple in New York City to record their next single, "Razzle Dazzle"/"Two Hound Dogs" (Decca 29552, July). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Marshall Lytle (double bass) ; Billy Gussak (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
May 10, 1955 : The harvest of BO DIDDLEY's second recording session is "Diddley Daddy" and "She's Fine, She's Mine", released back to back on Checker 819 in June. Bo (vocal / guitar) is backed by : Little Walter (harmonica on "Diddley Daddy") ; Billy Boy Arnold (harmonica on "She's Fine, She's Mine") ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Clifton James (drums) ; The Moonglows (vocal group). Location : Chess Studio, Chicago.
May 11, 1955 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS records his next single, "Well I Tried"/"You're All Of My Life To Me" (Wing 90005, June) and "Talk About Me"/"Even Though" for a future single (Wing 90055, February 1956), in New York City. Musicians : Sam Taylor, Big Al Sears (tenor saxes) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland.
May 18, 1955 : First Hickory session for RUSTY AND DOUG, at the Hickory studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result : "So Lovely Baby"/"Why Cry For You" (Hickory 1027, July) and "Let's Stay Together"/"Honey Honey" (Hickory 1042, November). Personnel : Rusty Kershaw (vocal) ; Doug Kershaw (vocal, fiddle) ; Wiley Barkdull (bass vocal, piano on "Honey Honey") ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Eddie Hill (rhythm guitar) ; Louis Fornerat (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass).
May 18, 1955 : In New York City, TITUS TURNER records four tracks for two singles : "All Around the World"/"Do You Know" (Wing 90006, June) and "Big John"/"Sweet And Low" (Wing 90033, October). Backing by Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums) ; Willie Rodriguez (percussion). Wing is a subsidiary of Mercury Records.
May 19, 1955 : At Jim Beck's Studio in Dallas, SONNY JAMES has his 8th session for Capitol. The four tracks will be used for two subsequent singles : "Let's Go Bunny-Huggin'"/"Too Much" (Capitol 3198, July) and "Pigtails And Ribbons" /"Careless With My Heart" (Capitol 3281, November). Personnel : Sonny James (vocal/ guitar) ; Neal Jones (rhythm guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (electric mandolin) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar) ; Bill Noble (bass) ; Eugene Brady (fiddle) ; Bill Simmons (piano). Producer : Ken Nelson.
May 20, 1955 : CHARLES BROWN records eight tracks in Los Angeles. Two of these ("I See By the Papers" and "Tomorrow") are held in the can until the release of "The Complete Aladdin Recordings of Charles Brown" in 1994 (5 CD-set on Mosaic). The other six will be issued on three singles : "Fool's Paradise"/"Hot Lips And Seven Kisses" (Aladdin 3290, June), "Trees, Trees"/ "My Heart Is Mended" (Aladdin 3296, October) and "One Minute To One"/"Please Don't Drive Me 'Way" (Aladdin 3316, March 1956). Backing by Ernie Freeman's combo.
Saturday, May 21, 1955 is the date of CHUCK BERRY's first recording session, at the Chess studio in Chicago, supervised by Leonard Chess. "Maybellene"/"Wee Wee Hours" is released on Chess 1604 in July. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals, guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jasper Thomas (drums) ; Jerome Green (maracas).
May 23, 1955 : An important session for SMILEY LEWIS. "I Hear You Knocking"/"Bumpity Bump" is issued on Imperial 5356 in July and will reach # 2 on the R&B charts. "I Can't Believe It" has to wait until October 1957 for a release on Imperial 5470 and "Hey Girl" is shelved even longer, until its appearance on Smiley's LP "I Hear You Knocking" (Imperial LP 9141) in 1961. Personnel : Smiley Lewis (vocal) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Huey 'Piano' Smith (piano) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer). Location : J&M Studio, New Orleans.
May 27, 1955 : Recording date of WEE WILLIE WAYNE's "Travelin' Mood"/"I Remember" (Imperial 5355, July), also at J&M Studio in New Orleans. Wayne (vocal, whistling) is backed by piano, guitar, bass and drums (probably members of Dave Bartholomew's band) and a vocal group, the Kidds. Imperial reissued the single in 1961 (5725).
May 29, 1955 : In Cincinnati, JACK DUPREE records his only major R&B hit, "Walking the Blues"/"Daybreak Rock" (King 4812, July). The record is credited to "Jack Dupree & Mr. Bear", but it is not a duet : Dupree is the vocalist / pianist on "Walking the Blues" and Mr. Bear (Teddy McRae) supplies the vocals and foot tapping on "Daybreak Rock", with Dupree on piano. Additional accompaniment by Joe Williams (bass) ; George DeHeart (drums).
May 31, 1955 : BILLY "THE KID" EMERSON records the original version of "Red Hot", as well as its flip, "No Greater Love", at the Sun studio in Memphis. The record is released on Sun 219 in the third week of June. Session musicians : Billy Emerson (vocal, piano); Jewell Briscoe, Moses Reed (tenor saxes) ; Calvin Newborn (guitar) ; Kenneth Banks (bass) ; Phineas Newborn (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 1955, unknown date : JOHNNY CASH (vocal / guitar) and the Tennessee Two (Luther Perkins, guitar, and Marshall Grant, bass) have their first formal recording session for Sun Records in Memphis, after two earlier auditions. "Cry! Cry! Cry! " and "Hey, Porter !" are deemed worthy of release by producer Sam Phillips and come out as Johnny's first 45 (Sun 221) on June 21. Also laid down is "Wide Open Road". The recording from this particular session is first issued on the LP "Story Songs Of Trains And Rivers" (Sun 104) in December 1969. The version of "Wide Open Road" that came out on Sun 392 in 1964 was recorded on March 22, 1955 and overdubbed on April 21, 1964.
JUNE 1955
June 1, 1955 : PATSY CLINE has her first recording session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "A Church, A Courtroom And Then Goodbye"/"Honky-Tonk Merry-Go-Round" becomes her first single (Coral 61464, July). The other two tracks will be used for her next single, "Hidin' Out"/"Turn the Cards Slowly" (Coral 61523, November). Session personnel : Harold Bradley (acoustic guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass).
June 2, 1955 : THE CARDINALS record the single "Come Back My Love"/"Two Things I Love" (Atlantic 1067, July) and two unissued tracks, "Today, Tomorrow" and "You Won't Be True To Your Heart". Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
June 8, 1955 : In Los Angeles, ROLLEE McGILL records material for two singles : "In My Neighborhood"/"Rhythm Rockin' Blues" (Mercury 70652, July) and "There's Madness In My Heart"/"Blue Melody Moon" (Mercury 70725, October). Personnel : Rollee McGill (vocal) ; Chuck Norris (guitar) ; Chuck Hamilton (bass) ; Peppy Prince (drums) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Richard Brown (tenor sax) ; Walter Henry (baritone sax) ; Maurice Simon (alto sax) ; Eddie 'Goo Goo' Hutcheson (trumpet).
June 8, 1955 : NAPPY BROWN has another Savoy session in New York City, yielding four tracks. "Piddily Patter Patter"/"There'll Come A Day" is selected for the next single (Savoy 1162, July), soon followed by "Well Well Well Baby-La" on Savoy 1167 in August. The fourth number, "Land I Love" ends up on the LP "Nappy Brown Sings" (Savoy MG 14002), where the other three tracks also find a place. Nappy is backed by : Budd Johnson and Al Sears (tenor saxes) ; George Berg (baritone sax) ; Howard Biggs (piano, arranger) ; Everett Barksdale (piano) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Connie Kay (drums).
June 8, 1955 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA record three tracks in New York City. "I'm So Glad"/"Se De Boom Run Dun" is released on Rainbow 316 in July. The third track, Peace Of Mind", is shelved until 1990, when Bear Family includes it on the double CD "Love Is Strange" (Bear Family BCD 15438). Personnel : Sylvia Vanderpool (vocal) ; Mickey Baker (vocal, guitar) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax ) ; Unknown (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano ) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass ) ; Dave "Specs" Bailey (drums).
June 9, 1955 : ROSCO GORDON records his next single : “Just Love Me Baby”/ “Weeping Blues” (Sun 227, August 1) at the Sun studio in Memphis. Personnel : Rosco Gordon (vocals / piano) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Tuff Green (bass) ; Harvey Simmons, Richard Sanders (saxes) ; Jeff Grayer (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
June 15, 1955 : THE FLAMINGOS lay down four tracks in Chicago. "I Want To Love You"/"Please Come Back Home" is released in July on Checker 821. "Just For A Kick" comes out in December 1956 (Checker 853). "Whispering Stars" will finally be released in February 1959 (Checker 915). The Flamingos are : Jacob Carey, Zeke Carey, Paul Wilson, John Carter and Nate Nelson.
June 16, 1955 : Final King session for ROY BROWN (until he returns to King in January 1959). His next stop will be Imperial Records. In Cincinnati, four tracks are recorded for two singles : "Shake 'Em Up Baby"/"Letter To Baby" (King 4816, July) and "She's Gone Too Long"/"My Little Angel Child" (KIng 4834, October). Musicians : John Fernandez (trumpet) ; Earl Battiste (alto sax) ; Julius Schedemayer (baritone sax) : Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Frank McClure (piano) ; Charles Grayson (guitar) ; Curtis Mitchell (bass) ; Harry Nance (drums).
June 18, 1955 : LEFTY FRIZZELL is in Dallas (at Jim Beck Studio) to record two singles : "Sweet Lies"/"I'm Lost Between Right And Wrong" (Columbia 21433, August) and "Your Tomorrows Will Never Come"/ "It Gets Late So Early" (Columbia 21458, October). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocal / guitar) ; Jimmy Rollins (lead guitar) ; Joe Knight (rhythm guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (mandolin) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar) ; Paul Brawley (bass) ; Buddy Brady (fiddle) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; William Pecchi (drums). Produced by Don Law.
June 18, 1955 : GENE SIMMONS records five songs at the Sun Studio in Memphis, all originally unissued. All will make their first appearance on UK Various artists LPs in 1985. “Mom and Pop”, “Drinkin’ Scotch” and “Blues At Midnight” are included on “Rock-a-billy Blues” (Sun LP 1019). “Juicy Fruit” gets a place on “Hop Flop and Fly” (Sun LP 1025) and “You Can’t Break the Chains of Love” on “Hot Southern Boppers” (Sun LP 1024). Personnel : Gene Simmons (vocals / guitar) ; Carl Simmons (guitar) ; Talmadge Hester (guitar) ; Jessie Carter (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Monday, June 20, 1955 : WILBERT HARRISON has a session in New York City, resulting in "Darling Listen To This Song"/"Florida Special" (Savoy 1164, July). Both songs had been previously attempted on June 8. These alternate versions are first released on the 1987 LP "Listen To My Song" (Savoy Jazz SJL 1182). "Florida Special" is an instrumental track. Personnel : Wilbert Harrison (vocal, guitar) ; Willie Morgan (piano) ; David Dixon (drums) ; Malachi Buckman (maracas) ; Unknown : tenor sax, guitar, bass. Produced by Fred Mendelsohn.
June 20, 1955 : In Hollywood, SKEETS McDONALD records "Strollin'" and "You Turned Me Down" for his next single (Capitol 3215, August), while "I Got A New Field To Plow" will be used for a subsequent single in January 1956 (Capitol 3312, b/w "Baby I'm Lost Without You" from an earlier, November 1952, session). A fourth track, "Your Sweet Love Is Gone", will finally see the light of day in June 1957 (Capitol 3741). Skeets (vocal) is supported by : Lewis Augustin Talley (guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; "Fuzzy" Owen (bass) ; "Jelly" Sanders (fiddle) ; Bill Woods (piano) ; Al Kern (drums). Producer, as usual, Ken Nelson.
June 24, 1955 : JESSE STONE records at the Atlantic studio in New York City. All four tracks are released : "The Rocket"/"Night Life" on Atco 6051 in September, and "Hey Tiger"/"Barrelhouse" on Atlantic 1120 in January 1957. Personnel includes Hal Singer (tenor sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar). Other details unknown. These records are issued as by Chuck Calhoun and the Atlantic All Stars.
June 27, 1955 : In New York City, LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records his next single, "All Around the World" (a cover of the Titus Turner number, not the Little Richard song) c / w "Don't Leave Me Dear" (King 4818, September). On June 29, he lays down "Are You Ever Coming Back" (King 4893, March 1956). Session musicians : Willis Jackson (tenor sax) ; Jack Dupree (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Ivan Rollie (bass) ; Calvin Shields (drums). See also Jack Dupree below.
June 27 and 29, 1955 : JACK DUPREE has two split sessions with Little Willie John in NYC. On the 27th, Dupree records "That's My Pa" (King 4827, October) and "She Cooks Me Cabbage" (King 4859, December), followed on the 29th by "Failing Health Blues" (King 4876, February 1956), "Stumbling Block" (King 4827, October) and "Mail Order Woman" (King 4938, June 1956). Personnel same as above.
With thanks to Steve Walker, Henk Gorter and Dave Penny. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JULY 1955
July 1, 1955 : THE MILLER SISTERS have a recording session in Memphis. "There's No Right Way To Do Me Wrong" and "You Can Tell Me" will be chosen for their second single (Sun 230, January 1956), while "Look What You've Done To My Heart", "Woody" and "I Know I Can't Forget You But I'll Try" will remain in the can until they will be selected for the LP boxset "The Sun Country Years 1950-1959" (Bear Family BFX 15211). Personnel : Elsie Jo Miller and Mildred Wages (vocal duet) ; Roy Miller (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Bill Diehl (bass).
July 5, 1955 : BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record four tracks at the King studio in Cincinnati. Selected for the next single are "My Boy Flat Top" and "Banjo Rock 'n'Roll" (King 1494, September). "Cool Disc Jockey" is held in the can until November 1959, when it comes out on King 5282. "The Groovy Age" is first released on the CD "Tennessee Rock 'n' Roll" (Charly CD 282) in 1991. Personnel : Boyd Bennett (vocals, drums ) ; Bobby Jones (tenor sax) ; Roy Ayres (guitar) ; Mickey Allen (rhythm guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass).
July 7, 1955 : RUTH BROWN covers "It's Love Baby (24 Hours A Day)" in New York City, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler. Released on Atlantic 1072 in the first week of August c/w "What'd I Say" from a previous session (March 1, 1955). Session personnel (tenor sax, baritone sax, piano, guitar, bass, drums) unknown.
July 7, 1955 : ELLA MAE MORSE does another session at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood. The four songs from this date are collected on the EP "Ella Mae Morse Swings" (Capitol EAP 1-9126, August) : “Piddily Patter Patter", "Ain't That A Shame", "Seventeen" and "Razzle Dazzle". The latter two songs are also released as a single (Capitol 3199, August). Personnel : Barney Kessel, Jack Marshall (guitars) ; Abe Siegel (bass) ; Babe Russin, Ted Romersa, Charles Butler (tenor saxes) ; Henry Gruen (alto sax) ; Milt Ruskin (piano) ; Bill Douglass (drums). Arranged and conducted by Dace Cavanaugh.
July 8, 1955 : Sax man RED PRYSOCK lays down four titles in New York City. "Hand Clappin'" is first released on Mercury 70674 in early September, coupled with "That's the Groovy Thing", then withdrawn and replaced a few weeks later by "Hand Clappin'"/ "Jumbo" on Mercury 70698. The fourth number, "Alright, Okay, You Win" gets a place on Red's LP "Rock 'n' Roll" (Mercury MG 20088), along with the other three tracks. Musicians: Red Prysock (tenor sax) ; Blue Mitchell (trumpet) ; Clarence Wright (baritone sax) ; Joe Oliver Blair (piano) ; Raymond Kitz (guitar) ; Herbert Gordy (bass) ; Purnell Rice (drums).
Monday, July 11, 1955 : ELVIS PRESLEY's last significant Sun session results in the single "Mystery Train"/"I Forgot To Remember To Forget" (Sun 223, August). "Tryin' To Get To You" will not see a Sun release and is first issued on Elvis's first LP ("Elvis Presley", RCA LPM 1254, March 1956). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Johnny Bernero (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips in Memphis.
July 14, 1955 : LaVERN BAKER is back at the Atlantic studio in New York City. Four tracks are recorded. "Play It Fair"/"Lucky Old Sun" is selected for the new single (Atlantic 1075, September). "You Better Stop" is first released on an EP ("All Star Rock And Roll", Atlantic EP 575) and later (1962) on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071). "Fee Fi Fo Fum" remains unissued. Personnel: Emmett Berry, Shad Collins (trumpets) ; Lawrence Brown (trombone) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Unknown (piano, guitar, drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
July 14, 1955 : Another LITTLE WALTER session in Chicago. All three tracks are held in the can for some considerable time. "Crazy For My Baby" is released on Checker 986 in mid-1961. "Little Girl, Little Girl" and "Can't Stop Loving You" see their first release on a French LP (Le Roi Du Blues LP 2012) in 1989. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals, harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr and David Myers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). Willie Dixon's "Walking the Blues" (Checker 822, his only R&B chart entry) may also have been recorded at this session, as the master number (7873) immediately precedes those of the three Little Walter tracks. It was belatedly released in the UK on London HLU 8297 (July 1956) and is considered to be the rarest London single.
July 14, 1955 : After Little Walter has left, BO DIDDLEY enters the Chess studio. "Pretty Thing"/"Bring It To Jerome" is selected for single release in November (Checker 827). The instrumental "Spanish Guitar" is first issued on the album "Have Guitar, Will Travel" (Checker LP 2974) in 1959 and "Heart-o-Matic Love" stays on the shelf until the CD age (first release on Chess CHD-9331 in 1991). The date given in Leadbitter / Slaven's "Blues Records, 1943 To 1970" (August 12, 1955) is the date of editing and remastering. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocal, guitar) ; Billy Boy Arnold (harmonica) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas, second vocal on "Bring It To Jerome") ; Frank Kirkland (drums).
July 19, 1955 : EDDIE SNOW records "Ain't That Right" / "Bring Your Love Back Home To Me'', his first and last single for Sam Phillips (Sun 226, August). Eddie Snow (vocal / piano) is supported by : Floyd Murphy (guitar) ; Jeff Greyer (drums) ; Eddie Davis (tenor sax) ; Bennie Moore (sax).
July 20, 1955 : LLOYD 'COWBOY' COPAS is in Nashville at the RCA Victor studio. After recording for King since 1944 this will be his final session for the label. "Tell Me More" becomes the A-side for his next single (King 1507, b/w "Blue Yesterday", possibly from from this session). "Don't Shake Hands With The Devil" will be used for a future single (King 4865, b/w "Any Old Time", released in 1956). Session details unknown, except for Cowboy Copas (vocal / guitar).
Sunday, July 24, 1955 : In New Orleans, SHIRLEY GOODMAN AND LEONARD LEE record "Lee's Dream"/"I'll Do It" for their next single (Aladdin 3302, October), credited to Shirley and Lee. Two further tracks, "Everything" and "Tell Me So" will remain unissued. Various members of Dave Bartholomew's Band supply the instrumental accompaniment.
July 25, 1955 : In Los Angeles, AMOS MILBURN records material for his next two singles : "All Is Well"/"My Happiness Depends On You" (Aladdin 3293, August) and "House Party"/ "I Guess I'll Go" (Aladdin 3306, November). Musicians : Amos Milburn (vocal, piano) ; Eddie Chamblee (tenor sax) ; Arnett Sparrow (trombone) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Unknown (bass, drums).
July 25, 1955 : PIANO RED has two sessions on this day, from 11.00-14.00 and 15.30-18.30. All eight tracks will be released, first "Goodbye"/"Six O'Clock Bounce" (Groove 0118, August), then "Gordy's Rock"/"Red's Blues" (Groove 0126, October). "Jumpin' With Daddy" comes out on Groove 0136 in January 1956 and "Peachtree Parade" on RCA 6953 in July 1957. The other two tracks, "Real Good Thing" and "Please Tell Me Baby" end up on two different Groove EP's (EGA 6, EGA 7). Personnel : Willie Perryman aka Piano Red (vocals, piano) ; Wesley Jackson (guitar) ; Kid Miller (bass) ; James Jackson (drums) ; Clyde 'Blow Top' Lynn (tenor sax). Produced by Bob Rolontz at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 25, 1955 : In New York City, THE SPARKS OF RHYTHM (previously known as the Berliners) record material for two singles : "Don't Love You Anymore"/"Woman, Woman, Woman" (Apollo 479, August) and "Hurry Home"/"Stars Are In the Sky" (Apollo 481, October). The lead singer on all four tracks is Jimmy "Handyman" Jones.
July 27, 1955 : Another Hollywood session by ELLA MAE MORSE. “Sing-ing-ing-ing”/ “When Boy Kiss Girl (It’s Love)” is released on Capitol 3263 in October. “Give Me Love” is also released as a single (Capitol 3320, January 1956, c/w “Won’t You Listen To Me Baby” from a later session). “Once You’ve Been Lovers” is first released in 1997, on the 5-CD set “Barrelhouse, Boogie and the Blues” (Bear Family BCD 16117). Orchestra conducted by Dave Cavanaugh.
July 28, 1955 : The second Columbia session by SID KING and the Five Strings results in two singles : "Sag, Drag And Fall"/"But I Don't Care" (Columbia 21449, late September) and "Purr, Kitty Purr"/"Mama I Want You" (Columbia 21489, January 1956). Personnel : Sid King (vocal, guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; Jimmy Rollins (guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (mandolin, guitar) ; Mel Robinson (steel guitar) ; Ken Massey (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Dave White (drums) ; Bill Pecchi (drums) ; Cecil Brower (fiddle). Produced by Don Law at Jim Beck Studio in Dallas.
July 29, 1955 : THE SENSATIONS (featuring female lead singer Yvonne Mills) record four tracks in New York City. "Yes Sir, That's My Baby"/"Sympathy" is released on Atco 6056 in November. "My Heart Cries For You" is saved for a later single (Atco 6075, August 1956) and "Right Or Wrong" is not released at all. Produced by Herb Abramson.
July 30, 1955 : JOHNNY CASH's second formal recording session yields the single "Folsom Prison Blues"/"So Doggone Lonesome" (Sun 232, December). The other two tracks stay in the can for several years. "Luther Played the Boogie" sees a release in February 1959 (Sun 316), as the B-side of "Thanks A Lot" and "Mean Eyed Cat" is released on Sun 347 in October 1960. Cash (vocals, acoustic guitar) is backed by Luther Perkins (electric guitar) and Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips in Memphis.
July 1955, unknown date : At 706 Union, Memphis TN, CHARLIE FEATHERS records "Defrost Your Heart"/"Wedding Gown Of White" for Sam Phillips, who decides to release the tracks on his major label (Sun 231, December), after Charlie's debut on Flip, earlier this year. Personnel : Charlie Feathers (vocal / guitar) ; Quinton Claunch (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Johnny Black or Bill Black (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle). Both sides are mastered on November 1, 1955, which is sometimes mentioned as the recording date.
July 1955, unknown date : THE JODIMARS, freshly departed from Bill Haley's Comets, record three demos in Camden, New Jersey : "Flip Flop And Fly", "Rock-A Beatin' Boogie" and "The Big Beat", which will not be commercially released until the 1990s, on the Rockstar label. The Jodimars are Joey D'Ambrosio (tenor sax), DIck Richards (vocals) and Marshall Lytle (vocals and double bass). Additional accompaniment by : Chuck Hess (lead guitar) ; Bob Simpson (piano) ; Jim Buffington (drums).
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
AUGUST 1955
August 1, 1955 : THE CHEERS record the single “Black Denim Trousers and Motor- cycle Boots”/“Some Night In Alaska” (Capitol 3219, late August). A # 6 hit. Also recorded is “Que Pasa Muchacha”, which will come out on Capitol 3409 in April 1956. Unissued from this session is “Unconditionally Yours”. The Cheers are : Bert Convy, Gil Garfield and Sue Allen. Backing by Les Baxter’s orchestra and chorus. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in Los Angeles.
August 3, 1955 : LOWELL FULSON does a session in Los Angeles, from which "Trouble, Trouble" and "I Still Love You Baby" are issued on Checker 829 in December. Two other tracks, "It's A Long Time" and the instrumental "Rollin' Blues" are first issued on the 2-LP "Chess Blues Masters" (Chess 2A CMB-205) in 1976. Fulson (vocal / guitar) is supported by Earl Brown (alto sax) ; Eddie Chamblee (tenor sax) ; Lloyd Glenn (piano) ; Billy Hadnott (bass). Unknown : trumpet, drums, baritone sax.
Friday, August 5, 1955 : BIG JOHN GREER lays down four tracks in New York City, credited to "Big Boy And His Combo". "Come Back Maybellene" is an answer record to Chuck Berry's "Maybellene" and released on Groove 0119 in September, coupled with the instrumental "Night Crawlin'" from the same session. "Blam" is issued on Groove 0131 in December and "Can't Stand It Any Longer" is first released on Bear Family 15554 CH in 1992. Personnel : John Greer (vocals, tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman bass) ; Sticks Evans (drums).
August 9, 1955 : MARTY ROBBINS records four tunes in Nashville. A cover of Chuck Berry's "Maybellene" (Columbia 21446) is rush released. "Pretty Mama" (Columbia 21461) follows in October and "Mean Mama Blues" in December (Columbia 21477, on the flip of "Tennessee Toddy"). The fourth track, Hank Williams's "Long Gone Lonesome Blues" ends up on the 6-track release "Rock 'n Rollin' Robbins" (Columbia CL-2601) in August 1956. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals, guitar) ; Ray Edenton (guitar) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; James Roye Hall (piano) ; Donald Slayman (fiddle) ; Floyd Chance (bass) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 11, 1955 : The vocal group THE CUES has two recording sessions this month. On this day they record the original version of "Burn That Candle" (Capitol 3245, October) and "Charlie Brown" (not the later Coasters song), which is issued on Capitol 3310 in January 1956. "Poppa Loves Momma" is first released on the CD "Why" (Bear Family BCD 15510) in June 1991. The Cues are Jimmy Breedlove, Ollie Jones, Abel De Costa, Robie Kirk and Eddie Barnes. Location : Capitol studio, New York City.
August 11, 1955 : In Nashville, WILEY BARKDULL records four songs for two singles : "I'll Give My Heart To You"/"Pencil And Paper Love" (Hickory 1034, October) and "Me, You And My Heart"/"'Cause You're Always On My Mind" (Hickory 1044, March 1956). Personnel : Wiley Barkdull (vocals, piano) ; Rufus Thibodeaux (fiddle) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Foster (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass).
August 12, 1955 : The same personnel accompanies RUSTY AND DOUG (Kershaw) in the Hickory Studio on "Look Around (Take A Look At Me)"/"Can I Be Dreaming" (Hickory 1036, November) and "Your Crazy, Crazy Heart" (Hickory 1048, May 1956). "(I'm Gonna Gonna) See My Baby" is first issued on a Bear Family LP (BFX 15141) in 1984.
August 12, 1955 : First Chess session for SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller). "Don't Start Me Talkin'"/"All My Love In Vain" is selected for his first Checker single (824), released in September with great success (# 3 R&B). Three other tracks, "Good Evening Everybody", "Work With Me" and "You Killing Me" stay in the can until 1975, when they are released on the LP "One Way Out" (Chess CHV-417). Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocal / harmonica) ; Muddy Waters and Jimmy Rogers (guitars) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
August 17, 1955 : WYNONA CARR records four tracks in Hollywood, but only "Heartbreak Melody" will be released during her lifetime, on Specialty 600 in April 1957. (Wynona died in 1976.) "Ding Dong Daddy" and "Act Right" are first released on the LP "Jump Jack Jump" in 1985 (Specialty SP 2157) and "If These Walls Could Speak" on the extended CD version of that LP (Specialty SPCD 7048 / Ace 513) in 1993. Produced by Art Rupe.
August 19, 1955 : HARDROCK GUNTER and his Pebbles have a session at the King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio. Two singles are the result : "I'll Give 'em Rhythm" c/w "I Put My Britches On Just Like Everybody Else" (King 1505, October) and "Turn the Other Cheek"/ "Before My Time" (King 4858, December). Musicians : Hardrock Gunter (vocal, guitar) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Zeke Turner (guitar) ; Louis Innes (rhythm guitar) ; Vik Willis (piano) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Unknown (drums, sax).
August 23, 1955 : JIMMY HAGGETT is in Memphis to record "No More"/"They Call Our Love A Sin" for Sam Phillips (Sun 236, his sole record on the yellow label). Personnel : Jimmy Haggett (vocal / acoustic guitar) ; J.L. "Speed" Moody (guitar) ; Billy Springer (steel guitar) ; J.G. "Gabby" McKinn (bass) ; Bernie Gwatney (fiddle) ; Edwin "Red" Mansfield (drums).
August 24, 1955 : The second August session for THE CUES, again at Capitol Recording Studios in New York, yields three tracks : "Oh My Darling", which becomes the B-side of "Burn That Candle" (3245), "You're On My Mind" (B-side of "Charlie Brown", 3310) and "Much Obliged", which is first issued on Bear Family BFX 15309 in 1988.
August 25, 1955 : CLYDE McPHATTER records "Seven Days"/ "I'm Not Worthy Of You", for release on Atlantic 1081 in December. A third track from this session, "My Definition Of the Blues" has never been issued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler at Capitol Studio in New York City. Four days later, on August 29, Clyde records two duets with RUTH BROWN, "Love Has Joined Us Together"/ "I Gotta Have You", issued on Atlantic 1077 in October.
August 25, 1955 : In Memphis, SMOKEY JOE (Baugh) is in the Sun studio to record "The Signifying Monkey", which will be released twice (!) by Sam Phillips, Sun 228 (September 15, 1955) and Sun 393 (May 1, 1964). "Listen To Me" (from an unknown 1955 session) is chosen for the B-side on both releases. Two versions of "Hula Bop" will stay on the shelf for many years, until they are finally released on the album "Country Rock" (Sun LP 1021, 1985) and the LP boxset "The Sun Country Years" (Bear Family BFX 15211, 1986). Personnel : Joe Baugh (vocal / piano) ; Buddy Holobaugh (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (guitar / steel guitar) ; Johnny Bernero (drums).
August 26, 1955 : At Capitol´s New York studio, THE FIVE KEYS record four songs : "Gee Whittakers" (Capitol 3267, November), "You Broke the Rules Of Love"/"What Goes On" (Capitol 3318, January 1956) and "Shook My Head" (unissued). The Five Keys are : Rudy West, Bernie West, Maryland Pierce, Ramon Loper and Ripley Ingram.
August 26, 1955 : In Los Angeles, THE PENGUINS lay down material for two singles : "Devil That I See"/"Promises, Promises, Promises" (Mercury 70703, September) and "She's Gone, Gone"/ "My Troubles Are Not At An End" (Mercury 70799, February 1956). The Penguins are : Curtis Williams, Cleve Duncan, Dexter Tisby and Bruce Tate.
Saturday, August 27, 1955 : THE SPIDERS, with Chuck Carbo as lead singer, record "Witchcraft"/"Is It True" for release on Imperial 5366 (October). It will be their last charting single. "You Don't Love Me" is held in the can until April 1961, when it sees a release on Imperial 5739. "You Played the Part" is first released on the LP "Rhythm n' Blues, Vol 1 - The End of an Era" (Imperial LM-94003) in 1974. Produced by Dave Bartholomew, whose band supplies the backing. Location : J&M Studio in New Orleans.
August 27, 1955 : GEORGE JONES is at the Gold Star Recording Studio in Houston to record four songs. “Why Baby Why” is coupled with “Seasons Of My Heart” for release on Starday 202 in September. It will become his first chart entry, peaking at # 4 on the country charts. The follow-up is “What Am I Worth” (Starday 216, January 1956), which also charts (# 7). The other side is “Still Hurtin’”, recorded in March 1955. “Mexican Boogie (Boogie Boogie Mexican Boy)” is first released on the LP “White Lightning” (Ace CH 117, UK) in 1984. Personnel : George Jones (vocals / guitar) ; Herb Remington (steel guitar) ; Lew Frisby (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Tony Sepolio (fiddle). Produced by Pappy Daily.
August 1955, unknown date : BUDDY HOLLY records four demos at KDAV radio station in Lubbock, Texas : "You And I Are Through", "Baby It's Love", "Memories" and "Queen Of the Ballroom". Musicians: Buddy Holly (vocals, guitar) ; Bob Montgomery (lead vocal, acoustic guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (guitar, fiddle) ; Don Guess (string bass). All four tracks are overdubbed by the Fireballs on June 26, 1964 and first released on the LP "Holly In the Hills" (UK version, Coral LVA 9227) in June 1965.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Mike Tobin. Additions and corrections welcome.
SEPTEMBER 1955
September 1, 1955 is the recording date of "I "/"Nite Owl" by TONY ALLEN and the Champs, released on Specialty 560 in November. These Champs have nothing to do with the later "Tequila" group. Produced by Art Rupe in Hollywood, California.
Tuesday, September 6, 1955 : In Hollywood STAN FREBERG lays down his next single, "The Yellow Rose Of Texas" c/w "Rock Around Stephen Foster", for release on Capitol 3249 on October 3. Backing by Billy May's orchestra. Alvin Stoller is the overactive snare drummer. Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 12, 1955 : After recording for three other major record companies (Mercury, RCA and Columbia), DON GIBSON now has his first recording session for MGM at RCA Victor studio in Nashville. The four tracks will be used for two singles, "Run Boy"/"I Must Forget You" (MGM 12109) and "Sweet Dreams"/"The Road Of Life Alone" (MGM 12194). Don is supported by unknown musicians (steel guitar, fiddle and bass).
September 13-14, 1955 : Two days are set aside for LITTLE RICHARD's first Specialty session, at J&M Studio in New Orleans, supervised by Bumps Blackwell. On the first day he records "Lonesome And Blue", "Wonderin'", "All Night Long", "The Most I Can Offer" and "Kansas City" and on September 14 "Maybe I'm Right", "Directly From My Heart", "Baby" (first released on Richard's debut LP, Here's Little Richard" in March 1957), "I'm Just A Lonely Guy" and "Tutti Frutti". Selected for single release is "Tutti Frutti"/"I'm Just A Lonely Guy" (Specialty 561, late October). Almost all the other tracks are held in the can until 1959, when they are released on various Specialty singles and / or on Richard's third LP, some of them overdubbed with a female chorus. Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano on "Tutti Frutti") ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Huey Smith (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
September 14, 1955 : J.B. LENOIR records five tracks in Chicago. "If I Give My Love To You"/"Let Me Die With the One I Love" is released on Checker 844 in July 1956. "Natural Man" and "Don't Dog Your Woman" are first issued on the LP "Natural Man" in 1970 (Chess CHV 140) and "Low Down Dirty Shame" on the double LP "Chess Blues Masters" in 1976. Musicians : J.B. Lenoir (vocals, guitar) ; Alex Atkins (alto sax) ; Ernest Cotton (tenor sax) ; Joe Montgomery (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Al Calvin (drums).
September 14, 1955 : RAMBLIN’ JIMMIE DOLAN covers the Cheers hit “Black Denim Trousers and Motorcycle Boots" (Capitol 3254, October 18). The other side, "You Don't Love Me (But I'll Always Care)" is also recorded at this session. Personnel : Jimmie Dolan (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Bryant, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
September 15, 1955 : The first Decca session by ROY HALL yields four tracks : "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On"/"All By Myself" (Decca 29697, October), plus "Off-Beat Boogie" (first released on "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 2", Bear Family BCD 15623 in 1992) and "Move On" (first released on "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 6", Bear Family BCD 15733 in 1994). Personnel : Roy Hall (vocals, piano ) ; with possibly Hank Garland and Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 15, 1955 : JACK DUPREE records three tracks in New York City, all released as singles : "Silent Partner" (King 4859, December), "House Rent Party" (King 4885, March 1956) and "Big Leg Emma's" (King 4938, June 1956). Personnel : Jack Dupree (vocals, piano ) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Cliff Leeman (drums).
Monday, September 19, 1955 : THE DRIFTERS do not record in New York City as usual, but in Los Angeles, under the supervision of Nesuhi Ertegun. "Adorable"/"Steamboat" comes out on Atlantic 1078 in October, "Ruby Baby"/"Your Promise To Be Mine" on Atlantic 1089 in March 1956.The fifth track from this session, "Drifting Away From You" stays on the shelf until May 1957, when it is released as the B-side of "Hypnotized" (Atlantic 1141). Session personnel includes Buddy Lucas on tenor sax and Jimmy Oliver on guitar. At this time the Drifters are : Johnny Moore, Gerhart Thrasher, Andrew Thrasher, Bobby Hendricks and Bill Pinkney.
September 19, 1955 : LOU BUSCH (aka Joe 'Fingers' Carr) records the single "Zambezi"/"Rainbow's End" (Capitol 3272, October), with his orchestra. This instrumental is a modest hit in the USA (# 75), but a # 2 hit in the UK. Also recorded are "Tango Afrique" (Capitol 3432, May 1956) and "On And On" (unissued). The location is the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood.
September 20, 1955 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN is recording in New York City. "Need Your Love So Bad"/"Home At Last" is issued on King 4841 in November and "I'm Sticking With You Baby" on King 4893 in March 1956. Backing by Willis Jackson, David Van Dyke (tenor saxes) ; Reuben Phillips (baritone sax) ; Bubber Johnson (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Calvin Shields (drums).
September 20, 1955 : TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD records his biggest hit, “Sixteen Tons”/“You Don’t Have To Be A Baby To Cry” (Capitol 3262, October 17). It will top the pop charts for seven weeks and the country charts for ten weeks. Personnel : Bobby Gibbons (guitar) ; Roll Bundock (bass) ; Charlie Parlato (trumpet) ; George Burns (trombone) ; Red Mandel (clarinet) ; Darol Rice (bass clarinet) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Lee Gillette at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
September 20, 1955 : ERNEST KADOR (later known as Ernie K-Doe) records the single “Do Baby Do”/“Eternity” (Specialty 563, November). Two other tracks, “So Glad That You’re Mine”and “You Never Miss A Good Woman” will see their first release on the Various artists album “Specialty New Orleans, Vol. 2” (Ace CH 181, UK) in 1986. The location is the J&M Studio in New Orleans.
September 22, 1955 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA record four tracks in New York City. "Forever And A Day" and "Rise, Sally, Rise" are selected for release on Rainbow 318 in December. "Where Is My Honey" and "Seems Like Just Yesterday" are purchased from Rainbow by Vik and released on Vik 0297 (November 1957) and Vik LP 1102 respectively. Personnel includes : Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass).
September 22-23, 1955 : At the Pythian Temple in New York City, BILL HALEY and the Comets record material for two singles: "Burn That Candle"/"Rock-A Beatin' Boogie" (Decca 29713, October) and "R-O-C-K"/"The Saints Rock 'n' Roll" (Decca 29870, March 1956). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Cliff Leeman (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
Friday, September 23, 1955 : A two-song session for FATS DOMINO in New Orleans. "Poor Me" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Imperial 5369, November). "What's Wrong" stays on the shelf until the release of the LP "Walking To New Orleans" (Imperial LP 9227) in January 1963. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (alto sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
September 25, 1955 : BIG BOY MYLES and the Sha-Weez record "Who's Been Foolin' You"/"That's the Girl I Married" for release on Specialty 564 in late November. Personnel : Edgar "Big Boy" Myles (vocals, trombone) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; James Victor Lewis (tenor sax) ; Warren Myles (piano) ; Ernest Mare (guitar) ; McKinley "Li'l" Millet (bass) ; Bartholomew Smith (drums). The same group records "Rich Woman"/"Hopeless Love" (Specialty 565, December). with a vocal by Millet and this single is credited to LI'L MILLET and the Creoles. Location : J&M Studio, New Orleans.
September 28, 1955 : In Los Angeles, THE ROBINS record "Smokey Joe's Cafe"/"Just Like A Fool" for release on Spark 122 in October. Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who produce this session, will soon sell the Spark label to Atlantic, after which the single is reissued on Atco 6059 (November). Personnel : Carl Gardner (lead tenor vocal) ; Grady Chapman, Ty Terrell (tenor vocals) ; Billy Richards, Roy Richards (baritone vocals) ; Bobby Nunn (bass vocals) ; Barney Kessel or Chuck Norris (guitar) ; Gil Bernal (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Later reissues of these songs on LP / CD are usually credited to the Coasters.
September 28, 1955 : Recording date of THE CADILLACS' single "Speedo"/"Let Me Explain", released on Josie 785 in the last week of October. The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, Earl Wade, LaVerne Drake, Buddy Brooks and Bobby Phillips.
September 29, 1955 : Another NYC session for NAPPY BROWN. "Sittin' In the Dark"/"Deedle I love You" is selected for the next single (Savoy 1176, November). "Am I?" sees a release in June 1956, on Savoy 1196. The fourth track, "Love Locks" ends up on the LP "Nappy Brown Sings" (Savoy MG 14002), which also includes the other three tracks. Personnel : Warren Luckey, Al Sears (tenor saxes) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs.
September 1955, unknown date : CHUCK BERRY's second session results in the single "Thirty Days"/"Together (We Always Will Be)", released in mid-October (Chess 1610). Chuck (vocals, guitar) is supported by : Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Jasper Thomas (drums). Plus an unknown chorus on "Thirty Days". Location : Chess Studio, Chicago. Supervised by Leonard Chess.
September 1955, unknown date : THE JODIMARS record four tracks at the Capitol Studio in New York : "Well Now Dig This"/ "Let's All Rock Together" (Capitol 3285, November), "Dance the Bop" (Capitol 3360, March 1956) and "Natural Ditty" (first released on the Rockstar CD "Let's All Rock Together" in 1994). Personnel : Dick Richards (vocals ) ; Marshall Lytle (double bass) : Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Chuck Hess (lead guitar) ; Tony Mottola (guitar) ; Billy Gussak (drums).
September 1955, unknown date : JOE TEX has his first session for King Records, in New York City. Selected for single release are "Davy You Upset My Home"/"Come In This House" (King 4840, last week of October). "Another Woman's Man" and "Gee, I Really Want You" will be released much later, on the LP "The Best Of Joe Tex" (King LP 935), which was reissued on CD by Gusto in April 2008. An overdubbed version (with organ and female chorus) of "Come In This House" will be issued on King 5981 in 1965. Backing by Dave Van Dyke (tenor sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Andy Gibson (piano) ; Specs Powell (drums) ; Unknown (bass).
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
OCTOBER 1955
October 1, 1955 : In Chicago, THE PLATTERS (Tony Williams, Paul Robi, Zola Taylor, Herb Reed and David Lynch) record the follow-up to their big hit "Only You" : "The Great Pretender", as well as its flip "I'm Just A Dancing Partner". Released on Mercury 70753 in November.
October 4, 1955 :THE COLLINS KIDS have their first recording session, in Hollywood (Radio Recorders), produced by Don Law. Chosen for single release are "Hush Money"/"Beetle-Bug-Bop" (Columbia 21470, November). Two other tracks, "The Cuckoo Rock" and "I Wish" stay on the shelf until Bear Family releases them in 1982 on the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Collins Kids" (BFX 15074). Personnel : Lorrie and Larry Collins (vocals) ; Joe Maphis, Johnny Bond and Herb Henson (guitars) ; Marian Hall (steel guitar) ; Margie Ann Warren (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
Thursday, October 6, 1955 : GENE AND EUNICE record their own composition "Bom Bom Lulu" (and possibly other tracks) in Los Angeles. It is not released until December 1956 (Aladdin 3351). Backing includes Plas Johnson on tenor sax.
October 6, 1955 : Led by Sonny Til, THE ORIOLES record four tracks, probably in New York City. Only "Angel" is released (Jubilee 5231, in January 1956). The other three tracks, "Don't Cry", "Sure Fire" and "Danger" are first issued on the Bear Family box-set "The Orioles : The Jubilee Recordings" (BCD 15682) in March 1993.
October 7, 1955 : In New York City, THE COOKIES (Dorothy Jones, Beulah Robertson and Darlene McCrea) have their first session for Atlantic, which yields the # 9 R&B hit "In Paradise" and its flip, "Passing Time" (Atlantic 1084, March 1956).
October 12, 1955 : MERRILL MOORE records material for two singles at Capitol's Hollywood studio on Melrose Avenue : "Down the Road Apiece"/"Cooing To the Wrong Pigeon" (Capitol 3311, January 1956) and "She's Gone"/"Gotta Gimme What'Cha Got" (Capitol 3563, October 1956). Personnel : Merrill Moore (vocals, piano) ; Jimmy Bryant (electric guitar) ; Roy Lanham (rhythm guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Red Wooten (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 12, 1955 : STAN FREBERG records the seasonal single “Nuttin’ For Christmas”/“The Night Before Christmas” (Capitol 3280, third week of November). The B-side also features the voice of Babette Bain. Backing by Billy May and his orchestra. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
October 14, 1955 : BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record three tracks in Cincinnati, Ohio. "The Most"/"Desperately" becomes the next single at the end of November (King 4853), while "High School Hop" is held in the can until October 1959, when it comes out on KIng 5282. Personnel : Boyd Bennett (vocals, drums) ; Joe "Big Moe" Muzey (vocals on "The Most") ; Bobby Jones (tenor sax) ; Ron Ayres (guitar) ; Mickey Allen (rhythm guitar) ; Kenny Cobb.
October 14, 1955 : In New York City, saxophonist RED PRYSOCK records the single "Short Circuit" / "Fingertips" (Mercury 70733, November) with Blue Mitchell (trumpet) ; Zack Wright (baritone sax) ; Oliver Blair (piano) ; Raymond Kitz (guitar) ; Herb Gordy (bass) ; Purnell Rice (drums).
Saturday, October 15, 1955 : FATS DOMINO is back at J&M Studio in New Orleans and records three classics. "I Can't Go On" becomes the B-side of "Poor Me" (Imperial 5369) in November. "Bo Weevil" is released on Imperial 5375 in January 1956, followed by "I'm In Love Again" in March (Imperial 5386). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano ) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (alto sax) ; Cornelius Coleman or Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 15, 1955 : First session by JACK EARLS, at the Sun studio in Memphis. “A Fool For Loving You” will end up on the B-side of “Slow Down” (recorded on April 14, 1956), Jack’s only Sun single (Sun 240, May 1, 1956). “Crawdad Hole” is first released in 1975 on the LP “Shelby County Country 1948-1964” (Redita LP 110-10, Holland). “They Can’t Keep Me From You”, “When I Dream” and “Hey Jim” will be included on the LP “Let’s Bop”(Bear Family BFX 15273) in 1990. Personnel : Jack Earls (vocals / guitar) ; Warren Gregory (guitar) ; Johnny Black (bass) ; Danny Wahlquist (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
October 17, 1955 : JERRY REED makes his debut as a recording artist. Four tracks are recorded at the Castle Studio in Nashville. "If the Good Lord's Willing"/"Here I Am" is issued in November on Capitol 3294. "Just A Romeo" appears on Capitol 3504 in August 1956, coupled with "This Great Big Empty Room" (recorded on June 20, 1956). "I'm Tired Of Playing Cupid" is first released on the CD "Here I Am" (Bear Family BCD 16306) in 1999. Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 18, 1955 : LOUIS JORDAN is in Hollywood at Radio Recorders. Four tracks will be recorded, "Chicken Back"/"Where Can I Go" for his next single (X 0182), soon follwed by "Baby You're Just Too Much"/ "Rock 'n' Roll Call" (X 0192). Personnel : Louis Jordan (vocal / alto sax) ; Lowell Hastings (tenor sax) ; Bob Mitchell (trumpet) ; Bert Payne (guitar) ; Thurber Jay (bass) ; Chester Lane (piano) ; John Kirkwood (drums). The session is produced by Jimmy Hilliard.
October 19, 1955 : A Chicago session by JOHN LEE HOOKER yields four tracks : "Mambo Chillun"/ "Time Is Marchin'" (VeeJay 164, December), "Unfriendly Woman" (VeeJay 265, February 1958) and "Wheel And Deal", which is first issued on a French Top Rank EP (136), circa 1960. Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals, guitar ) ; Jimmy Reed (harmonica) ; Eddie Taylor (guitar) ; George Washington (bass) : Tom Whitehead (drums).
October 19, 1955 : RUTH BROWN does 2 two-song sessions this month. On the 19th she records "I'm Gettin' Right" (Atlantic 1091, March 1956) and "Smooth Operator" (Atlantic 1113, October 1956), followed on the 22nd by "I Want To Do More" (Atlantic 1082, December) and a first, unissued attempt at "When I Get You Baby", to which she would return in September 1956. Sam "the Man" Taylor plays tenor sax, other details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 22, 1955 : Two-song session by RUTH BROWN. "I Want To Do More" is her next single (Atlantic 1082, December, c/w "Old Man River", from a session on May 7, 1954). A first attempt at "When I Get You Baby" remains unissued, but Ruth will return to the song in September 1956. Sam Taylor plays the tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 25, 1955 : SMILEY LEWIS has a split session with Dave Bartholomew (who records the excellent "Would You", Imperial 5390). Smiley's tracks are "Queen Of Hearts"/"Come On" (Imperial 5372, December) and the original version of "One Night" (Imperial 5380, February 1956). Musicians : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Clarence Hall (tenor sax) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Location : J&M Studio, New Orleans.
October 25, 1955 : At Jim Beck Studio in Dallas, FRANKIE MILLER records material for two singles : "Paint, Powder And Perfume"/"What You Do From Now On" (Columbia 21472, December) and "Day By Day"/"I Don't Know Why I Love You" (Columbia 21519, July 1956). Produced by Don Law.
October 26, 1955 : One-track session by DAVE BARTHOLOMEW, who records (and produces) “Would You”, released on Imperial 5390 in May 1956. The other side is “Turn Your Lamp Down Low”, recorded on March 20, 1956. The location is the J&M Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (Piano) ; Lee Allen, Clarence Hall (tenor saxes) ; Joe Harris (alto sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
October 26, 1955 : ERNEST TUBB covers the Chuck Berry number “Thirty Days” (Decca 29731, November 21). A # 7 country hit. The other side is “Answer the Phone”, recorded on July 12, 1955. “Will You Be Satisfied That Way” is also released as a single (Decca 29934, June 1956, c/w “Jimmie Rodgers’ Last Blue Yodel”, from a session on April 12, 1956). “Doorstep To Heaven” and “Steppin’ Out” stay in the can until the release of the Bear Family box-set “Yellow Rose of Texas” (BCD 15688) in 1993. Personnel : Billy Byrd (guitar) ; Dickie Harris (steel guitar) ; Jack Drake (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 27, 1955 : RED SOVINE and WEBB PIERCE records two duets, both covers of current hits. “Why Baby Why”/“Sixteen Tons” is released on Decca 29739 on December 5 and will top the country charts for four weeks. Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 28, 1955 : DEAN MARTIN records his biggest hit (5 weeks at # 1), "Memories Are Made Of This", and probably a few other tracks as well. Release on Capitol 3295 at the end of November. Vocal support comes from the Easy Riders. Produced by Lee Gillette at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood.
October 31, 1955 : Second and last Dootone session for ROY MILTON, in Los Angeles. Four tracks are recorded, released on two singles: "I Want To Go Home"/"I Never Would Have Made It" (Dootone 377, November) and "Cry Some Baby"/"Baby I'm Gone" (Dootone 398, June 1956). Personnel : Roy Milton (vocals, drums) ; Charles Gillum (trumpet) ; Jackie Kelso (alto sax) ; Eddie Taylor (tenor sax) ; Floyd Turnham (baritone sax) ; Camille Howard (piano ) ; Jimmie Davis (guitar) ; Lawrence Kato (bass).
October 1955, unknown date : BOBBY CHARLES records his first single, "Later Alligator"/"On Bended Knee" (Chess 1609, November). Backing by Harry Simoneaux, Raoul Prado, Carlo Marini (saxes) ; Larry Guidry (guitar) ; Ed Le Blanc (piano) ; Kenneth Thierot (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten in New Orleans.
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1955
November 1, 1955 : Recording date of the CHARLIE FEATHERS single "Defrost Your Heart"/"A Wedding Gown Of White" (Sun 231, December). Feathers (vocals, guitar) is supported by Quinton Claunch (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Bill or Johnny Black (bass) ; Bill Cantrell (fiddle). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
November 2, 1955 : THE CARDINALS record four songs in New York City. "Here Goes My Heart To You" is coupled with "Lovely Girl" for release on Atlantic 1079 in December. "Choo Choo" comes out in April 1956 (Atlantic 1090, c/w "Off Shore", recorded on March 1, 1956). "I Won't Make You Cry Anymore" will follow in August 1956 (Atlantic 1103, c/w "The End of the Story"). Personnel includes Bill Harris (guitar), Sam Taylor (tenor sax) and Harry Van Walls (piano / celeste). More details unknown. Arranged by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler. The Cardinals are : Ernie Warren, Leon Hardy, Donald Johnson, Meredith Bothers and Jack Aydelotte.
November 3, 1955 : JOE TURNER records two songs that will come out on one single in the UK (London HLE 8332), but not so in the US. "The Chicken And the Hawk" is the next single (Atlantic 1080, December), but the A-side is "Morning, Noon And Night", from a January 1955 session. "Boogie Woogie Country Girl" is released on Atlantic 1088 in March 1956, but it is the other side, "Corrine Corrina" (recorded February 24, 1956) that will give Joe his first and biggest pop hit (# 41). Backing by : Wilbur De Paris (trombone) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Harry Van Walls (piano) ; Connie Kay( drums). Unknown : tenor sax, bass, guitar. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
Still on November 3, 1955 : MUDDY WATERS is in the Chess studio in Chicago for a four-song session. Selected for the new single is "Sugar Sweet"/"Trouble No More" (Chess 1612, late December). "I Got To Find My Baby" is released on Chess 1644 in December 1956 and "Clouds In My Heart" on Chess 1724 in April 1959.
November 7, 1955 : First of two November sessions for FATS DOMINO, in New Orleans. "Don't Blame It On Me" will be released as the B-side of "Bo Weevil" in January 1956 (Imperial 5375). The only other track from this 3-hour session, a new version of "If You Need Me", is unissued and lost. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Billy Diamond (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
November 8, 1955 : JACK DUPREE is back at the King studio in Cincinnati, where he records four tracks. "Me And My Mule" is released on King 4876 in February 1956, "Overhead"/"So Sorry, So Sorry" on King 4906 in April 1956 and the instrumental "Sharp Harp" on Federal 12408 in March 1961. Personnel : Jack Dupree (vocals, piano) ; George Smith (harmonica) ; Barney Richmond (bass) ; Alfred Dreares (drums).
November 8, 1955 : JIMMY MURPHY records four tracks in Nashville. "Here Kitty Kitty"/"I'm Looking For A Mustard Patch" is selected for single release on Columbia 21486 in January 1956. "Sweet Sweet Lips" and "Put Some Meat On Them Bones" were originally unissued, but are now available on Jimmy's Bear Family CD "Sixteen Tons Rock & Roll" (BCD 15451), released in 1990. Produced by Don Law.
November 9, 1955 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS undertake their very first recording session, at the Castle Studio in Nashville. Four songs are recorded in 22 minutes. “The Sun Keeps Shining” and “Keep-A Lovin’ Me” are chosen for single release (Columbia 21496, February 1956). The two other tracks, ”If Her Love Isn’t True” and “That’s the Life I Have To Live”, are first released in 1981 on a Bear Family EP (BFE 15075) titled “Nashville, November 9, 1955”. Personnel : Don Everly (vocals / guitar) ; Phil Everly (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Smith, Sammy Pruett (guitars) ; Johnny Siebert (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Dale Potter (fiddle). Produced by Don Law.
November 9, 1955 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS has his only session for Grand Records, at Reco-Art Studios in Philadelphia. Of the five titles recorded, only two are originally released : "I Is"/"Take Me Back" (Grand 135, February 1956). The other three tracks, "$10,000 Lincoln Continental", "Pauline" and a first attempt at "I Put A Spell On You" will be first released on the CD "From Grand And Gotham" (SJH CD 71829) in 1991. Producer and session personnel unknown.
November 10, 1955 : In Chicago, BO DIDDLEY lays down three tracks. "Diddy Wah Diddy"/"I'm Looking For A Woman" gets a release on Checker 832 in February 1956, while the third track, "Dancing Girl", finally ends up on the LP "Have Guitar Will Travel" (Checker LP 2974) in 1960. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals, guitar) ; Little Willie Smith (harmonica) ; Jody Williams (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Clifton James or Frank Kirkland (drums) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; The Moonglows (vocal group on "Diddy Wah Diddy").
Friday, November 11, 1955 : THE CLOVERS have a session at Capitol Studios in New York City. Recorded are "Devil Or Angel"/"Hey Doll Baby" (Atlantic 1083, January 1956) and "Baby, Baby, Oh My Darling" (Atlantic 1118, December 1956). Buddy Bailey is the lead singer on all three tracks. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 19, 1955 : IVORY JOE HUNTER records his next two singles in New York City : "A Tear Fell"/"I Need You By My Side" (Atlantic 1086, February 1956) and "That's Why I Dream"/ "You Mean Everything To Me" (Atlantic 1095, May 1956). All four songs will also appear on the LP "Ivory Joe Hunter" (Atlantic LP 8008). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 21, 1955 : At Columbia Studio B in New York City, BROOK BENTON records his second single, “Bring Me Love”/“Some Of My Best Friends” (OKeh 7065, January 1956). The other two tracks from this session, “Rock ’n’ Roll That Rhythm” and “Partners For Life”, are first released in 1959, on the LP “Brook Benton At His Best” (Epic LN 3573). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
November 29, 1955 : LITTLE RICHARD's second Specialty session is not held in New Orleans, like the first one, but in Los Angeles (Radio Recorders). Originally unissued from this session (but now available on the 6-CD box set "The Specialty Sessions", Ace Box 1) are versions of "Miss Ann", "Baby", "The Thing (Long Tall Sally)" and "Slippin' And Slidin'" (lost). "Wonderin'" and "Kansas City" (previously recorded in New Orleans) are rerecorded and will come out on Specialty 660 and 664 respectively, in 1959. "True Fine Mama" is first released on Richard's first LP in March 1957 ("Here's Little Richard") and will also be used as the B-side of "Ooh! My Soul" (Specialty 633) in May 1958. Musicians : Little Richard (vocals, piano) ; Renald Richard (trumpet) ; Clarence Ford (tenor and baritone sax) ; Joseph Tillman (tenor sax) ; Lloyd Lambert (electric bass) ; Frosty Pyles (guitar) ; Oscar Moore (drums). Plus 5 vocalists (probably The Chimes). Supervised by Art Rupe.
November 30, 1955 : In New York City, RAY CHARLES records his next two singles : "I'll Drown In My Own Tears"/"Mary Ann" (Atlantic 1085, February 1956) and "Hallelujah I Love Her So"/"What Would I Do Without You" (Atlantic 1096, May 1956). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals, piano) ; Joe Bridgewater, Joshua Willis (trumpets) ; Don Wilkerson (tenor sax) ; Cecil Payne (baritone sax) ; Paul West (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal group). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 30, 1955 : Second FATS DOMINO session of this month. Again only two songs are recorded. "So Long" will be released as the B-side of "When My Dreamboat Comes Home" in July 1956 (Imperial 5396). "Howdy Podner" will be used as an LP track, for "Let's Play Fats Doimno" (Imperial LP 9065, September 1959). Personnel is the same as on November 7. Personnel info based on the Bear Family box-set. "Blues Records 1943 To 1970" by Mike Leadbitter and Neil Slaven mentions a completely different line-up and gives November 30 as the recording date for "Don't Blame It On Me" and "If You Need Me".
November, unknown date : At 706, Union in Memphis, BILLY "The Kid" EMERSON has his final session for Sam Phillips. "Little Fine Healthy Thing" b/w "Something For Nothing" will be released soon (Sun 233), "Cherry Pie" has to wait more than 20 years for a belated release on the album "Catalyst - volume 3" (UK Charly LP 30103, 1976). Billy Emerson (vocals, piano) is backed by : Calvin Newborn (guitar) ; Kenneth Banks (bass) ; Phineas Newborn (drums) ; Jewell Briscoe and Moses Reed (tenor saxes).
November, unknown date : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records "Shrimp And Gumbo" during one of his countless sessions with other artists at Cosimo Matassa's studio. The track becomes his next single (Imperial 5373), b/w "An Old Cow Hand From A Blues Band", recorded almost a year before. According to Kurt Mohr's liner notes on "Shrimp And Gumbo"(French Pathé Marconi LP 1566311), the session details are : Dave Bartholomew (vocals, trumpet) ; Joe Harris (alt sax) ; Clarence Hall and Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles Williams (drums).
(Probably) November 1955, unknown date : JOHNNY BURNETTE's very first recording session takes place in Corinth, Mississippi. "You're Undecided"/ "Go Along Mule" is released on the small Von label (1006) from Booneville, MS, probably in December. Personnel : Johnny Burnette (vocals, guitar) ; poss. Paul Burlison (guitar) ; poss. Al Vescovo (trick muted Hawaiian guitar) ; Dorsey Burnette (bass).
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
DECEMBER 1955
December 1, 1955 : ROY HALL's second Decca session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville, yields three tracks. A cover of "See You Later Alligator" is coupled with "Don't Stop Now" for the next single (Decca 29786, first week of January 1956). The third track, "Christine", is first issued on the LP "Diggin' the Boogie" (Charly CR 30227, UK) in 1984. Roy (vocals, piano) is backed by Grady Martin and (probably) Hank Garland (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
December 1, 1955 : In Cincinnati, HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters record material for two singles : "Sweet Mama, Do Right"/"Partners For Life" (Federal 12251, January 1956) and "Open Up the Back Door"/"Rock, Granny, Roll" (Federal 12260, March 1956). Backing by Don Wilkerson (tenor sax) ; Cal Green (guitar) ; Perry Deal (piano) ; Joe Williams (electric bass) ; George DeHart (drums).
December 1, 1955 : THE "5" ROYALES lay down four tracks for their next two singles, also in Cincinnati : "Right Around the Corner"/"When You Walked Through the Door" (King 4869, January 1956) and "I Could Love You"/"My Wants For Love" (King 4901, March 1956). The "5" Royales are : Clarence Paul, Windsor King, Eugene Tanner, John Tanner and Lowman "Pete" Pauling.
December 5, 1955 : The first recording session of FRANKIE LYMON and the Teenagers results in their biggest hit, "Why Do Fools Fall In Love"/ "Please Be Mine" (Gee 1002, released January 10, 1956). Location : Bell Sound Studio, New York City. Produced by George Goldner. Sax solo by Jimmy Wright.
December 7, 1955 : BUDDY HOLLY records four acetates which will be sent to U.S. Decca at their request : "Moonlight Baby" (aka "Baby, Won't You Come Out Tonight"), "I Guess I Was A Fool", "Don't Come Back Knocking" and "Love Me". Three of the four songs will be re-recorded for Decca in 1956. Buddy (vocal, acoustic guitar) is supported by Sonny Curtis (lead guitar) ; Don Guess (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Location : Nesman Recording Studio, Wichita Falls, Texas.
December 8, 1955 : WANDA JACKSON's final session for Decca yields four tracks. "Wasted"/"I Cried Again" is released in January 1956 on Decca 29803. "You Won't Forget (About Me)" follows in December 1956 (Decca 30153). All three tracks, plus the fourth song, "I'd Rather Have A Broken Heart" will also be issued on Wanda's LP "Lovin' Country Style" (Decca DL 4224) in 1962.
December 12, 1955 : BILL HALEY and his Comets are responsible for this month's second Decca cover of the Bobby Charles number "See You Later Alligator". Coupled with "The Paper Boy (On Main Street, U.S.A.)", also from this session, the single is already in the shops just after Christmas (Decca 29791). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler in New York City.
December 12, 1955 : GUITAR SLIM (real name Eddie Jones) is in Hollywood to record "Something To Remember You By"/"You Give Me Nothin' But The Blues" for his next single (Specialty 569, January 1956), while "I Believe In My Lover" and "Sometime He Don't" will stay on the shelf. Personnel : Guitar Slim (vocal / guitar) ; Gus Fontenette (alt sax) ; Joe Tilman (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Lawrence Cotton (piano) ; Lloyd Lambert (bass) ; Oscar Moore (drums).
December 13, 1955 : GUY MITCHELL has a recording session at the Columbia studio in New York. He's looking for a comeback after disappointing recordsales during the last two years. The C&W flavored "Ninety Nine Years (Dead Or Alive)" b/w "Perfume Candy And Flowers" becomes his next single (Columbia 40631, February 1956), and brings Guy in the charts again. "I Used To Yate Ya" will be used for a subsequent single (Columbia 40700, June 1956), while "Five Little Fingers" remains unissued. Personnel : Guy Mitchell (vocal) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; R. Banzer and William Versaci (saxes) ; D. Hyman (piano) ; Frank Carroll and A. Fishkind (bass) ; R. Rosengarden (drums) ; L. Altpeter, N. Debase and Al Godlis (trombones). Leader : Jimmy Carroll.
December 19, 1955 : CARL PERKINS records his biggest hit, "Blue Suede Shoes" as well as the flip, "Honey Don't" (Sun 234, rush released just before the end of the year). Intended as Sun 235 was the coupling "Sure To Fall"/"Tennessee" from the same session, but this single was withdrawn and both tracks had to wait until Carl's first LP ("Dance Album of Carl Perkins", Sun LP 1225, 1958) to see a release. Carl (vocals, guitar) is supported by his brothers Clayton (bass) and Jay (guitar, lead vocal on "Sure To Fall"), as well as W.S. Holland on drums. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
December 21, 1955 : Four-track session for LaVERN BAKER in New York City. "My Happiness Forever" comes out on Atlantic 1087 in February 1956. "Fee Fee Fi Fo Fum" is released on Atlantic 1093 in the first week of May 1956. "Mine All Mine" ends up on LaVern's first LP (Atlantic LP 8002). The best track, "Jim Dandy" is held in the can until November 1956 (Atlantic 1116). Personnel unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 22, 1955 : At Jim Beck's studio in Dallas, SONNY JAMES records "For Rent"/"My Stolen Love" for his next single (Capitol 3337, February 1956), while "My God And I" and "May God Be With You" will find a place on his first album "Southern Gentleman" (Capitol LP 779). Personnel : Sonny James (vocal / guitar) ; Neal Jones (rhythm guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (electric mandolin) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar) ; Paul Brawly (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; William Pecchi (drums). Producer : Ken Nelson.
December 23, 1955 : Eighth and final 1955 session for FATS DOMINO at J&M Studio in New Orleans. "My Blue Heaven" is released in March 1956 on Imperial 5386, coupled with the previously recorded "I'm In Love Again". "I Can't Go On This Way" is finally released in July 1963, after Fats had left Imperial, overdubbed with a female chorus (Imperial 5980). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty and Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; possibly Clarence Ford (alto sax). Produced by Dave Bartholomew, as usual.
December 30, 1955 : Recording date of the BOYD BENNETT single "Right Around the Corner"/"Partners For Life" (King 4874, last week of January 1956). Backing by the Count Basie Orchestra.
December 1955, unknown date : LITTLE WALTER records four tracks in Chicago, all released on singles. "Who?"/"It Ain't Right" is chosen for the next single (Checker 833, end of February 1956). "One More Chance With You" comes out on Checker 838 in May 1956 and "Boom Boom Out Goes the Light" is released on Checker 867 in August 1957.
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JANUARY 1956
January 5, 1956 : BOBBY MITCHELL records four tracks at J&M Studio in New Orleans. "Try Rock 'n' Roll"/"No No No" is chosen for the new single (Imperial 5378, February). "You Are An Angel" stays in the can till November when it comes out on Imperial 5412. "I Fell For You" is first released on the Bear Family 2-CD "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" in 1997. Backing by Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Gabriel Fleming (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 5, 1956 : PATSY CLINE does a 4-track session in Nashville, which yields "I Love You Honey"/"Come On In" (her next single, Coral 61583, February), "I Don't Wanta" (Decca 30504, November 1957) and "I Cried All the Way To the Altar" (an LP track). Session personnel : Harold Bradley (acoustic guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle).
Tuesday, January 10, 1956 : LaVERN BAKER records four tracks at Coastal Studios in New York City, released on four different singles as either A or B side : "Get Up Get Up (You Sleepy Head)" (Atlantic 1087, February), "I'll Still Do the Same For You" (Atlantic 1093, May), "Tra La La" (Atlantic 1116, November) and "Miracles" (Atlantic 1163, November 1957). Backing by Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; John Barrows (French horn) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Gliders (vocal group). As usual the session was overseen by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
January 10-11, 1956 : A milestone in the history of popular music. ELVIS PRESLEY records his first session for RCA at their studio in Nashville, produced by Steve Sholes. "Heartbreak Hotel"/"I Was the One" is chosen for release on a 45, on Friday, January 27 (RCA 6420). "I Got A Woman", "Money Honey" and "I'm Counting On You" make their first appearance on his first LP, "Elvis Presley" (RCA LPM 1254), released on March 13. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Gordon Stoker, Ben Speer, Brock Speer (backing vocals).
January 11, 1956 : JOHNNY HORTON has his first Columbia session for Don Law in Nashville (Bradley Studio). "Honky Tonk Man"/"I'm Ready If You're Willing" is released in March on Columbia 21504 and "I'm A One Woman Man" on Columbia 21538 in July. The fourth track, "I Got A Hole In My Pirogue" ends up on the B-side of "I'm Coming Home" (Columbia 40813) in January 1957. Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass).
January 11, 1956 : THE COASTERS, formerly The Robins, record material for two singles : "Down In Mexico"/"Turtle Dovin'" (Atco 6064, February) and "One Kiss Led To Another"/ "Brazil" (Atco 6073, July). The Coasters are : Carl Gardner (lead), Billy Guy, Leon Hughes and Bobby Nunn. Musicians : Barney Kessel (guitar) ; Waldo Hamilton (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Gil Bernal (tenor sax) ; Jesse Sailes (drums) ; Chico Guerrero (congas on "Down In Mexico"). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Master Recorders in Los Angeles.
January 12, 1956 : Second King session by JOE TEX, in New York City. "My Biggest Mistake"/"Right Back To My Arms" comes out on King 4884 in March and "I Had To Come Back To You" on King 4911 in April. The flip of King 4911, "She's Mine" is recorded on January 21. Backing by Dave Van Dyke (tenor sax) ; Andy Gibson (piano, producer) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Specs Powell (drums).
January 17, 1956 : First RCA/Groove session for VARETTA DILLARD, in New York City. Her debut single for the label is “Darling, Listen To the Words Of This Song”/“Mama Don’t Want (What Papa Don’t Want)” (Groove 0139, February). “Cherry Blossom” will appear in April on Groove 0152 (c/w “I’m Gonna Tell My Daddy On You”, recorded on March 29, 1956). “If You Want To Be My Baby” is a September release (Groove 0167, c/w “I Miss You Jimmy”, from a session on August 27, 1956). Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry, Budd Johnson (baritone saxes) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Four Students (vocal group).
January 18, 1956 : Four-song session by JERRY REED at Music City Recordings in Nashville. “I’m A Lover, Not A Fighter”/“Honey Chile” is chosen as his new single (Capitol 3381, March). “Mister Whiz” will be released in May (Capitol 3429, c/w “When I Found You”, recorded on March 23, 1956). “How Can I Go On This Way” stays in the vaults until 1997, when it is released on the CD “Here I Am” (Bear Family BCD 16306). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Friday, January 20, 1956 : CHARLES CALHOUN (aka Jesse Stone) records a single for the Groove label at RCA Victor Studio in NYC : "My Pigeon's Gone"/"Jamboree" (Groove G 0149, April). Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Llloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; David McRae (baritone sax) ; Al Sears (tenor sax) ; Harold Johnson (trumpet) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Four Students (vocal chorus). Produced by Bob Rolontz.
January 24, 1956 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) records five tracks at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Let Me Explain"/"Your Imagination" is released in March on Checker 834. The other three tracks, "Don't Lose Your Eye","I Wonder Why" and "I Know What Love Is All About" are held in the can until the release of the Chess LP "One Way Out" in 1975. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals, harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr. and Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
January 25, 1956 : Two-track session for THE CADILLACS, probably in New York City. "Shock-A-Doo" is released on Josie 807 in November as the flip of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer". "Oh! Whatcha Do" is first released on Murray Hill LP box set M61285 in 1983. The Cadillacs are Earl Carroll, Charles Brooks, Laverne Drake, Bobby Phillips and Earl Wade.
January 25 (?), 1956 : HOWLIN' WOLF records his next single in Chicago : "Smokestack Lightnin'"/"You Can't Be Beat" (Chess 1618, February). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals, harmonica) ; Willie Johnson, Hubert Sumlin (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
January 26, 1956 : In Cincinnati, MOON MULLICAN records eight tracks with Boyd Bennett and his Rockers, released on four singles : "Seven Nights To Rock"/"Honolulu Rock-A-Roll-A" (King 4894, late February) ; "Rock and Roll, Mr. Bullfrog"/ "I'm Mad With You" (King 4915, April), "Hey Shah"/"Maybe It's All For the Best" (King 4937, June) and "If You Don't Want No More Of My Loving"/"Keep A Light In the Window For Me" (King 4979, October).
January 26, 1956 : BUDDY HOLLY does his first session for Decca, at the Quonset Hut (Bradley Studio) in Nashville. "Blue Days, Black Nights"/ "Love Me" becomes his first single (Decca 29854), released on April 16. "Midnight Shift" and "Don't Come Back Knockin'" stay on the shelf until the release of the "That'll Be the Day" LP (Decca DL 8707) in April 1958. Buddy is accompanied by : Sonny Curtis (lead guitar) ; Grady Martin (rhythm guitar) ; Don Guess (string bass) ; Doug Kirkham (percussion). Produced by Owen Bradley.
January 26, 1956 : CHUCK WILLIS's final session for OKeh results in the single "Charged With Cheating"/"Two Spoons Of Tears" (OKeh 7070, July). "Bless Her Heart" and "Night Of Misery" will end up on Edsel LP 159 and Epic LP 3728 respectively, much later. Location : New York City. Backing by Ray Ellis and his orchestra. Chuck´s next (and last) stop will be Atlantic Records.
January 29, 1956 : Recording date of "Ivory Tower"/"In Paradise" by OTIS WILLIAMS and his Charms (DeLuxe 6093, March), which will give them their biggest pop hit. Location : Cincinnati.
January 30, 1956 : Second RCA session for ELVIS PRESLEY, this time in New York City (RCA Studios). "My Baby Left Me" will become the B-side of his second RCA single (RCA 6540, May). "Blue Suede Shoes" and "One- Sided Love Affair" are tracks for Presley's first LP (though they will also be released as singles in September) and "So Glad You're Mine" ends up on the second LP, simply titled "Elvis" (RCA LPM 1382, October). On the 31st, Elvis records "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry" and "Tutti Frutti" for his first LP. Musicians : Elvis Presley (vocals, guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Shorty Long (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes.
January 31, 1956 : CHARLIE FEATHERS records five songs at the Sun studio in Memphis, none of which will be originally issued by Sam Phillips. The titles are : “Bottle To the Baby”, “So Ashamed”, “Honky Tonk Kind”,“Frankie and Johnny” and “Corrine Corrina”. All tracks, including three alternate takes, will see their first release in 1986, on the 8-track LP “The Legendary 1986 Demo Session” (Zu Zazz ZZ-1001). Personnel : Charlie Feathers (vocals / guitar) ; Jerry Huffman (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Johnny Black or Jody Chastain (bass) ; prob. Johnny Bernero (drums). Produced by Charlie Feathers.
January 31, 1956 : In Dallas (Jim Beck Studio), SID KING and the Five Strings record a cover of "Blue Suede Shoes", which will be issued on Columbia 21505 in March, coupled with "Let 'Er Roll" from the same session. Personnel : Sid King (vocals, guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; Mel Robinson (steel guitar) ; Ken Massey (bass) ; Dave White (drums) ; Bill Simmons (piano). Produced by Don Law.
January 1956, unknown date : JOHNNY FULLER records his next two singles in New Orleans : "Sister Jenny"/"My Heart Is Bleeding" (Imperial 5382, March) and "Don't Slam That Door"/"Restless" (Imperial 5395, June). Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Salvador Doucette (piano ); Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
January 1956, unknown date : THE SPIDERS have a session at J&M Studio in New Orleans where five tracks are recorded. "How I Feel"/"Don't Pity Me" becomes the new single (Imperial 5376, February) ; "That's the Way To Win My Heart"/"Goodbye" is released in September on Imperial 5405. "I'll Be Free" is first released on the Bear Family 2-CD "The Spiders : The Imperial Sessions" (BCD 15673) in 1992. Lead vocals : Chuck Carbo. Backing by Cosimo Matassa's Studio Band ; sax solos by Lee Allen. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 1956, unknown date : THE JODIMARS are at the Capitol Studio in New York City. Two tracks result from this session : "(Boom Boom) My Bayou Baby" is released on Capitol 3360 in March, while "So Lonely" stays in the can until the release of the Jodimars CD "Let's All Rock Together" (Rockstar RSRCD 007) in 1994. Personnel : Marshall Lytle (vocals, double bass) ; Dick Richards (vocal) ; Chuck Hess (lead guitar) ; Joey D'Ambrosia (tenor sax) ; Billy Gussak (drums). Produced by Andy Wiswell.
January 1956, unknown date : BOBBY CHARLES has his second Chess session, in Chicago this time. "Don't You Know I Love You"/"Why Did You Leave" is selected for single release (Chess 1617, February), while "Watch It Sprocket" has to wait until 1984 for release on the LP "Chess Masters" (CH-9175). "Did You Know" has never been released at all. Session personnel includes Harold Burrage (piano) ; Jody Williams (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass).
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1956
February 1, 1956 : NAPPY BROWN is in New York City for a five-track session. "Open Up That Door"/"Pleasing You" is chosen for the next 45 (Savoy 1187, March). "Love Baby" is issued in June (Savoy 1187). The other two tracks, "I Want To Live" and "Skiddy Woe" end up on the LP "The Right Time" (Savoy MG 14025), though "Skiddy Woe" will see a belated single release in July 1958 (Savoy 1547). Personnel includes Sam Taylor on tenor sax and Panama Francis on drums. Arranged and directed by Leroy Kirkland.
February 1, 1956 : THE SPARKS OF RHYTHM record the original version of "Handy Man" and three other tracks. Though Jimmy Jones wrote the song, he is no longer a member of the Sparks of Rhythm at this time. The lead vocal is by Andrew Barksdale. This track stays in the can until December 1959, after "Handy Man" by Jimmy Jones became a monster hit. The original "Handy Man" is coupled with "Everybody Rock And Go" (Apollo 541). The other two tracks from this session, "Cry On My Shoulder" and "Somewhere" are first released on a Relic compilation LP (5080) in 1989.
February 1, 1956 : Another Sun session, this time by MACK SELF, who cuts three songs. “Easy To Love” is saved until June 1957 for release on Sun 273 (c/w “Everyday” from a session on March 28, 1957). “Mad At You” is first issued in 1986 on Sunbox 106. “Goin’ Crazy” is eventually released on the CD “Mack Self - The Sun Years Plus” (Bear Family BCD 16519) in 2007. Personnel : Mack Self (vocals / guitar) ; Thurlow Brown (lead guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass / harmony vocal on “Mad At You”) ; Johnny Bernero (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis.
February 2, 1956 : MALCOLM YELVINGTON records his next single, "It's Me Baby"/"Rockin' With My Baby" (Sun 246, August). One of the versions of "Rockin' With My Baby" is different enough for a separate title ("Gonna Have Myself A Ball") and a release on the 1973 LP "Sun Rockabillys : Put Your Cat Clothes On" (Sun 6467025, UK), though it is still titled "Rockin' With My Baby" there. Personnel : Malcolm Yelvington (vocal / guitar) ; Gordon Mashburn (guitar) ; Jake Ryles (bass) ; Billy Weir (drums) ; Reece Fleming or Frank Tolley (piano). Produced by Sam Phillips in Memphis.
February 2, 1956 : On this same day in the Sun studio, SLIM RHODES records the single "Gonna Romp and Stomp"/"Bad Girl" (Sun 238, April). Personnel : Slim Rhodes (guitar) ; Dottie Rhodes-Moore (vocal A-side) ; Dusty Rhodes (vocal A-side, guitar) ; Brad Suggs (vocal B-side, guitar) ; John Hughey (steel guitar) ; Speck Rhodes (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums).
February 2, 1956 : SAM COOKE and the Soul Stirrers record five tracks at Master Recorders in Hollywood, all released as singles. "Wonderful"/ "Farther Along" is released on Specialty 892 in March and "Touch the Hem Of His Garment"/"Jesus Wash Away My Troubles" on Specialty 896 in.June. "Must Jesus Bear This Cross Alone" is saved until 1970, when it comes out on Specialty 921. Second lead voice : Paul Foster. Produced by Art Rupe.
February 2, 1956 : First recording session by BOB GALLION, at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. He cuts two singles, “My Square Dancin’ Mama (She’s Done Learned To Rock and Roll)”/“Your Wild Life’s Gonna Get You Down” (MGM 12195, March) and “Trademark On What I’ve Found”/“A Fool In Love” (MGM 12327, August). Producer and personnel not known.
February 3, 1956 : ELVIS PRESLEY records "Lawdy Miss Clawdy" and "Shake, Rattle And Roll" in New York City, due for single release in September (RCA 6642). Elvis (vocal, guitar) is backed by Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Shorty Long (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). Backing vocals will be overdubbed later.
February 4, 1956 : JAMES BROWN and the Famous Flames have their first recording session, in Cincinnati. "Please Please Please"/"Why Do You Do Me (Like You Do)" becomes their first single (Federal 12258), released on March 3. "I Don't Know"/ "I Feel That Old Feeling Coming On" from the same session will be issued as the next single (Federal 12264, May). Personnel : Clifford Scott, Wilbert Smith (tenor saxes) ; Ray Felder (alto sax) ; Fats Gonder (piano) ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Nafloyd Scott (guitar) ; Edison Gore (drums) ; Johnny Terry, Bobby Byrd, Nashpendle Knox, Sylvester Keels (background vocals).
February 4, 1956 : THE SENSATIONS record four tracks in New York City. "Ain't He Sweet"/"Please Mr. Disc Jockey" comes out on Atco 6067 in April, "Cry, Baby, Cry" on Atco 6075 in August. A fourth track, "Please Believe Me" remains unissued. Lead vocal by Yvonne Mills.
Sunday, February 5, 1956 : The first Sun session by WARREN SMITH yields the single "Rock 'n' Roll Ruby"/"I'd Rather Be Safe Than Sorry" (Sun 239, released on March 26). Personnel : Warren Smith (vocals, guitar) ; Buddy Holobaugh (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Smokey Joe Baugh (piano) ; Jan Ledbetter (bass) ; Johnny Bernero (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
February 6, 1956 : CONNIE FRANCIS records her single “My First Real Love”/ “Believe In Me” (MGM 12191, last week of February) at Coastal Recording Company in New York City. The A-side is co-written by Bobby Darin, his earliest recorded composition. Orchestra conducted by Joe Lipman. Vocal support by the Jaybirds. Produced by Harry Mayerson.
February 7, 1956 : After two earlier try-outs at sessions in 1955, LITTLE RICHARD delivers the definitive versions of "Long Tall Sally" and "Slippin' And Slidin'" (Specialty 572, March). Also recorded is "Miss Ann" for Richard's first LP and released as a single (Specialty 606) in May 1957. Musicians : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano ) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Supervised by Bumps Blackwell at J&M Studio in New Orleans.
February 7, 1956 : In Los Angeles, GENE AND EUNICE record their next single, "Hootchy-Kootchy"/"I'll Never Believe In You" (Aladdin 3315, March), as well as "I'm So In Love With You" (Aladdin 3321, June) and "Hi-Diddle Diddle" (Aladdin 3351, December, flip of "Bom Bom Lulu").
February 8, 1956 : FREDDIE BELL and the Bell Boys are recording in New York City. "Giddy Up A Ding Dong"/"I Said It And I'm Glad" is released on a single (Wing 90066, March), the other two songs, "Big Bad Wolf" and "Rockin' the Polonaise" are tracks for the LP "Rock & Roll ... All Flavors" (Mercury MG 20289). Personnel : Freddie Bell (vocals) ; Frankie Brent (vocals, guitar, bass) ; Jack Kane (tenor sax) ; Jerry Mayo (trumpet) ; Russ Conti (piano) ; Chick Keeney (drums) ; Mickey Baker (guitar).
February 8, 1956 : LLOYD PRICE is back in the studio, after serving Uncle Sam for two years. "Woe Ho Ho"/"I Yi Yi Gomen A-Sai" is a strong coupling, released on Specialty 571 in March. "Breaking My Heart (All Over Again)" is saved until May 1957 for release on Specialty 602. Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Frank Fields (bass); Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe at J&M Studio in New Orleans.
February 9, 1956 : Two days after a triumphant session, LITTLE RICHARD undertakes more recording in New Orleans. "The Most I Can Offer" is held in the can until 1959 for release on Specialty 686 and Richard's third LP (overdubbed with a vocal chorus, the Stewart Sisters). "Oh Why" gets a place on his debut LP ("Here's Little Richard", March 1957). "Heeby Jeebies Love" remains unissued until circa 1984 (Specialty 736), probably because it sounds too much like "Tutti Frutti". A fourth track. "Tell Me Why, is unissued and lost. Personnel same as on February 7, with the addition of Edward Frank on piano on the first two tracks.
February 9, 1956 : LOWELL FULSON is in the Chess studio in Chicago. "Tollin' Bells"/"It's Your Fault" comes out on Chrcker 841 in July. "Took A Long Time" stays on the shelf until late 1959 (Checker 937), while the instrumental "Smokey Room" ends up on a German Chess LP in the 1980s. Willie Dixon plays bass ; further session details unknown.
February 14, 1956 : THE PLATTERS lay down both sides of their new single at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City : "(You've Got) The Magic Touch"/"Winner Take All" (Mercury 70819, March).
February 16, 1956 : FRANKIE LYMON and the Teenagers record their second single, "I Want You To Be My Girl"/"I'm Not A Know It All" (Gee 1012, April), in New York City. Produced by George Goldner.
February 16, 1956 : Two-track session for THE DRIFTERS in New York City. "I Should Have Done Right" is first released in 1971 on the LP "The Drifters : Their Greatest Recordings : The Early Years" (Atco LP SD 33-375). A second version of "Your Promise To Be Mine" remains unissued. Lead vocals by Johnny Moore.
February 16, 1956 : JERRY CAPEHART records “Rockin’ & Flyin’” at the Capitol Studio in Hollywood. It will stay in the can until 1998, when the Eddie Cochran CD “Don’t Forget Me” is released on Rockstar RSRCD 014. However, an abbreviated version of the backing track will be released in 1956 under the title “Fast Jivin’”, credited to Ernie Freeman, on an EP called “L.A. Rockin’ Instrumentals”, (Hollywood 1068). The complete take of “Fast Jivin’” is available on the “Don’t Forget Me” CD. Capehart also cuts a song called “Mary Jane”, which has never been released. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (lead guitar) ; Joe Maphis (second lead guitar) ; Ernie Freeman (piano).
February 17, 1956 : In Cincinnati, BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record one of many covers of Carl Perkins's "Blue Suede Shoes". Coupled with "Mumbles Blues", this is issued on King 4903 in March. The third track from this session is "The Groovy Age" (King 4925, late April). Boyd Bennett (vocals, drums) is supported by : Bobby Jones (tenor sax) ; Ron Ayres (guitar) ; Mickey Allen (rhythm guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass) ; "Big Moe" Muzey (vocals on "Mumbles Blues").
February 23, 1956 : In New York City, saxophonist RED PRYSOCK records six tracks for the album “Fruit Boots” (Mercury MG 20211, April 1957) : “The Shakers”, “The Fox”, “Lulu”, “Rolling and Rocking”, “Rock and Roll Party” and “Rock and Roll Mambo”. The latter two tracks are also coupled for single release on Mercury 70918 on July 11. Personnel : Red Prysock (tenor sax) ; Herbert Gordy (bass) ; Oliver Blair (piano) ; Frank Galbraith (trumpet) ; Clarence ‘Zack’ Wright (baritone sax) ; Dicky Wells (trombone) ; Joe Livramento (flute) ; Roland Johnson (vibes) ; Jerome Potter (drums).
Friday, February 24, 1956 : Another New York session for JOE TURNER. "Corrine Corrina" (Joe's biggest pop hit) is released on Atlantic 1088 in March. "Lipstick, Powder And Paint"/"Rock A While" follows in July (Atlantic 1100). "Nothing In Mind" from this session has never been issued. Personnel : Jimmy Nottingham, Dick Vance (trumpets) ; Earl Warren (alto sax) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Billy Mure, George Barnes (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Cookies (vocal group). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 24, 1956 : THE CUES do a four-song session at the Capitol Recording Studio in New York City. “Don’t Make Believe” is selected as the A-side of their new single (Capitol 3400, March, c/w “Destination 2100 and 65”, recorded on March 1, 1956). “Crazy Crazy Party” will be released on the Prep subsidiary (catalog nr 104) in May 1957 (c/w “I Pretend” from a session on September 20, 1956). “Roll ’n’ Roll Mr. Oriole” is first released in 1988 on the LP “Crazy Crazy Party” (Bear Family BFX 15309). Unissued from this session, and probably lost, is a first attempt at “Destination 2100 and 65”. The Cues are : Ollie Jones, Abel De Costa, Jimmy Breedlove, Robie Kirk and Eddie Barnes.
February 24, 1956 : DORIS DAY records her biggest hit, “Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera Sera)” from the Alfred Hitchcock film “The Man Who Knew Too Much”. Release on Columbia 40704 on May 21. # 2 in the USA, # 1 in the UK. The other side, “I’ve Gotta Sing Away These Blues”, was recorded at a later date. This single was preceded by two other songs from this session, “We’ll Love Again” and “Rosabella Sings : Somebody Somewhere”, released back to back on Columbia 40673 in March. Backing by Frank De Vol and his orchestra. Produced by Mitch Miller in Hollywood.
February 26, 1956 : Recording date of "In the Still Of the Nite"/"The Jones Girl" by THE FIVE SATINS. First released on Standord 200 in April, then on Ember 1005 in June. Lead vocal by Fred Parris.
February 27, 1956 : ROY HALL does yet another cover of "Blue Suede Shoes". His version is issued on Decca 29880 in March, coupled with "Luscious", also from this session. "You Ruined My Blue Shoes" is first released on Charly CR 30227 (LP "Diggin' the Boogie") in 1984. Produced by Paul Cohen in Nashville, with backing by (probably) Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Lightnin' Chance and Buddy Harman.
February 27, 1956 : THE FIVE KEYS lay down four tracks at New York's Capitol studio. "I Dreamt I Dwelt In Heaven"/"She's the Most" becomes the next single (Capitol 3392, April). "That's Right" is probably better known in a later version by Billy Riley. The original by the Five Keys is released on Capitol 3502 in August. "Boom Boom" doesn't come out until August 1957, on Capitol 3786. "My Pigeon's Gone" is recorded on the 29th (Leap day!) and released on Capitol 3455 in June.
February 28, 1956 : Second session by THE COLLINS KIDS, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, produced by Don Law. Two singles are the result : "The Rockaway Rock"/"Make Him Behave" (Columbia 21514, April) and "I'm In My Teens"/"They're Still In Love" (Columbia 21543, August). Personnel : Lorrie Collins (vocal / guitar) ; Larry Collins (vocal / guitar) ; Johnny Bond (guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Sammy Pruett (guitar) ; Johnny Sibert (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Margie Ann Warren (fiddle) ; Billy Lee Woods (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
(Probably) February 1956, unknown date : ETTA JAMES has her only session in New Orleans, supervised by Maxwell Davis. The harvest is the single "Tough Lover"/"Fools We Mortals Be" (Modern 998), released in August. Backing musicians include Lee Allen on tenor sax and Earl Palmer on drums. An alternate, even wilder version of "Tough Lover" has just been released on the CD "Holy Mackerel : Pretenders To L ittle Richard's Throne" (Ace 1211).
February or March 1956, unknown date : GEORGE AND EARL record material for two singles in Nashville. “Done Gone”/“Better Stop Look and Listen” is an April release (Mercury 70852). “Remember and Regret”/“Eleven Roses” follows in August (Mercury 70935). Personnel : George McCormick (vocals) ; Earl Aycock (vocals) ; Joe Edwards (guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Dee Kilpatrick.
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MARCH 1956
March 1, 1956 : JOHNNY BOND is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record his next single. "The Little Rock Roll"/"I'll Be Here (After You're Gone") is issued on Columbia 21521 in May. Personnel : Johnny Bond (vocal, guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Wesley Tuttle (guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Billy Lee Woods (piano) ; Jerry Adler (harmonica) ; Murray Wald (sax) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 1, 1956 : At New York's Capitol Studio, THE CUES record three tracks. "Destination 2100 and 65" is their next A-side (Capitol 3400, April). "Why" will be their last release on Capitol (3582, November) and their biggest hit. "Be My Wife" is first released on Bear Family BFX 15309 in 1988. The Cues are : Jimmy Breedlove, Ollie Jones, Abel De Costa, Robie Kirk and Eddie Barnes.
March 1, 1956 : Also in New York City, THE CARDINALS record four tracks : "Off Shore" (Atlantic 1090, April), "The End Of the Story" (Atlantic 1103, August) and "The Show Is All Over" and "Neki Hoki" (both unissued).
Friday, March 2, 1956 : Three-song session for RUTH BROWN in New York City (Los Angeles, according to Slaven / Leadbitter). "Sweet Baby Of Mine" is released in April (Atlantic 1091), "I Still Love You" in October (April 1113). "Love Walked In" remains unissued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler. Personnel unknown.
March 2, 1956 : FREDDIE HART lays down his next two singles : "Dig Boy Dig"/"Two Of A Kind" (Columbia 21512, April) and "Snatch It And Grab It"/"The Human Thing To Do" (Columbia 21550, August). Backing by Merle Travis (guitar) ; Noel Boggs (steel guitar) ; John Dodson (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
March 3, 1956 : STAN FREBERG records his next single, "The Great Pretender"/"The Quest For Bridey Hammerschlaugen" (Capitol 3396, release date April 9). Freberg does both voices on "The Great Pretender", the vocalist and the frustrated cling-cling-cling pianist. The actual piano player is Paul T. Smith. Arranged and conducted by Billy May, produced by Ken Nelson in Hollywood.
March 4, 1956 : Third Atlantic session of this month, by CLYDE McPHATTER. "When You're Sincere"/"Treasure Of Love" becomes the new single (Atlantic 1092, April). "I Make Believe" will be released as the B-side of "Without Love" in late November (Atlantic 1117). "Go! Yes Go!" is saved until October 1960 for release on Atlantic 2082. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 4, 1956 : ROY ORBISON records his first single, “Ooby Dooby”/“Tryin’ To Get To You”, which is released on March 19 on Je-Wel 101. Orbison will re-record both songs for Sun Records on March 27. The record is credited to The Teen Kings. Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocals / guitar) ; Johnny ‘Peanuts’ Wilson (guitar) ; James Morrow (electric mandolin) ; Jack Kennelly (upright bass) ; Billy Pat Ellis (drums). Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
March 5, 1956 : Live recording by PIANO RED at the Magnolia Ballroom in Atlanta, Georgia. Six of the 13 tracks recorded are released as one side of the LP "Piano Red In Concert" (Groove LG 1002, mid-1956). One track is lost ("Red's Boogie") and most of the other tracks are first released on the Bear Family 4-CD set "The Doctor's In !" (BCD15685, 1993). Personnel : Willie Perryman aka Piano Red (vocals, piano ) ; Wesley Jackson (guitar) ; Kid Miller (bass) ; Clyde 'Blow Top' Lynn (tenor sax) ; James Jackson (drums) ; John Peek (trumpet). Produced by H.R. Clark.
March 5, 1956 : In Dallas, SID KING and the Five Strings cover Roy Orbison's "Ooby Dooby" (Columbia 40680, late April, c/w "Booger Red", also from this session). Later in the month (exact date unknown) they record three demos, "How Easy It Was Dear", "When My Baby Left Me" and "Good Rockin' Baby", which are first released on Bear Family BCD 15535 in 1991. Personnel on "Ooby Dooby" and "Booger Red" is : Sid King (vocal, guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; David White (guitar) ; Mel Robinson (guitar) ; Ken Massey (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Bill Peck (drums) ; Clinton Scott (sax). Produced by Don Law at the Jim Beck Studio.
Tuesday, March 6, 1956 : BOBBY DARIN's very first recording session takes place at the Pythian Temple in New York City. Four tracks are laid down, released on two 45s : "Rock Island Line"/"Timber" (Decca 29883, late March) and "Silly Willie"/"Blue Eyed Mermaid" (Decca 29922, May). Backing by Jack Pleis and his orchestra. Produced by Milt Gabler.
March 6, 1956 : RUSTY AND DOUG are in the Hickory studio in Nashville. They record "Hey, You There" (Hickory 1048, May), "I'll Understand"/"Mister Love" (Hickory 1055, October) and "We'll Do It Anyway" (Hickory 1091, January 1959). Personnel : Doug Kershaw (vocal, fiddle) ; Rusty Kershaw (vocal) ; Wiley Barkdull (bass vocal, piano) ; Rufus Thibodeaux (fiddle) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Eddie Hill (rhythm guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass).
March 6-7, 1956 : In NYC, JOE TURNER records the LP "Boss Of the Blues" (Atlantic LP 1234). None of the 11 tracks (almost all songs that Turner previously recorded for other labels) is released as a single. Musicians : Joe Newman (trumpet) ; Pete Brown (alto sax) ; Frank Wess (tenor sax) ; Pete Johnson (piano) ; Freddie Green (guitar) ; Walter Page (bass) ; Cliff Leeman (drums). On the second day Jimmy Nottingham (tp) and Seldon Powell (ts) replace Newman and Wess.
March 7, 1956 : WILEY BARKDULL records two singles on his own, without Rusty and Doug. "I've Got A Brand New Baby"/"Going Walking" comes out on Hickory 1052 in June and "Sweet As An Angel"/"After All" on Hickory 1059 in January 1957. Wiley (vocal, piano) is supported by Rufus Thibodeaux (fiddle) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Eddie Hill (rhythm guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass). Location : Hickory studio.
March 8, 1956 : Fifteen-year old JANIS MARTIN makes her debut as a recording artist. "Drugstore Rock 'n' Roll"/"Will You, Will Yum" becomes her first single (RCA 6491, April). "One More Year To Go" (RCA 6560, June) and "Let's Elope Baby" (RCA 6744, December) follow later in the year. Accompaniment by an all-star cast : Chet Atkins (electric guitar, producer) ; Grady Martin (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
March 12, 1956 : DON GIBSON, who is contracted to MGM at this time, records material for two singles in Nashville : "I Ain't Gonna Waste My Time"/"Ah-Ha" (MGM 12290, July) and "It Happens Every Time"/"I Ain't-A Studyin' You Baby" (MGM 12494, June 1957).
March 13, 1956 : MARTY ROBBINS records his next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Long Tall Sally"/"Mister Teardrop" is rush released on Columbia 40679 (March 26) and "Respectfully Miss Brooks"/ "You Don't Owe Me A Thing" comes out on Columbia 40706 on June 11. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals, guitar) ; Hank Garland, Hillous Butrum (guitars) ; James Farner (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano, organ) ; Jimmy Gossett (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 14, 1956 : MERRILL MOORE records his version of the current Lonnie Donegan hit, "Rock Island Line", as well as "King Porter Stomp". Both tracks are issued on Capitol 3397 in April. Personnel : Merrill Moore (vocal, piano) ; Jimmy Bryant (electric guitar) ; Roy Lanham (rhythm guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Unknown (guitar) ; Marty Korb (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Location : Capitol Studio A, Hollywood.
March 14, 1956 : WYNONA CARR does a 4-song session in Hollywood. "Nursery Rhyme Rock"/"Please Mr. Jailer" is released on Specialty 575 in late April. "Jump Jack Jump" follows in July (Specialty 580). "Now That I'm Free" stays in the can until the release of the "Jump Jack Jump" LP in 1985 (Specialty SP 2157). Produced by Art Rupe.
March 17, 1956 : SMILEY LEWIS has two sessions this month. On this day he records "She's Got Me Hook, Line and Sinker" (Imperial 5389, April), "Nothing But the Blues" (saved for Smiley's sole Imperial LP, "I Hear You Knocking", 1961, Imperial LP 9141), "Baby Please" (Knight 2007) and "By the Water" (Knight 2011). On March 20, three further tracks are committed to tape. "Please Listen To Me" becomes the reverse of "Hook, Line And Sinker", "No, No" will be released as the B-side of "Shame, Shame, Shame" (Imperial 5418) in November and "Rootin' And Tootin'" has to wait until March 1958 for release on Imperial 5470. Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Salvador Doucette (piano) ; Lee Allen and Clarence Hall (tenor saxes) ; Unknown (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Location : J & M Studio, New Orleans.
March 20, 1956 : PAUL GAYTEN records in New Orleans. "You Better Believe It" is coupled with the instrumental "Mother Roux" for release on Checker 836 in April. In the UK, "Mother Roux" is retitled "Yo Yo Walk" (London HL 8503, November 1957, coupled with the hit "Happy Happy Birthday Baby" by the Tune Weavers). Unissued from this session are "Squeeze Tease" and "The Right To Love You". Musicians : Paul Gayten (vocal, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Waldron 'Frog' Joseph (trombone) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Unknown (guitar) ; Frank Parker (drums).
March 22, 1956 : Another session for THE CADILLACS in New York City. "Zoom Boom Zing" and "Why" are held in the can until the release of the LP "The Crazy Cadillacs" in 1959 (Jubilee LP 1089), but "That's All I Need" gets a single release (Josie 805) in October. According to some sources, the single "Zoom"/"You Are" (Josie 792) was also recorded at this session, but it was already listed in Billboard of March 31, so that would have been a real rush release . The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, Charles Brooks, Earl Wade, Laverne Drake and Bobby Phillips.
March 23, 1956 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record six tracks at the Pythian Temple in New York City, supervised by Milt Gabler, which will be released on the LP "Rock 'n' Roll Stage Show" (Decca DL 8345) in August : "Goofin' Around", "Rudy's Rock" (also a single, Decca 30085, October), "Hide And Seek", "Hey Then, There Now", "Tonight's the Night" and "Hook, Line And Sinker" (also Decca 30214, Feb 1957). Three more tracks for the album are recorded on March 27 : "Blue Comet Blues" (also on Decca 30085), "Calling All Comets" and "Choo Choo Ch' Boogie" (also Decca 30148). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Billy Williamson (vocals, steel guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano, accordion) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums).
'March 26, 1956 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters (Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Sonny Woods) record their next single at the King Studio in Cincinnati : "Tore Up (Over You)"/"Early One Morning" (Federal 12270, May). Personnel : Cal Green (guitar) ; H.T. Martini (electric bass) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Wilbert Dyer (alto sax) ; George DeHart (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
March 26, 1956 : ANDY STARR records four tracks at Clifford Herring Studio, Fort Worth, Texas. "Rockin' Rollin' Stone"/"I Wanna Go South" comes out on MGM 12263 in May and "She's A Going Jessie"/"Old Deacon Jones" on MGM 12315 in August. Personnel : Andy Starr (vocal, guitar) ; Larry Adair (guitar) ; Lyman Macklin (bass) ; Bill Peck (drums). Produced by Joe Leonard.
March 27, 1956 : ROY ORBISON and the Teen Kings from Wink, Texas, record at the Sun studio in Memphis. "Ooby Dooby" and "Trying To Get To You", previously recorded for Je-Wel, are rerecorded. "Ooby Dooby"/ "Go Go Go" is selected for single release (Sun 242, May). One of the two Sun versions of "Trying To Get To You" is first released on the LP "Hot Southern Boppers" in 1985 (Sun LP 1024, UK). Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocal, guitar) ; Johnny Wilson (guitar) ; James Morrow (electric mandolin) ; Jack Kennelly (bass) ; Billy Pat Ellis (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 27, 1956 : JAMES BROWN's second session yields six tracks for three singles : "Hold My Baby's Hand"/"No, No, No, No" (Federal 12277, August), "I Won't Plead No More"/"Chonnie On Chon" (Federal 12290, March 1957 [SW – OCT 56]) and "You're Mine, You're Mine"/"I Walked Alone" (Federal 12300, July 1957). Personnel : Cleveland Love, Ray Felder (tenor saxes) ; Fats Gonder (piano) ; Nafloyd Scott (guitar, backing vocals) ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Reginald Hall (drums) ; Johnny Terry, Sylvester Keels and Bobby Byrd (backing vocals). The Little Richard-styled rocker "Chonnie On Chon" features just Brown, without the backing vocals by the Famous Flames. Arranged by Gene Redd. Location : Cincinnati, Ohio.
March 27, 1956 : In Chicago, JOHN LEE HOOKER lays down material for three singles : "Every Night"/"Trouble Blues" (VeeJay 188, May), "Dimples"/ "Baby Lee" (VeeJay 205, September) and "I'm So Worried Baby"/"The Road Is So Rough" (VeeJay 233, January 1957). Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocal, guitar) ; Eddie Taylor (guitar) ; George Washington (bass) ; Tom Whitehead (drums).
March 28, 1956 : JERRY REED has a split session with SIMON CRUM in Nashville. Reed records "When I Found You" (Capitol 3429, May) and "I've Had Enough" (first released on a French LP, "Rock And Roll At the Capitol Tower" in 1975, although that Tower was not opened until April 1956!). Simon Crum (Ferlin Husky's alter ego) records "Bop Cat Bop"/"Muki-Ruki" (Capitol 3460, June). Produced by Ken Nelson.
March 29, 1956 : Another three-track session on this day. In Cincinnati, BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record "Let Me Love You" (King 4925, April, B-side of the previously recorded "The Groovy Age") and "Rockin' Up A Storm"/"A Lock Of Your Hair" (King 4985, October).
March 29, 1956 : HAWKSHAW HAWKINS records ”It Would Be A Doggone Lie”/ “Sunny Side Of the Mountain” for his next single (RCA 47-6509, April). A third track, “You Just Stood There”, is eventually included on the Bear Family box-set “Hawk” (BCD 15539) in 1991. Personnel : Hawkshaw Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Claude Phelps (electric guitar) ; Hamilton Wilson (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Foster (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 1956, unknown date : EDDIE BOND's second session for Mercury is also his last. Two singles are the result : "Flip Flop Mama"/"Slip, Slip, Slippin' In" (Mercury 70882, June) and "Boppin' Bonnie"/"Baby, Baby, Baby" (Mercury 70941, August). Personnel : Eddie Bond (vocal, rhythm guitar) ; Reggie Young (lead guitar) ; probably John Hughey (steel guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Johnny Fine (drums). Produced by Dee Kilpatrick in Nashville.
March 1956, unknown date : BOBBY CHARLES is back in New Orleans for his third Chess session. This yields the single "Time Will Tell"/"Take It Easy Greasy" (Chess 1628, end of June), "Why Can't You" (Chess 1647, January 1957) and "Ain't Got No Home" (unissued until the release of the "Chess Masters" LP in 1984, Chess CH-9175). Musicians : Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
March 1956, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK makes his recording debut in Phoenix, Arizona (Ramsey Studio). "The Fool"/"Lonesome For A Letter" is first released on MCI 1003 in May, then on Dot 15481 in June. Accompaniment by Al Casey (lead guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Corky Casey (rhythm guitar) ; Connie Conway (drums, percussion). Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
(Probably) March 1956, unknown date : CURTIS GORDON has a session in Nashville. "Draggin'"/"Mobile, Alabama" becomes his next single in May (Mercury 70861). "I'm Sittin' On Top Of the World" is saved for release till April 1957 (Mercury 71097). "Rock, Roll, Jump And Jive" is first released on Bear Family BFX 15181 in 1985. Personnel : Curtis Gordon (vocal, guitar) ; Dusty Stewart (lead guitar) ; Eddie Hill (guitar) ; Al Murray (steel guitar) ; Slick Gillespie (bass) ; T. Tommy Cutrer (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley.
March 1956, unknown dates : CARL PERKINS has several recording sessions at the Sun studio in Memphis. From the first two sessions, "Boppin' the Blues"/"All Mama's Children is selected for his next single (Sun 243, May), "Only You" and "Wrong Yo Yo" find a place on the LP "Dance Album Of Carl Perkins" (Sun LP 1225, 1958), and another attempt at "You Can't Make Love To Somebody" sees a first release on the V.A. compilation "Rabbit Action" (Sun LP 1018, 1985). Later this month (with Eddie Starr replacing Jay Perkins) Carl records "Dixie Fried" and "I'm Sorry I'm Not Sorry" for a subsequent single (Sun 249, August), "Everybody's Trying To Be My Baby" (Sun LP 1225) and a first version of "Put Your Cat Clothes On" (Sun LP 1018). Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocal, guitar) ; Jay Perkins / Eddie Starr (guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 1956, unknown date : MARVIN RAINWATER records the single "Hot And Cold"/"Mr. Blues" (MGM 12240, April). Backing by : Roy Clark (lead guitar) ; Bill Badgett (steel guitar) ; Unknown (bass and drums). Rainwater says that this session took place at the Ben Adelman studio in Washington, D.C., the MGM recording sheets list the RCA Victor studio in Nashville.
March 1956, unknown date : RUDY GRAYZELL records his second single for the Starday label : “Duck Tail”/“You’re Gone” (Starday 241, April 25). Label credit goes to Rudy ’Tutti’ Grayzell. Personnel : Rudy Grayzell (vocals / guitar) ; Dave Sullivan (lead guitar) ; Roy McMeans (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily at the Gold Star Studio in Houston.
(Probably) March 1956, unknown date : GEORGE JONES is at the Gold Star studio in Houston to record five songs. First released is “I’m Ragged But I’m Right” (Starday 234, April 7, c/w “Your Heart”, recorded in December 1955). A cover of “Heartbreak Hotel” is issued on a 6-track EP (Dixie 502) around the same time and also as a single on Tops 280 (with label credit going to HANK SMITH). The single “Rock It”/“How Come It” (Starday 240, May 5) is credited to THUMPER JONES. Finally, “You Gotta Be My Baby” is a June release (Starday 247, c/w “It’s OK”, from a session in December 1955). Personnel : George Jones (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Hal Harris (lead guitar) ; probably Doc Lewis (piano) ; prob. Herb Remington (steel guitar) ; Unknown (bass, second electric guitar). Produced by Pappy Daily.
APRIL 1956
April 1, 1956 : CHARLIE FEATHERS has his only session for the Meteor label in Memphis, which results in the single "Tongue Tied Jill"/"Get With It" (Meteor 5032, June). Musicians : Charlie Feathers (vocal, guitar ) ; Jerry Huffman (guitar) ; Jody Chastain (bass). Supervised by Lester Bihari.
April 1, 1956 : More classic rockabilly is recorded on this day by MAC CURTIS, in Dallas (Jim Beck Studio). "If I Had Me A Woman"/ "Just So You Call Me" becomes his first single (King 4927, May), soon followed by "Grandaddy's Rockin'"/"Half Hearted Love" (King 4949, July). Personnel : Mac Curtis (vocal, acoustic guitar ) ; Jimmy Galbraith (lead guitar) ; Kenny Galbraith (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Bill Peck (drums). Produced by Ralph Bass and Bernie Pearlman.
April 1, 1956 : ONIE WHEELER is at Bradley Studio (then still called Music City Recording) in Nashville, where he records his next single, "Onie's Bop"/"I Wanna Hold My Baby" (Columbia 21523, June). Personnel : Onie Wheeler (vocal, guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar, fiddle) ; Ray Edenton (guitar) ; Bob Foster (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newman (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
Still on April 1, 1956 ( a Sunday !) : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records four tracks at the King Studio in Cincinnati. The original version of "Fever" is coupled with "Letter From My Darling" for release on King 4935 in June. "Drive Me Home" is originally an LP track and will be released o\ as a single (King 5539) in 1961. The fourth track, "Will the Sun Shine Tomorrow" is not released at all. Personnel : Ray Felder, Rufus Gore (tenor saxes) ; Jon Thomas (piano) ; Bill Jennings (guitar) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Edison Gore (drums).
April 2, 1956 : JOHNNY CASH records his first pop hit, "I Walk the Line"/"Get Rhythm" (Sun 241, May). Also recorded are first attempts at "Train Of Love" and "There You Go", to which Cash will return in August. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals, acoustic guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
April 4, 1956 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo record material for two forthcoming singles. First issued is “Walking the Beat”/“Spring Fever” (Imperial 5403, August), followed by “Flyin’ High”/“Return To Me” (Imperial 5419) in November. Personnel : Ernie Freeman (piano / leader) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Adolphus Alsbrook (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Raymond Martinez (drums). The location is Los Angeles.
Monday, April 9, 1956 : GENE AND EUNICE (Gene Forrest and Eunice Levy) record "Let's Get Together" in Los Angeles. Coupled with "I'm So In Love With You" from a previous session (February 7, 1956), it gets a release on Aladdin 3321 in June.
April 9, 1956 : Four-track session for AMOS MILBURN in Los Angeles. "I Need Someone"/"French Fried Potatoes And Ketchup" is selected for the next single (Aladdin 3320, May). "Juice, Juice, Juice" becomes the B-side of the yet to record remake of "Chicken Shack Boogie" in September (Aladdin 3332) and "I'll Be True" is first released on the LP "13 Unreleased Masters" (Aladdin / Pathe Marconi 1546701) in 1983.
April 12, 1956 : WAYNE McGINNIS records his only release, "Rock, Roll And Rhythm" c/w "Lonesome Rhythm Blues", at the Meteor Studio, 1794 Chelsea, Memphis, Tennessee. Release on Meteor 5035 at the end of June. Musicians : Wayne McGinnis (vocal, guitar) ; Billy Joe Miller (lead guitar) ; Curley Wilson (bass). Label credit goes to Wayne McGinnis with the Swing Teens. Supervised by Lester Bihari.
April 12, 1956 : WERLY FAIRBURN does a session at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. "Everybody's Rockin'"/"It's Heaven" is selected for single release (Columbia 21528, June). The other two tracks, "I'm Jealous" and "Old Mem'ries Come Back" remain unissued until the release of the Bear Family CD "Everybody's Rockin'" (BCD 15578) in 1993. Fairburn (vocals, guitar) is accompanied by : Tommy Tomlinson (guitar) ; James Trammel (steel guitar) ; Fred Dawson (bass) ; Bill Peck (drums).
April 13, 1956 : CHUCK WILLIS has his first session for Atlantic, at Capitol Studio in New York City. "It's Too Late"/"Kansas City Woman" becomes his debut single for the label (Atlantic 1098, May). "There's Got To Be A Way" gets a place - along with the other three tracks from this session - on Chuck's LP "King Of the Stroll" (Atlantic LP 8018), which is released just before his untimely death on April 10, 1958. "My Life" is also released as a single (Atlantic 1192) in July 1958. Musicians include Gene Barge (tenor sax) ; Roy Gaines (guitar) ; Eddie McMullen (Hawaiian guitar). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
Saturday, April 14, 1956 : ELVIS PRESLEY records only one song during this month, "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You" (RCA 6540, May) at RCA Studios in Nashville. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocal, rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Gordon Stoker, Ben and Brock Speer (backing vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes.
April 14, 1956 : JACK EARLS records his only Sun release (during the 1950s at least) : "Slow Down"/"A Fool For Lovin' You" (Sun 240, May), which is credited to Jack Earls and the Jimbos. Also recorded are "If You Don't Mind" (first released on Sun Box 106, "The Rocking Years" in 1987) and "Come Back Home" (unissued). Personnel : Jack Earls (vocal, guitar) ; Warren Gregory (guitar) ; Johnny Black (bass) ; Danny Wahlquist (drums). Location : 706 Union Avenue (Sun Studio), Memphis.
April 15, 1956 : First recording session for BARBARA PITTMAN, also at the Sun Studio in Memphis. Of the three tracks recorded, "I Need A Man" and "No Matter Who's To Blame" are selected for her first single (Sun 253, September). A first attempt at "Sentimental Fool" remains unissued for decades. Backing by Clyde Leoppard's Snearly Ranch Boys : Buddy Holobaugh (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Smokey Joe Baugh (piano) ; Hank Byers (trumpet) ; Johnny Bernero (drums).
April 16, 1956 : At Chicago's Chess Studio, CHUCK BERRY records his next two singles, "Roll Over Beethoven"/"Drifting Heart" (Chess 1626, end of May) and "Too Much Monkey Business"/"Brown Eyed Handsome Man" (Chess 1635, September). Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals, guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; L.C. Davis (tenor sax) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
April 16, 1956 : At the age of 65, CARSON ROBISON records the single "Rockin' And Rollin' With Grandmaw"/"Hand Me Down My Walking Cane" (MGM 12266, June). Label credit reads Carson Robison and his Pleasant Valley Boys. Location : Coastal Recording Co., New York City.
April 17, 1956 : BOBBY MITCHELL records four compositions by Dave Bartholomew and Pearl King. "Goín' Round In Circles"/"I Try So Hard" becomes his new single (Imperial 5392, June). "I've Got My Fingers Crossed" comes out on Imperial 5412 in October and "How Long (Must I Wait)" is first issued on Bobby's Bear Family 2-CD "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" (BCD 15961) in 1997. Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Producer : Dave Bartholomew. Location : Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
April 17, 1956 : THE JODIMARS record four tracks in New York City. “Lotsa Love”/“Rattle My Bones” becomes their new single (Capitol 3436, May). “Eat Your Heart Out, Annie” is released on Capitol 3512 in August (c/w “Rattle Shakin’ Daddy”, recorded one week later). “Crazy-Z” is first released on the CD “Let’s All Rock Together” (Rockstar RSRCD 007) in 1994. Personnel : Dick Richards (vocals) ; Charlie Hess (guitar) ; Marshal Lytle (bass / vocals) ; Joey D’Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Bob Simpson (piano) ; Jim Buffington (drums).
April 17-18, 1956 : In New York City, THE PLATTERS record ten tracks for their first Mercury LP, simply titled "The Platters" (Mercury MG 20146). Four titles are also released as singles : "My Prayer"/"Heaven On Earth" (Mercury 70893, June), "On My Word Of Honor" (Mercury 71011, November) and "I'm Sorry" (Mercury 71032, January 1957). The other tracks are "Someone To Watch Over Me", "At Your Beck And Call", "Glory Of Love", "Have Mercy", "Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered" and "Remember When" (not the same version as the 1959 single).
Wednesday, April 18, 1956 : The first Decca session by BILLY WARD and the Dominoes yields four singles : "St. Therese of the Roses"/ "Home Is Where You Hang Your Heart" (Decca 29933, June), "Will You Remember"/"Come On, Snake, Let's Crawl" (Decca 30043, August), "Half A Love"/"Evermore" (Decca 30149, December) and "Rock, Plymouth Rock"/"'Til Kingdom Come" (Decca 30199, March 1957).
April 19, 1956 : SONNY JAMES records his next single : "Twenty Feet Of Muddy Water"/"All Mixed Up" (Capitol 3441, May) at the Jim Beck Studio in Dallas. Personnel : Sonny James (vocal, guitar) ; Paul Buskirk (electric mandolin) ; possibly Paul Brawley (bass) ; possibly Bill Peck (drums) ; Bill Simmons (piano). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 19, 1956 : LLOYD PRICE is at Master Recorders in Hollywood for a four-track session, produced by Art Rupe. Only "Country Boy Rock" sees a release as a single (Specialty 578, June). "I'm Going Back" is first released on the LP "The Original Recordings Of Lloyd Price" (Specialty SP 2105, 1959) and "Heavy Dreams" and "Why" on the LP "Lloyd Price : Personality Plus" (Specialty SP 2156, 1973). Backing by Lonnie Fowler (guitar) ; John Patton (piano ) ; Lawrence Farrell, Prince Bouie, Jimmie Robinson and Marvin Warwick (saxes, bass or drums).
April 19, 1956 : At the same studio, 13-year old BENN JOE ZEPPA records the single "A Foolish Fool"/"Baby I Need (Ting-A-Ling"), which is released on Specialty 577 in May. Label credit goes to Benn Zeppa and the Zephyrs. Backing by Lloyd Price's band (see above), minus the sax section. Produced by Art Rupe.
April 19-20, 1956 : LOUIS PRIMA records the LP "The Wildest" at the Sahara Hotel in Las Vegas. Released on Capitol T 755 on October 1. Originally, none of the tracks was released as a single. Holland was probably the first country where "Buona Sera" came out on a single (coupled with a remake of Prima's # 1 from 1944, "Oh Marie", also from the LP) and its giant success there (4 months at # 1) was an incentive for other countries to lift this track from the LP as well. In the USA, "Buona Sera" was released on Capitol 3856 in December 1957. Personnel : Louis Prima (vocals, trumpet) ; Sam Butera (sax, vocals) ; Keely Smith (vocals) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Amado Rodrigues (bass) ; Bobby Morris (drums) ; Willie McCumber (piano) ; James "Little Red" Blount (trombone).
April 22, 1956 : PATSY CLINE arrives at Bradley Studio in Nashville and records material for two (though far from subsequent) singles : "Stop, Look And Listen"/"I've Loved And Lost Again" (Decca 29963, July) and "Dear God"/"He Will Do For You" (Decca 30794, December 1958). Personnel : Harold Bradley (acoustic guitar) ; Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums).
April 24, 1956 : RONNIE SELF makes his debut as a recording artist. Four songs are laid down, released on two singles : "Pretty Bad Blues"/ "Three Hearts Later" (ABC Paramount 9714, June) and "Sweet Love"/ "Alone" (ABC Paramount 9768, November). Produced by Felton Jarvis in Nashville, Tennessee.
April 25, 1956 : JOE CLAY records five tracks at Bill Quinn's Gold Star studio in Houston, TX. "Sixteen Chicks"/"Ducktail" is selected for single release (Vik 0211, May). The other three tracks, "Doggone It", "Goodbye Goodbye" and "Slipping Out And Sneaking In" are first released on the Bear Family LP "Rockin' Rollin" High School, Vol. 5" (BFX 15113) in 1983. The lead guitarist on these tracks is Hal Harris, other details unknown. Produced by Herman Diaz.
April 25, 1956 : Recording date of the BOBBY HELMS single "Tennessee Rock 'n' Roll"/"I Don't Owe You Nothing" (Decca 29947, June). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 25-26, 1956 : Spread over two days, JOHNNY CARROLL records material for three singles : "Rock 'n' Roll Ruby"/"Tryin' To Get To You" (Decca 29940, May), "Wild Wild Women"/"Corrine, Corrina" (Decca 29941, May) and "Crazy, Crazy Lovin'"/"Hot Rock" (Decca 30013, August). Personnel : Johnny Carroll (vocals, guitar) ; Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Harold Bradley (rhythm guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano). Again produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 27, 1956 : FARON YOUNG is the next artist to record at Bradley Studio. It is a three-track session. "Sweet Dreams"/"Until I Met You" is released in late May on Capitol 3443. "I'm Gonna Live Some Before I Die" [comes out on Capitol 3611 at the end of 1956 <<<<< probably not this version]. Musicians : Hank Garland, Chet Atkins (electric guitars) ; Spider Wilson (guitar) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; probably Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Gordon Terry, Dale Potter (fiddles) ; Marvin Hughes (piano ) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 30, 1956 : RAY CHARLES records four album tracks in New York City. "Black Coffee" is released on the LP "The Great Ray Charles" in 1957 (Atlantic LP 1259) ; "Dawn Ray", "The Man I Love" and "Music, Music, Music" are saved for release on the LP "The Genius After Hours" (Atlantic LP 1359) in 1961. Musicians : Ray Charles (vocals, piano) ; Oscar Pettiford (bass) ; Joe Harris (drums).
April 1956, unknown date : JEAN CHAPEL records the single “Welcome To the Club”/“I Won’t Be Rockin’ Tonight” at Music City Recording in Nashville. It is first released on Sun 244 on May 15, then reissued on RCA 47-6681 in October. Produced by Murray Nash.
(Probably) April 1956, unknown date : BILLY RILEY and his
Little Green Men record three tracks at the Fernwood Studio in Memphis :
"Trouble Bound", "Rock With Me Baby" and "Think Before
You Go", supervised by Slim Wallace and Jack Clement. Originally intended
as the first Fernwood single (101), the
tapes were either leased or sold to Sam Phillips, who released the first two tracks on Sun 245 in
May. "Think Before You Go" remains unissued. Personnel : Billy Riley
(vocals, guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar)
; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; J.W. Bruner (bass).
(Probably) April 1956, unknown date : THE COCHRAN BROTHERS (Hank and Eddie, unrelated) are at Western Recorders in Hollywood where they lay down four tracks. "Tired And Sleepy"/"Fool's Paradise" is issued on Ekko 3001 in May. The other two tracks, "Slow Down" and "Open the Door" are first released on Rockstar LP 1006, "The Young Eddie Cochran" (UK) in September 1982. Musicians : Eddie Cochran (vocal, lead guitar) ; Hank Cochran (vocal, guitar) ; Guybo Smith (stand-up bass) ; Les Taylor (electric piano) ; Roy Harte (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MAY 1956
May 2, 1956 : SONNY BURGESS has his first session, at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "We Wanna Boogie"/"Red Headed Woman" is selected for single release (Sun 247, August). The remaining tracks, "All Night Long", "Life's Too Short To Live" and two versions of "The Prisoner's Song" were originally unissued, but have been available on Bear Family's double CD "Sonny Burgess : Classic Recordings 1956-1959" (BCD 15525) since 1991. Personnel : Sonny Burgess (vocals, guitar) ; Joe Lewis (guitar) ; John Ray Hubbard (bass) ; Ray Kern Kennedy (piano) ; Jack Nance (trumpet) ; Russell Smith (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 2, 1956 : FRANKIE LYMON and the Teenagers record "Who Can Explain" in New York City. The flip, "I Promise To Remember", is laid down on May 15, along with a first (unreleased) attempt at "The ABCs Of Love. The single is released in July on Gee 1018. Produced by George Goldner.
May 2, 1956 : HOMER AND JETHRO record parodies of "Heart Break Hotel" and "Blue Suede Shoes" at Nashville's RCA Studio 2. "Hart Brake Motel"/"Two Tone Shoes" is released on RCA 6542 at the end of May. Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocal, guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocal, mandolin) ; George Barnes (electric guitar) ; Charles Grean (bass) ; Bob Davie (piano) ; Philip Kraus (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes.
May 2, 1956 : LITTLE ESTHER records material for two singles in New York City : "You Can Bet Your Life"/"Tain't Whatcha Say" (Savoy 1193, late May) and "Longing In My Heart"/"If It's New To You" (Savoy 1516, July 1957). Personnel : Money Johnson (trumpet) ; Warren Lucky, Hal Singer (tenor saxes) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Sol Hall (drums). All tracks also released on Savoy SJL 2233 ("Ladies Sing the Blues", a Various artists LP).
May 2, 1956 : And yet another session on this Wednesday. At Bradley Studio in Nashville, BILLY WALKER records the single "I've Got Leavin' On My Mind"/"I'll Never Stand In Your Way" (Columbia 21531, June) . Backing by : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 4, 1956 : GENE VINCENT and his band, to be renamed The Blue Caps, assemble at Bradley Studio in Nashville for their first historic session. "Be Bop a Lula"/"Woman Love" is chosen for their debut single (Capitol 3450, June), "Race With the Devil" becomes the A-side of the second single (Capitol 3530, late August), while "I Sure Miss You" is saved for Gene's second LP, "Gene Vincent And the Blue Caps" (Capitol T 811, 1957). Personnel : Gene Vincent (vocals) ; Cliff Gallup (lead guitar) ; Willie Williams (rhythm guitar) ; Jack Neal (upright bass) ; Dickie Harrell (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 4, 1956 : Earlier that day, THE LOUVIN BROTHERS had recorded "Cash On the Barrelhead" / "You're Running Wild" (Capitol 3523, August) in the same studio, also under the supervision of Ken Nelson. Musicians : Charlie Louvin (vocal, guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocal, mandolin) ; other details unknown.
May 5, 1956 : In New Orleans, THE SPIDERS record four compositions by Dave Bartholomew (who also produces the session) and Pearl King. "Dear Mary"/"A-1 In My Heart" is chosen for the next single (Imperial 5393, June), while the equally deserving "Someday Bye And Bye" and "Without Love" stay in the can until the release of the Bear Family 2-CD in 1992 (The Spiders: The Imperial Sessions, BCD 15673).
May 5, 1956 : Meanwhile in Nashville, JIMMY MURPHY records material for his next two singles : "Sixteen Tons Of Rock And Roll"/"My Gal Dottie" (Columbia 21534, July) and "Granpaw's A Cat"/"Baboon Boogie" (Columbia 21569, November). Produced by Don Law.
May 7, 1956 : The first Coral session of JOHNNY BURNETTE and the Rock 'n' Roll Trio takes place at the Pythian Temple in New York City. It yields two singles : "Tear It Up"/"You're Undecided" (Coral 61651, end of May) and, two months later, "Oh Baby Babe"/"Midnight Train" (Coral 61675). On a fifth track, "Shattered Dreams", Burnette is backed by a 32 piece orchestra, directed by Dick Jacobs. It stays in the can until the appearance of the Charly 3-LP set "The Legendary Johnny Burnette Rock 'n' Roll Trio" (Charly CDX 3, 1984). The musicians on the other four tracks are : Johnny Burnette (vocal, guitar) ; Dorsey Burnette (bass) ; Paul Burlison (lead guitar) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Eddie Grady (drums). Produced by Henry Jerome.
May 8, 1956 : JOHNNY CASH records his fourth Sun single, “There You Go”/ “Train Of Love” (Sun 258, November 21). Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 1 and # 7 respectively. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
May 9, 1956 : LITTLE RICHARD is back in New Orleans (J&M Studio) for a fruitful session. "Ready Teddy"/"Rip it Up" becomes his next 45 (Specialty 579, June). "Hey Hey Hey Hey" is saved until January 1958 when it appears on the flip of "Good Golly Miss Molly" (Specialty 624). "I Got It" finally sees a release in January 1960 on Specialty 681. Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard and Ernest McLean (guitars) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
May 9, 1956 : Country man SKEETS McDONALD tries his hand at rock 'n' roll at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The resulting single, "You Oughta See Grandma Rock"/"Heart Breakin' Mama" is released on Capitol 3461 in June. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (lead guitar) ; Joe Maphis and Wynn Stewart (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle). This is a split session with WYNN STEWART who records "Slowly But Surely"/"The Keeper Of the Key" (Capitol 3515, August). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 9, 1956 : BUCK GRIFFIN records the single "Stutterin' Papa"/ "Watchin' the 7:10 Roll By" (MGM 12284, June), at Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. Musicians : Buck Griffin (vocal, guitar) ; Lefty Perkins (electric guitar) ; Ray Yates (bass or drums) ; Harold Dean (bass or drums). Produced by Joe Leonard.
May 11, 1956 : JANIS MARTIN's second recording session yields four tracks, all of which are released on singles. A cover of "Ooby Dooby" is released in June (RCA 6560). "My Boy Elvis" and "Little Bit" are joined together on RCA 6652 at the end of August and "Barefoot Baby" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "Let's Elope Baby" in December (RCA 6744). Accompaniment by : George Barnes and Al Chernet (guitars) ; Charles Grean (bass, arranger) ; Shorty Long (piano) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at RCA Victor Studio 1 in New York City
May 13, 1956 : THE TIBBS BROTHERS are among the first artists signed to Atco by Herb Abramson after he takes over A&R duties for this Atlantic subsidiary. "(Wake Up) Miss Rip Van Winkle"/ "I'm Going Crazy" sees a release on Atco 6074 in August. A third track, "Blues For Sale" has never been issued.
May 14, 1956 : BIG MAYBELLE records four tracks in New York City. "Candy"/"That's A Pretty Good Love" is released on Savoy 1195 in June, "Ring Dang Dilly" on Savoy 1527 in December 1957 and "Pitiful" on Savoy 1572 in March 1959. All songs will also appear on her LP "Candy" (Savoy MG 14011). Personnel : Dave McRae (alto sax) ; Buddy Lucas, Warren Lucky (tenor saxes) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Kelly Owens (piano, arranger) ; Sol Hall (drums).
Tuesday, May 15, 1956 : Recording date of the ARLIE DUFF single "Alligator Come Across"/"So Close And Yet So Far" (Decca 29987, end of July). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 16, 1956 : RAY CHARLES does a four-track session in New York. "Lonely Avenue"/"Leave My Woman Alone" is issued in September on Atlantic 1108. "I Want To Know" becomes the B-side of "Ain't That Love" in February 1957 (Atlantic 1124). A first attempt at "What Kind Of Man Are You" remains unissued. Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals, piano) ; Joe Bridgewater, John Hunt (trumpets) ; David Newman (alto sax, tenor sax) ; Emmett Davis (baritone sax) ; Roosevelt Sheffield (bass) ; William Peeples (drums) ; The Cookies (vocal group).
May 16, 1956 : Another four-track session in New York City on this day, by THE CADILLACS. "Woe Is Me"/"Betty My Love" is selected for the next single (Josie 798, June). "The Girl I Love" appears on Josie 805 in October and "Baby's Comin' Home To Me" is eventually released on the LP "The Crazy Cadillacs" (Jubilee LP 1089) in 1959.
May 18, 1956 : Freshly signed to King Records, BIG JOHN GREER records an answer song to "Long Tall Sally" called "Come Back Uncle John". Coupled with "Let Me Come Home" from the same session, it is released on King 4941 in June. Greer is accompanied by Billy Valentine (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). Location : New York City.
May 18, 1956 : CHARLINE ARTHUR covers “Welcome to the Club”, which will be coupled with “What About Tomorrow” (also from this session) for release on RCA 47-6570 in June. “Later On” is held in the can until it is released on Bear Family BFX 15234 (LP “Welcome To the Club”) in 1987. Personnel : Hank Garland, Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Jack Evins (steel guitar) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 21, 1956 : A session by THE DELLS results in the single "Oh What A Night"/"Jo-Jo" (Vee-Jay 204, September). The first version of "Oh What A Night", that is ; a remake in 1969 was an even bigger hit. Also recorded at this session is "Now I Pray", which is first released on the LP "Breezy Ballads And Tender Tunes" (Solid Smoke SS-8029) in 1984.
May 22, 1956 : First 1956 session for LEFTY FRIZZELL. The four tracks that are waxed will appear on two singles : "Just Can't Live That Fast (Anymore)"/"The Waltz Of the Angels" (Columbia 21530, June) and "Heart's Highway"/"I"m A Boy Left Alone" (Columbia 21554, September). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals, guitar) ; Jack Shook, Sam Pruett (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Ray Edenton (bass) ; Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 23, 1956 : Date of JOHNNY HORTON's second Columbia session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "I Don't Like I Did" is selected for the next single (Columbia 21538, July). The other three tracks will appear posthumously : "Sugar-Coated Baby" in June 1963 (Columbia 42774), "Hooray For That Little Difference" in March 1964 (Columbia 42993) and "Take Me Like I Am" is first released on the 4-CD Bear Family box-set "Johnny Horton 1956-1960" (BCD 15470) in 1991. Musicians : Johnny Horton (vocal, guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ;: Ray Edenton (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass). Produced by Don Law.
May 24, 1956 : JOE CLAY records his second single, "Get On the Right Track"/"Cracker Jack" (Vik 0218, July), this time in New York City. Also recorded are "You Look That Good To Me" and "Did You Mean Jelly Bean (What You Said Cabbage Head)" , which are first released by Bear Family in the 1980s. Personnel : MIckey Baker (guitar, leader) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Skeeter Best (guitar) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Herman Diaz.
Thursday, May 24, 1956 : BO DIDDLEY records his next single, "Who Do You Love"/"I'm Bad", in Chicago. Released on Checker 842 in the last week of June. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocal, guitar) ; Jody Williams (guitar) ; Little Willie Smith (harmonica) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Clifton James or Frank Kirkland (drums).
May 25, 1956 : The first of only two 1956 sessions by FATS DOMINO yields three tracks. "When My Dreamboat Comes Home" is chosen for the next single (Imperial 5396, July). "Ida Jane" is first released on the LP "Let's Play Fats Domino" (Imperial LP 9065, September 1959) and will be issued as a single (Imperial 5816) in February 1962. "Don't Know What's Wrong" stays on the shelf until 1970, when it is included on the LP "Rare Dominoes, Vol. 2" (United Artists UAS 29152, UK). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocal, piano) ; Ernest McLean, Justin Adams (guitars) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Location probably Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
May 29, 1956 : THE CUES are at Capitol Recording Studio in New York City for a session produced by Dave Cavanaugh. "Crackerjack"/ "The Girl I Love" is chosen as the new single (Capitol 3483, July). "Killer Diller" is first released on Bear Family BFX 15309 in 1988 and two Jesse Stone compositions, "Yes" and "Yes Sir" are not released at all.
May 30, 1956 : Four-track session by PEE WEE KING and his band at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result : "Catty Town"/ "Hoot Scoot" (RCA 6584, July) and "Ballroom Baby"/"Absolutely Positively" (RCA 6666, September). Personnel : Pee Wee King (accordion, leader) ; Dick Glasser (vocals) ; Neal Burris (rhythm guitar) ; Charles Tichy (electric guitar) ; Charles Adams (steel guitar) ; Chuck Wiggins (bass) ; Walter Hayes and Fred Herron (fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes.
May 31, 1956 : THE FARMER BOYS (Bobby Adamson & Woody Wayne Murray) record four new songs at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, released on two 45s : "My Baby Done Left Me"/"Somehow, Someway, Someday" (Capitol 3476, July) and "Cool Down Mame"/"Oh ! How It Hurts" (Capitol 3569, October). Personnel : Bobby Adamson (lead vocal) ; Woody Wayne Murray (harmony vocal) ; Roy Nichols (electric guitar) ; Lewis Tally and Bill Woods (rhythm guitars) ; Fuzzy Owen (steel guitar) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; possibly Cliffie Stone (bass) ; Johnny Cuviello (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
(Probably) May 1956, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS records his first single at KWKH Radio in Shreveport, Louisiana : "See You Soon Baboon" c/w "Four Letter Word (Rock)" (Checker 843, July). Dale (vocal, guitar) is backed by Sonny Jones (guitar) ; A.J. Tuminello (drums) ; Unknown (sax, piano, bass). The ape call on "See You Soon Baboon" is possibly by George Karsch.
May 1956, unknown date : SHIRLEY AND LEE record their # 1 R&B hit "Let the Good Times Roll" and its flip "Do You Mean To Hurt Me So" (Aladdin 3325, June). Also recorded, but never issued are "Everything" and "Will We Be Forever Happy". Backing by Cosimo Matassa's studio band in New Orleans.
(Probably) May 1956, unknown date : FREDDIE BELL and the Bell Boys record two singles in New York City : "The Hucklebuck"/"Rompin' And Stompin'" (Wing 90082, June) and "Stay Loose Mother Goose"/ "All Right, Okay You Win" (Mercury 70919, August). Their version of "Hound Dog" (first released on the LP "Rock & Roll ... All Flavors", Mercury MG 20289) was probably also recorded in May, but not at the same session. Personnel : Freddie Bell (vocals) ; Mickey Baker (lead guitar) ; Frankie Brent (vocals, guitar, bass) ; Jack Kane (tenor sax) ; Jerry Mayo (trumpet) ; Russ Conti (piano) ; Chick Keeney (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker (and, as always, to Bear Family, Michel Ruppli, Terry Gordon and Galen Gart). Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JUNE 1956
June 4, 1956 : JACK EARLS records at the Sun studio in Memphis. All tracks will be held in the can by Sam Phillips. "Let's Bop" and "Sign On the Dotted Line" are first released on the album "Sun Rockabillies, Vol. 3 : Rockin' And Boppin'" (UK Sun LP 6467028) in 1974. An alternate take of "Sign On the Dotted Line" will resurface on the album "Rockabilly Blues" (UK Sun LP 1019, 1985). "My Gal Mary Ann" finds a place on the LP "Hot Southern Boppers" (UK Sun LP 1024, 1985), and "When I Dream" has to wait for a release until 1996, this time on CD : "Hey Slim, Let's Bop - His Complete Sun Recordings" (UK Charly 8197). Personnel : Jack Earls (vocal, guitar) ; Warren Gregory (guitar) ; Johnny Black (bass) ; Danny Wahlquist (drums).
June 7-8, 1956 : Spread over two days, THE CLOVERS commit three tracks to wax. On the 7th they record "A Lonely Fool", which will come out in December (Atlantic 1118). The next day they continue with "From the Bottom Of My Heart" (Atlantic 1107, September) and the unissued "Springtime". Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York.
Friday, June 8, 1956 : WANDA JACKSON arrives at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood for her first Capitol session, produced by Ken Nelson. "I Gotta Know"/"Half As Good A Girl" is selected for her debut single release on Capitol (3485, July). "Cryin' Thru the Night" becomes the B-side of her third Capitol single (3637) in February 1957. "Step By Step" is first released on Wanda's 4-CD box-set "Right Or Wrong" (Bear Family BCD 15629) in 1992.
June 9, 1956 : SANFORD CLARK's second session yields three tracks, of which only "Usta Be My Baby" is originally released, in November (Dot 15516). "Don't Care" and "Why Did I Choose You" are first released in 1986 by Bear Family (BFX 15198/151199). Backing musicians include Al Casey on guitar and bass guitar. Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
June 12, 1956 : STAN FREBERG records satirical versions of "Heart Break Hotel" and "Rock Island Line" (Capitol 3480, July 9). Backing by Billy Liebert and his orchestra. Interruptions on "Rock Island Line" (credited to Stan Freberg and his Sniffle Group) by Peter Leeds. "Echo by Mammoth Cave" (on "Heartbreak Hotel"). Produced by Ken Nelson.
June 12, 1956 : RUTH BROWN is back in the Atlantic studio for a three-track session. "I Want To Be Loved"/"Mom Oh Mom" is the resulting single, released on Atlantic 1102 in the first week of August. "What Makes Me Want You" remains unissued to this day. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
June 15, 1956 : In Los Angeles, WYNONA CARR records "Hurt Me", which will be used as the B-side of the previously recorded "Jump Jack Jump" in July (Specialty 580). Vocal backing by the Turks. Produced by Art Rupe.
June 15, 1956 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records the single "Lovin' You"/"Three Time Loser" (Imperial 5408, September), in New Orleans. Personnel includes Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Edward Frank (piano).
June 16, 1956 : BILL DOGGETT lays down his instrumental classic "Honky Tonk" at King's New York studio on 31st Street. Released as "Honky Tonk, Parts 1 & 2" on King 4950 in mid-July. Also recorded are "Hand In Hand", which becomes the B-side of "Slow Walk" in November (King 5000) and "On the Sunny Side Of the Street", an EP track. Personnel : Clifford Scott (sax) ; Bill Doggett (organ) ; Billy Butler (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Shep Shepherd (drums). Produced by Henry Glover.
June 18, 1956 : Recording date of GEORGE HAMILTON IV's "If You Don't Know"/"A Rose And A Baby Ruth". First released on Colonial CR 420 in late August, then on ABC-Paramount 9765 in October. Personnel : George Hamilton IV (vocal, guitar) ; Joe Tanner (guitar) ; Henry Heitman (bass) ; Dennis Beam (drums) ; The Blue Notes (vocal chorus). Location : WUNC, Swain Hall, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC.
Wednesday, June 20, 1956 : On this day RAY HARRIS records the single "Come On Little Mama"/"Where 'd You Stay Last Night" (Sun 254, September). An alternate version of "Come On Little Mama" will appear on the album "Hot Southern Boppers" (UK Sun LP 1024, 1985). Personnel : Ray Harris (vocals, guitar) ; Wayne Cogswell (guitar) ; Joey Reisenberg (drums); Unknown (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio on 706 Union Avenue, Memphis.
June 20, 1956 : JERRY REED is in Nashville for a session produced by Ken Nelson. "This Great Big Empty Room" is selected for the next single (Capitol 3504, August). "You're Braggin' Baby"/"Too Busy Cryin' the Blues" becomes the single thereafter (Capitol 3592, November). "Everywhere" is first released on the Bear Family CD "Here I Am" (BCD 16306) in 1999.
June 21, 1956 : FATS DOMINO lays down "What's the Reason I'm Not Pleasing You", which will become the B-side of "Blue Monday" in December (Imperial 5417). Also recorded is "The Twist Set Me Free" (a remake of "Don't Know What's Wrong"), which is held in the can until February 1962 when it is released on the LP "Twistin' the Stomp" (Imperial LP 9170). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Lawrence Guyton (bass) ; Eddie Sylvas (tenor sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Location : Masters Recorders, Hollywood.
June 21, 1956 : DAVID HOUSTON has his first recording session for RCA in New York City. "Sugar Sweet"/"Hasta Luego" becomes his his first single for the major company (RCA 6611, August). "I'll Always Have It On Your Mind"/"Blue Prelude" will be used for his next release (RCA 6696, end of October). Personnel : George Barnes, Al Chernet, Johnny Jones (guitars) ; Bob 'Hutch' Davie (piano) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes, arranged by Charles Grean.
June 21, 1956 : Four-track session for THE DRIFTERS in New York City. "I Gotta Get Myself A Woman"/"Soldier Of Fortune" is selected for the next single (Atlantic 1101, end of July). "Sadie My Lady" and "Honky Tonky" are first released on the LP "The Drifters' Greatest Hits" (Atlantic LP 8041) in September 1960. At this time The Drifters are : Johnny Moore, Gerhart Thrasher, Charlie Hughes and Bill Pinkney. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
June 21, 1956 : DANNY DILL records the single "I'm Hungry For Your Lovin'"/"The Stranger Of Abilene" in Nashville. Released on ABC-Paramount 9734 in September. Further details unknown.
June 24-27, 1956 : Marathon session by GENE VINCENT and the Blue Caps, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Sixteen tracks are recorded, four on each day. Twelve of these are used for Gene's first LP, "Bluejean Bop", which is released in August (Capitol T 764) : Blujean Bop, Jezebel, Who Slapped John, Ain't She Sweet, I Flipped, Waltz Of the Wind, Up A Lazy River, Bop Street, Jumps Giggles and Shouts, Wedding Bells, Jump Back Honey Jump Back, Peg O' My Heart. "Bluejean Bop"/"Who Slapped John" also gets a single release (Capitol 3558, late September). Also recorded are "Gonna Back Up Baby" (Capitol 3530, late August), "Crazy Legs" (Capitol 3617, January 1957), "You Told A Fib" (track for Gene's second LP) and "Well I Knocked Bim Bam" (first released on an LP with Ferlin Husky, Sonny James and Tommy Sands called "Teenage Rock", Capitol T 1009, 1958). Blue Caps personnel : Cliff Gallup (lead guitar) ; Willie Williams (rhythm guitar) ; Jack Neal (upright bass) ; Dickie Harrell (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Tuesday, June 26, 1956 : In New York City, THE "5" ROYALES commit four tunes to wax, released on two singles : "Come On And Save Me"/"Get Something Out Of It" (King 4952, July) and "Just As I Am"/"Mine Forevermore" (King 4973, October). The "5" Royales are : Clarence Paul, Windsor King, Eugene Tanner, John Tanner and Lowman Pauling.
June 26, 1956 : THE COOKIES record a follow-up to their hit "In Paradise". "Down By the River"/"My Lover" is released on Atlantic 1110 in November. The Cookies are Dorothy Jones, Beulah Robertson and Darlene McCrea.
June 26, 1956 : Another Capitol session for THE FIVE KEYS, in New York City. "Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind" is coupled with the previously recorded "That's Right" in August (Capitol 3502). "Wisdom Of A Fool"/ "Now Don't That Prove I Love You" is released on Capitol 3597 in late November.
June 26, 1956 : VARETTA DILLARD does another session for the Groove label in New York City. “Got You On My Mind”/“Skinny Jimmy” is chosen as her new single (Groove 0159, July). ”I Can’t Help Myself” will be released in December (Groove 0177, c/w “One More Time” from a later session). A fourth track, “See See Rider”, remains in the vaults. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; George Rhodes (piano) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; George Berg (bass sax) ; Panama Francis (drums).
June 27, 1956 : Second Hollywood session for FATS DOMINO this month. Many takes of "Blueberry Hill" are taped before producer Dave Bartholomew is satisfied. As a result, only one other track comes out of this session : "Honey Chile". The two songs end up on Imperial 5407 in September. Musicians : Fats Domino (vocal, piano) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Lawrence Guyton (bass) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Eddie Sylvas (tenor sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). In fact, almost 20% of all Fats' Imperial sessions were recorded in Hollywood, starting with the 'Rose Mary' session in 1953. Apart from 'Blueberry Hill', other notable Hollywood recordings include 'Ain't It A Shame', 'Blue Monday', Valley Of Tears', 'Sick And Tired' and even the old New Orleans standard - 'When The Saints Go Marching In'. The interesting thing about the 'Blueberry Hill' session was that the hit version had to be pieced together by engineer Bunny Robyn after Fats and his crew couldn't remember the lyrics for the second half of the song, so Robyn repeated the first half to make up the complete track. The only real disappointment to come out of the recording was the Imperial 45 itself, which featured that totally annoying momentary slowing at one part of the song, where a faulty tape splice snagged on one of the rollers during the mastering process. It's quite unbelievable that Imperial allowed the record to be released with that fault.
June 28, 1956 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records his next single, "My Nerves"/ "Do Something For Me" (King 4960, August) in New York City. Backing by Bill Graham (alto sax) ; Lowell Hastings, Big John Greer (tenor saxes) ; Danny Banks (baritone sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums).
June 28, 1956 : Recording date of the BOBBY LORD single "Everybody's Rockin' But Me"/"Without Your Love" (Columbia 21539, end of July). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
June 29, 1956 : The final Specialty session of LLOYD PRICE yields three tracks. "I'm Glad, Glad"/"Forgive Me Clawdy" sees a release (Specialty 582) in September. "Baby Please Come Home" will follow in May 1957 (Specialty 602). Personnel : Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Lloyd Price at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
June 29, 1956 : JOHNNIE RAY records at the Columbia Recording Studio in New York City. “Just Walking in the Rain”/“In the Candlelight” is selected as his new single (Columbia 40729, July). A # 2 pop hit. “Look Homeward, Angel” becomes the B-side of “You Don’t Owe Me A Thing” (recorded on 15th November) and released on Columbia 40803 on December 3. It charts in its own right (# 36). “Weaker Than Wise” is an EP track and a first attempt at “If I Had You” remains on the shelf until it is included on the Bear Family box-set “Cry” (BCD 16285) in 1999. Arranged and conducted by Ray Conniff. Produced by Mitch Miller.
(Probably) Early June 1956 : RICHARD BERRY from L.A. does a session in New Orleans, which produces "Yama Yama Pretty Mama"/ "Angel Of My Life" (RPM 465, end of June) and "Mad About You" (first released in 1982 on Ace LP CH 59, UK). Backing by Cosimo Matissa's studio band, including Lee Allen on tenor sax and Earl Palmer on drums.
Mid-June 1956 : GLENN REEVES and HAL WILLIS have a split session for Atlantic in Nashville. Reeves records "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee"/ "Rockin' Country Style" (Atco 6080, October) and Hal Willis "Bop-A-Dee Bop-A-Doo"/"My Pink Cadillac" (Atlantic 1114, November). Backing by Harold Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Crescendos (vocal chorus).
June, 1956, unknown date : HUEY 'PIANO' SMITH AND THE CLOWNS have their first recording session, in New Orleans. The resultant single is "Little Liza Jane"/"Everybody's Whalin'" (Ace 521, September). Personnel : Huey Smith (vocals, piano) ; Dave Dixon and Junior Gordon (vocals) ; Earl King, Joe Fritz (guitars) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Roland Cook (vocals, bass ) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
With thanks to Henk Gorter and Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
JULY 1956
July 1, 1956 : BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets record their next single at the King studio in Cincinnati :. "Hit That Jive Jack"/ "Rabbit-Eye Pink And Charcoal Black" (King 4935, August). Personnel : Boyd Bennett(vocals, drums) ; 'Big Moe' Muzey (vocals on "Hit That Jive Jack") ; Ron Ayres (guitar) ; Mickey Allen (rhythm guitar) ; Bobby Jones (tenor sax) ; Skip Pendergraff (bass).
July 2, 1956 : ELVIS PRESLEY records the biggest hit of 1956 : "Hound Dog"/"Don't Be Cruel" (RCA 6604, end of July). Also recorded is "Any Way You Want Me (That's How I Will Be)", which will be used as the B-side of"Love Me Tender" (RCA 6643, October). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) : D.J. Fontana(drums) ; Shorty Long (piano) ; Gordon Stoker (piano on "Hound Dog") ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Steve Sholes at RCA Studios in New York City.
July 2-5, 1956 : Four days of sessions by JOHNNY BURNETTE and the Rock 'n' Roll Trio produce enough material for an LP, imaginatively titled "Johnny Burnette and the Rock 'n' Roll Trio" (Coral CRL 57080, January 1957, 10-inch). Day one kicks off with "The Train Kept-A Rollin'", followed by "Blues Stay Away From Me" (not on the LP, first released on Coral 62190 in April 1960), "All By Myself" and "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee". Two Joe Turner songs are recorded on Tuesday, July 3, ("Chains Of Love" and "Honey Hush"), alongside "Lonesome Tears In My Eyes" and "I Just Found Out". On July 4,the trio takes a stab at Fats Domino's "Please Don't Leave Me" **, followed by "Rock Therapy" ** and "Rock Billy Boogie". The four final LP tracks are waxed on Thursday the 5th : "Lonesome Train", "Sweet Love On My Mind", "I Love You So" and "Your Baby Blue Eyes". Also cut is "My Love You're A Stranger" **. Six of the LP tracks are also issued as singles between October 1956 and December 1957. The three tracks marked ** do not appear on the LP and are first released in 1970 on the UK LP "Tear It Up" (Coral CP 10).Musicians : Johnny Burnette (vocals, guitar) ; Dorsey Burnette (vocals, bass) ; Paul Burlison (guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass, July 4 only) ; Owen Bradley (piano, July 3 and 5) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus on July 5). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville. Producer : Henry Jerome.
July 3, 1956 : Four-track session for JAYCEE HILL at Audio Recording Studio in Cleveland, Ohio. "Romp Stompin' Boogie"/"A Love So Fine" is released on Epic 9185 in September. "Since My Baby Left Me" is left in the can until the appearance of the CD "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 23 : Rockabilly From the Vaults Of Columbia Records" (Bear Family BCD 16723, 2006)."My Suspicious Heart" remains unissued.
July 6, 1956 : BUCK GRIFFIN records three self-composed songs at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. "Bow My Back"/"Old Bee Tree" is released on MGM 12439 in March 1957 and "Jessie Lee" on MGM 12597in December 1957. Backing by unidentified electric guitar (possibly Lefty Perkins), bass and drums. Produced by Joe Leonard.
July 9, 1956 : Second King session for MAC CURTIS, again in Dallas (Jim Beck Studio). Two singles are the result : "You Ain't Treatin' Me Right"/"The Low Road" (King 4965, September) and "That Ain't Nothin' But Right"/"Don't You Love Me" (King 4995, December). Musicians : Mac Curtis (vocals, acoustic guitar) ; Bill Hudson (lead guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Dick Powell (drums) Produced by Ralph Bass.
July 9, 1956 : WILBERT HARRISON waxes his next single in New York City : "The Way I Feel"/"Confessin' My Dreams" (Savoy 1198, late August).Personnel : Wilbert Harrison (vocal, guitar) ; Buddy Lucas (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Ed Sneed (bass) ; Sol Hall (drums). Produced by Fred Mendelsohn.
July 9, 1956 : THE SENSATIONS lay down "Little Wallflower"/"Such A Love" for release on Atco 6083 in December. Lead vocal by Yvonne Mills. "How Much I Love" from this NYC session has never been released.
July 11, 1956 : MARVIN RAINWATER records his next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Why Did You Have To Go And Leave Me"/"What Am I Supposed To Do" (MGM 12313, August) and "Get Off the Stool"/"(Sometimes) I Feel Like Leaving Town" (MGM 12370, November).Backing includes Grady Martin (guitar) and Lightnin' Chance (bass). More details unknown.
July 11, 1956 : Beginning of a busy week for THE PLATTERS. On this day they record "You'll Never Know" (Mercury 70948, September) and "One In A Million" (Mercury 71011, November). On July 12, they wax "It Isn't Right" (flip of "You'll Never Know") and "He's Mine" (Mercury 71032, January 1957, lead vocal by Zola Taylor), plus three tracks for the LP "The Platters, Volume 2" (Mercury MG 20216, January 1957). The remaining nine tracks for this album are recorded on the 16th (4 songs) and the 17th (five songs). None of the songs from the LP is issued as a single. For its contents seehttp://www.bsnpubs.com/mercury/mercury/04-popmain-20200/05mercury-20200-20399.html (scroll down to 20216). Location : Mercury Sound Studio, New York City.
July 12, 1956 : BILL HALEY and his Comets have another session at the Pythian Temple in New York City. Only two songs are waxed, which are released back to back at the end of July : "Rip It Up"/"Teenager's Mother"(Decca 30028). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
Friday, July 13, 1956 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA lay down their next single, "No Good Lover"/"Walkin' In the Rain" (Groove 0164, August), in New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocal, guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocal, guitar) ; Herman Foster (piano ) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Joe Marshall(drums) ; Washboard Bill (washboard).
July 19, 1956 : HOWLIN' WOLF (Chester Burnett) is back at the Chess studio in Chicago. "I Asked For Water (She Gave Me Gasoline) "/"So Glad"is selected for single release at the end of August (Chess 1632). "Natchez Burning" has to wait until the end of 1959 for a release on Chess 1744, while "Break Of Day" finally comes out in 1985 on the UK LP "Genesis, Vol. 4 : Memphis To Chicago" (Chess LP 6499 435). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (vocal, harmonica ) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Willie Johnson, Smokey Smothers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
July 20, 1956 : BIG MAYBELLE has a four-track session in New York City. Selected for the next single are "Mean To Me" and "Tell Me Who" (Savoy 1500, September). "I Don't Want To Cry" is released on Savoy 1512 in April 1957 (B-side of :"All Of Me"). The fourth track, "There I've Said It Again" is first released on Maybelle's LP "Candy" (Savoy MG 14011) in March 1958. Backing by : David McRae (alto sax) ; Buddy Lucas, Warren Lucky (tenor saxes) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano, arranger) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Ed Sneed (bass) ; Sol Hall (drums).
July 22, 1956 : Second Nashville session for BUDDY HOLLY, at Bradley Studio. Four tracks will see their first release on Buddy's LP "That'll Be The Day" (Decca DL 8707, April 1958): "Rock Around With Ollie Vee" (used on the UK single on Brunswick 05800, coupled with "Midnight Shift" (June 1959)), "I'm Changing All Those Changes", "Ting A Ling" and "Girl On My Mind". A different version of "Rock Around With Ollie Vee" (with sax), recorded in November 1956, will be used as the b-side of the Decca version of "That'll Be The Day" (Decca 30434, September 1957). Also recorded is a first attempt at "That'll Be the Day", which will finally be released in 1975 on a UK LP ("The Nashville Sessions", MCA Coral CDL 8038). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals, guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (guitar) ; Don Guess (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley.
July 25, 1956 : JIMMY AND JOHNNY record their version of "Sweet Love On My Mind" at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Released on Decca 30061 in the last week of September. Jimmy & Johnny are Jimmy Lee Fautheree and his brother Lynn. Produced by Paul Cohen.
Thursday, July 26, 1956 : CLYDE McPHATTER records his next single, "Thirty Days"/"I'm Lonely Tonight" for release on Atlantic 1106 in September. "Anywhere" from this session remains unissued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
July 26, 1956 : Recording date of the WAYNE WALKER single "All I Can Do Is Cry"/"It's My Way" (ABC-Paramount 9735, late September). Location : Nashville, Tennessee. More details unknown.
July 27, 1956 : First Decca session by EDDIE FONTAINE, in New York City. "Cool It Baby" is released in August (Decca 30042) and will be featured in the movie "The Girl Can't Help It". Flip is "Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall" from the same session. Backing directed by Jack Pleis.
July 30, 1956 : Final MGM session for DON GIBSON, before signing for RCA. Two singles are the result : "I Believed In You"/"What A Fool I Was To Fall (For You)" (MGM 12331, September) and "I'm Gonna Fool Every-body"/"You're the Only One For Me" (MGM 12393, December). Produced by Wesley Rose at RCA Victor Studios in Nashville.
July 30-31, 1956 : Eleven-year old BRENDA LEE makes her debut as a recording artist, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. On the 30th she records four tracks, of which "Jambalaya" and "Bigelow 6-200" are chosen for her first single (Decca 30050, September). "Your Cheatin' Heart" and "Some People" will stay in the can until the release of "Brenda Lee : The Early Years" (MCA LP 1392, UK) in 1985. The next day she waxes two Christmas songs, "Christy Christmas" and "I'm Gonna Lasso Santa Claus", released on Decca 30107 in November. The third track, "Doodle Bug Rag" also stays on the shelf until the 1985 LP. Personnel : Grady Martin, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
July 30-31, 1956 : LITTLE RICHARD is at J&M Studio in New Orleans for a three-day session. On the first day he records "Lucille" (Specialty 598, March 1957) and "Heeby-Jeebies" (Specialty 584,.October), plus a first, fast version of "Good Golly Miss Molly", which is first released by Ace (UK) in 1989. "All Around the World" is cut on the 31st (Specialty 591, December), as well as an unissued version of "Send Me Some Lovin'" and possibly also "Tell Me Why" (unissued, lost), though this latter song may also have been waxed on February 9, 1956. Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano ) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Supervised by Bumps Blackwell. To be continued next month, with the August 1 session.
July 1956, unknown date : JIMMY BEASLEY records material for two singles in New Orleans. "Don't Feel Sorry For Me"/"Little Coquette" is released in August on Modern 996, and "My Happiness"/"Jambalaya" on Modern 1009in December. "Little Coquette" will be covered by Fats Domino in August 1958 as "Coquette" (flip of "Whole Lotta Loving"). Beasley is accompanied by Cosimo Matassa's Studio Band, including Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Supervised by Maxwell Davis.
July 1956, unknown dates : EDDIE COCHRAN information for this month is sketchy. It seems sure that "Skinny Jim" was recorded during this month (Crest 1026, August) and also "Latch On" (first released on Rockstar RSR-EP2003), both at Master Recorders in Hollywood. This may have been a split session with Bo Davis, who recorded "Let's Coast Awhile"/"Drowning All My Sorrows" (Crest 1027). Musicians on these four tracks : Eddie Cochran (vocals, guitar) ; Guybo Smith (bass) ; Ray Stanley (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums) ; Bo Davis (vocals, guitar on his two tracks). "Skinny Jim" will be overdubbed with piano and drums on July 20, 1962, under the supervision of Snuff Garrett. Also possibly recorded this month (at Gold Star Studio, Hollywood) : "Twenty Flight Rock" (original release on London HLU 8386, UK, April 1957), "Dark Lonely Street" (Liberty 55056, February 1957), "Completely Sweet" (London HLU 8433, June 1957) and others.
With thanks to Steve Walker. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
AUGUST
1956
August 1, 1956 : LITTLE RICHARD completes a three-day session at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Two songs are recorded on this day. "Can't Believe You Wanna Leave" is first released on Richard's debut LP in March 1957, then as the B-side of "Keep-A Knockin'" (Specialty 611) in September 1957. "Shake A Hand" is held in the can until 1959, when an overdubbed version appears on both Specialty 670 and on Richard's third LP, "The Fabulous Little Richard" (Specialty SP 2104). Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
Thursday, August 2, 1956 : ROY HALL arrives at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single, "Diggin' the Boogie"/"Three Alley Cats" (Decca 30060, September). Also recorded is "My Girl And His Girl", which is first released on the UK LP "Diggin' the Boogie" (Charly CR 30227) in 1984. Musicians : Roy Hall (vocals, piano) ; with probably Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
August 4, 1956 : SMILEY LEWIS records four tracks in New Orleans (Cosimo Studio) . "Down Yonder We Go Ballin'"/"Someday You'll Want Me" is selected for single release (Imperial 5404, late August), while "No Letter Today" and "Mama Don't Like" have to wait until 1986 for a release on a French LP (Pathe Marconi 156 1391). Session men include Huey Smith (piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; more details unknown. On August 11 Smiley records "Shame Shame Shame" (different from the version featured in the film "Baby Doll"), which will be released on Imperial 5418 in November.
August 8, 1956 : JOHNNY CASH records two tracks for a future single, "Train Of Love"/"There You Go" (Sun 258, December). Cash (vocals, acoustic guitar) is supported by Luther Perkins (electric guitar) and Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
August 9, 1956 : SKEETS McDONALD is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood to record two songs. "You Gotta Be My Baby" becomes the A-side of his next single (Capitol 3525, end of August). "You Better Not Go" is released on Capitol 3600 in December. Personnel : Joe Maphis, Fuzzy Owen, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Muddy Berry (drums) ; Bill Woods (piano, arranger) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 12, 1956 : WEBB PIERCE records the single "Teenage Boogie"/ "I'm Really Glad You Hurt Me" (Decca 30045, September) and "Crying Over You" - Decca 30623, April 58 Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Dale Potter, Tommy Jackson, Jack Kay (fiddles) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
Tuesday, August 14, 1956 : Recording date of the single "Take And Give"/ "Do What I Do", credited to SLIM RHODES (Sun 256, November). Personnel : Sandy Brooks (vocals) ; Slim Rhodes, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; John Hughey (steel guitar) ; Speck Rhodes (bass) ; Johnny Bernero (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
August 14-16, 1956 : During a three-day session at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood, SONNY JAMES records the single "The Cat Came Back"/"Hello Old Broken Heart" (Capitol 3542, September), nine tracks for his first LP (Capitol T 779), "Southern Gentleman" ("I'll Always Wonder", "Forgive Me", "I Got the Feeling", "Can't Get Over Missing You", "Only One Heart To Give", "Cold Cold Heart", "Lonesome", "Only A Shadow Between Us" and "I Wish I Knew"), plus three tracks that were originally unissued, but now available on Sonny's 6-CD Bear Family box-set "Young Love" ("I Can't Stop Loving You", "Just Ask Your Heart" and "In My Heart"). Personnel : Sonny James (vocals, guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Harland Powell (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 15, 1956 : FLOYD DIXON does a one-off session for Chess, resulting in the single “Alarm Clock Blues”/“I’m Ashamed Of Myself” (Checker 857, January 1957). Unissued from this session is “Please Don’t Go”. Personnel : Floyd Dixon (vocals / piano ) ; Robert Lockwood Jr (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Unknown (saxes) ; Fred Below (drums). The location is the Chess studio in Chicago.
August 18, 1956 : Session guitarist ROY MONTRELL records his first vocal single, the great double-sider "(Every Time I Hear) That Mellow Saxophone"/"Oooh-Wow" (Specialty 583, September). A third track from this session, "Go For Yourself", remains in the vaults. Musicians : Roy Montrell (vocals, guitar) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Clemont Tervalon (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).. Produced by Bumps Blackwell at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans.
Wednesday, August 22, 1956 : SID KING and the Five Strings have their first session outside of Texas, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Two singles are laid down : "Gonna Shake This Shack Tonight"/"Good Rockin' Baby" (Columbia 21564, October) and "When My Baby Left Me"/"It's True, I'm Blue" (Columbia 40833, February 1957). Personnel : Sid King (vocals, guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; Louis Butterman (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Marion Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 22-24, 1956 : Three-day session for FARON YOUNG, who waxes nine songs for his first LP, "Sweethearts Or Strangers" (Capitol T 778, January 1957) and three tracks that will be released as singles. On the 22nd Faron records two Hank Williams songs, "Your Cheatin' Heart" and "I Can't Help It", besides "I'll Be Satisfied With Love" (Capitol 3549, Sept.) and "I'm Gonna Live Some Before I Die" (Capitol 3611, December). This is followed by "Sweethearts Or Strangers", "Shame On You", "Worried Mind" and "I'll Be Yours" on the 23rd. The third day is spent on "You Call Everybody Darling", "I'm A Poor Boy" and "You Are My Sunshine", plus "I Miss You Already" (Capitol 3611, December). Personnel : Hank Garland (electric guitar) ; Spider Wilson (guitar) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Hubert Long Choir (vocal chorus) . Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 23, 1956 : FRANKIE LYMON and the Teenagers record their fourth single, "The ABCs of Love"/"Share" (Gee 1022, September) in New York.
August 23, 1956 : ERNIE FREEMAN, freshly signed to Imperial, records six tracks for the instrumental LP "Ernie Freeman Plays Irving Berlin" (Imperial LP 9022) : "Alexander's Ragtime Band", "How Deep Is the Ocean", "Heat Wave", "Say It Isn't So" (also a single, Imperial 5883, in 1962), "Blue Skies"and "Always". The remaining five tracks for the album, "All Alone, "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm", "Now It Can Be Told", "The Song Is Ended" and "Searching For the Moon"are also recorded in August, but at a different (unknown) date.
August 24, 1956 : ELVIS PRESLEY does a soundtrack session for the film "Love Me Tender" at 20th Century Fox Studios in Hollywood. The title song, "Love Me Tender", will be released on RCA 6643 in October. "We're Gonna Move" ends up on the EP "Love Me Tender" (RCA EPA 4006, November). Also taped are first attempts at "Poor Boy", to which Elvis will return on September 5. Personnel : Vito Mumolo (guitar) ; Myer Rubin (bass) ; Richard Cornell (drums) ; Luther Rountree (banjo) ; Dom Frontieri (accordion) ; The Ken Darby Trio [Rad Robinson, Jon Dodson, Charles Prescott] (backup vocals). Produced by Lionel Newman.
August 24, 1956 : Four-track session by SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON in Chicago. Selected for single release is "Keep It To Yourself"/"The Key (To Your Door)", which comes out on Checker 847 in early October. "Please Forgive Me" is first released on Sonny's LP "Down And Out Blues" (Checker LP 1437) in 1959 and "Have You Ever Been In Love" on the LP "One Way Out" (Chess CHV 417) in 1975. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (Rice Miller) (vocals, harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood Jr and Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
August 27, 1956 : JIMMY BOYD records material for his next two singles : "Rockin' Down the Mississippi"/"Crazy Mixed-Up Blues" (Columbia 21571, November) and "I Wanna Go Steady"/"Gonna Take My Baby On A Hayride" (Columbia 40881, April 1957). Personnel : Johnny Bond, Joe Maphis (guitars) ; Marian Hall (steel guitar) ; Louis Butterman (bass) ; William Wardle (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Margie Ann Warren (fiddle). Produced by Don Law at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
Tuesday, August 28, 1956 : A three-track session by JOHNNY BOND results in the single "Lonesome Train"/"Laughing Back the Heartaches" (Columbia 21565, October) and "Don't Take It Away", which stays on the shelf until 2007, when it is released on Johnny's CD "Put Me To Bed" (Bear Family BCD 16810). Personnel : Johnny Bond (vocals, guitar) ; Joe Maphis, Wesley Tuttle (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass ; duet vocal on "Lonesome Train") ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Jerry Adler (harmonica) ; William Wardle (piano). Produced by Don Law at Radio Recorders in Hollywood (11:00-14:00).
August 28, 1956 : And yet another session at Radio Recorders supervised by that busy producer, Don Law. During the evening, THE COLLINS KIDS record their next two singles : "Rock And Roll Polka"/"My First Love" (Columbia 21560, October) and "Move A Little Closer"/"Go Away, Don't Bother Me" (Columbia 40824, January 1957). Personnel : Lorrie Collins (vocal, guitar) ; Larry Collins (vocal, guitar) ; Johnny Bond, Joe Maphis (guitars) ; Marian Hall (steel guitar) ; Louis Butterman (bass) ; William Wardle (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
August 28, 1956 : PAUL GAYTEN waxes the single "The Music Goes Round And Round"/"Be My Baby" (Argo 5257, October), in New Orleans. Personnel : Paul Gayten (vocal, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Waldron Joseph (trombone) ; Jack Willis (trumpet) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Unknown (guitar) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
August 30, 1956 : CHUCK WILLIS is at Capitol Studio in New York City for a three-track session. "Juanita"/"Whatcha' Gonna Do When Your Baby Leaves You" is released on Atlantic 1112 in October and "Ease the Pain" on Atlantic 1130 in March 1957 (flip of "C.C. Rider", yet to be recorded). Personnel includes Gene Barge (tenor sax) ; Eddie McMullen (Hawaiian guitar) ; The Cookies (background vocals on "Juanita"). Other details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
August 1956, unknown date : MERLE KILGORE does a self-produced session at KRVS Radio Station Studio in Ruston, LA, with unknown musicians. "Ernie"/"Trying To Find" is released on Imperial 5409 in September, while the third track from this session, "Goodbye" has to wait until 1991 for a release on Merle's CD "Teenager's Holiday" (Bear Family BCD 15544).
With thanks to Steve Walker, Frank Frantik and Jan-Jaap Been. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
SEPTEMBER 1956
September 1-3, 1956 : During a marathon studio session at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, ELVIS PRESLEY records the forthcoming single "Too Much"/"Playing For Keeps" (RCA 6800, January 1957) and eleven of the twelve tracks for his second LP, "Elvis" (RCA LPM 1382, October) : "Love Me", "Paralyzed", "How Do You Think I Feel", "How's the World Treating You", "When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again", "Long Tall Sally", "Old Shep", "Anyplace Is Paradise", "Ready Teddy", "First In Line" and "Rip It Up". (The twelfth track, "So Glad You're Mine" was recorded on January 30, 1956.) Personnel: Elvis Presley (vocals, guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Steve Sholes.
September 4, 1956 : AMOS MILBURN records a storming remake of his 1948 # 1 hit "Chicken Shack" for rush release on Aladdin 3332, coupled with the previously recorded "Juice. Juice, Juice". Personnel : Amos Milburn (vocal, piano) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Location : Cosimo's Studio, New Orleans. Later in the month (exact date unknown) Milburn records the single "Every Day Of the Week"/"Girl Of My Dreams" (Aladdin 3340, Nov.) with the same personnel plus an unknown trombone player.
September 4, 1956 : CHARLES BROWN also records at Cosimo's this day. "I"ll Always Be In Love With You"/"Soothe Me" is chosen for the next single (Aladdin 3339, October), soon followed by "Merry Christmas Baby" (Aladdin 3348) in the first week of December. "It's A Sin To Tell A Lie"/"Please Believe Me" is released on Aladdin 3366 in May 1957. Several other unissued titles were recorded. Personnel (probably) : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
September 4, 1956 : MARTY ROBBINS records at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Knee Deep In the Blues"/"The Same Two Lips" comes out on Columbia 40815 in December. "Where D'ja Go" is released on Columbia 40868 in March 1957. Several other tracks are recorded that will be not be released until the appearance of the Bear Family box-set "Marty Robbins 1951-1958" (5 CD's). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals, guitar) ; Hillous Butrum, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Grover Lavender (fiddle). Produced by Don Law.
September 4, 1956 : Saxophonist SIL AUSTIN records the biggest hit of his career, "Slow Walk" and its flip, "Wildwood" (Mercury 70963, first week of October), at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. Personnel : Sil Austin (tenor sax) ; Ace Harris (piano) ; Doc Bagby (organ) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Clarence Collier (bass) ; Freddie Bonita (drums).
September 4-5, 1956 : JEFF DANIELS (aka Luke McDaniel) records the following tracks at the Sun Studio in Memphis : "Uh Babe (Huh Babe)", "Go Ahead Baby", "High High High", "My Baby Don't Rock" "That's What I Tell My Heart" and "The Cause Of It All". None of these tracks was originally issued, but between 1976 and 1986 they were released on various Charly LP's (including some alternate takes), with the exception of "The Cause Of It All". Personnel : Jeff Daniels (vocals, rhythm guitar ); Roland Janes, Brad Suggs or Buddy Holobaugh (lead guitar), Marvin Pepper (string bass) ; Martin Willis (tenor sax) ; Johnny Bernero or Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano on "That's What I Tell My Heart"). Produced by Sam Phillips.
September 4-5 : ELVIS PRESLEY continues his stay in Hollywood with a soundtrack session for the movie "Love Me Tender", at 20th Century Fox, Stage 1. Both "Poor Boy" and "Let Me" end up on the EP "Love Me Tender" (RCA EPA 4006). Personnel : Vito Mumolo (guitar) ; Myer Rubin (bass) ; Richard Cornell (drums) ; Carl Fortina (accordion) ; Luther Roundtree (banjo) ; The Ken Darby Trio (vocal chorus). Produced by Lionel Newman.
September 5, 1956 : Four-track session for IVORY JOE HUNTER in New York City. "Since I Met You Baby" will become the biggest pop hit of his career. It is coupled with "You Can't Stop This Rocking and Rolling" for release on Atlantic 1111 in late October. Both "All My Life" and "To Lose You" end up on the LP "Ivory Joe Sings the Old And New" (Atlantic LP 8015, February 1958). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
September 5, 1956 : JOE TEX records the single "Pneumonia"/"Get Way Back" in New York City (King 4980, November), with Dave Van Dyke (tenor sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Andy Gibson (piano, producer) ; Unknown (bass) ; Specs Powell (drums).
September 6, 1956 : LITTLE RICHARD records in Hollywood this time, at Master Recorders, backed by his own band, the Upsetters. Only one track from this session will be released : "She's Got It" (Specialty 584, October). Versions of "I Got It", "Send Me Some Lovin'", "Hound Dog" and "Caravan" (instrumental) remain unissued. Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocal, piano) ; Wilbert Smith (tenor sax) ; Grady Gaines (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Nathaniel Douglas (guitar) ; Charles Connor (drums). Supervised by Art Rupe and Bumps Blackwell.
September 9, 1956 : ANDY STARR waxes his next two singles at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas : "Round And Round"/ Give Me a Woman" (MGM 12364, late October) and "One More Time"/ "No Room For Your Kind" (MGM 12421, February 1957). Personnel : Andy Starr (vocals, guitar), with The Strikes Band : Albert Cornelius (guitar) ; Don Alexander (bass) ; Ken Scott (rhythm guitar) ; Walter Parsons (drums) . Produced by Joe Leonard.
September 9-10, 1956 : Spread over two days, KENNY PARCHMAN records four songs at the Sun studio in Memphis, none of which is originally issued. “Love Crazy Baby” and “Treat Me Right” make their first appearance in 1985, on the Various Artists LP “Hop Flop and Fly” (Sun LP 1025, UK). The other two tracks, “I Feel Like Rockin’” and “Tennessee Zip”, are released shortly afterwards, in 1986, on the Various Artists LP “Feel Like Rockin’” (Sun LP 1038, UK). Personnel : Kenny Parchman (vocale / guitare) ; Ronnie Parchman (guitar and/or drums) ; Jerry Lee Smith (piano) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Jack Clement.
September 10, 1956 : The debut recording session of BOBBY BARE yields two singles : "Another Love Has Ended"/"Down On the Corner Of Love" (Capitol 3557, December) and "Darlin' Don't"/"The Life Of A Fool" (Capitol 3686, May 1957). Backing by Buddy Stoops (lead guitar) ; Buck Owens (rhythm guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Jimmy Bryant (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
September 12, 1956 : First session by SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS for his new label, Okeh. The result is the incredible single "I Put A Spell On You"/"Little Demon" (Okeh 7072, October). "You Ain't Foolin' Me" is first issued on the CD "Cow Fingers & Mosquito Pie" (Epic EK 47933) in 1991. A first attempt at "Darling, Please Forgive Me'' remains unissued. Hawkins is accompanied by the Leroy Kirkland Orchestra : Jimmy Shirley (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Leroy Kirkland, produced by Arnold Maxim in New York City.
Thursday, September 13, 1956 : WERLY FAIRBURN records his next single, "I'm A Fool About Your Love"/"All the Time" (Savoy 1503, October). "Love Routine" and "Cryin' Shame" from this session are unissued and lost. Personnel : Werly Fairburn (vocal, guitar) ; Unknown (lead guitar) ; Joe Martin (bass) ; Eddie Landers (drums) ; Unknown (piano). Location : Cosimo Studio, New Orleans, according to Bear Family. Michel Ruppli's Savoy discography locates this session in New York City, on September 30.
September 13, 1956 : JACKIE BRENSTON does a session with Ike Turner's Kings of Rhythm in Cincinnati. Two singles are the result : "What Can It Be?"/"Gonna Wait For My Chance" (Federal 12283, November) and "Much Later"/"The Mistreater" (Federal 12291, January 1957). Backing by Raymond Hill, Eddie Jones (tenor saxes) ; Ike Turner (guitar) ; Fred Sample (piano) ; Jesse Knight, Jr (bass) ; Eugene Washington (drums).
September 13, 1956 : LOUIS PRIMA records at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, backed by Sam Butera and the Witnesses. The four tracks end up on two singles : "Banana Split For My Baby"/"Five, Months, Two Weeks, Two Days" (Capitol 3566, October) along with "Whistle Stop"/"Be Mine (Little Baby)" (Capitol 3615, January 1957). Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
September 14, 1956 : First recording session of THE FOUR PREPS, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Selected for single release is "Dreamy Eyes"/"Fools Will Be Fools" (Capitol 3576, release date October 29). Three other songs are recorded, all unissued : "Where Wuz You" (first version), "Completely Yours" and "The Fire Burns Low". Backing by Van Alexander and his orchestra. Arranged and directed by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore. The Four Preps are Bruce Belland (tenor), Marvin Inabnett (high tenor) , Glen Larson (baritone) and Ed Cobb (bass).
September 15, 1956 : WELDON ROGERS records a single for his own Je-Wel label at KGNC Radio Station Studio in Amarillo, Texas. “Dim Lights, Thick Smoke”/“For Always, Yes For Ever” is released in October on Je-Wel 102. Harmony vocal by Willie Rogers on the A-side.
September 17, 1956 : ROY ORBISON records his second Sun single, “Rockhouse”/ “You’re My Baby”, which is rush-released on September 24 on Sun 251. Two other songs are laid down, “The Cause Of It All” and ”A Cat Called Domino”, both of which will get their first release in 1974, on the double LP “The Best Of Roy Orbison” (Trip TLX 8505). Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocals / guitar) ; Johnny Wilson (guitar) ; James Morrow (electric mandolin) ; Jack Kennelly (bass) ; Billy Pat Ellis (drums). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
September 17, 1956 : CHAMPION JACK DUPREE records four songs for Groove Records in New York City. "When I Got Married" is coupled with "Lonely Road Blues" for release on Groove 0171 in October. "The Ups" and "Story Of My Life" have to wait more than 50 years (until 2007) for release on the CD "Shake Baby Shake" (SPV Blue 50812). Personnel : Jack Dupree (vocals, piano) ; Mr. Bear (Teddy McRae) (second vocal on "The Ups" and "Lonely Road Blues") ; Larry Dale (guitar) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Gene Moore (drums).
September 18, 1956 : BILL DOGGETT and his band do another session at the King studio in Cincinnati. "Leaps And Bounds, Parts 1 & 2" is saved until December 1957 for release on King 5101. Vocalist Tommy Brown joins the band for "Honky Tonk"/"All I Want" (King 4976, October). [N.B. : this is the first of two vocal versions of "Honky Tonk" by Brown ; more details next month.] Personnel : Bill Doggett (organ) ; Billy Butler, John Faire (guitars) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Clifford Scott (tenor sax) ; Shep Shepherd (drums) ; Tommy Brown (vocals on "Honky Tonk" and "All I Want"). The same band also backs LITTLE WILLIE JOHN on this day, on the singles "Suffering With the Blues" (King 4989, November) and "No More In Life" (King 5179, January 1959).
September 19, 1956 : LEW WILLIAMS records material for two singles in Hollywood : "Bop Bop Ba Doo Bop"/"Something I Said" (Imperial 5411, October) and "Centipede"/"Abracadabra" (Imperial 5429, March 1957). Backing by Barney Kessel (lead guitar) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Unidentified (sax, bass, drums). Arranged and produced by Jimmy Haskell.
September 20, 1956 : WANDA JACKSON is back at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood for a four-song session. "Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad" is coupled with "Silver Threads and Golden Needles" for release on Capitol 3575 (November). "Baby Loves Him" comes out on Capitol 3637 (February 1957) and "Honey Bop" on Capitol 3941 in March 1958. Personnel : Joe Maphis, Buck Owens, Lewis Talley (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Clarence Dooley (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 20, 1956 : Final Capitol session for THE CUES at New York City's Capitol Recording Studio on 46th Street. "Prince Or Pauper" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "Why" in November (Capitol 3582). "I Pretend" will be issued on Capitol's subsidiary Prep in May 1957 (Prep 104). The other two songs, "Warm Spot" and "Ladder" have never been issued.
September 21, 1956 : Three days after his session with the Bill Doggett Combo, LITTLE WILLIE JOHN returns to the King studio in Cincinnati. Tracks recorded : "I've Been Around" (King 4989, November), "Will the Sun Shine Tomorrow"/"A Little Bit Of Loving" (King 5003, December), "Tell It Like It Is" (King 5147, August 1958), "I'll Carry Your Love Wherever I Go" (King 5170, December 1958). Personnel : Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; Alexander Nelson (baritone sax) ; Emmanuel Kennebrew (piano) ; Bill Jennings, Clifford Bush (guitars) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Edison Gore (drums). Unknown (vocal group).
Monday, September 24, 1956 : In London, a British rock 'n' roller makes his first visit to a recording studio, as TOMMY STEELE records "Rock With the Caveman" and "Rock Around the Town", which will be released on Decca F 10795 in mid-October. The backing is provided by a group of notable jazzmen (including saxman Ronnie Scott) who are credited as The Steelmen.
September 25, 1956 : Four-track session by RUTH BROWN in New York City. "Lucky Lips" is selected for release on Atlantic 1125 in January 1957. "When I Get You Baby"/"One More Time" follows in May 1957 (Atlantic 1140). The fourth track, "I'd Pay the Price Again" remains unissued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
September 25, 1956 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters have their second and last 1956 session at the King studio in Cincinnati. All six tracks recorded are released as singles : "I'll Be Home Someday"/"Come On And Get It"/(Federal 12285, October), "Let Me Hold Your Hand"/"Ooh Bah Baby"/ (Federal 12288, December) and Baby Please"/"Ow-Wow-Oo-Wee"/"(Federal 12339, November 1958). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Lawson Smith (baritone vocal) ; Henry Booth (tenor vocal) ; Sonny Woods (bass vocal) ; Cal Green (guitar) ; Cowboy Martin (bass) ; Don Wilkerson (tenor sax) ; Wilbert Dyer (alto sax) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ; George DeHart (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
September 26, 1956 : STOMP GORDON records the single "Ride Superman Ride"/"Oh, Tell Me Why" (Savoy 1504, October). Four other titles are unissued :"Oh, Darlin'", "Alone With You", "Juanita" and an untitled instrumental. Location : New York City. Musicians : Stomp Gordon (vocal, piano) ; Gene Walker (tenor sax) ; Curtis Peagler (alto sax) ; John Green (guitar, bass) ; Donald Drake (drums) ; The Hi-Lites (vocal group).
September 27, 1956 : ROY BROWN has his first Imperial session, in New Orleans. "Saturday Night"/"Everybody" is selected for his first single on the label (Imperial 5422, February 1957). "The Tick Of the Clock" comes out on Imperial 5469 in October 1957. A fourth track, "No Greater Thrill" is first released on the CD "Roy Brown : The Complete Imperial Masters" (Capitol 7243 8 31743 4) in 1995. Backing by (probably) : Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty, Clarence Hall (saxophones), Justin Adams (guitar) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
September 1956, unknown date : CLARENCE HENRY's very first recording session yields two singles : "Ain't Got No Home"/ "Troubles, Troubles" (Argo 5259, October) and "I'm A Country Boy"/"Lonely Tramp" (Argo 5266, February 1957). Backing by Lee Allen, Eddie Smith (saxes) ; Big Boy Myles (trombone) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Paul Gayten (piano, producer) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Eugene Jones (drums). Location : Cosimo Studio, New Orleans.
(Probably) September 1956, unknown date : WARREN SMITH records three tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis, all originally unissued. “Tell Me Who” will see its first release in 1975, on the Various artists LP “Kings of Country, Vol. 2” (Hallmark SHM 864, UK). “Tonight Will Be the Last Night” is first issued in 1978, on the album “Warren Smith - The Legendary Sun Performers” (Charly CR 30132, UK). “Old Lonesome Feeling” is eventually released in 1992 on the CD “Warren Smith : Classic Recordings, 1956-1959” (Bear Family BCD 15514). Produced by Sam Phillips.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Frank Frantik. Corrections and additions welcome.
Dik
OCTOBER 1956
October 1, 1956 : JOHNNY CASH is at the Sun Studio in Memphis for a first attempt at "One More Ride". The (incomplete) recording will be released on the LP boxset "The Sun Years" (UK Sunbox 103) in 1984. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass).
October 1, 1956 : NAPPY BROWN records four tracks in New York City. "Little By Little"/"I'm Getting Lonesome" comes out on Savoy 1506 in December and will become his second biggest pop hit. "Bye Bye Baby" is issued on Savoy 1514 in June 1957 and "I Cried Like A Baby" on Savoy 1547 in August 1958. Backing by Kelly Owens and his orchestra, with Sam Price on piano.
October 2, 1956 : HOMER AND JETHRO record their versions of "Hound Dog" and "Green Door". "Houn' Dawg"/"Screen Door" is released on RCA 6706 in November. "Keep Them Cold Icy Fingers Off Of Me" and "The West Virginny Hills" will be used as LP tracks (RCA LPM 1412). Personnel : Homer Haynes (guitar, vocals) ; Jethro Burns (mandolin, vocals) ; Chet Atkins, George Barnes (guitars) ; Charles Grean (bass) ; Bob "Hutch" Davie (piano) ; Irving Goldberg (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes at RCA Studio 2 in New York City.
Thursday, October 4, 1956 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record the A-sides of two forthcoming singles : the title song from the movie "Don't Knock the Rock" (Decca 30148, November) and "Forty Cups Of Coffee" (Decca 30214, March 1957). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
October 4, 1956: RED PRYSOCK records his next single for Mercury in New York City : "Teen-age Rock"/"Paquino Walk" (Mercury 70985, November). Two other tracks, "Earth Rock" and "Lion's Den" will be released on the LP "The Beat" (Mercury MG 20307). Personnel : Red Prysock, Rufus Gore (tenor saxes) ; Zack Wright (baritone sax) ; Oliver Blair (piano) ; Leo Blevins (guitar) ; Herbert Gordy (bass) ; Lucius Weathers (vibraphone) ; Jerome Potter (drums) ; Harold Mills (vocal on "Teen-age Rock").
October 5, 1956 : WYNONA CARR has a session in Hollywood. "Should I Ever Love Again"/"'Til the Well Runs Dry" becomes the next single (Specialty 589, November). "What Do You Know (About Love)" is released on Specialty 600 in April 1957, while the excellent "Boppity Bop" surfaces eventually on the 1985 LP "Jump, Jack, Jump!" (Specialty SP 2157). Produced by Art Rupe.
October 5, 1956 : Pianist LLOYD GLENN records four instrumental tracks at Master Recorders in Hollywood. “After Hours, Parts 1 & 2” is released on Aladdin 3346 in February 1957. “Old Time Shuffle” and “Chica-Boo” (both remakes of songs previously recorded for Swing Time) were scheduled for release on Aladdin 3353, but this single was withdrawn. Personnel : Lloyd Glenn (piano) ; Billy Hadnott (bass) ; Jack McVea (tenor sax) ; Bob Harvey (drums).
October 6, 1956 : GENE AND EUNICE lay down "Bom Bom Lulu", which will be coupled with the previously recorded "Hi Diddle Diddle" for release on Aladdin 3351 in December. Plas Johnson plays the tenor sax, further details unknown. Location : Los Angeles.
October 9, 1956 : Recording date of the ONIE WHEELER single "A Booger Gonna Getcha"/"A Beggar For Your Love" (Columbia 40787, November). Personnel : Onie Wheeler (vocals, guitar) ; Ray Edenton, Joseph Edwards (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Dale Potter (fiddle). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 10, 1956 : CLYDE McPHATTER records four tracks that will be released on four different singles : "Without Love (There Is Nothing)" (Atlantic 1117, late November), "Heartaches" (Atlantic 1149, July 1957), "Rock And Cry" (Atlantic 1158, September 1957) (? Rec. Feb. 57) and "My Island Of Dreams" (Atlantic 2018, January 1959). The drummer is Joe Harris, more personnel details unknown.
October 11, 1956 : THE CADILLACS lay down "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Josie 807, November) and "Don't Take Your Love From Me" (first released on the Murray Hill LP box-set M61285 in 1983). Location : New York City.
October 11, 1956 : Also in New York City, SONNY THOMPSON and his band record material for two singles : "Low Down"/"Lost In the Great Big City" (King 4992, December) and "Gum Shoe"/"Stop, Come See Me" (King 5055, May 1957). Personnel : Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Tommy Purkeson (alto sax) ; King Curtis, David Brooks (tenor saxes) ; Thomas Palmer (guitar) ; Albert Winston (bass) ; Robert Boswell (drums).
October 15, 1956 : At Mercury Sound Studio in NYC SIL AUSTIN records six tracks for his forthcoming LP "Slow Walk Rock" (Mercury MG 20237) : "Walkin' And Talkin'", "Dogwood Junction", "Shufflin' Home", "Fine Brown Frame", "The Last Time" (also released as a single, Mercury 71027, January 1957) and "Oochie John". See also October 19.
October 15-16, 1956 : LITTLE RICHARD's last session in New Orleans (J&M Studio) will produce several classics. "Good Golly Miss Molly" (Specialty 624, January 1958) and "Jenny, Jenny" (Specialty 606, May 1957) are recorded on the 15th, followed the next day by "The Girl Can't Help It" (Specialty 591, December), "Send Me Some Lovin'" (Specialty 598, March 1957), "Baby Face" (Specialty 645, September 1958) and "By the Light Of the Silvery Moon" (Specialty 660, early 1959). The latter two tracks see their first release on the LP "Little Richard" (Specialty SP 2103, July 1958) before being issued as singles. Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Background vocalists on "The Girl Can't Help It" : Adolph Smith, William Tircuit, Art Neville and Junior Gordon. Produced by Art Rupe.
October 15-18, 1956 : Four-day session for GENE VINCENT and the Blue Caps at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Fifteen tracks are recorded.. On October 15 : "Teenage Partner" (version 1), "Blues Stay Away From Me", "Five Feet Of Lovin'" (version 1) and "Cat Man". On October 16 : "Double Talkin' Baby", "Hold Me Hug Me Rock Me", "Unchained Melody". On October 17 : "Bi-I-Bickey Bi Bo Bo Go", "Pink Thunderbird", "Pretty Pretty Baby", "Cruisin'". On October 18 : "Important Words" (version 1), "You Better Believe", "Red Bluejeans And A Ponytail" and "Five Days, Five Days". Most of the tracks will be released on Gene's second LP, "Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps" (Capitol T 811, March 1957 ). "Important Words" becomes the B-side of "Crazy Legs" in January 1957 (Capitol 3617) and "Bi-I-Bickey Bi Bo Bo Go"/"Five Days, Five Days gets a single release on Capitol 3678 (April 1957). Personnel : Gene Vincent (vocals) ; Cliff Gallup (lead guitar) ; Paul Peek (rhythm guitar) ; Jack Neal (upright bass) ; Dickie Harrell (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus on October 18). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 17, 1956 : In New York City, MICKEY AND SYLVIA record their best known song, "Love Is Strange" and its flip, "I'm Going Home" (Groove 0175, November). "Two Shadows On Your Window" sees a release in June 1957, on Groove 0280. A fourth track, "In My Heart" ends up on an LP (RCA Camden LP 863) in 1965. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals, guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocals, guitar) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Heywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums).
October 17, 1956 : ROY MILTON is at the King studio in Cincinnati for a four-track session. "One Zippy Zam" (vocal by Milton) and "You're Gonna Suffer" (vocal by Mickey Champion) are selected for release on King 4993 in December. The instrumental "Succotash" will be issued on King 5035 in April 1957. A remake of "Bam A Lam" by Mickey Champion (originally done for Dootone in 1955) remains unissued. Personnel : Roy Milton (vocals, drums) ; Mickey Champion (vocals) ; Walter Williams (trumpet) ; Harvey Braxton (alto sax) ; Clifford Solomon (tenor sax) Oscar Estelle (baritone sax) ; Johnny Rogers (guitar) ; Emmanuel Kennebrew (piano) ; Lawrence Kato (bass).
October 19, 1956 : LaVERN BAKER waxes six tracks for her first LP, "LaVern" (Atlantic LP 8002, December) : "Romance In the Dark", "I'll Never Be Free", "Harbor Lights" (also issued as a single, Atlantic 1189, June 1958), "Everybody's Somebody's Fool", "Fool That I Am" and "How Long Will It Be". Arranged and directed by Ray Ellis. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
October 19, 1956 : SIL AUSTIN lays down the remaining six tracks for the "Slow Walk Rock" LP : "A Mother's Child", "Train Whistle", "'Bout Time", "Pink Shade Of Blue", "Birthday Party"(flip of "The Last Time", see October 15) and "One Plus Two Is Nine". Also recorded is the single "He's A Real Gone Guy" (Mercury 71115, May 1957). Personnel on both days : Sil Austin (tenor sax) ; Doc Bagby (organ, October 15 only) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; James Crawford (drums) ; Fred Washington (piano, October 19 only).
October 22-23, 1956 : LOUIS JORDAN rerecords several of his biggest Decca hits for an LP on his new label, Mercury : "Caldonia", "Let the Good Times Roll", "Knock Me A Kiss", "Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby", "Beware Brother Beware", "Don't Let te Sun Catch You Crying", "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts Of Town", "Salt Pork, West Virginia", "Run Joe", "Early In the Morning, "Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens" and "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie". The last two tracks will also be issued as a single (Mercury 71023, January 1957). Album title is "Somebody Up There Digs Me" (Mercury MG 20242, 1957). Also recorded (on the 23rd) is the single "Big Bess"/"Cat Scratchin'" (Mercury 70993, November). Personnel : Louis Jordan (vocals, alto sax) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax, baritone sax) ; Jimmy Cleveland (trombone) ; Ernie Royal (trumpet) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Wendel Marshall (bass) ; Charlie Persip (drums) ; Francisco Bozo (bongos). Arranged and directed by Quincy Jones. Location : New York City.
October 23, 1956 : BIG BOY MYLES & the Shaw-Wees do a four-track session in New Orleans. "Hickory Dickory Dick"/"Just To Hold My Hand" is selected for single release (Specialty 590, November). "Long Lost Stranger" is first released on Ace LP CH 165 in 1986 and "Mickey Mouse Boarding House" on Ace LP CH 181 in 1987. Personnel : Edgar 'Big Boy' Myles (vocals, trombone) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Warren Myles (piano) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
Wednesday, October 24, 1956 : WYNONIE HARRIS is now contracted to Atco. On this day he records the single "Destination Love"/"Tell A Whale Of A Tale" (Atco 6081, December) and the unissued "Good Rock And Roll". Location : New York City.
October 25, 1956 : Four-track session by JERRY REED at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "It's High Time"/"Forever" is released on Capitol 3657 in February 1957. "I'm Stuck" is first issued in 1975 on the French compilation LP "Rock and Rolll At the Capitol Tower" and "I Can't Find the Words" on Jerry's Bear Family CD "Here I Am" (BCD 16306, 1999). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 25, 1956 is also the recording date of the ROSCO GORDON single "Shoobie Oobie"/"Cheese And Crackers" (Sun 257, release date November 21). Gordon is supported by Lionel Prevost (tenor sax) ; James Jones (piano) ; Philip Walker (guitar) ; Louis Willy Canty (bass) ; Joe W. Payne (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
October 29, 1956 : LI'L MILLET records "Rock Around the Clock" (not the Bill Haley number) in New Orleans. It has to wait until 1986 for a release on the LP "Lay That New Orleans Rock 'n' Roll Down" (Specialty SP 2167). An alternate version is issued on the CD "Specialty Rock 'n' Roll" (Ace CDCHD 291) in 1990. Personnel : Mac Millet (vocals, piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Frank Fields (bass) : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Earl Palmer (drums). This is a split session with ART NEVILLE who records "The Whiffenpoof Song", which will be coupled with "Oooh-Whee Baby" (from the session four days earlier) for release on Specialty 592. Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
October 29, 1956 : Meanwhile in Cincinnati, BILL DOGGETT and his combo do another session for King Records. A cover of Sil Austin's "Slow Walk" is released at the end of November on King 5000. Tommy Brown is the vocalist on a second vocal version of "Honky Tonk" (King 5001). "Big Boy" is not released until April 1960 (King 5339) and "Nothin' Yet" even later (King 5978, December 1964). Personnel : Clifford Scott (tenor sax) ; Bill Doggett (organ) ; Billy Butler, John Faire (guitars) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Shep Shepherd (drums) ; Tommy Brown (maracas, claves, vocal on "Honky Tonk"). "Honky Tonk" on the CD "King Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 2" (Ace 1051) is not King 5001, as claimed, but King 4976. (See ITC September 1956.)
October 29, 1956 : In Chicago CHUCK BERRY records "Havana Moon", which will be released on Chess 1645 in December, coupled with "You Can't Catch Me" from a December 1955 session. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocal, guitar) ; Jimmy Rogers (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass).
October 30, 1956 : SONNY JAMES waxes his biggest hit, "Young Love" and its flip, "You're the Reason I'm In Love" (Capitol 3602, November). Musicians : Sonny James (vocal, guitar) ; Pete Wade (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 1956, unknown date : In Chicago, BO DIDDLEY records his next single, "Cops And Robbers"/"Down Home Special" (Checker 850, November). Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocal, guitar) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Clifton James (drums) ; Jerome Green (maracas).
October 1956, unknown date : THE JODIMARS assemble at New York's Capitol Studio for a session that yields two singles : "Clarabella"/"Midnight" (Capitol 3588, November) and "Cloud 99"/"Later (Capitol 3633, February 1957). Personnel : Marshal Lytle (double bass ; vocal on "Clarabella") ; Dick Richards (vocals on "Cloud 99" and "Later") ; Joey d'Ambrosio (tenor sax) ; Chuck Hess (lead guitar) ; Max Daffner (drums) ; Unknown (piano, backing chorus). Produced by Andy Wiswell.
October 1956, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK's third recording session results in "A Cheat" (Dot 15516, November) and two tracks that will remain unissued until they are included on the Bear Family 2-LP set "Rockin' Rollin' Sanford Clark" (BFX 15198 / 15199) in 1986 : "Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens" and "Don't Cry". Musicians : Sanford Clark (vocals, guitar) ; Al Casey (guitar) ; Corky Casey (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Jimmy Troxell (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Addditions and corrections welcome.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1956
Much country music this month.
November 1, 1956 : BIG JOHN GREER records his next two singles in New York City : "Midnight Ramble"/"Sweet Slumber" (King 5006, January 1957) and "I Still Love You So"/"Duck Walk" (King 5057, May 1957). Personnel : Big John Greer (vocals, tenor sax) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Herbert Goodwin (piano, organ) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Bill Pemberton (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums).
November 3, 1956 : KEN COPELAND's first recording session results in his only hit : "Pledge Of Love". First released on Lin 5007 in January, it is licensed to Imperial (5432) in March 1957 and will peak at # 12 on the Billboard charts. Also recorded is "You're Getting the Idea", which is first released on the Bear Family box "The Lin/Kliff Story" (BFFM 15950) in 1998. Produced by Joe Leonard at Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas.
November 5, 1956 : THE SPANIELS (with Pookie Hudson and Willie Jackson back in the line-up) record their next single, "You Gave Me Peace Of Mind"/"Please Don't Tease" (Vee-Jay 229, December), as well as "I Need Your Kisses", which is saved for release until November 1957 on Vee-Jay 257.
November 6, 1956 : WEBB PIERCE pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville. The harvest is the single "I'm Tired"/"It's My Way" (Decca 30155, December) and "Crying Over You", which will come out in April 1958 on Decca 30623. Accompaniment by Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Dale Potter, Tommy Jackson, Jack Kay (fiddles) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
November 7, 1956 : FERLIN HUSKY does a four-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Gone"/"Missing Persons" (Capitol 3628, February 1957) will become his biggest pop hit. "Gone" was previously recorded by Husky under the name Terry Preston in 1952 (Capitol 2298). The other two tracks are by Husky's alter ego SIMON CRUM, but for unknown reasons they are kept on the shelf until May 1963, when "Don't Be Mad" (a parody of "Don't Be Cruel") and "Little Red Web" appear on both Capitol 4966 (single) and Capitol T 1880 (LP "The Unpredictable Simon Crum"). Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 7, 1956 : BOB GALLION’s second MGM session yields two singles : “You’ve Gotta Have A Heartbreak”/“Hey, Mr. Bartender” (MGM 12407, December) and “I Want Her Blues”/“Out Of A Honky Tonk” (MGM 12466, April 1957). No session personnel information available. The location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 7, 1956 : TITUS TURNER does a session for Atlantic, which results in the single “Hungry Man”/“A-Knocking On My Baby’s Door” (Atlantic 1127, February 1957). Unissued from this session are “Dancing With A Memory” and “Mary Jane”. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
November 7-8, 1956 : LEFTY FRIZZELL records from 22:45 until 02:15 at Bradley Studio in Nashville, under the supervision of Don Law. Two singles are the result : "Lullaby Waltz"/"Glad I Found You" (Columbia 40818, first week of 1957) and "Now That You Are Gone"/"From An Angel To A Devil" (Columbia 40867, March 1957). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocal, guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Johnny Sibert (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Walter Lenk (drums).
November 7-8, 1956 : During two four-hour sessions at Nashville's RCA studio, HANK SNOW records the LP "Country & Western Jamboree" (RCA LPM 1419, January 1957). Tracks : "Wedding Bells", "My Life With You", "Singing the Blues", "Memories Are Made Of This", "Loose Talk", "These Tears Are Not For You", "I Almost Lost My Mind", "Poison Love", "It's Been So Long Darling", "Sing Me A Song Of the Islands", "Among My Souvenirs", "Born To Lose". Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals, guitar) ; Jack Shook (rhythm guitar) ; Melvin Gentry (steel guitar) ; Floyd Chance (bass) ; Tommy Vaden, Chubby Wise (fiddles). Produced by Steve Sholes.
November 8, 1956 : THE DRIFTERS record their next single at Belltone Studio in New York City : "Fools Fall In Love"/"It Was A Tear" (Atlantic 1123, January 1957). The Drifters are : Johnny Moore (lead tenor) ; Gerhart Thrasher (tenor) ; Charlie Hughes (baritone) ; Tommy Evans (bass). Personnel includes Jesse Powell on sax and Jimmy Oliver on guitar ; more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 8, 1956 : PATSY CLINE records her first pop hit : "Walkin' After Midnight"/"A Poor Man's Roses (Or A Rich Man's Gold)" (Decca 30221, February 1957). "The Heart You Break (May Be Your Own)" is first issued o the LP "Encores" (Everest 1204, 1962) and "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down" on the album "In Memoriam" in 1963 (Everest 1217). Session personnel : Harold Bradley (acoustic guitar) ; Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle ) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
November 8, 1956 : RUSTY AND DOUG lay down three tracks at RCA Studio B in Nashville. "Going Down the Road"/"You'll See" is released in May 1957 (Hickory 1063) and "It's Too Late" in January 1959 (Hickory 1091). Personnel : Doug Kershaw (vocal, fiddle) ; Rusty Kershaw (vocal) ; Hank Garland, Ray Edenton, Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Bob Terry (steel guitar) ; Howard Johnson (rhythm guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Woody Woodhams (bass). The same crew provides the accompaniment for AL TERRY on this day for his single "Money" (Hickory 1061, February 1957). Produced by Wesley Rose.
November 10, 1956 : PAT BOONE records the future # 1 hit “Don’t Forbid Me” (Dot 15521, rush-released on November 15). The other side, “Anastasia”, also from this session, will peak at # 37. Ten other tracks are recorded, most of which will be included on Boone’s third LP, simply titled “Pat” (Dot DLP 3050, January 1957). Personnel : Barney Kessel, Jack Marshall (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Milt Adelstein (piano) ; Bernard Mattinson (vibes) ; Irving Kluger (drums). Plus strings and horns. Arranged by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
November 11, 1956 : JIMMY DORSEY and his orchestra record the single “So Rare”/“Sophisticated Swing” (Fraternity 755, January 1957), which will peak at # 2 in Billboard. The vocals are by the Artie Malvin Singers.
November 12, 1956 : JOHNNY HORTON waxes two tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "I'm Coming Home" is released in the last week of 1956 on Columbia 40813, while "Over-Loving You" stays in the can until the release of the Bear Family box-set "Johnny Horton 1956-1960" (BCD 15470) in 1991. Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocal, guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bill Black (bass). Produced by Don Law.
November 12, 1956 : RED SOVINE is also at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next two singles : "Down On the Corner Of Love"/ "A Poor Man's Riches" (Decca 30162, December) and "Juke Joint Johnny"/"No Thanks Bartender" (Decca 30239, March 1957). Personnel unknown. Produced by Paul Cohen.
November 12, 1956 : LITTLE “LAMBSIE” PENN cuts “I Wanna Spend Christmas With Elvis” and “Painted Lips and Pigtails” for single release on Atco 6082 in late November. Location : New York City.
Wednesday, November 14, 1956 : The very first session by JERRY LEE LEWIS is produced by Jack Clement, in the absence of Sam Phillips, who is on vacation in Florida. Jerry's first single, "Crazy Arms"/"End Of the Road" is released in December on Sun 259, credited to "Jerry Lee Lewis And His Pumping Piano". Also recorded are two versions of "You're the Only Star In My Blue Heaven", of which one is first released on the LP "Early Rock & Roll" (Sun SQ-20.067, Holland) in 1974, and "Born To Lose", which is also held in the can until 1974, when the LP "Rockin' And Free" is released on Sun 6467029 in the UK. Lewis (vocal, piano) is backed by Roland Janes (guitar) and Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Location : Sun studio, 706 Union Avenue, Memphis.
November 14, 1956 is the recording date of the RON HARGRAVE single "Latch On"/"Only A Daydream" (MGM 12422, February 1957). Arranged and conducted by Harry Geller. Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
November 15, 1956 : BUDDY HOLLY's third visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville yields three tracks. "Modern Don Juan"/"You Are My One Desire" becomes his second single (Decca 30166, December). Also recorded is a second version of "Rock Around With Ollie Vee", which ends up on the B-side of Decca release of "That'll Be the Day" (Decca 30434, not the hit version) in September 1957. Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Don Guess (string bass) ; Dutch McMillin (tenor sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley.
November 15, 1956 : GUY MITCHELL does another Marty Robbins cover, "Knee Deep In the Blues" (Columbia 40820, January 1957), as the follow-up to his monster hit "Singing the Blues". Also recorded at this session is the flip, "Take Me Back Baby". Personnel: five guitarists are used - Billy Mure, Ed O'Connor, Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon, and Hy White ; Billy Rowland (piano) ; Mo Rayman (bass) ; Ed Shaughnessy (drums). Arranged and directed by Ray Conniff, produced by Mitch Miller in New York City.
November 15, 1956 : BOBBY HELMS waxes four tunes at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Fraulein"/"Heartsick Feeling" is chosen for the next single (Decca 30194, January 1957). "Just A Little Lonesome" will come out a year later (Decca 30557), while "Sowin' Teardrops" finally sees a release in 1983 on the LP "Pop-A-Billy" (MCA 1557). Accompaniment by : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Paul Cohen.
November 16, 1956 : The second Sun session by CONWAY TWITTY (then still known as Harold Jenkins) results in three tracks : "Crazy Dreams", "Give Me Some Love" and "I Need Your Lovin' Kiss", all originally unissued. First release on the Bear Family (vinyl) box-set "Conway Twitty : The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BFX 15174) in 1985. Personnel : Harold Jenkins (vocal, guitar) ; Jimmy Ray Paulman (guitar) ; Bill Harris (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Billy Weir (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
November 18, 1956 : The six-piece group THE STRIKES has its first recording session, at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth. Out of this comes the single "If You Can't Rock Me"/"Baby I'm Sorry". Like the Ken Copeland single mentioned above, it first released on Lin (5006) in January 1957 and then leased to Imperial (5433) in March 1957. A third track from this session, "Come Back To Me" is saved from oblivion by Collectables in 1994, when it is issued on the CD "The Best Of Lin/Kliff Rockabilly" (COL-5300). Personnel : Willie Jacobs (lead vocal) ; Paul Kunz (bass vocal ) ; Kenneth Ewing Scott (tenor vocal, rhythm guitar) ; Albert Cornelius (electric guitar) ; Don Alexander (bass) ; Paschal Parsons (drums). Produced by Joe Leonard.
November 20, 1956 : JOE TURNER waxes his next two singles at New York's Atlantic studio. "Midnight Special Train"/"Feelin' Happy" comes out on Atlantic 1122 in the last week of 1956 and "After A While"/"Red Sails In the Sunset" on Atlantic 1131 in March 1957. Personnel includes Mickey Baker (guitar) and Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; more details unknown. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 24, 1956 : On this day PAT BOONE records his biggest hit, "Love Letters In the Sand" (Dot 15570, April 1957), at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, as well as nine other tracks (best left unmentioned, like a ridiculous version of "The Fat Man"). Backing by : Barney Kessel, Jack Marshall (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Milton Rogers (piano) ; Justin Gordon, Babe Russin (saxes) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn, produced by Randy Wood.
November 24, 1956 : DORSEY BURNETTE records his next two singles at Western Recorders in Hollywood : “Let’s Fall In Love“/“The Devil’s Queen”(Abbott 188, December) and “Jungle Magic”/“At A Distance” (Abbott 190, February 1957). Personnel : Dorsey Burnette (vocals / bass) ; Paul Burlison (lead guitar) ; Johnny Burnette (rhythm guitar). Unknown (bongos, drums). Produced by Fabor Robinson.
November 27, 1956 : RAY CHARLES does another session for Atlantic in New York. "Ain't That Love" is selected for the next single (Atlantic 1124, January 1957), coupled with "I Want To Know" from a previous session. "Get On the Right Track"/"It's All Right" comes out on Atlantic 1143 in May 1957 and the instrumental "Rockhouse, Parts 1 & 2" is saved until November 1958, for release on Atlantic 2006 (also Ray's first UK release, London HL 8768). Musicians : Ray Charles (vocals, piano) ; Joe Bridgewater, John Hunt (trumpets) ; Dave Newman (sax) ; Emmett Davis (baritone sax) ; Rossevelt Sheffield (bass) ; William Peeples (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal group). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
November 27, 1956 : In Hollywood, JACKIE LEE COCHRAN waxes the single "Mama Don't You Think I Know"/"Ruby Pearl" (Decca 30206, February 1957). Musicians : Jackie Lee Cochran (vocal, guitar) ; Merle Travis (guitar) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Cliffie Stone (bass); more details unknown.
November 29, 1956 : At Nashville's RCA Studio CHET ATKINS records the original version of "Trambone" and its reverse, "Blue Echo" (RCA 6796, January 1957). Musicians : Chet Atkins (guitar, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jimmy Riddle (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). This same group lays down "Peanut Vendor", which will be released on RCA 6808 in February 1957 (coupled with "Tricky", recorded on 9 January 1957, with Grady Martin replacing Jimmy Riddle) and credited to The Rhythm Rockers.
November 29, 1956 : THE SPIDERS have a four-track session in New Orleans, under the supervision of Dave Bartholomew. "Honey Bee"/ "That's My Desire" is chosen for the next single (Imperial 5423, March). "Better Be On My Way" and "I'm Glad For Your Sake" are consigned to the vaults until they are rescued by Bear Family for release on the 2-CD "The Spiders : The Complete Imperial Recordings" (BCD 15673) in 1992. Lead vocals by Chuck Carbo, accompaniment by Cosimo Matassa's studio band.
November 30, 1956 : In New York City, THE JIVE BOMBERS record material for two singles, including their only hit, "Bad Boy"/"When Your Hair Has Turned To Silver", which is issued on Savoy 1508 in December. "The Blues Don't Mean A Thing"/"If I Had A Talking Picture Of You" follows in May 1957 on Savoy 1513. Personnel : Clarence Palmer (lead vocal, bass ) ; Earl Johnson (tenor sax, vocals) ; Kenny Burrell (guitar) ; Allen Tinney (piano, vocals) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums) ; Pee Wee Tinney (vocals).
November 1956, unknown date : THE DELL-VIKINGS record their first single, “Come Go With Me”/“How Can I Find True Love” in Pittsburgh. First released on Fee Bee 205 in December, then on Dot 15538 in January 1957. A # 4 pop hit (# 2 R&B). At this time the group consisted of Kripp Johnson, Clarence Quick, Norman Wright, Dave Lerchey and Don Jackson.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Frank Frantik. Additions and corrections welcome.
DECEMBER 1956
December 1, 1956 : JAMES "SUGAR BOY" CRAWFORD records two singles at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans : "She's Got a Wobble When She Walks"/"You Gave Me Love" (Imperial 5424, February 1957) and Morning Star"/"I Don't Need You Now" (Imperial 5441, May 1957). Backing by Dave Bartolomew's band, probably : Herb Hardesty, Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
December 1, 1956 : A Chicago session by MUDDY WATERS yields four tracks : "Got My Mojo Working"/"Rock Me" (Chess 1652, March 1957), "I Love the Life I Live" (Chess 1680, December 1957) and "Look What You've Done" (Chess 1758, July 1960). Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocal) ; James Cotton (harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Andrew Stephenson or Willie Dixon (bass) ; Francey Clay (drums).
Tuesday, December 4, 1956 : After CARL PERKINS has recorded "Your True Love" and "Matchbox" for his next single (Sun 261, January 1957), Elvis Presley drops by the Sun studio in Memphis for a casual visit. Also present are Jerry Lee Lewis (as the session pianist) and another prominent Sun artist, Johnny Cash. The impromptu jam session of these four artists has become known as the "Million Dollar Quartet" session, although Cash had left before the recording (by Jack Clement) began and Jerry Lee Lewis was still unknown at the time. Some of the tapes were finally issued in 1990. "The Complete Million Dollar Quartet" was issued in 2006 by RCA Sony BMG. Personnel on "Matchbox" and "Your True Love" : Carl Perkins (vocal, guitar); Jay Perkins (rhythm guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
December 9, 1956 : Country singer WAYNE RANEY records his most rocking single : "Shake Baby Shake"/"40th And Plum" (Decca 30212, February 1957) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Produced by Paul Cohen.
December 10, 1956 : HANK THOMPSON waxes the single " Rockin' In the Congo"/"I Was the First One" (Capitol 3623, January 1957), as well as four tracks for the LP " Hank!" (Capitol T 826). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocal, guitar, arranger) ; Merle Travis (guitar) ; Bobbie White (steel guitar) ; Billy Briggs Stewart (bass) ; Paul McGhee (drums) ; Amos Hedrick, Curly Lewis, Billy Peters (fiddles) ; Donnie McDaniel (piano). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 11, 1956 : BILLY RILEY records his second Sun single (but the first one recorded at the Sun studio) : "Flyin' Saucers Rock 'n' Roll"/ /"I Want You Baby" (Sun 260, February 1957), backed by his own group, the Little Green Men : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Marvin Pepper (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
December 11, 1956 is also the recording date of the BILLY MIZE single "Solid Sender:/"It Could Happen" (Decca 30271, April 1957). Backing by John Barnett and Roy Nichols (guitars) ; Joe Walker (bass) ; Gene McGraudy (drums) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; George French (piano). Location : Decca Studio, Hollywood.
December 12, 1956 : HANK LOCKLIN waxes material for his next two singles at Nashville's RCA studio. "By the Sweat Of My Brow"/"Fourteen Karat Gold" is released on RCA 6778 in January 1957 and "Goin' Home All By Myself"/"The Rich And the Poor" on RCA 6867 in March 1957. The backing is provided by : Chet Atkins and Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 12, 1956 : SAM COOKE records at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans, his only session there. Five tracks are recorded, enough to fill three (!) singles. "Lovable"/"Forever" (Specialty 596, May 1957) is credited to Dale Cook." Forever" is then reissued as the A-side on Specialty 619 (November 1957), this time coupled with "I'll Come Running Back To You" and credited to Sam Cooke. "That's All I Need To Know"/ "I Don't Want To Cry" follows in March 1958 (Specialty 627). Personnel : Warren Myles (piano) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums, arranger). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
December 12, 1956 : THE FOUR PREPS record five songs in Los Angeles, four of which are released on two singles. First issued is “Moonstruck In Madrid”/ “I Cried A Million Tears” (Capitol 3621, January 1957), followed by “Where Wuz You”/“Falling Star” (Capitol 3699, April 1957). “Humble Pie” is an LP/EP track. The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Marvin Inabnett and Glen Larson. Backing by Gus Levene and his orchestra. Arranged by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 12, 1956 : ERNIE CHAFFIN records his first Sun single, “Feelin’ Low”/“Lonesome For My Baby” (Sun 262, January 23, 1957). Personnel : Ernie Chaffin (vocals / guitar) ; Pee Wee Maddux (acoustic guitar) ; Ernie Harvey (steel guitar) ; Leo Ladner (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips at his studio in Memphis.
December 13, 1956 : The three tracks that JOHNNY CASH records on this day will not see a release until several years later, after Cash has left Sun for Columbia. "Goodbye Little Darling" will be issued in September 1959 on Sun 331 and "Straight A's In Love"/"I Love You Because" becomes the Sun single thereafter (334, January 1960). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocal, guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Russell Smith or Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed in 1959). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
December 13, 1956 : Another Atlantic session by THE CARDINALS. Their next single is “One Love”/“Near You” (Atlantic 1126, January 1957). One other song is recorded, “Let the Sunshine Shine On You”, which remains unissued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
December 14, 1956 : ROY ORBISON is back in the Sun studio in Memphis to record his next single, "Sweet And Easy To Love"/"Devil Doll" (Sun 265, January 1957). Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocal, guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Roses (vocal group). Produced by Sam Phillips.
December 14, 1956 : In Los Angeles, T-BONE WALKER records five tracks for the LP "T-Bone Blues" (Atlantic LP 8020, 1959) : "Mean Old World", "T-Bone Blues", "Stormy Monday Blues", "Blues For Marili" and "Shufflin' the Blues". A sixth track, "Your Wig Is Gone" remains unissued. Musicians : T-Bone Walker (vocals, guitar) ; Lloyd Glenn (piano) ; Billy Hadnott (bass) ; Otis Lee Bradley (drums).
December 16, 1956 : Yet another Sun session : WADE AND DICK record their only single for the label : "Bop Bop Baby"/"Don't Need Your Lovin' Baby" (Sun 269, May 1957). Wade (Moore) and Dick (Penner) are credited on the label as "Wade & Dick, The College Kids". Produced by Sam Phillips or Jack Clement in Memphis.
December 18, 1956 : MELVIN ENDSLEY, freshly signed to RCA, has his first session for the label. The harvest is two singles : "I Ain't Getting Nowhere With You"/"Bringin' the Blues To My Door" (RCA 6795, January 1957) and the original version of "I Like Your Kind Of Love" c/w "Is It True" (RCA 6891, April 1957). Backing by : Chet Atkins (electric guitar, producer) ; Velma Smith (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Grady Martin and Tommy Jackson (fiddles) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Location : RCA studio, Nashville.
December 19, 1956 : J.B. LENOIR does a five-track session at the Chess studio in Chicago. Two singles are released in 1957 : "I've Been Down So Long"/"Don't Touch My Head!" (Checker 856, February) and "What About Your Daughter"/"Five Years" (Checker 874, October). The fifth track, "When I Am Drinking" will not be issued until 1976, on the 2-LP set "J.B. Lenoir" (Chess 2ACMB 208). Personnel : J.B. Lenoir (vocal, guitar) ; Alex Atkins (alto sax, arranger) ; Ernest Cotton (tenor sax) ; Joe Montgomery (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Al Galvin (drums).
December 19, 1956 : AGGIE DUKES is at Master Recorders in Hollywood where she records two singles : “Swing Low, Sweet Cadillac, Parts 1 & 2” (Aladdin 3364, March 1957) and “John John”/“Come Back Baby” (Aladdin 3365, May 1957). “John John” will be reissued on Aladdin 3388 with a different flip-side. Personnel includes Plas Johnson on tenor sax and Buddy Colette on flute. More details unknown.
December 20, 1956 : HAYDEN THOMPSON has his second session at the Sun studio in Memphis, where only one track is recorded : "Love My Baby". Release is postponed until November 1957, on Phillips International 3517, a new Sun subsidiary. Personnel : Hayden Thompson (vocal) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Marvin Pepper (bass) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
Friday, December 21, 1956 : Newcomer DON WOODY does a four-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Bird Dog"/"You're Barking Up the Wrong Tree" comes out in April 1957 on Decca 30277. "Make Like A Rock And Roll" and "Morse Code" are first released in 1975, on the MCA LP "Rare Rockabilly" (MCFM 2697, UK). Backing by Grady Martin and the Slew Foot Five, plus Owen Bradley on piano, who also acts as producer.
December 28, 1956 : In Memphis, GLENN HONEYCUTT has a session for Sam Phillips. "I'll Be Around"/"I'll Wait Forever" will be released on Sun 264 in January 1957. Two versions of "Rock All Night" are selected by Frenchman Ding Dong for the reissue LP's "All Night Rock" (Sun CFM 504, 1985) and "Hot Southern Boppers" (UK Sun LP 1024, 1991). A fourth track, "Lonely Days", will reman unissued. Personnel : Glenn Honeycutt (vocals, guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar); Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Miller Sisters (vocal group).
December 28, 1956 : On this day THE GLADIOLAS record the original version of "Little Darlin'", and its reverse, "Sweetheart Please Don't Go", released on Excello 2101 in January 1957. The group includes future hitmaker Maurice Williams ("Stay").
December 1956, unknown date : BOBBY CHARLES does another session in New Orleans. "Put Your Arms Around Me Honey" is selected for the next single (Chess 1647, January 1957). "You Can Suit Yourself" follows in May 1957 (Chess 1658). "I'll Turn Square For You", "Lonely Street" and "Mr. Moon" are first released in 1984, on the LP "Chess Masters" (Chess CH-9185). "Over Yonder" remains unissued from this session. Backing by Cosimo Matassa's studio band.
(Probably) December 1956, unknown date : CURTIS GORDON's penultimate Mercury session yields four tracks. "So Tired Of Crying"/"I Know My Baby's Gone" (Mercury 71037, January 1957), "Out To Win Your Heart" (Mercury 71097, April 1957) and "One Blue Moon, One Broken Heart", first released on Bear Family BFX 15181 in 1985). Personnel : Curtis Gordon (vocal, guitar) ; Eddie Hill (guitar) ; Noel Boggs (steel guitar) ; Dusty Harrell (bass) ; Charles Mitchell (fiddle) ; Unidentified (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily, probably at Gold Star studio in Houston.
Mid-December 1956 : HOWLIN' WOLF pays another visit to the Chess studio in Chicago and commits four tracks to tape. "Going Back Home"/"My Life" is chosen for his next single (Chess 1648, February 1957). The other two songs, "Bluebird" and "You Ought To Know" stay in the can until 1979, when they are released on the LP "Heart Like A Railroad Steel" (Blues Ball LP 2001). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocal, harmonica) ; Billy Dockins (tenor sax) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Willie Johnson, Smokey Smothers (guitars) ; Alfred Elkins (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
December 1956, unknown date : EARL KING records the single "You Can Fly High"/"Those Lonely Lonely Feelings" at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Released on Ace 529 in June 1957. Personnel : Earl King (vocal, guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Curtis Mitchell (piano) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Julius Shakesnider (baritone sax) ; Dalton Rousseaux (trumpet) ; Worthia Thomas (trombone) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Johnny Vincent.
December 1956, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK waxes his next 45, "9 Lb. Hammer" (or "Nine Pound Hammer", if you prefer) c/w "Ooo Baby" (Dot 15534, January 1957). Backing personnel includes Al Casey on guitar and possibly Jimmy Troxell on drums. Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
December 1956, unknown date : A four-track Nashville session by MARVIN RAINWATER yields the single "Gonna Find Me A Bluebird"/"So You Think You've Got Troubles" (MGM 12412, February 1957, his biggest hit in the USA), the LP track "Cause I'm A Dreamer" ("Songs By Marvin Rainwater", MGM E 3534, 1957) and the unissued "Lonesome I'll Never Be".
With thanks to Steve Walker, Frank Frantik and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JANUARY 1957
January 2, 1957 : BILLY WARD AND THE DOMINOES do their last session for the Decca label in New York City. It is also the last session with Jackie Wilson in the line-up. "I Don't Stand A Ghost Of A Chance"/"To Each His Own" will be issued on Decca 30420 in August, "When the Saints Go Marching In"/"September Song" in December (Decca 30514). The group will soon sign with Liberty Records.
January 3, 1957 : BRENDA LEE always records in Nashville, except for this one session, at the Pythian Temple in New York City. Recorded are "One Step At A Time" and "Fairyland" for her next single (Decca 30198, end of January). Personnel : Al Caiola, Edward O'Conner (guitars) ; Sanford Bloch (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Andres Ackers (piano) ; Nick Tagg (organ) ; James Crawford (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Jack Pleis. Produced by Milt Gabler.
January 3-4, 1957 : FATS DOMINO spends two days at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. On the 3rd he waxes the A-side of his next single "I'm Walkin'" (Imperial 5428, February) and "What Will I Tell My Heart" (Imperial 5454, July). The next day he delivers "I'm In the Mood For Love" (the B-side of "I'm Walkin'"), "My Happiness" (a track for the LP "This Is Fats", Imperial LP 9040, August) and "Would You", which ends up on the album "Let's Play Fats Domino" (Imperial LP 9065, September 1959). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals, piano) ; Lee Allen and Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 4, 1957 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records in New York City this time. Two singles are the result : "You Got To Get Up Early In the Morning"/"Love, Life And Money" (King 5023, March) and "Look What You've Done To Me'/"I've Got To Cry" (King 5045, late April). Backing musicians : Willie Jackson, Lowell Hastings (tenor saxes) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Joseph Livramento (flute) ; Bubber Johnson (piano) ; Jimmy Shirley (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Calvin Shields (drums).
January 6, 1957 : CHARLIE FEATHERS is in Nashville (RCA Studio) to lay down his next two singles : "Nobody's Woman"/"When You Decide" (King 5022, March) and "Too Much Alike"/"When You Come Around" (King 5043, April). Personnel : Charlie Feathers (vocal, guitar) ; Jerry Huffman (lead guitar) ; Jody Chastain (bass) ; Ramon Maupin (drums, bongos).
January 8, 1957 : THE CADILLACS record their next single,
"Sugar Sugar"/ "About That Gal Named Lou" (Josie 812,
February). Also committed to tape is "If You Want To Be A Woman Of
Mine", which stays in the vaults until 1983 when it appears on the Murray
Hill LP box-set (M61285). The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, James Bailey,
Charles Brooks, Bobby Phillips and Earl Wade.
January 9, 1957 : JANIS MARTIN's third session yields four tracks, of which only "Love Me To Pieces" and "Two Long Years" are released at the time (RCA 6832, March). "Love Me, Love" and "Blues Keep Calling" are first issued on Bear Family BFX 15032 in 1979. Personnel : Chet Atkins (electric guitar, producer) ; Dave Rich (rhythm guitar) ; Grady Martin (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Location : RCA Victor Studios, Nashville.
January 10, 1957 : JOHNNY BOND's first session at Bradley Studio in Nashville (practically all his previous sessions took place in Hollywood) yields four tracks. "Honky Tonk Fever"/"Lay It On the Line" is released in February on Columbia 40842. "Wild Cat Baby" and "Fast Women And Sloe Gin" stay in the vaults until they are released on Varese Sarabande 5874 (CD "Best Of Johnny Bond", 1998) and Bear Family BCD 16810 (CD "Put Me To Bed", 2007) respectively. Personnel : Johnny Bond (vocal, guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar, leader) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
January 10, 1957 : Not only Johnny Bond, but also EDDIE BOND (unrelated) has a session on this day, at Quinn Recording Co. in Houston. "They Say We're Too Young"/ "You're Part Of Me" is selected for the next single (Mercury-Starday 71067, March). "Backslidin'" sees a release on Mercury-Starday 71237 in late November. Unissued from this session is "King On Your Throne". Personnel unknown.
January 10, 1957 : In New Orleans, PAUL GAYTEN records the two-part single "Drivin' Home" (Argo 5263, February), an instrumental. Personnel : Paul Gayten (piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Roland Cook (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
January 10, 1957 : BAKER KNIGHT is at the Pythian Temple (Decca Studio) in New York City to record four songs, which are released on two singles. “Reelin’ and Rockin’”/“When the World Gets Around” is issued in February (Decca 30213) and “Just A Little Bit More”/“The Value of Love” in June (Decca 30306). Orchestra and chorus directed by Ray Ellis.
January 11, 1957 : ELLA MAE MORSE does one of her last sessions, as usual at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. “Put Your Arms Around Me Honey”/“Long Time Ago” is issued on Capitol 3638 in February. “Mister Memory Maker” is also released as a single (Capitol 3688, April, c/w “What Good ‘ll It Do Me” from a different session). “You Ought To Be Mine” is eventually released on the 5-CD box-set “Barrelhouse, Boogie and the Blues” (Bear Family BCD 16117) in 1997. Orchestra conducted by Nelson Riddle.
January 12-13, 1957 : It's a busy month for ELVIS PRESLEY in the studio. Nine tracks are recorded during this weekend, including the single "All Shook Up"/"That's When Your Heartaches Begin" (RCA 6870, March) and three tracks for the gospel EP "Peace In the Valley" (RCA EPA 4054) : "I Believe", "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" and "(There'll Be) Peace In the Valley". "Mean Woman Blues" and "Got A Lot O' Livin' To Do" end up on the LP "Loving You" (RCA LPM 1515, July). "Tell Me Why" is held in the can until late 1965 (RCA 8740, single). There's also a first attempt at "I Beg Of You". Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Gordon Stoker (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). All of Elvis' sessions during this month take place at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
January 14, 1957 : TOMMY SANDS, who has just signed a five-year contract with Capitol, records his first two sides for the label : "Teenage Crush"/"Hep Dee Hootie (Cutie Wootie)". Released in February on Capitol 3639, it will peak at # 2 on the Billboard charts. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 14, 1957 : THE FIVE KEYS record four songs in Los Angeles. “Let There Be You” is issued on Capitol 3660 (February), “This I Promise” on Capitol 3738 (June) and “The Face Of An Angel” on Capitol 3786 (August). “Maybe You’ll Be There” is an LP track. Three more songs are recorded on January 16 : “Tiger Lily” (Capitol 3660, February), ”It’s A Groove” (Capitol 3710, April) and the album track “Who Do You Know In Heaven” (Capitol T 828). Lead vocals by Rudy West. Orchestra conducted by Van Alexander, except on “Let There Be You” (Dave Cavanaugh).
January 14, 1957 : On this day WYNN STEWART also has a Capitol session, which results in the single “A New Love”/“Hold Back Tomorrow” (Capitol 3651, March). “Sweethearts In Heaven” is first released on the Bear Family box-set “Wishful Thinking” (BCD 15886) in 2000. Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Maphis, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 15-18, 1957 : ELVIS PRESLEY does a soundtrack session for the film "Loving You". Tracks included on the soundtrack LP (RCA LPM 1515) are "Party", "Lonesome Cowboy", "Hot Dog" and the title song, "Loving You" (one of the many versions that were recorded). Alternate versions of "Got A Lot O' Livin' To Do" and "Mean Woman Blues" are used for the film, but not for the LP. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Tiny Timbrell (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks, Gordon Stoker, Hoyt Hawkins (piano) ; George Fields (harmonica) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group).
Wednesday January 16, 1957 : While touring on the East Coast, LITTLE RICHARD records two tracks at a radio station in Washington, D.C., with his road band, The Upsetters. The harvest is two future A-sides. "Keep-A Knockin'" will come out in September on Specialty 611 and "Ooh! My Soul" in May 1958 on Specialty 633. Personnel : Little Richard (vocal, piano) ; Clifford Burks, Wilbert Smith, Grady Gaines (tenor saxes) ; Samuel Parker (baritone sax) ; Nathaniel Douglas (guitar) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Charles Connor (drums). Supervised by Art Rupe.
January 17-18, 1957 : LOUIS PRIMA lays down seven tracks for the LP "Call Of the Wildest" (Capitol T 836, April) : "Medley : When You're Smiling / Sheik Of Araby", "Birth Of the Blues", "Blow, Red, Blow", "Sentimental Journey" (duet with Keely Smith, also released as Capitol 3663), "When the Saints Go Marchin' In", "There'll Be No Next Time" (duet with Sam Butera), "Closer To the Bone". Also recorded is the duet (with Keely Smith) "Baby Won't You Please Come Home" (Capitol 3663, February, not on the LP). Personnel : Louis Prima (vocals, trumpet) ; Sam Butera (saxophone, vocals) ; Keely Smith (vocals) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Amado Rodrigues (bass) ; Bobby Morris (drums) ; Willie McCumber (piano) ; James Blount (trombone). See also January 31. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 17, 1957 : Last MGM session for pianist FLOYD CRAMER, who will sign with RCA later in the year. “Slap Happy”/“Rio Grande Valley” is his next single (MGM 12442, February). “Funny Face” is released on MGM 12520 in August, coupled with “Waltz With Cramer” from a session on July 18, 1955. “Herman’s Theme” is his final MGM single, issued on MGM 12619 in February 1958 (c/w “Country Gentleman”, also recorded on July 18, 1955). The location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
January 19, 1957 : ELVIS PRESLEY waxes the fourth song for his gospel EP, "It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)" (see January 12-13) and three tracks that will appear on the EP "Just For You" (RCA EPA 4041, April) : "Blueberry Hill", "Is It So Strange" and "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You". Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals, rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Hoyt Hawkins (organ) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group).
January 19, 1957 : Final Sun session for JACK EARLS, who records "Take Me To That Place" and a second version of "They Can't Keep Me From You" (previously attempted in 1955). The first song is first released on the Various artists LP "Hot Southern Boppers" (Sun LP 1024, UK, 1985 ), the second on Jack's LP "Let's Bop" (Bear Family BFX 15273) in 1990. Also taped are "Comin' Back Home" and "Game Of Love", both unissued. Musicians : Jack Earls (vocals, guitar) ; possibly Warren Gregory (guitar) ; Johnny Black (bass) ; poss. Johnny Bernero (drums).
January 20, 1957 : In New York City, THE CLOVERS record their next single, "Here Comes Romance"/"YouGood Looking Woman" (Atlantic 1129, March). Two other tracks from this session remain unissued : "Love May Call" and "In the Rain". Some sources mention January 20,1956 or December 20,1956 as the recording date.
January 21, 1957 : HAROLD JENKINS (the later Conway Twitty) does one last session for Sam Phillips at the Sun studio, but again nothing is released and he decides to switch to Mercury. Two versions of "Born To Sing the Blues" will be issued on the Bear Family vinyl box-set "Conway Twitty : The Rock 'n' Roll Years" in 1985 (BFX 15174). Personnel : Harold Jenkins (vocal, guitar) ; Jimmy Ray Paulman (guitar) ; Bill Harris or Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Billy Weir (drums) ; Unknown (piano).
January 21, 1957 : CHUCK BERRY has a four-track session in Chicago (at Sheldon Recording Studio). Selected for the next single is "School Day"/"Deep Feeling", for release on Chess 1653 in March. "La Juanda" and the instrumental "Blue Feeling" will become the B-sides of "Oh Baby Doll" (Chess 1664, July) and "Rock and Roll Music" (Chess 1671, October) respectively. "Low Feeling", released on Chess LP 1432 ("One Dozen Berries", 1959) is "Blue Feeling" remastered at half speed and with a section omitted. Musicians : Chuck Berry (vocals, guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). Possibly also an unknown second guitarist.
January 22, 1957 : ROY BROWN is requested to record covers of "Party Doll" and "I'm Stickin' With You" (Imperial 5427, February), though this material is completely unnatural for Roy. He has no problems with "Let the Four Winds Blow", though (Imperial 5439, late April), and this will become his biggest pop hit. Backing by Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans.
January 23, 1957 : NARVEL FELTS does his first session (for Sun), but none of the five tracks is deemed worthy of release by Sam Phillips. Three songs will see their debut on vinyl in 1985 on the UK LP "Rockabilly Tunes" (Sun LP 1026) : "Foolish Thoughts", "Lonesome Feeling" and "Lonely River". "Did You Tell Me" is first released on a 10-inch LP in 1981 ("Rockabilly Fever", Charly CFM 510) and "Cry Baby Cry" on Charly CPCD 8137 in 1995. All five titles are available on Bear Family BCD 16220 (Narvel Felts, "Did You Tell Me"), released in 1997. Soon Narvel would rerecord most of these tunes for Mercury, where they did get a release. Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocals, guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (steel guitar, saxophone) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
January 24, 1957 : During his final January session, ELVIS PRESLEY records two tracks, the single "(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" (RCA 7000, June) and a first try-out of "One Night Of Sin" (first released in 1983), to which he will return in February. Elvis (vocal, rhythm guitar) is backed by Scotty Moore (lead guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group).
January 24, 1957 : Another Atlantic session for IVORY JOE HUNTER in New York City. "Empty Arms"/"Love Is A Hurting Game" becomes the next single (Atlantic 1128, March). "Everytime I Hear That Song" is released on Atlantic 1151 in August and "All About the Blues" on Atlantic 1164 in November. Personnel : Seldon Powell (tenor sax) ; Romeo Penque (alto sax) ; Al Caiola, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Wild Bill Davis (organ) ; Howard Cheeks (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Phil Kraus (percussion). Plus five backing vocalists. Arranged and directed by Ray Ellis. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
January 25, 1957 : The first of a number of New York sessions by MARTY ROBBINS. Two singles are recorded : "A White Sport Coat"/"Grown-Up Tears" (Columbia 40864 , March) and "Please Don't Blame Me"/"Teenage Dream" (Columbia 40969, July). Accompaniment by : Al Caiola and Billy Mure (guitars) ; Dick Hyman (piano) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Ed Shaughnessy (drums). Arranged by Ray Conniff, produced by Mitch Miller at NYC's Columbia Recording Studio on 7th Avenue.
January 25, 1957 : Second session for FATS DOMINO this month. The harvest is three tracks. "The Rooster Song" gets a place on the LP "This Is Fats" (Imperial LP 9040) in August. "Telling Lies" will become the B-side of "When the Saints" in early 1959 (Imperial 5569). "Don't Deceive Me" stays in the can until February 1962, when it is included on the LP "Twistin' the Stomp" (Imperial LP 9170). Same personnel / studio as on January 3-4. Add Clarence Ford on baritone sax. This was probably Earl Palmer's final session in New Orleans before relocating to Los Angeles.
January 25, 1957 : SMILEY LEWIS also records at Cosimo's Studio on this day, a four-track session. Selected for the next single are "Sweeter Words" and "You Are My Sunshine" (Imperial 5431, March). "When Did You Leave Heaven" and "I Wake Up Screamin'" are first issued on the Pathe-Marconi LP "No No" (1566321, France) in 1986. Backing by Dave Bartholomew's band, probably : Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Lee Allen, Clarence Hall and / or Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
January 25, 1957 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW has some time left over after producing Fats Domino and Smiley Lewis and records "Short Subjects" (not "Short Shorts", as Blues Records 1943-1970 lists the song), which will be released two years later, in January 1959, on Imperial 5560. Same personnel as on the Smiley Lewis tracks.
January 25, 1957 : Also on this Friday, LOUIS JORDAN waxes material for his next two singles : "Rock Doc"/"Morning Light" (Mercury 71052, February) and "Fire"/"Ella Mae" (Mercury 71106, May). Location : New York City.
January 28, 1957 : AMOS MILBURN's penultimate Aladdin session yields three tracks : "Soft Pillow"/"Rum And Coca Cola" (Aladdin 3363, February) and "Thinking Of You Baby" (Aladdin 3383, July). Backing by Johnny Mandel's orchestra. Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
January 29, 1957 : ERNIE CHAFFIN lays down his second single for Sun : "I'm Lonesome"/"Laughin' and Jokin'" (Sun 275, August). Personnel : Ernie Chaffin (vocal, guitar) ; Ernie Harvey (steel guitar) ; Peewee Maddux (fiddle) ; Leo Ladner (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Jack Clement in Memphis.
January 29, 1957 : In Cincinnati, BOYD BENNETT records material for his next two singles, "I'm Moving On"/"Big Jay Shuffle" (King 5021, March) and "Put the Chain On the Door"/"Big Boy" (King 5049, May). Both "Big Jay Shuffle" and "Big Boy" are instrumentals. Personnel unknown.
January 29, 1957 : First recording session of the dynamic duo DON AND DEWEY. Five tracks are waxed, but only two are issued at the time : "Jungle Hop"/"A Little Love" (Specialty 599, April). The other three are first released on the CD "Jungle Hop" (Specialty SPCD-7008-2) in 1991 : "Hey Thelma", "Baby Gotta Party" and "Miss Sue". Personnel : Don Harris (guitar or bass) ; Dewey Terry (guitar or piano) ; Roy Porter (drums) ; Gill Chrest (unknown instrument). Produced by Art Rupe at Master Recorders in Hollywood, California.
January 30, 1957 : CARL PERKINS is active in the Sun studio on this day, but what exactly was recorded is still not quite clear. The great "Put Your Cat Clothes On" (first release on Hilltop JS 6103, 1972) is a certainty. "Caldonia" and "You Can Do No Wrong" (both first issued on Sun 6467028, LP "Sun Rockabillys, Vol. 3", 1974) also seem safe bets. Further candidates are "Roll Over Beethoven", "Keeper Of the Key", "Sweethearts Or Strangers", "Her Love Rubbed Off", "Be Honest With Me" and "Try My Heart Out", but these may also have been waxed at some other date(s) in December 1956 / January 1957. Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals, guitar) ; Jay Perkins (rhythm guitar) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips in Memphis.
January 30, 1957 : A busy day at Sun, for BILLY RILEY also records a single, "Red Hot"/"Pearly Lee" (Sun 277, September). Riley (vocal, guitar) is supported by Roland Janes (guitar) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Marvin Pepper (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Ace Cannon (sax on "Pearly Lee").
January 31, 1957 : CHUCK WILLIS records his first pop hit at Fine Studios in NYC : "C.C. Rider" (Atlantic 1130, March). "Just One Kiss" will be issued posthumously in June 1959 on Atlantic 2029. A first attempt at "My Baby" stays in the vaults. Personnel : Gene Barge, Sam Taylor (tenor saxes) ; James Harris (trumpet) ; Phil Kraus (marimbas) ; Al Caiola, Roy Gaines (guitars) ; Unknown (piano) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Elise Bretton, Robert Miller, Marcia Neil, Myriam Workman (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
January 31, 1957 : LOUIS PRIMA waxes two further tunes for the LP "Call Of the Wildest" : "Pennies From Heaven" and "I've Got the World On A String". Personnel, location and producer are the same as on January 17-18.
January 1957 : JERRY LEE LEWIS does at least three sessions this month, exact dates unknown. Overdubbed versions of "Goodnight Irene" and "When the Saints Go Marchin' In" get a place on Jerry's first LP (simply titled "Jerry Lee Lewis", Sun LP 1230) in April 1958. All other tracks stay in the vaults until Sun is sold to Shelby Singleton in 1969. The 1970 LP's "Sunday Down South" (Sun 119) and "Ole Time Country Music" (Sun 121) include "Old Time Religion", "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" (119), "Crawdad Song", "Hand Me Down My Walking Cane", "If the World Keeps On Turning" and "Deep Elem Blues" (121). Sun LP 128 (1972) includes "I Love You Because". The piano instrumentals "Dixie" and "The Marines' Hymn" first turn up on Charly CR 300 002 (1974) and the box-set "The Sun Years" (SUN BOX 2, 1982), respectively. "Shame On You" is first released on the LP "Rockin' And Free" (Sun 6467029) in 1974, "That Lucky Old Sun" on Charly CR 300 007 in 1975 and "I Can't Help It" on "Nuggets, Vol. 2" (Charly CR 30129). There are also first attempts at "Cold Cold Heart" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and new versions of "You're the Only Star In My Blue Heaven" (previously recorded at Jerry's first session in November 1956). Produced by Jack Clement and Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
January 1957, unknown date : JIMMY BOWEN records two tracks in New York City (Bell Sound Studio). “My Baby’s Gone” will be used as the B-side of the future # 1 hit “Party Doll” by Buddy Knox (Roulette 4002) and is credited to Buddy Knox. “Ever Lovin’ Fingers” becomes the B-side of “I’m Stickin’ With You” (Roulette 4001, a # 14 hit) and charts in its own right (# 63). These are the first two releases on Roulette, both issued in the fourth week of January. Both “Party Doll” and ”I’m Stickin’ With You” were recorded in April 1956 (in Clovis, New Mexico) and previously coupled for release on the Triple-D label (797/798). Personnel : Donny Lanier (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Dave Alldred (drums).
(Circa) January 1957, unknown date : WERLY FAIRBURN waxes the single "Speak To Me Baby"/"My Heart's On Fire" (Savoy 1509, March) at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans. Musicians : Werly Fairburn (vocal, guitar) ; Joe Martin (bass) ; Unknown (lead guitar, piano) ; Eddie Landers (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker, Frak Frantik and Henk Gorter. Corrections and additions welcome.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1957
February 1, 1957 : LOUIS PRIMA completes the recording of
the LP "Call Of the Wildest" (Capitol T 836) with "The Pump
Song" and "Autumn Leaves". The latter is sung by Keely Smith and
also issued as a single (Capitol 3820) in October. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at
the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
February 5, 1957 : PIANO RED does an evening session at New York's RCA Victor Studio. "Rock Baby"/"Wild Fire" is released on RCA 6856 in March and "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone" on RCA 6953 in June. The fourth track, "Teach Me To Forget" stays in the vaults until it is rescued by Bear Family in 1993 (4-CD box "The Doctor's In!", BCD 15685). Musicians : Willie Perryman (Piano Red) (vocal / piano) ; Skeeter Best, Kenny Burrell, Leroy Kirkland (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Gus Johnson (drums). Plus a 4-piece vocal backing group. Produced by Brad McCuen.
February 7, 1957 : In New York City, MICKEY AND SYLVIA record their next 45, "There Ought To Be A Law"/"Dearest" (Vik 0267, March). "Too Much Weight" is an LP track (Vik LP 1102). A new version of "Two Shadows On My Window" (already recorded in October 1956) has never been issued. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocal / guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocal / guitar) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Ray Baretto (congas).
February 7, 1957 : JIM REEVES records "Four Walls"/"I Know And You Know" (RCA 6874, late March), which will become his first pop hit (and the second biggest hit of his career). "Look Behind You" and "The Gods Were Angry With Me" are EP tracks (RCA EPA 4062) and "Honey Won't You Please Come Home" will be included on the LP "He'll Have To Go" in 1960 (RCA LPM 2223). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
February 8, 1957 : Five-track session for SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller), in Chicago. Leonard Chess selects "Fattening Frogs For Snakes"/"I Don't Know" for single release (Checker 864, late May). "Like Wolf" and "This Is My Apartment" stay in the can until 1975, when they are issued on the LP "One Way Out" (Chess CHV-417). "Hurts Me So Much" will see its first release on Sonny's album "Don't Make A Mistake" (Blues Ball LP 2004) in 1979. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson II (vocal / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
Saturday, February 9, 1957 : LaVERN BAKER lays down three tracks that will appear on three different singles : "The Game Of Love" (Atlantic 1136, April), "Humpty Dumpty Heart" (Atlantic 1150, July) and "Learning To Love" (Atlantic 1176, February 1958). Personnel : Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Dick Hyman (piano) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Al Caiola (banjo) ; Phil Kraus (xylophone) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Arranged and directed by Quincy Jones. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 10, 1957 : MAC CURTIS does a four-track session at the Cliff Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. "I'll Be Gentle"/"Say So" is chosen for the next single (King 5059, June). "Goosebumps" (take 2) sees its first release on Polydor 2310293 (LP "Rockabilly Kings : Charlie Feathers & Mac Curtis") in 1974. Take 1 of this song will be released on Charly CD 264 (CD "Blue Jean Heart") in 1991, along with the title song of that CD, also from this session. Personnel : Mac Curtis (vocal / acoustic guitar) ; Jay Brinkley (lead guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass) ; Bill Simmons (piano) ; Bill Peck (drums). Produced by Louis Innes.
February 11, 1957 : ROY BROWN's third Imperial session yields four tracks. "Diddy-Y-Diddy-O" ends up on the B-side of the previously recorded "Let the Four Winds Blow" (Imperial 5439, April) and "Slow Down Little Eva" is released on Imperial 5469 in October. "I'm In Love" and "Crying Over You" are held in the can until 1995, when they appear on the CD "Roy Brown : The Complete Imperial Masters" (Capitol 7243 8 31743 2 4) in the Capitol Blues Collection. Backing by : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
February 11, 1957 : PAT BOONE records one of his better numbers, "Why Baby Why" (Dot 15545, March). Also laid down at this session is the gospel single "(There'll Be) Peace In the Valley"/"He'll Understand And Say Well Done" (Dot 15584, May). Personnel : Howard Roberts, Jack Marshall (guitars) ; Justin Gordon (sax) ; Milt Adelstein (piano) ; Buddy Bundock (bass) ; Dick Shanahan (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
February 12, 1957 : SKEETS McDONALD records four tracks at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, from 10:30 until 14:00 hours. "Keep Her Off Your Mind"/"I Am Music" becomes the next single (Capitol 3679, April) and "Welcome Home" the one after that (Capitol 3741, June). "I Can't Hold A Memory In My Arms" is first issued on Bear Family BFX 15195 (LP "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes") in 1986. Backing by : Joe Maphis, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 12-15, 1957 : Four days of hard work by THE COASTERS in the studio (Master Recorders in Hollywood) pay off for the group : both sides of their new single, "Searchin'"/"Young Blood" (Atco 6087, April) will make the Top 10, not only R&B, but also pop. "Sweet Georgia Brown" is a B-side later in the year (Atco 6104, November) and "Lola" a track for the groups's first album ("The Coasters", Atco LP 33-101, also November). Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Young Jessie, Bobby Nunn (vocals) ; Adolph Jacobs, Barney Kessel (guitars) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano, arranger) ; Jesse Sailes, Alvin Stoller (drums) ; Joe Olivera (percussion). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
February 13, 1957 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS does a four-track session in New York City. "You Made Me Love You"/"Darling, Please Forgive Me" is chosen as the next single (OKeh 7084, April). "Yellow Coat" and "Hong Kong" will be included on Jay's LP "At Home With Screamin' Jay Hawkins" (Epic LP 3448, April 1958). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland.
February 13, 1957 : In New York City, CLYDE McPHATTER covers "Just To Hold My Hand", originally done by Big Boy Myles on Specialty. It is released on Atlantic 1133 in April, coupled with "No Matter What", also from this session. A third track, "You'll Be There", becomes the B-side of "Rock And Cry" (Atlantic 1158, September). Arranged and directed by Ray Ellis. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 13-14, 1957 : TERRY NOLAND is at Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, NM. "Ten Little Women" will become his first release (Brunswick 55010, June). "The World's A Rockin'", "Heartless Woman" and a first version of "Hypnotized" stay on the shelf until 1990, when Bear Family includes them on Terry's CD "Hypnotized" (BCD 15428). A second version of "Hypnotized" is recorded on February 20 and this becomes the reverse of "Ten Little Women". Personnel : Terry Noland (vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Harold Meeks (lead guitar) ; The Picks (Bill Pickering, John Pickering, Bob Lapham) (backing vocals) ; more details unknown. Produced by Norman Petty.
(Possibly) February 14, 1957 : DALE HAWKINS waxes his second single, "Susie-Q"/ "Don't Treat Me This Way" (Checker 863, April), at KWKH Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. "Susie-Q" was previously attempted in 1956, but this version stayed in the can for decades. Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocal / guitar) ; James Burton (guitar) ; Sonny Trammell (bass) ; Ronnie Lewis (drums) ; Unknown (backing vocals). Produced by Stan Lewis.
February 15, 1957 : WEBB PIERCE is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his new single, "Honky Tonk Song"/"Someday" (Decca 30255, March). Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Tommy Jackson, Dale Potter, Jack Kay (fiddles) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group).
February 16, 1957 : RONNIE SELF is now signed to Columbia and does his first session for the label. "Big Fool"/"Flame Of Love" is selected for single release (Columbia 40875, April). "Black Night Blues" is saved from oblivion by Bear Family in 1990 (CD "Bop-A-Lena", BCD 15436). Personnel : Ronnie Self (vocal / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 16, 1957 : DICK PENNER has his only solo session for the Sun label. The Wade and Dick single "Bop Bop Baby" has already been recorded, but not yet released at this time. "Cindy Lou"/"Your Honey Love" will become Dick's sole Sun single in the USA (Sun 282, release date November 3). Two other songs from this session, "Fine Little Baby" and "Move Baby Move" turn up on a French single in the mid-1970s (Sun 615) and "Someday Baby" is finally released in 1995, on the CD "Unissued Sun Masters" (Charly CPCD 8137). Personnel includes Don Gilliland on guitar ; more details unknown. Produced by Sam Phillips in Memphis.
February 17, 1957 : Second session for THE STRIKES, again at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. "Rockin'"/"I Don't Want To Cry Over You" is released on Imperial 5446 in June. The third track from this session, "My Poor Heart" will first appear on the LP "Imperial Rockabillies, Vol. 3" (United Artists UAG 30312) in 1980. Personnel : Willie Jacobs (lead vocal ) ; Paul Kunz (bass vocal) ; Ken Scott (tenor vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Albert Cornelius (electric guitar) ; Don Alexander (bass) ; Paschal Parsons (drums). Produced by Joe Leonard.
February 18, 1957 : FREDDIE BELL and the Bell Boys do one
of their last sessions, in New York City. "Hey There You"/"Take
the First Train Out Of Town" is chosen for single release (Mercury 71075,
April). These tracks are also released on the LP "Rock 'n' Roll . All
Flavors" (Mercury MG 20289), as are "Voo Doo" and "Teach
You To Rock" from this same session. Personnel : Freddie Bell (vocal) ;
Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Frankie Brent (vocal / guitar / bass) ; Jack Kane
(tenor sax) ; Jerry Mayo (trumpet) ; Russ Conti (piano) ; Chick Kenney
(drums).
February 18, 1957 : MERRILL MOORE has his last vocal session for Capitol, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Two singles are the result : "Barrelhouse Bessie"/ "Tuck Me To Sleep In My Old 'Tucky Home" (Capitol 3721, May) and "Buttermilk Baby"/"Nursery Rhyme Blues" (Capitol 3788, September). During some sessions in September-October 1958, Moore will record an instrumental LP, which is held in the can by Capitol. Bear Family will finally release the tracks in 1990. Personnel : Merrill Moore (vocal / piano) ; Jimmy Bryant (electric guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Roy Lanham (rhythm guitar) ; Red Wooten (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 18-19, 1957 : SHIRLEY AND LEE pay another visit to Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Selected for the next single is "I Want To Dance"/"Marry Me" (Aladdin 3369, March). "Don't You Know I Love You" is also released as a single (Aladdin 3380, May). The fourth track, "Before I Go", is first issued on a United Artists album (LP 069) in 1973. Probably produced by Dave Bartholomew.
February 19, 1957 : BOBBY MITCHELL records material for two singles in New Orleans. "I Would Like To Know"/"You Always Hurt the One You Love" becomes his next single (Imperial 5440, April). "Sixty-four Hours"/"I Love To Hold You" is shelved until May 1958 for release on Imperial 5511. Musicians : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
February 19, 1957 : In the week that his "Party Doll" enters the Billboard charts, BUDDY KNOX records "Don't Make Me Cry", which will be used as the B-side of his second Roulette single (4009), "Rock Your Little Baby To Sleep" (released in April). It is a split session with JIMMY BOWEN, who lays down "I Trusted You" (Roulette 4010, April) and the LP track "Aching Hearts" (Roulette LP 25004). Backing by the Rhythm Orchids : Donny Lanier (lead guitar) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Dave Alldred (drums) ; Unknown (bass). Location : New York City.
February 19, 1957 : Three-track session for THE PLATTERS,
in New York City. "My Dream" is chosen as the A-side for their next
single (Mercury 71093, April). "You're Making A Mistake" is
another A-side, but has to wait until June 1958 for its release (Mercury
71320). "Lie Low" is held in the can until November 1961, for release
on the LP "Encores" (Wing MGW 12112). The Platters are : Tony
Williams, David Lynch, Zola Taylor, Herb Reed and Paul Robi.
February 20, 1957 : FATS DOMINO records three instrumental tracks at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "As Time Goes By" is included on the LP "This Is Fats" (Imperial LP 9040, August). "Town Talk" and "Twistin' the Spots" (a sax-led version of "Please Don't Leave Me") stay on the shelf until February 1962, when they appear on the LP "Twistin' the Stomp" (Imperial LP 9170). Personnel : Fats Domino (piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; 'Frog' Joseph (trombone) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Dave Bartholomew (producer, possibly trumpet).
February 20, 1957 : DEL REEVES makes his debut as a recording artist. All four tracks from this session will be released, on two singles. ”One Life To Live”/“There’ll Be Other Times” will be released on Capitol 3692 in April. “Love, Love, Love”/“You’re Not the Changing Kind” comes out in October on Capitol 3819. Personnel : Del Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Chester Smith (second vocal on “One Life To Live” and “Love, Love, Love”) ; Buck Owens (lead guitar) ; Grover Jackson (guitar) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Red Sylva (fiddle) ; Hank Stallings (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
February 21, 1957 : Two days after their previous session, THE PLATTERS are back in the studio to record four tracks for the LP "The Flying Platters" (Mercury MG 20298, June) : "No Power On Earth", "Darktown Strutters Ball", "You Are Too Beautiful" and "Mean To Me". The first three tracks (plus "Sweet Sixteen") will also be issued on an EP (Mercury EP 1-3353), also called "The Flying Platters". Location : New York City.
February 23-24, 1957 : Still in Hollywood after filming 'Loving You', ELVIS PRESLEY returns to Radio Recorders studio over this weekend. The main business of the two-day session is to get a single release cut of the title track "Loving You" (RCA 7000, June). "Don't Leave Me Now" and "True Love" are tracks for the "Loving You" LP (RCA LPM 1515). "I Beg Of You" will be issued as the flip of "Don't" (RCA 7150, December). A cleaned-up version of "One Night" will eventually be released in October 1958 (RCA 7410). "I Need You So" is the fourth track for the soon-to-be-released EP "Just For You" (RCA EPA 4041). The seventh track, "When It Rains, It Really Pours" will remain in the vaults until "Elvis For Everyone" is released in August 1965 (RCA LPM 3450). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Steve Sholes.
Sunday, February 24 (and into the early hours of February 25), 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY does his first session for Norman Petty in Clovis, New Mexico. After recording "I'm Looking For Someone To Love", Buddy wants to have another go at "That'll Be the Day", previously tried at Decca. However, a clause in Buddy's contract precludes him from re-recording material (issued or unissued) he has already recorded for Decca, for a period of five years. To get around this clause, it is decided to promote the recordings under the name of The Crickets. The tape will eventually find its way to Bob Thiele, A&R director at Coral Records in New York and will be released on May 27 as Brunswick 55009. Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocal / lead guitar) ; Larry Welborn (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Niki Sullivan, Gary Tollett, Ramona Tollett (backing vocals).
February 25, 1957 : LARRY WILLIAMS makes his debut as a recording artist, at Master Recorders in Hollywood. A cover of Lloyd Price's "Just Because" becomes the A-side, with "Let Me Tell You Baby" on the reverse. Released on Specialty 597 in March. Personnel : Larry Williams (vocal / piano) ; John Anderson (trumpet) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Ralph Hamilton (bass) ; Willard McDaniel (piano) ; Edward J. Hall (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
February 25, 1957 : In Nashville (RCA Victor Studio) DON GIBSON waxes his next two singles : "I Love You Still"/"I Can't Leave" (RCA 6860, March) and "Sittin' Here Cryin'"/"Everytime Turns Out For the Best" (RCA 6942, June). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar, producer) ; Luke Brandon (rhythm guitar) ; Summie Hendrick (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Tommy Jackson, Tommy Vaden (fiddles) ; Walter Lenk (drums).
February 25, 1957 : BOB LUMAN, freshly signed to Imperial, does his first session for the label. "All Night Long" becomes his first ever release, on Imperial 8311 in July. "Amarillo Blues" is shelved until 1988, when it appears on the Bear Family LP "Wild Eyed Woman" (BFX 15268). Musicians : Bob Luman (vocal / guitar) ; James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Butch White (drums) ; Unidentified (piano). Location : Sellers Co., Dallas, Texas.
February 25, 1957 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters
record their next single, "In the Doorway Crying"/"E Basta
Cosi" (Federal 12293, April). A first attempt at "Let 'em Roll"
was rejected at the time, but is now available on the Hank Ballard Bear Family
5-CD set from 2009. The group will return to the song in May. Personnel : Hank
Ballard (lead vocal) ; Lawson Smith (baritone vocal) ; Henry Booth (tenor
vocal) ; Sonny Woods (bass vocal) ; Cal Green (guitar) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ;
Alphonse Strother (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Pat Patterson
(trumpet) ; Clarence Fisher (bass) ; George DeHart (drums). Produced by Ralph Bass
at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
February 25, 1957 : GUITAR SLIM (Eddie Jones) records his new single in New York City : "It Hurts To Love Someone"/"If I Should Lose You" (Atco 6097, April). Unissued from this session is "That's Somethin' Else". Produced by Herb Abramson.
February 26, 1957 : JIMMY DONLEY's recording career gets off to a great start with the single "Come Along"/"Kickin' My Hound Around" (Decca 30308, May). "Baby How Long" is released in December on Decca 30519. The fourth track from this session, "Child Love" is first released 53 years later, on Jimmy's CD "The Shape You Left Me In" (Bear Family BCD 16534), in 2010. Personnel : Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Harold Bradley (bass guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Grady Martin (vibes) ; Glenn Tubb (organ / piano) ; Prof Carpenter (sax) ; Frank Duke, Lloyd Swetman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 26-27, 1957 : At Hollywood's Capitol recording studio, SONNY JAMES waxes "First Date, First Kiss, First Love"and "Speak To Me" for his next single (Capitol 3674, April). "Actions Speak Louder Than Words" is selected for the EP "First Date, First Kiss, First Love" (Capitol EAP-1-861), while "Baby You Melt My Heart" will stay on the shelf until the release of the Bear Family box-set "Young Love - The Complete Recordings 1952-1962" (BCD 16373, 2002). Personnel : Sonny James (vocals) ; Bob Bain, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Rolly Bundock (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Producer is, as usual, Ken Nelson.
February 28, 1957 : THE BOBBETTES, a female quintet aged 11-13, record four of their own songs in New York City, scoring a Top 10 hit in the process. "Mr. Lee"/ "Look At the Stars" is released in June on Atlantic 1144. The unsuccessful follow-up "Speedy"/"Come-A Come-A" (Atlantic 1159) will follow in November. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 1957, unknown date : At the Sun studio in
Memphis, JERRY LEE LEWIS records his breakthrough single, "Whole Lotta
Shakin' Goin' On"/"It'll Be Me" (Sun 267, release date March
15). An alternate version of "It'll Be Me" is used as the closing
track of Jerry's first LP ("Jerry Lee Lewis", Sun LP 1230) in April
1958. "Old Pal Of Yesterday" and "Pumpin' Piano Rock", also
recorded in February, but probably not at the same session, are first released
on the LP "Rockin' And Free" (Sun 6467029) in 1974. Musicians : Jerry
Lee Lewis (vocal / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) : Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
February 1957, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS record material for two singles at Universal Recording Studios in Chicago. A cover of the Gladiolas' "Little Darlin'" will give them their biggest hit (# 2). It is coupled with "Faithful And True" for release on Mercury 71060 in the first week of March. The other two tracks are "My Dog Likes Your Dog"/"Oh How I Wish" (Mercury 71165, August). The Diamonds are : Dave Somerville, John Felton, Evan Fisher and Mike Douglas. Arranged and conducted by David Carroll.
February 1957, unknown date : WARREN SMITH is in the Sun studio in Memphis to record his next single, "So Long I'm Gone"/"Miss Froggie" (Sun 268, April). It will prove to be his only pop hit, peaking at # 72 in Billboard in June. Musicians : Warren Smith (vocal / guitar) ; Al Hopson (guitar) ; Marcus Van Story (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmie Lott (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
With thanks to Steve Walker, Frank Frantik and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MARCH 1957
March 1, 1957 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS travel to Nashville's RCA studio to record their debut session for the Cadence label. "Bye Bye Love"/"I Wonder If I Care As Much" (Cadence 1315, April) provides their breakthrough into the pop charts. A first attempt at "Should We Tell Him" will turn up in 1985 on the Rhino LP "All They Had To Do Was Dream" (RNLP-214). Personnel : Don Everly (vocal / guitar) ; Phil Everly (vocal / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
March 1, 1957 : WANDA JACKSON continues a two-day session (on February 28 she recorded "Cool Love"/"Did You Miss Me" for release on Capitol 3764 in August) with two tracks for her next single, "Let Me Explain"/"Don'a Wan'a" (Capitol 3683, April). Personnel : J.W. Marshall, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Rollie Bundock (bass) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 1, 1957 : JOHN LEE HOOKER is at Universal Sound Studio in Chicago for a four-track session. "I'm So Excited"/"I See You When You're Weak" is selected for single release (Vee-Jay 245, April). "Everybody's Rockin'" and "Crawlin' Black Spider" are first released on a French Top Rank EP (EP 136), circa 1960. Musicians : John Lee Hooker (vocal / guitar) ; Eddie Taylor (guitar) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Tom Whitehead (drums).
March 4, 1957 : THE PLATTERS lay down four further tracks for the LP "The Flying Platters" (Mercury MG 20298, June) : "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter", "Time And Tide", "Love You, Funny Thing" and "In the Middle Of Nowhere". The final four tracks for the album are recorded on March 6 : "Oh Promise Me", "Don't Forget", "Sweet Sixteen" and "Only Because", which will also be issued as a single (Mercury 71184, September), coupled with "The Mystery Of You" from this same session.
March 5, 1957 : LITTLE WALTER is back in the Chess studio in Chicago for a four-track session. "Everybody Needs Somebody"/"Nobody But You" is chosen for the next single (Checker 859, April). The instrumental "Shake Dancer" is finally released on Checker 1071 in February 1964, while a first version of "Temperature" stays in the can until 1970, when it comes out on the Canadian LP "Blue And Lonesome" (Le Roi du Blues 33-2007). Personnel : Little Walter (vocal / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
March 5, 1957 is also the recording date of TOMMY SANDS's second single, "Ring-A-Ding-A-Ding"/"My Love Song" (Capitol 3690, last week of March). Later in the month (on March 18, 19, 22 and 29) Tommy will record twelve songs for his debut LP "Steady Date With Tommy Sands" (Capitol T 848, April). From this album, "Goin' Steady" and "Ring My Phone" are selected for single release (Capitol 3723, May). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 6, 1957 : No rest for Ken Nelson : on this day he produces the STAN FREBERG single "Banana Boat (Day-O)"/"Tele-Vee-Shun" (Capitol 3687, release date April 1). Interruptions on "Banana Boat" by Peter Leeds. Accompaniment by Billy May and his orchestra. "Tele-Vee-Shun" is an updated version of a song Freberg first released in 1952 (Capitol 1962). Location : Capitol Tower, 1750 North Vine Street, Hollywood.
March 6, 1957 : NAPPY BROWN does a four-track session in New York City. "Pretty Girl (Yeah Yeah Yeah)"/"I'm Gonna Get You" is rush-released in the same month (Savoy 1511). "Goody Goody Gum Drop" comes out on Savoy 1514 in June. "Most Every Time We Met" remains unissued. Backing by the Billy Verplanck Septet : John Rains (trumpet) ; Billy Verplanck (trombone) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sal Salvador (guitar) ; Aaron Bell (bass) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums).
Thursday, March 7, 1957 : FATS DOMINO pays another visit to Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, where he lays down four tracks. "Valley Of Tears"/"It's You I Love" becomes the next single (Imperial 5442, April). "Wait And See" will be released in September on Imperial 5467. "True Confession" is held in the can until May 1963, for release on both Imperial 5959 (single) and Imperial LP 9239 (LP "Let's Dance With Domino"). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocal / piano) ; Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew. (N.B.: Bear Family has deviant ideas concerning date, location and personnel of this session.)
March 7, 1957 : First Liberty session by BILLY WARD and the Dominoes, in Los Angeles. “Stardust”/“Lucinda” is released on April 23 (Liberty 55071) and reaches # 12 on the pop charts and # 5 on the R&B charts. Two other songs are recorded, “Be Still, My Heart” and “Skid Row”, but they have never been released. The lead singer on “Stardust” is Eugene Mumford.
March 11 and 13, 1957 : GENE AND EUNICE record material for two singles. "Strange World"/"The Vow" (Aladdin 3374, May) is waxed on the 11th and "Don't Treat Me This Way"/"Doodle Doodle Doo" (Aladdin 3376, August) on the 13th. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis. Location : Capitol Studio, New York City.
March 12, 1957 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW's session of this day yields three tracks. "The Monkey"/"The Shufflin' Fox" (the B-side is an instrumental) is released on Imperial 5438 in April. "Love No More" stays in the vaults until 1986, when it will appear on the LP "Shrimp And Gumbo" (Pathe-Marconi LP 1566311). Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocal / trumpet) ; Herb Hardesty, Lee Allen, Clarence Hall (tenor saxes) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Location : Cosimo Studio, New Orleans.
March 12, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY and the Crickets record two demos at Norman Petty's Nor Va Jak Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. "Last Night" will be included on the LP "The Chirping Crickets" (Brunswick 54038) in November 1957, after being overdubbed by the Picks on October 12 and/or 14, 1957. A first attempt at "Maybe Baby" stays in the vaults until 1966, when it is overdubbed by the Fireballs (March 15) and released on Coral 72483 (May 20, 1966, UK). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocal / guitar) ; Niki Sullivan (rhythm guitar / second vocal on "Maybe Baby") ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Norman Petty.
March 13, 1957 : LEFTY FRIZZELL and JOHNNY BOND duet on "Sick, Sober And Sorry"/"Lover By Appointment" (Columbia 40934, June). It is a split session (10.00-13.00) with Freddie Hart, who records "Fraulein"/ "Baby Don't Leave" (Columbia 40896, April). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell, Freddie Hart (vocals) ; Johnny Bond (vocal / guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Marian Hall (steel guitar) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; William Wardle (piano). Produced by Don Law at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
March 13, 1957 : After his lunch break, Don Law continues
at 14:00 with THE COLLINS KIDS, who record four numbers in three and a half
hours. "Hop, Skip And Jump"/"Young At Heart" is their next
single (Columbia 40921, May). "Shortnin' Bread Rock" and "Soda
Poppin' Heart" will have to wait until 1982 for release on the LP
"Rockin' Rollin' Collins Kids" (Bear Family BFX 15074). Personnel :
Lorrie Collins (vocal / guitar) ; Larry Collins (vocal / guitar) ; Johnny Bond,
Joe Maphis (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; William Wardle (piano) ; Pee
Wee Adams (drums).
March 13, 1957 : EUGENE CHURCH is another visitor to a Hollywood studio on this day. His one and only session for Specialty yields four tracks. Art Rupe selects "Open Up Your Heart" and "How Long" for release on Specialty 604 (July). "Don't Stop Loving Me" is first released on the CD "Rock 'n' Roll Fever : The Wildest From Specialty" (Specialty SPCD 7059-2) in 1994 and "Why Oh Why" on "Vocal Groups : Coast To Coast"(Specialty SPCD 7064-2) in September 1996. Personnel includes : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Jesse Belvin, Alex Hodge, Gaynel Hodge (backing vocals). More details unknown. Produced by Art Rupe.
March 13, 1957 : CONWAY TWITTY is now signed to Mercury and has his first session for the label, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. After seeing all his recordings for Sun go unreleased, he now has the satisfaction of having all four tracks issued on two singles : "I Need Your Lovin'"/"Born To Sing the Blues" (Mercury 71086, April) and "Shake It Up"/"Maybe Baby" (Mercury 71148, July). Backing by : Jimmy Ray Paulman (guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Billy Weir (drums) ; prob. Martin Willis (sax) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Bob Shad.
March 14, 1957 : ONIE WHEELER's last Columbia session results in the single "Going Back To the City"/"Steppin' Out" (Columbia 40911, late April). "Long Gone" and "I'll Love You For A Lifetime" stay on the shelf until 1986 when Bear Family includes them on the 10-LP box-set "The Sun Country Years, 1950-1959"(BFX 15211), even though these are not Sun recordings. They appear also on the "Onie's Bop" CD (Bear Family BCD 15542, 1991). Personnel : Onie Wheeler (vocal / leader) ; Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 14, 1957 : MARVIN AND JOHNNY (Marvin Phillips and Emory Perry) do their second session for Aladdin Records. The resulting single is "Yak Yak"/"Pretty Eyes" (Aladdin 3371, May). Session personnel includes : Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums, probably also producer). More details unknown. Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
March 19, 1957 : GEORGE JONES does a session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Too Much Water” is released on April 12 (Mercury 71096, c/w “All I Want To Do” from a session in October 1956). “Flame In My Heart”/“No, No, Never” will follow on June 11 (Mercury 71141) ; both sides are duets with Virginia Spurlock. “Giveaway Girl” is first released on the LP “George Jones Sings” (Mercury MG 20477) in December 1959. Lloyd Green plays steel guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Pappy Daily. See also April 23.
March 20, 1957 : Both BUDDY KNOX and JIMMY BOWEN record with the Rhythm Orchids in New York City. Buddy's songs are the single "Hula Love" (Roulette 4018, August) and the album tracks "Rockabilly Walk" (instrumental), "Rockhouse", "Maybelline" and "Rock Around the Clock" (all on the LP "Buddy Knox", Roulette LP 25003). Jimmy waxes three numbers, "Money Honey", "Last Night" and "Raggedy Ann", all included on his LP "Jimmy Bowen" (Roulette LP 25004) later in the year. Backing by : Donny Lanier (lead guitar) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Dave Alldred (drums).
March 22, 1957 : JOHNNY BURNETTE does a solo session after the recent break-up of the Rock 'n' Roll Trio. "Eager Beaver Baby"/"Touch Me" is released in May on Coral 61829. "Butterfingers" follows in late August (Coral 61869) and "If You Want It Enough" in December (Coral 61918). Personnel : Johnny Burnette (vocal / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass). Unidentified (vocal chorus). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville. Producer probably Henry Jerome.
Friday, March 22, 1957 : First of a series of sessions by BILL HALEY and the Comets at New York's Pythian Temple. On this day they record their forthcoming single "(You Hit the Wrong Note) Billy Goat"/"Rockin' Rollin' Rover" (Decca 30314, May), together with "Miss You". The latter track will be included on the LP "Rockin' the Oldies" (Decca DL 8569, August), along with "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone","You Can't Stop Me Dreaming", "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter", "Rock Lomond"(all recorded on March 25), "Ain't Misbehavin'", "Carolina In the Morning","Is It True What They Say About Dixie" and "The Dipsy Doodle" (recorded on March 29). From this LP, "The Dipsy Doodle"/"Miss You" is selected for single release (Decca 30394, August). Also recorded on the 29th is "The Beak Speaks", an instrumental that will find a place on the LP "Rockin' the Joint" in August 1958 (Decca DL 8775). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Frankie Scott (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
March 25, 1957 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, PAT BOONE records "Bernadine", which will be coupled with the previously recorded "Love Letters In the Sand" for release on Dot 15570 in late April. Backing by : Howard Roberts, Tony Rizzi (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Frank Leitner (piano) ; Dave Peel (sax) ; Alvin Stoller (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood.
March 26, 1957 : RICKY NELSON has his very first recording session, at Master Recorders in Hollywood. A cover of Fats Domino's current hit "I'm Walkin'" is coupled with "A Teenager's Romance" for release on Verve 10047 in April. Both sides will go Top 10. The third track from this session is "You're My One And Only Love" (Verve 10070, August). Personnel : Barney Kessel (guitar / arranger / producer) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Tiny Timbrell (bass) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; Paul T. Smith (piano) ; Irving Cottler (drums) ; Irving Kluger (percussion) ; The Four Preps (vocal group).
March 26, 1957 : ROC LARUE records the single “Baby Take Me Back”/“I’m Not Ashamed” (Rama 226, April) in New York City. Label credit goes to Roc LaRue with the Three Pals. Later pressings have “Teenage Blues” (recorded at an unknown date in April 1957) on the B-side.
March 27, 1957 : Second Vee-Jay session by BILLY EMERSON. “Somebody Show Me”/“The Pleasure Is All Mine” is chosen as his next single (Vee-Jay 247, July). “Do the Chicken” and “Don’t Be Careless” are first released in 1982 on the LP “Billy the Kid Emerson - Crazy ‘Bout Automobiles” (Charly CFM 602, UK). Personnel : Billy Emerson (vocals / piano) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; James Holloway (tenor sax) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; Hobart Dotson (trumpet) ; Al Duncan (drums). The location is Chicago, unknown studio.
March 28, 1957 : BOB LUMAN's second Imperial session yields three tracks. "Red Cadillac And a Black Mustache" is coupled with "All Night Long" from the first session, for release on Imperial 8311 in July. An alternate take of "Red Cadillac .." will be released on Imperial 5705 in October 1960. "Wild Eyed Woman" and "Blue Days, Black Nights" stay in the can until the release of the LP "Try Me" (Rockstar LP 1015) in 1988. Musicians : Bob Luman (vocal / guitar) ; poss. James Burton (guitar) ; poss. James Kirkland (bass) ; poss. Butch White (drums) ; Unidentified (piano). Location unknown.
(Circa) March 28, 1957 : CARL PERKINS records the single "That's Right"/ "Forever Yours" (Sun 274, August) and "Y.O.U.", which is first issued on Carl's LP "Sun Sound Special" (Charly CR 30152) in 1979. Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocal / guitar) ; Jay Perkins (rhythm guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
March 28, 1957 : Also present in the Sun studio on this day is MACK SELF. "Everyday" from this date is coupled with "Easy To Love" from a 1956 session, for release on Sun 273 in June. "Mad At You" stays in the can until September 1959, when it appears on Phillips International 3548. Personnel : Mack Self (vocal / guitar) ; Thurlow Brown (lead guitar) ; Jimmy Ray Paulman (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass / harmony vocal) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Jack Clement.
March 28, 1957 : Second March session for BUDDY KNOX, again in New York City (Bell Sound Studio). "Rock Your Little Baby To Sleep" will become the A-side of his next single (Roulette 4009, April). "Devil Woman" ends up on the B-side of "Hula Love" (Roulette 4018, August). "I'm In Love With You" and "Mary Lou" are tracks for the "Buddy Knox" LP. Personnel is the same as on March 20.
March 29, 1957 : RIC CARTEY's second RCA session results in the single "Born To Love One Woman"/"Let Me Tell You About Love" (RCA 6920, April). Personnel : Ric Cartey (vocal / guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Jerry Reed, Jack Eubanks (guitars) ; Jeff Richards (drums) ; Sunshine Quartet (vocal group). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor's Nashville studio.
Lots of "unknown dates" this month. In alphabetical order:
March 1957, unknown date : ROY BROWN does a two-track session in New Orleans. "Ain't Gonna Do It" will be released in February 1958 on Imperial 5489. "Ivy League" stays in the can until 1995, when it is included on the Capitol CD "Roy Brown : The Complete Imperial Recordings". Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; probably Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
March 1957, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK waxes four numbers at Audio Recorders in Hollywood. "Darling Dear"/"The Glory Of Love" becomes the next single (Dot 15556, last week of March). "A Cross-Eyed Alley Cat" and "Promise Me Baby" stay in the vaults until the appearance of the double LP "Rockin' Rollin' Sanford Clark" (Bear Family BFX 15198 / 15199) in 1986. Backing by : Al Casey, Jerry Demar (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
March 1957, unknown date : EDDIE COCHRAN records his second Liberty single, "Mean When I'm Mad"/"One Kiss" (Liberty 55070, May) at Gold Star Recording Studios on Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. Musicians : Eddie Cochran (vocal / guitar) ; Guybo Smith (stand-up bass) ; Unidentified (drums) ; The Johnny Mann Chorus (vocal backing).
March 1957, unknown date : In Chicago, BO DIDDLEY records the two tracks for his next single, "Hey! Bo Diddley"/"Mona", for release on Checker 860 in April. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocal / guitar) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Clifton James or Frank Kirkland (drums) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; The Moonglows (vocal group).
March 1957, unknown date : PAUL GAYTEN has a four-track session at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. The instrumental "The Sweeper" is coupled with a vocal version of "Old Buttermilk Sky" for release on Argo 5267 in April. Another instrumental, "Nervous Boogie" comes out on Argo 5277 in August (with "Flat Foot Sam" by Oscar Wills on the reverse) and becomes Gayten's first entry into Billboard's pop charts. "Everybody's Somebody's Fool" remains unissued from this session. Personnel : Paul Gayten (vocal / piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Roland Cook (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
(Probably) March 1957, unknown date : JERRY LEE LEWIS records three tracks that will remain in the can for many years. "Little Green Valley" is first issued on the LP "Rockin' And Free" (Sun LP 6467029) in 1974. Both "Love Letters In the Sand" and a first, fast version of "You Win Again" see their first release in 1982, on the 12-LP box "Jerry Lee Lewis : The Sun Years" (Sunbox 102). Musicians : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocal / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
March 1957, unknown date : PRETTY BOY (Don Covay) records two tracks at an unknown studio in Washington, D.C., under the supervision of Little Richard : "Bip Bop Bip" and "Paper Dollar". The masters are picked up by Atlantic and released on Atlantic 1147 in August. Backing by the Upsetters : Clifford Burks, Wilbert Smith and Grady Gaines (tenor saxes) ; Samuel Parker (baritone sax) ; Nathaniel Douglas (guitar) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Charles Connor (drums).
March 1957, unknown date : RUSTY DRAPER records his new single, “Freight Train”/“Seven Come Eleven” (Mercury 71102, April 23). A # 6 hit. Backing by Carl Stevens and his orchestra and the Dick Noel Singers. The location is Universal Recording, Chicago.
(Probably) March 1957, unknown date : JACK SCOTT records "Baby She's Gone"/"You Can Bet Your Bottom Dollar", his first single (ABC-Paramount 9818, April). ABC-Paramount purchased the masters on April 4, 1957. Scott (vocal / guitar) is backed by Stan Getz and his Tom Cats : Dave Rohillier (lead guitar) ; Stan Getz (bass) ; Dominic Scafone (drums). Location : Universal Sound Studio, Detroit, Michigan.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Frank Frantik.
Dik
APRIL 1957
Wednesday, April 3, 1957 : WILEY BARKDULL records material for three singles at Nashville's RCA Studio B. "Too Many"/"No One Will Ever Know" is released in the last week of May (Hickory 1065), followed by "I'd Like To"/"He Made You For Me", two duets with Helen Carter (Hickory 1069) in August. Finally, "Hey Honey"/"I Ain't Gonna Waste My Time" will appear on Hickory 1074 in February 1958. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose.
April 3, 1957 : BILL HALEY is at New York's Pythian Temple with his Comets to record "Moon Over Miami", "One Sweet Letter From You", "Apple Blossom Time" and "Somebody Else Is Taking My Place" for their forth- coming LP "Rockin' the Oldies" (Decca DL 8569), for release in August. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Frankie Scott (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
April 3, 1957 is also the recording date of the HAYDEN THOMPSON track "Rockabilly Gal", which stays in the vaults until the release of the "Rockabilly Tunes" LP in 1985 (Sun LP 1026, UK). Musicians : Roland Janes, Brad Suggs, Slim Rhodes (guitars) ; Speck Rhodes (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Dusty Rhodes (harmony vocal). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
April 3, 1957 : JIMMY REED does another session for Vee-Jay in Chicago, resulting in the single “Honest I Do”/“Signals of Love” (Vee-Jay 253, August). A # 4 R&B hit (# 32 pop). Personnel : Jimmy Reed (vocals / harmonica / guitar) ; Remo Biondi, Eddie Taylor (guitars) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
April 4, 1957 : Also at the Sun Studio in Memphis, JOHNNY CASH lays down his next single, "Don't Make Me Go"/"Next In Line" (Sun 266, May). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocal / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Jack Clement (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
April 5, 1957 : And yet another session at the Sun studio, by NARVEL FELTS. All five tracks ("A Fool In Paradise", "Kiss-A-Me Baby", "Your Touch", "My Babe" and "A Teen's Way") are shelved by Sam Phillips, but are now available on Narvel's Bear Family 1997 CD "Did You Tell Me" (BCD 16220). Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocal / guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; Jerry Tuttle (steel guitar / saxophone). Produced by Jack Clement.
April 5, 1957 : JIMMY BOWEN records five tracks at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. Of these, three will be used for forthcoming singles : "Warm Up To Me Baby" (Roulette 4010, last week of April), "Ever Since That Night"(Roulette 4017, August) and "It's Shameful" (Roulette 4023, October). "Way Back Home" and "Stop Wasting My Time" end up on Jimmy's first LP, "Jimmy Bowen" (Roulette LP 25004), later in the year. Backing by : Donny Lanier (lead guitar) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Dave Alldred (drums). Produced by Hugo (Peretti) and Luigi (Creatore).
April 7, 1957 : RAY HARRIS waxes his second single for the Sun label : "Greenback Dollar, Watch and Chain"/"Foolish Heart" (Sun 272, August). Personnel : Ray Harris (vocal / guitar) ; Wayne Cogswell (lead guitar) ; Red Hensley (guitar, backing vocals) ; Joey Reisenberg (drums) ; Unknown (piano, bass) ; Roy Orbison (backing vocals). The piano player is not Jerry Lee Lewis, as has been alleged. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
April 8, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY is back at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis to record two tracks which will be released under Buddy's name alone, not the Crickets. It is a long session that continues well into the early hours of April 9. "Words Of Love"/"Mailman Bring Me No More Blues" is released on June 20 on Coral 61852. Personnel : Buddy Holly (double-tracked vocal / double-tracked lead guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Vi Petty (piano on "Mailman"). Produced by Norman Petty.
April 8, 1957 : BILLY WALKER is at Norman Petty’s studio in Clovis, New Mexico, to record a single with two members of the Crickets. “On My Mind Again”/“Viva la Matador!” is released on Columbia 40920 on April 29 and will reach the # 12 position on the country charts. Personnel : Billy Walker (vocals) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Norman Petty (piano) ; Vi Petty (organ) ; Mike Mitchell (bongos) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Bowman Brothers (vocal chorus). Produced by Billy Walker and Norman Petty.
April 9, 1957 : FAYE ADAMS is now signed to Imperial and has her first session for the label, resulting in eight tracks. "Keeper Of My Heart"/"So Much" is the first single to be released (Imperial 5443, May), followed in August by "You're Crazy"/"Johnny Lee" (Imperial 5456). "I Have A Twinkle In My Eye"/"Someone Like You" is a single in October (Imperial 5471). "When We Kiss" is saved until June 1958 for release on Imperial 5525. "Goody Goody Gum Drop" remains unissued. Personnel : Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; poss. Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles Williams (drums). Unknown (vocal group). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans.
Wednesday, April 10, 1957 : BOBBY LORD records material for his next two singles : "High Voltage"/"Just Wonderful" (Columbia 40927, May) and "Am I A Fool"/"I Know It Was You" (Columbia 41030, October). Backing by : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 10, 1957 : SAM COOKE does his last session with the Soul Stirrers. "Were You There" is issued as a single (Specialty 907) in June. The other three tracks, "That's Heaven To Me", "Lord Remember Me" and "Mean Old World" stay on the shelf until 1970, when they are issued on the LP "That's Heaven To Me" (Specialty SP 2146). Backing by Evelyn Gay (piano) ; Willie Webb (organ) ; L.C. Cook (drums). Probably produced by S.R. Crain, at Universal Recording Studios in Chicago.
April 11, 1957 : CHUCK WILLIS is in Atlantic's NYC studio to lay down four tracks. "That Train Has Gone"/"Love Me Cherry" is released in July on Atlantic 1148. "My Baby" will get a posthumous release in July 1959 (Atlantic 2029). "One Kiss" (not the same song as "Just One Kiss") from this session remains unissued. Personnel : Jimmy Nottingham, James Harris (trumpets) ; Frank Saracco (trombone) ; Romeo Penque (alto sax) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Howard Biggs (piano) ; Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
April 11, 1957 : JOHNNY HORTON manages to record "Honky Tonk Mind (The Woman I Need)" four days earlier than Tommy Blake, the song's writer. Coupled with "She Knows Why" from the same session, it is rush-released on April 22 (Columbia 40919). Two other tracks will be released after Horton's death, "Goodbye Lonesome, Hello Baby Doll" on the LP "Honky Tonk Man" (Columbia CL 1721, 1962) and "Tell My Baby I Love Her" on Columbia 42993 (March 1964). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocal / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Tommy Tomlinson (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 11, 1957 : The vocal group THE SCHOLARS records two singles, at an unknown studio, probably in Houston : “I Didn’t Want To Do It”/“Beloved” (Imperial 5449, June) and “Eternally Yours”/“Kan-Gu-Wa” (Imperial 5459, August). The group includes future star Kenny Rogers, who plays guitar and provides backing vocals.
April 11, 1957 : MEL TILLIS records his third single, “Juke Box Man”/“If You’ll Be My Love” (Columbia 40944), which is released in July. Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 12, 1957 : After a January session in New York, BRENDA LEE is back in Nashville (Bradley Studio), to record her next two singles. "Dynamite"/"Love You Till I Die" is a May release (Decca 30333), followed by "Ain't That Love"/"One Teenager To Another" in August (Decca 30411). Backing by : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (electric guitars) ; Herschel Hewarth (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Andy Goodrich (sax) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
April 12, 1957 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his Combo do a four-track session in Los Angeles. "River Boat" is selected for the next single (Imperial 5444, June). "Night Sounds" is saved until December 1959 for release on the B-side of "Big River" (Imperial 5633). "Reachin'" and "Tale Of Trinidad" are not released at all.
April 14, 1957 : WEBB PIERCE covers the Everly Brothers number “Bye Bye Love” (Decca 30321, May). The other side, “Missing You”, also comes from this session. Both sides will enter the country charts, both peaking at # 7. “Bye Bye Love” also makes the pop charts (# 73). Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano / producer) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
April 15, 1957 : TOMMY BLAKE has his only session for RCA. He records four tracks, all co-written with Carl Adams and Eddie Hall. "Mister Hoody"/"Freedom" is selected for single release (RCA 6925, May). The other two tracks, "Honky Tonk Mind" and "All Night Long" will not be released until 1989, on the CD "Get Hot Or Go Home : Vintage RCA Rockabilly '56-'59" (Country Music Foundation CMF-014-D). Personnel : Tommy Blake (vocal / guitar / leader) ; Carl Adams, Eddie Hall (guitars) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
April 15, 1957 : RUTH BROWN is one of several Atlantic artists who have a session this month. All four tracks are released, on two singles : "Show Me"/"I Hope We Meet" (Atlantic 1153, September) and "A New Love"/ "Look Me Up" (Atlantic 1166, December). Personnel : Jimmy Mitchell (alto sax) ; Lee Anderson (piano) ; Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Percy Heath (bass) ; Connie Kay (drums) ; Jerry Duane, Bob Harter, Artie Malvin, Robert Miller (vocal chorus). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
April 15, 1957 : WYNONIE HARRIS waxes his next single in New York City : "Big Old Country Fool"/"That's Me Right Now" (King 5050, May). Personnel : Hilton Jefferson (alto sax) ; Count Hastings (tenor sax) ; Maxwell Lucas (tenor sax, baritone sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Kenny Burrell (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Shadow Wilson (drums).
April 15-17, 1957 : Three days of sessions for SONNY JAMES, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. On the 15th, he records the single "Dear Love"/ "Lovesick Blues" (Capitol 3734, June). The next two days are devoted to twelve songs that will be released as James's second Capitol LP, "Sonny" (Capitol T 867, September) : "Near You", "A Fool Such As I", "Heartaches", "Ages And Ages Ago", "I'll Never Get Over You", "Secret Love", "Beg Your Pardon", "Just Out Of Reach", "How's the World Treating You", "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know", "Almost", "Because Of You". Personnel on all three days : Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 16, 1957 : THE DRIFTERS (Johnny Moore, Gerhart Thrasher, Charlie Hughes, Tommy Evans) record at the Perch Studios in New York City on this day. A cover of Terry Noland's "Hypnotized" becomes the A-side of their next single (Atlantic 1141, May). "Yodee Yakee"/"I Know" (Atlantic 1161) follows in late October. The Chuck Willis-penned "Souvenirs" eventually ends up on the LP "The Drifters' Greatest Hits" (Atlantic LP 8041) in 1960.
April 16, 1957 : SAL MINEO cuts the single “Start Movin’ (In My Direction)”/ “Love Affair” (Epic 9216, rush-released on April 22) in New York City. A # 9 hit. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
April 16 or 18, 1957 : Another Atlantic group, THE CLOVERS, does a four- track session in New York City. "I-I-I Love You"/"So Young" is chosen as the next single (Atlantic 1139, May), while "Baby Darling" and "Pretty Eyes" stay in the vaults. Lead vocal by Billy Mitchell.
April 18, 1957 : JERRY REED is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record two self-penned songs for his new single, "Rockin' In Bagdad"/"Oh! Lonely Heart" (Capitol 3731, June). Produced by Ken Nelson. Personnel unknown.
April 18, 1957 : Guitarist IRVING ASHBY waxes four tracks in Los Angeles. "Guitar Rock"/"Gonna Have A Good Time" is chosen for single release on Imperial 5445 in June. "Rock A Cha" will be released on Imperial's Knight subsidiary (Knight 2004) in October 1958. The fourth track, "Woodshed", remains unissued.
April 18, 1957 : KID THOMAS (aka Tommy Louis) auditions for Federal Records at an unknown Chicago studio. Producer Ralph Bass is so pleased with the results that he feels no need for rerecording at a formal session. The resulting single is "The Wolf Pack"/"The Spell" (Federal 12298, July). Thomas (vocal / harmonica) is backed by Little Willie Smith on drums, a guitar player only remembered as "James" and an unknown pianist.
April 19, 1957 : GENE MALTAIS makes his debut as a recording artist, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The resulting single, "Crazy Baby"/Deep River Blues" is released on Decca 30387 in July. Personnel : Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal group). More details unknown. Produced by Paul Cohen.
April 19, 1957 : THE FLAMINGOS have their first session for Decca, in New York City. "The Ladder Of Love"/"Let's Make Up" is released in June on Decca 30335. A third track, "That Love Is You", remains unreleased, but the group will rerecord the song for the End label in September 1958. The Flamingos had been disbanded in 1956 when Zeke Carey and Johnny Carter were drafted. The new group consists of Jake Carey, Nate Nelson, Tommy Hunt, Paul Wilson and Terry "Buzzy" Johnson (who also acts as arranger).
Saturday, April 20, 1957 : EARL PALMER records the two-part instrumental single "Johnny's House Party" (Aladdin 3379, May) at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The label credit goes to Earl Palmer's Party Rockers with the Jayhawks. This latter group also records "The Thing (Creature From Outer Space)" c/w "Everyone Should Know" (Aladdin 3393, November). Personnel includes Plas Johnson on tenor sax and Earl Palmer on drums ; more details unknown.
April 22, 1957 : CHRIS KENNER records his first single for Imperial, "Sick And Tired"/"Nothing Will Keep You Away From Me" (Imperial 5448, June) at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Lee Allen, Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (saxes) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
April 22, 1957 : THE SPIDERS also record at Cosimo's on this day, probably a split session with Chris Kenner. The resulting single, "The Bells Are Ringing"/"Poor Boy" is released on Imperial 5452 in July. Lead vocal by Chuck Carbo. Personnel is likely to be the same as above.
April 23, 1957 : Another GEORGE JONES session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Tall, Tall Trees” and “Hearts In My Dream” are coupled for single release on Mercury 71176 in September. “Don’t Do This To Me” is first released on the Various artists LP “Hillbilly Hit Parade, vol. II” (Mercury MG 20328) in late 1957. “No Use To Cry” is saved until December 1959 for release on the album “George Jones Sings” (Mercury MG 20477). Produced by Pappy Daily.
April 24-25, 1957 : PATSY CLINE spends two days at the Pythian Temple in New York City. The harvest is : "Today, Tomorrow and Forever"/"Try Again" (Decca 30339, release date May 27), "Three Cigarettes (In An Ashtray)"/"A Stranger In My Arms" (Decca 30406, August), "Then You'll Know"(Decca 30504, released on November 18), and three EP tracks, "Fingerprints" (4-Star EP-21), "Too Many Secrets" (4-Star EP-25) and "Don't Ever Leave Me Again" (4-Star EP-31, 1958). Backing by Jack Pleis and his orchestra. Produced by Paul Cohen.
April 25, 1957 : BIG T. TYLER lays down the two tracks for his sole record release : "King Kong"/"Sadie Green" (Aladdin 3384, release date June 11). This event takes place at Master Recorders in Hollywood. Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Red Callender or Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums, producer).
April 26, 1957 : At his second Specialty session, LARRY WILLIAMS records what will become his first and biggest hit, "Short Fat Fannie", as well as its reverse, "High School Dance" (Specialty 608, last week of May). The two other tracks stay in the can until 1974. "Iko Iko" (aka "Jockomo" and "Hey Now, Hey Now") is first released on Specialty SPS-2158 (LP "The Unreleased Larry Williams"), while "Love Charms" (also recorded by Sanford Clark during this month) sees its first release on Specialty SPS-2162 (LP "Hocus Pocus"). Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Jesse James Jones (tenor sax) ; Leon M. Silby (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
April 27, 1957 : At Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, LEE DENSON waxes the single "New Shoes"/"Climb Love Mountain" (Vik X-0281, June). Denson is supported by (at least on "New Shoes", not sure about the other side) : Eddie Cochran (guitar) ; Guybo Smith (stand-up bass) ; Jerry Capehart (box slapping) ; Unidentified (male vocal quartet).
April 30, 1957 : ELVIS PRESLEY meets songwriters Jerry
Leiber and Mike Stoller, who are responsible for most of the songs in the
soundtrack for his forthcoming movie "Jailhouse Rock" and who also
take a major part in the production of the recording sessions on this and the
following days. Leiber and Stoller write in their autobiography ("Hound
Dog") : "We were amazed that no one was rushing us to get through.
The musicians' union allowed four songs in three hours or you got into the
dreaded overtime. On Elvis's sessions, though, those restrictions were
lifted." Recorded on this Tuesday are "Jailhouse
Rock"/"Treat Me Nice" (RCA 7035, September), a separate movie
version of "Jailhouse Rock" and "Young And Beautiful" (RCA
EPA 4114, EP "Jailhouse Rock", October). Personnel : Elvis Presley
(vocal / guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Dudley Brooks
(piano) ; Mike Stoller (piano, arranger) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The
Jordanaires (vocal group). Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
April 30, 1957 : EDDIE FONTAINE records three tracks in New York City. "One And Only"/"Hey Marie, Rock With Me" is released within three weeks, on Decca 30338. A cover of Johnny Horton's "Honky Tonk Man" is coupled with "Fun Lovin'" from an earlier session, for release on Decca 30446 in September. Orchestra and chorus directed by Sid Bass.
April 30, 1957 is the recording date of WELDON ROGERS's "So Long, Good Luck And Goodbye", according to Bear Family. (Michel Ruppli dates this session in 1956.) Intended for Rogers' own Je-Wel label, the master is purchased by Imperial and released on Imperial 5451 in July. The flip, "Trying To Get To You", is also credited to Weldon Rogers (who may have recorded the song at this session), though this is in fact the Roy Orbison Je-Wel version from early 1956. Roy's former band, the Teen Kings, provides the backing : Roy Underwood (lead guitar) ; Johnny 'Peanuts' Wilson (rhythm guitar) ; James Morrow (mandolin) ; poss. Jack Kennelly (bass) ; Billy Pat Ellis (drums). Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
April 1957, unknown date : CECIL CAMPBELL records the single "Rock and Roll Fever"/"The Rocking Guitar" (MGM 12482, May) at an unknown studio in Charlotte, North Carolina. The B-side is an instrumental. Label credit goes to "Cecil Campbell and his Tennessee Ramblers".
April 1957, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK's second Hollywood session for Dot yields the single "Love Charms"/"Lou Be Doo" (Dot 15585, May), plus "Till My Baby Comes Home", which is first released in 1986 on Bear Family BFX 15198 (LP "Rockin' Rollin' Sanford Clark"). Personnel includes Duane Eddy on rhythm guitar and Al Casey on lead guitar. Further details unknown. Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
April 1957, unknown date : HOWARD CROCKETT's first recording session yields four tracks. "You've Got Me Lyin'"/"If You'll Let Me" is selected for single release (Dot 15593, June). The other two tracks, "I'm Gonna Try Again" and "Where Did My Baby Go" stay in the vaults for 50 years, until they are included on Crockett's Bear Family CD "Out Of Bounds" (BCD 16794, 2007). Location is probably Bradley Studio in Nashville. Backing by : Cecil McCullough (lead guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
(Probably) April 1957, unknown date : CARL MANN has his first recording session, at the ripe old age of 14, in Jackson, Tennessee. Within days, 350 copies are pressed of "Gonna Rock 'n' Roll Tonight"/"Rockin' Love" (Jaxon 502), for Carl to sell at gigs. Backing by : Eddie Bush, Junior Vestal (guitars) ; Jimmy Martin (bass, drums, producer).
Friday, May 3, 1957 : ELVIS PRESLEY continues work on the "Jailhouse Rock" soundtrack sessions. After a first attempt at "I Want To Be Free" on May 1, the song is completed on this day, along with "Don't Leave Me Now" and a special movie version of "Treat Me Nice". The recordings used in the soundtrack of the movie are different to those put out on record, with the exception of "Baby I Don't Care", the recording of which is begun on this day and finished on May 8 (at MGM Soundstage in Culver City, California). Release (of the non-movie versions) on the 5-track EP "Jailhouse Rock" (RCA EPA 4114) in October. Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / rhythm guitar / bass on "Baby I Don't Care"), Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). The producer is listed as Jeffrey Alexander, but the input of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller is probably more important. Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
May 3, 1957 : DAVID HOUSTON is at RCA Victor Studio in Manhattan, New York City, where he records his next two singles : "One And Only"/ "Hackin' Around" (RCA 6927, rush-released) and "I'll Follow You"/"The Teenage Frankie And Johnny" (RCA 7001, July). Produced by Steve Sholes.
May 6, 1957 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS visits Columbia Recording Studio in New York City to record his forthcoming single, "Frenzy"/"Person To Person" (Okeh 7087, August). Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland. Produced by Arnold Maxim. Most likely this was a split session with LITTLE JOE (COOK) AND THE THRILLERS, who record their only hit, "Peanuts"/"Lilly Lou" (Okeh 7088, July) on this day, with the same producer and arranger.
May 6, 1957 : Six days into his new Atco contract, BOBBY DARIN has his first session for the label, while on the road in Tennessee. "I Found A Million Dollar Baby"/"Talk To Me Something" becomes his debut Atco single (6092), released in July. "Just In Case You Change Your Mind" comes out on Atco 6109 in January 1958. The fourth track, "Wear My Ring" (soon to be recorded by Gene Vincent) will first appear on Bobby's first LP, titled "Bobbby Darin" (Atco 33-102, September 1958), which also includes the other three songs. Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Jordanaires and Millie Kirkham (vocal chorus). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
May 6, 1957 : CONNIE FRANCIS, still waiting for her first hit, records the single "Eighteen"/"Faded Orchid" (MGM 12490, June). "My Sister's Clothes" is first released on the Bear Family box-set "White Sox, Pink Lipstick And Stupid Cupid" (BCD 15616) in 1993. Orchestra conducted by Sid Bass. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Coastal Recording Company in New York City.
May 8, 1957 is the recording date of the EDWIN BRUCE single "Rock Boppin' Baby"/"More Than Yesterday" (Sun 276, August). The third track from this session, "Eight Wheel Driver" is first released on Bear Family BFX 15194 (LP "Rock Boppin' Baby") in 1986. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
Thursday, May 9, 1957 : JAMES "SUGAR BOY" CRAWFORD is at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. He records "I Need Your Love" and "It's Over", which will be released in May 1958 (Imperial 5513), his last single for Lew Chudd's label. The other two tracks, "The Facts" and "I Have A Feeling" finally see the light of day with the release of the LP "New Orleans Classics" (French Imperial 1561351), issued by Pathe-Marconi in 1985. Crawford (vocals / piano) is supported by Dave Bartholomew's orchestra.
May 9, 1957 : GUY MITCHELL has a session at Columbia Recording Studio in New York City with Jimmy Carroll and his orchestra. Six tracks are recorded, all of which will be used for forthcoming singles : "Sweet Stuff"/"In the Middle Of A Dark, Dark Night" (Columbia 40940, June), "Call Rosie On the Phone"/"Cure For the Blues" (Columbia 40987, August), "C'mon, Let's Go" (Columbia 41033, October) and "If Ya Don't Like It, Don't Knock It", which goes unissued in the US, but is released in the UK (Philips PB 798) in March 1958. Personnel : Guy Mitchell (vocals) ; Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon, Edward O'Connor, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Joe Antman (piano) ; Ed Shaughnessy, Chauncey Morehouse (drums). Produced by Mitch Miller.
May 10, 1957 : CLARENCE PALMER and the Jive Bombers record material for two singles : "Cherry"/"You Took My Love (Savoy 1515, June) and "Just Around the Corner"/"Is This the End?" (Savoy 1535, April 1958). Musicians : Clarence Palmer (lead vocals / bass) ; Allen Tinney (piano, background vocals) ; Pee Wee Tinney (guitar, drums, background vocals) ; Kenny Burrell (guitar) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Earl Johnson (tenor sax) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums). Location : New York City.
May 10, 1957 : In Nashville, LEFTY FRIZZELL records three tracks with the Nashville A-team. "No One To Talk To" and "Is It Only That You're Lonely" are chosen for his next single (Columbia 40938, June), while "Mailman Bring Me No More Blues" will stay on the shelves, probably due to the release of Buddy Holly's version of the same song. But the track has been included in Lefty's 12-CD box-set "Life's Like Poetry" (Bear Family BCD 15550) in 1992. Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Shirley Caddell (duet vocal) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced, as usual, by Don Law at Bradley Studio.
May 10, 1957 is the date of the very first recording session by RAY STEVENS. He covers the Cellos hit “Rang Tang Ding Dong (I’m the Japanese Sandman)”, which will be released on the Capitol subsidiary Prep (catalog nr F 108) in June. The reverse is “Silver Bracelet”, also from this session. The location is Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Monday, May 13, 1957 : In New York City, JOE TURNER lays
down his next two singles : "Love Roller Coaster"/"World Of
Trouble" (Atlantic 1146, June) and "I Need A Girl"/"Trouble
In Mind" (Atlantic 1155, September). Backing by Choker Campbell's band.
Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
May 13, 1957 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records "How Could You", which will be coupled with the yet-to-record "Barrel House" for release on Imperial 5460 in August. The only other track from this session is "In the Evening", which will have to wait until 1985 for a release on the Pathe-Marconi LP "The Monkey" (156 1331, France). Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet) ; Lee Allen, Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Location : Cosimo Studio, New Orleans.
May 13, 1957 : Seeing that Sam Phillips does not release his recordings, NARVEL FELTS tries his luck at Mercury, where he is booked for a long session at Universal Recording Corporation in Chicago. He rerecords eight of the ten songs that were previously done for Sun. Two singles will be issued in 1957 : "Kiss-A-Me Baby"/"Foolish Thoughts" (Mercury 71140, June) and "Cry Baby Cry"/"Lonesome Feeling" (Mercury 71190, September). The other six tracks are first released on Bear Family BFX 15242 (LP "A Teen's Way") in 1985 : "A Fool In Paradise", "Your Touch", "Lonely River", "A Teen's Way", "I'm Headin' Home" and "Your First Broken Heart". Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocals / guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (steel guitar, sax) ; Chuck Stacy (piano) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by David Carroll.
May 14, 1957 : During their second session for RCA, THE LANE BROTHERS lay down the single "Uh Huh Honey"/"Ding Dang Danglin'" (RCA 6900, June). The Lane Brothers are Pete, Frank and Art Loconto. Personnel : George Barnes, Al Casamenti, Sebastian Mure (guitars) ; Bucky Pizzarelli (bass guitar) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Hank Jones (piano) ; Osie Johnson (drums). Plus a 4-piece male vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Joe Reisman. Produced by Hugo Winterhalter at Webster Hall in New York City.
Wednesday, May 15, 1957 : RUTH BROWN does another session for Atlantic. All four tracks are released, on two singles : "Show Me"/"I Hope We Meet" (Atlantic 1153, September) and "A New Love"/"Look Me Up" (Atlantic 1166, December). Personnel : Jimmy Mitchell (alto sax) ; Lee Anderson (piano) ; Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Percy Heath (bass) ; Connie Kay (drums) ; Jerry Duane, Bob Harter, Artie Malvin, Robert Miller (vocal chorus). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
May 15, 1957 : CHUCK BERRY is in the Chess Studio in Chicago where he records the A-sides of his next two singles, "Oh Baby Doll" (Chess 1664, June) and "Rock 'n' Roll Music" (Chess 1671, October). The other tracks end up on various LP's : "How You've Changed" on "One Dozen Berries" (Chess LP 1432, 1958), "Thirteen Question Method" on "New Juke Box Hits" (Chess LP 1456, 1961) and the instrumental "How High the Moon" on "Chuck Berry On Stage" (Chess LP 1480, 1963), the latter with overdubbed audience noise. Musicians : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). And possibly a second unknown guitarist.
May 15, 1957 : THE MIDNIGHTERS lay down their next two singles : "Oh So Happy"/"Is Your Love For Real" (Federal 12299, June) and "Let 'Em Roll"/"What Made You Change Your Mind" (Federal 12305, August). Location : probably Bell Sound Studio, New York City. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Sonny Woods (background vocals) ; Cal Green (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Hank Moore and Alphonse Strother (tenor saxes) ; Maxwell Lucas (alto / baritone sax) ; Pat Patterson (trumpet) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ; George DeHart (drums). Produced by Henry Glover.
May 16, 1957 : THE SHARPS (formerly the Lamplighters) are now signed to Aladdin Records, joining their former lead singer Thurston Harris. Their first session for the label (in Los Angeles) yields the single "Lock My Heart"/"Our Love Is Here To Stay", which will be released on the Aladdin subsidiary Lamp (2007) in July. The Sharps are : Carl White (lead vocal), Al Frazier, Rocky Wilson and Sonny Harris. Probably produced by Earl Palmer.
May 16, 1957 : MARVIN RAINWATER arrives at Coastal Recording Corporation in New York City for an evening session. "My Brand Of Blues" is selected as the A-side of his next single (MGM 12511, end of June). "Look For Me (I'll Be Waiting For You)" follows in November (MGM 12586). "Wayward Angel" remains unissued until the release of Marvin's 4-CD Bear Family box-set ("Classic Recordings", BCD 15600) in 1992. Personnel unknown (labels say "with instrumental accompaniment").
May 17, 1957 : In Los Angeles, FLOYD DIXON has a session for Lee Rupe's Ebb label. The Little Richard styled rocker "Oooh Little Girl" is coupled with "What Is Life Without A Home" for release on Ebb 105 in June. Two other tracks, "Rita" and "I'll Always Love You" stay in the can until 1990, when they are released on the CD "Marshall Texas Is My Home" (Ace CDCHD 361 / Specialty SPCD-7011). Session personnel includes : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown.
May 19, 1957 : THE CADILLACS do a three-track session in New York City. "My Girlfriend"/"Broken Heart" is selected for the new single (Josie 820, June). "Don't Be Mad With My Heart" ends up on the LP "The Crazy Cadillacs" (Jubilee LP 1089) in 1959. The Cadillacs at this time are : James Bailey, Bill Lindsay, Champ Rollow and Bobby Spencer.
Monday, May 20, 1957 : In New York City, RAY CHARLES waxes "Swanee River Rock"/"I Want A Little Girl" for release on Atlantic 1154 in September, and also both sides of Atlantic 1172, "Talkin' 'Bout You"/ "What Kind Of Man Are You"(issued in January 1958). The fifth track from this session is "That's Enough" (Atlantic 2022, March 1959). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Joe Bridgewater, Ricky Harper (trumpets) ; Dave Newman (alto sax, tenor sax) ; Emmett Davis (baritone sax) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; William Peeples (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal chorus).
May 20, 1957 : THE FIVE SATINS (Bill Baker, Ed Martin, Jim Freeman, Tommy Killebrew, Jessie Murphy) record their next two singles in New York City : "To the Aisle"/"Wish I Had My Baby" (Ember 1019, June) and "Our Anniversary"/"Pretty Baby" (Ember 1025, October).
May 20, 1957 : Four-track session for SMILEY LEWIS at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Imperial boss Lew Chudd selects "Go On Fool"/"Goin' To Jump And Shout" for single release (Imperial 5450, July). "How Long" is first issued on the French Pathe-Marconi LP "Ooh La La" (156 1391) in 1985 and "The Sheik Of Araby" on a Japanese EMI CD (TOCP 7292), ca. 1989. Personnel : Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Meyer Kennedy (alto sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; Huey 'Piano' Smith (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
May 21, 1957 : FERLIN HUSKY waxes the single "A Fallen Star"/"Prize Possession" (Capitol 3742, June), which will give him his second pop hit, after "Gone". Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 23, 1957 : After an April session in New York City, PATSY CLINE is back at Bradley Studio, Nashville, where she records six tracks for her first long player, simply titled "Patsy Cline" (Decca DL 8611, August) : "That Wonderful Someone", "In Care Of the Blues","Hungry For Love", "I Can't Forget", "Ain't No Wheels On This Ship" and "I Don't Wanta" (also released as a single, Decca 30504, November). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Jack Shook (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
May 23, 1957 : LLOYD PRICE records two singles for his own KRC label, which (starting June) is distributed nationally by Atlantic Records. "The Chicken And the Bop"/"Lonely Chair" is released in July (KRC 301), followed by "Hello Little Girl"/"Georgianna" (KRC 303) in October. Personnel : Vernon Emmanuel (poss. guitar) ; Gladstone Thomas (organ) ; Claude Green, Pritchard Cheesemen (saxes) ; Monzie Isaroon, Clinton Thorburne (trumpet, piano or drums). Produced by Lloyd Price. Location : New York City or Washington, D.C. (U.S. Recording Studio).
May 24, 1957 : IVORY JOE HUNTER records nine tracks for his LP "Ivory Joe Sings the Old And New" (Atlantic LP 8015, February 1958) : "Worried Mind", "I Could Fall In Love With You", "I Didn't Mean To Be Mean", "Moonlight And Roses", "I'll Be Faithful", "Where Are You?", "I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen", "There Goes My Heart" and "One More Memory". On the last three tracks the personnel is : Dick Hyman (organ); Billy Mure, Al Caiola (guitars) ; Hayward Cheeks (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 7-piece vocal backing group. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis. Location : New York City.
May 24, 1957 : KEN COPELAND records two tracks at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, which (again) will be leased to Imperial. "Bed Of Lies" appears on Imperial 5453 in June and "I Would Give My Heart" on Imperial 5466 in September. The flip-sides of these singles, "Teenage" and "I Want To Go Steady With You" respectively, were laid down on April 19, 1957. Produced by Joe Leonard.
May 24, 1957 : RAY PRICE records the # 1 country hit “My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You”/“Don’t Do This To Me” (Columbia 40951, June 17). Also laid down is “It’s All Your Fault”, the future B-side of the # 3 hit “Curtain In the Window”, recorded on December 11, 1957 (Columbia 41105). Personnel : Hank Garland, Van Howard Vandevender (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 26, 1957 : PEANUTS WILSON records the single "Cast Iron Arm"/"You've Got Love" at Norman Petty Studios in Clovis, New Mexico. Release date is November 27 (Brunswick 55039). Personnel : Johnny 'Peanuts' Wilson (vocal / rhythm guitar) ; poss. Roy Orbison (lead guitar) ; Jack Kennelly (bass) ; Jimmy Seals or James Morrow (sax) ; Billy Pat Ellis (drums). Produced by Norman Petty.
May 27, 1957 : MELVIN ENDSLEY's second session yields two singles : "Keep-A Lovin" Me Baby"/"Lonely All Over Again" (RCA 6968, July) and "I Got A Feelin'"/"There's Bound To Be" (RCA 7147, January 1958). All four tunes are self-composed. Musicians : Melvin Endsley (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (electric guitar / mandolin) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Oakridge Boys (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 28, 1957 : FARON YOUNG waxes the single "Love Has Finally Come My Way"/ "Moonlight Mountain" (Capitol 3753, June) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Backing by : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Wednesday May 29, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY is back at Norman Petty's Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico, where he records two tracks. "Everyday" will appear as the B-side of "Peggy Sue" on September 20 (Coral 61885). The Bo Diddley-inspired "Not Fade Away" will be released on October 27 (Brunswick 55035), credited to The Crickets. Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Vi Petty (celeste) ; Jerry Allison (cardboard box percussion / knee slapping on "Everyday"). "Not Fade Away" will later be overdubbed with backing vocals by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison and Niki Sullivan. Produced by Norman Petty.
May 29, 1957 : JOE TEX's final session for King (in New York City) yields the single "Ain't Nobody's Business"/"I Want To Have A Talk With You" (King 5064, July). An overdubbed version of the B-side is issued on King 5981 in 1965, to cash in on Joe's then new-found chart fame. Personnel : Andy Gibson (piano, producer) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Specs Powell (drums) ; Unknown (bass).
(Possibly) May 30, 1957 : JERRY LEE LEWIS records several tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis. "Lewis Boogie" will be released on Sun 301 in June 1958 (B-side of "The Return Of Jerry Lee"). All other tracks stay in the can till after the purchase of the Sun catalogue by Shelby Singleton. "You Are My Sunshine" comes out in 1970 on the LP "Ole Tyme Country Music" (Sun 121). "Sixty Minute Man", "All Night Long", "Carolina Sunshine Girl" and "Long Gone Lonesome Blues" all see their first release on the LP "Rockin' And Free" (Sun 6467029) in 1974. "I Don't Love Nobody" is included on "Jerry Lee Lewis Collectors Edition" (Sun NY-6), a Dutch LP from 1975. Some of these tracks may have been recorded at a later date. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; poss. J.W. Brown (bass) ; poss. Russell Smith (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
May 30, 1957 : AL TERRY does an evening session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Late Date"/ "It's What You Are To Me' is chosen for the new single (Hickory 1066, July). "Your Sweet Lies" is saved until October 1958 for release on Hickory 1088. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Wesley Rose.
May 1957, unknown date : THE DEL VIKINGS record at least ten tracks for Mercury in this month, at Universal Recorders in Chicago. "Cool Shake"/ "Jitterbug Mary" is released on Mercury 71132 in June (in the same week as the Dot single "Whispering Bells"). "Come Along With Me"/"What'Cha Gotta Lose" follows in September (Mercury 71180) and "The Voodoo Man" (Mercury 71266) in January 1958. "Down In Bermuda", "The White Cliffs Of Dover" and "Yours" end up on the LP "The Del Vikings - They Sing … They Swing" (Mercury MG 20314) in late 1957. "Over the Rainbow" and "There I Go" remain unissued for decades. Arranged and conducted by Carl Stevens. These Del Vikings are : Gus Backus, William Blakely, David Lerchey, Clarence Quick and Norman Wright. The other Dell-Vikings (with double l and hyphen) are led by Kripp Johnson and record for Dot.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
JUNE 1957
June 1, 1957 : SAM COOKE records the single that will turn his career around : "You Send Me"/"Summertime". Specialty boss Art Rupe, who arrives halfway through the session, doesn't like it at all and makes a big scene, after which producer Bumps Blackwell takes the masters to a new record company, Keen Records. Release on Keen 3-4013 follows on September 7, after complicated negotiations. A third, unissued track from this session is "You Were Made For Me", to which Sam will return in August. Personnel : Clif White (guitar) ; Rene Hall (rhythm guitar, arranger) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Pied Pipers (vocal chorus). Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
June 1, 1957 : The backing tracks are laid down for two FATS DOMINO titles : "It Must Be Love" (Imperial 5537, August 1958) and "Sailor Boy" (first issued on the LP "Walking To New Orleans", Imperial LP 9227, in January 1963). Fats will overdub his vocals a year later, on June 2, 1958. Personnel : Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Fats Domino (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). The backing track for "I Still Love You" is recorded on June 5, and is separately mastered (but not released) as "Apple Honey", credited to Dave Bartholomew. On June 5, Fats records "The Big Beat" (Imperial 5477, December), soon to be featured in a film of the same name. Personnel is the same as above, plus Lee Allen on tenor sax. Produced by Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans. See also June 13.
June 4, 1957 : In New York City, WILBERT HARRISON records material for two singles : "I Know My Baby Loves Me"/"My Love Is True" (Savoy 1517, August) and "Baby Don't You Know"/"My Love For You Lingers On" (Savoy 1531, February 1958). Personnel : Kenny Burrell (guitar) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Barry Galbraith (mandolin) ; Nat Pierce (piano) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums). Arranged by Billy Verplanck, produced by Fred Mendelsohn.
June 4, 1957 : GEORGE HAMILTON IV records his new single, “Everybody’s Body”/“High School Romance” (ABC-Paramount 9838, July), at U.S. Recording Corporation in Washington, D.C. Unissued from this session is “Trouble”. Backing by Jimmy Dean’s Wildcats : Billy Grammer (lead guitar) ; Herby Jones (rhythm guitar) ; poss. Mary Klick (bass).
Wednesday June 5, 1957 : The following musicians are gathered at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee : BILL JUSTIS (tenor sax) ; Sidney Manker, Roland Janes (guitars) ; Sid Lapworth (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Two titles are recorded : the Justis-Manker composition "Raunchy" and "Midnight Man", the latter with a vocal by Roger Fakes and the Spinners. They will see a release in October, on Sun's new Phillips International subsidiary (3519).
June 5, 1957 : BARBARA PITTMAN is also recording in the Sun studio on this day. The harvest is the single "I'm Getting Better All the Time"/ "Two Young Fools In Love" (Phillips International 3518, October). "Take My Sympathy" is eventually released in 1990 on Barbara's LP "I Need A Man" (Bear Family BFX 15359). "Careless Love" is incomplete and unissued. Personnel : Barbara Pittman (double tracked vocals) ; Jack Clement (acoustic guitar, producer) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Hank Byers (harmony vocal). Engineered by Roland Janes (who forgets to switch on the echo machine).
June 5, 1957 : JUSTIN TUBB records three tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville, of which only "The Party Is Over (For Me)" is released at the time (Decca 30408, December). "Tears Of Angels" and the excellent "Bachelor Man" are saved from oblivion by Bear Family in 1993, when they are included on the 2-CD "Rock It Down To My House" (BCD 15761). Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, poss. Pete Wade (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; poss. Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
June 5, 1957 is also the recording date of the LOWELL FULSON single "You're Gonna Miss Me"/"Don't Drive Me, Baby" (Checker 865, August). Backing by Choker Campbell (tenor sax) and his band. Location : Los Angeles.
June 7, 1957 : Four hours of recording by MARVIN RAINWATER result in only two tracks : "My Love Is Real" (MGM 12511, July) and "Lucky Star" (MGM 12586, November). Personnel and producer unknown. Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
June 8, 1957 : JIMMY WILLIAMS records his sole Sun single release, "Please Don't Cry Over Me"/"That Depends On You" (Sun 270, September). Also recorded are "All I Want Is You" and "My One Desire", which are first released on the Various artists LP "Rockin' Rollin' Country Style" (Sun LP 1030) in 1985 and "Tomorrow", first issued on LP 3 of the 12-LP box-set "Sun Records : The Rocking Years" (Charly Sunbox 106) in 1986, which also includes the other four tracks. "Why Don't She Notice Me" remains unissued. Backing by : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
June 9, 1957 : ANDY STARR's only session for the Kapp label yields the single "Do It Right Now"/"I Waited For You To Remember" (Kapp 190, August). Two other tracks, "Somali Dolly" and "I'm Seeing Things (I Shouldn't See)" stay in the can until they appear on the Bear Family CD "Dig Them Squeaky Shoes" (BCD 15845) in 1995. Musicians : J.B. Brinkley (guitar) ; George Burns (tenor sax) ; Jack Petersen (piano) ; Lonnie Mitchell (unknown) ; Tom Gwin (drums, arranger) ; Unknown (backing vocals). Produced by Joe Leonard at the Clifford Herring studio in Fort Worth, Texas.
Monday, June 10, 1957 : JOE BENNETT and the Sparkletones are at Bell Sound Studios in New York City for their very first recording session. "Black Slacks" and "Boppin' Rock Crazy" are selected for single release (ABC- Paramount 9837, July), while "Sugaree" and "Just Rock" remain unissued. The Sparkletones are : Joe Bennett (vocal / guitar) ; Howard Childress (vocal / guitar) ; Wayne Arthur (bass) ; Jimmy Denton (drums). Produced by Don Costa.
June 11, 1957 is the recording date of the PAT BOONE single "Remember You're Mine"/"There's A Goldmine In the Sky" (Dot 15602, July). Personnel : Bill Pitman, Tony Rizzi (guitars) ; Roland Bundock (bass) ; Milton Rogers (piano) ; Frank Leitner (organ) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Plus a vocal chorus. Location : Radio Recorders, Hollywood. Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood.
June 12, 1957 : LINDA HOPKINS records her only single for Atco : "Rock And Roll Blues"/"Shiver And Shake" (Atco 6096, August). Two attempts at "I Wanna Move A Little Closer" are also mastered, but rejected by Atlantic. Location : 1850 Broadway, New York City. Backing by : Taft Jordan, Jimmy Nottingham (trumpets) ; Jesse Powell (tenor sax) ; Jerome Richardson (baritone sax) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums).
June 13, 1957 : FATS DOMINO is back at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. Three tracks are recorded : "Little Mary" (Imperial 5526, June 1958), "Stack and Billy" (included on "Let's Play Fats Domino", Imperial LP 9065, in September 1959) and "When I See You", the new single (Imperial 5454, July). The female voice on "When I See You" has been identified as belonging to Ann Cole, after decades of speculation. The honky tonk pianist on this track is still a mystery. The Bear Family discographers (who locate this session "possibly" in Hollywood) put their money on Paul Gayten, which seems highly unlikely to me. Apart from this mystery guest, the personnel is the same as on June 1. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
June 13, 1957 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN alternates his sessions between Cincinnati and New York City. This time it is NYC, where three songs are cut at an unknown studio. "If I Thought You Needed Me"/"Young Girl" comes out on King 5066 in July and "Person To Person" on King 5091 in late November. Personnel : Hal Singer, Lowell Hastings, Budd Johnson (tenor saxes) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Skeeter Best (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Henry Glover.
June 16, 1957 : TERRY NOLAND lays down four tracks, all originally unissued, but now available on his Bear Family CD ("Hypnotized", BCD 15428) from 1990 : "She's Gone", "My Teenage Heart", "Leave Me Alone" and "Come Marry Me". Backup vocals by the Picks (Bill Pickering, John Pickering, Bob Lapham) ; more details unknown. Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
Tuesday, June 18, 1957 : JOHNNY BOND records his next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. A cover of Wayne Walker's "All I Can Do Is Cry" is coupled with "Sale Of Broken Hearts" for release on Columbia 40973 (July). "That's Just What I'll Do"/"Broken Doll" follows in October (Columbia 41034). Backing by : Grady Martin (guitar, arranger) ; Harold Bradley, Little Jimmy Dickens (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Jimmie Riddle (harmonica) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
June 18, 1957 : YOUNG JESSIE has his only session for Atco/Atlantic, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Six tracks are recorded. "Shuffle In the Gravel"/"Make Believe" sees a release on Atco 6101 in October. "Margie"/"That's Enough For Me" will have to wait until October 1958 to come out on Atlantic 2003. "One On Me" and "Time Was" remain unissued until today. Personnel : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Unknown (baritone sax) ; John Anderson (trumpet) ; Ernie Freeman (piano, arranger) ; Barney Kessel (guitar) ; Carson Smith (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Sharkey Hall (drums on "Shuffle In the Gravel") ; Lester Sill (shuffling feet on "Shuffle In the Gravel") ; The Sharps (vocal group). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
June 18, 1957 : JIMMIE RODGERS records his second single, “Honeycomb”/ “Their Hearts Were Full Of Spring” (Roulette 4015, July). A # 1 hit. The location is New York City, probably Bell Sound Studio. Produced by Hugo Peretti and Luigi Creatore.
June 19, 1957 : GENE VINCENT is in the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, with his Blue Caps : Johnny Meeks (lead guitar) ; Bobby Jones (bass) ; Dickie Harrell (drums) ; Tommy Facenda and Paul Peek (aka the clapper boys, backing vocals). Also present are Buck Owens (rhythm guitar) and producer Ken Nelson. The four tracks recorded are : "Lotta Lovin'"/ "Wear My Ring" (the new single, Capitol 3763, July), "I Got It" and "Rollin' Danny". The latter two will be included on Gene's third LP, "Gene Vincent Rocks And the Blue Caps Roll" (Capitol T 970, March 1958). On June 20, Gene and Co lay down another four tracks : "Dance To the Bop" (Capitol 3839, October, b/w "I Got It" from the previous day), "Time Will Bring You Everything" and "In My Dreams" (both on Capitol T 970) and the future B-side "True To You" (Capitol 3959, April 1958).
June 20, 1957 : LARRY WILLIAMS also takes a trip to Hollywood (Master Recorders), for his third Specialty session, just as "Short Fat Fannie" from the previous session enters the Billboard Top 100 (at # 87). Four tracks are committed to tape. "You Bug Me Baby" will become the B-side of "Bony Moronie" in October (Specialty 615). "The Dummy" is saved until June 1958 for release on Specialty 634. "Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu (a duet with Art Neville that may have been recorded at a different session, on June 14) first shows up on the LP "The Unreleased Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2158) in 1974 and is released as a single in 1986 (Specialty 744), coupled with "Hey Now, Hey Now", also from this session. Personnel : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
June 20, 1957 : IVORY JOE HUNTER waxes five tracks in New York City. "If Only You Were Here With Me" is first coupled with "All About the Blues" (from a January 1957 session), later with "She's Gone" from this session (Atlantic 1164, November). "Yes I Want You" will be a single in June 1958 and "Someone" ends up on the LP "Ivory Joe Sings the Old And New" (Atlantic LP 8015). The fifth track, "You've Got Me Cryin'" remains unissued. Session personnel : Urbie Green, Frank Rehak, Frank Saracco (trombones) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; Dave McRae (baritone sax) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Allen Hanlon, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Hayward Cheeks (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
June 20, 1957 : In Chicago, LITTLE WALTER waxes a new version of "Temperature" (previously attempted in March), which comes out on Checker 867 in August. The two other tracks from this session, "Ah'w Baby" and "I Had My Fun" stay on the shelf until February 1960, when they are released back to back on Checker 945. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
June 20, 1957 : THE FOUR PREPS record their new single, “Promise Me Baby”/ “Again ’n’ Again ’n’ Again” (Capitol 3761, July). A third track, “Too Young For Love”, will be included on their first LP, simply titled “The Four Preps” (Capitol T 994) in February 1958. Location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Marvin Inabnett and Glen Larson. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
Friday, June 21, 1957 : ROY BROWN returns to Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans for another Imperial session. "I'm Convicted Of Love" and "I'm Ready To Play" are selected for the next single (Imperial 5455, July). "Sail On Little Girl" is coupled with the previously recorded "Ain't Gonna Do It" for release on Imperial 5489 in February 1958. Personnel : Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Fats Domino (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
June 21, 1957 : JANIS MARTIN records in New York City (RCA Victor Studio 3) this time. The harvest is one single, "Love And Kisses"/ "I'll Never Be Free" (RCA 6983, July) and one EP titled "Just Squeeze Me" (RCA EPA 4093, August) with the following tracks : "Just Squeeze Me", "My Confession", "I Don't Hurt Anymore" and "Half Loved". Personnel : George Barnes, Al Chernet (guitars) ; Sam Bruno (bass) ; Andy Ackers (piano) ; George Berg (tenor sax) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Plus a 4-piece vocal chorus. Arranged by Hutch Davie, produced by Steve Sholes.
June 22, 1957 : TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD records the single "In the Middle Of An Island"/"Ivy League" (Capitol 3762, July) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. It will be Ford's last major hit (# 23). Orchestra conducted by Jack Fasciato. Produced by Lee Gillette.
June 23, 1957 : JOHNNY CARROLL does a four-song session at the Cliff Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. The masters are sold to Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records. Phillips issues "That's the Way I Love"/"I'll Wait" on his Phillips International subsidiary (3520) in October. "Rock Baby Rock It" and "You Made Me Love You" are held in the can until they appear on a French single (Sun 603), circa 1975. Personnel : Johnny Carroll (vocals / guitar) ; Jay Salem (lead guitar) ; Billy Buntin (bass) ; Bill Hennen (piano) ; George Jones (drums). Probably produced by Joe Leonard.
June 23, 1957 : In Chicago, JOHN LEE HOOKER cuts "Little Wheel"/ "Rosie Mae" for release on Vee-Jay 255 in September. Also recorded are "You Can Lead Me Baby" (Vee-Jay 265, February 1958) and "Little Fine Woman", which is first released on the LP "Dimples" (DJM 28026) in 1977. Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Eddie Taylor (guitar) ; Everett McCrary (bass) ; Frankie Bradford (piano) ; Richard Johnson (drums).
June 24, 1957 : HOWLIN' WOLF waxes four tracks in Chicago. "Nature"/ "Somebody In My Home" will soon appear on Chess 1668 (August), but "Who's Been Talking" and "Tell Me" have to wait until February 1960 for release on Chess 1750. Musicians : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals / harmonica) ; Billy Dockins (tenor sax) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Willie Johnson, Smokey Smothers (guitars) ; Alfred Elkins (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
June 25, 1957 : EDDIE BO is at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans, where he records four tracks. "Indeed I Do"/"Every Day, Every Night" is chosen for single release (Checker 877, October). "Walk That Walk" is first released on the Various artists LP "New Orleans Rock & Roll And R & B" (Rarin' LP 555) in 1978. "Hip Hip Hooray" stays in the can for even longer, until 1995 (2-CD set "Chess New Orleans" on MCA). Personnel : Eddie Bo (vocals / piano) ; Unknown (saxes) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
June 26, 1957 : DON GIBSON does another session at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Blue Blue Day"/"Too Soon To Know" is selected for the next single (RCA 7010, July). "Pretty Rainbow" and "Tell It Like It Is" stay in the can until the release of the Bear Family LP "Rockin' Rollin' Don Gibson" (BFX 15089) in 1982. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar, producer) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Troy Hatcher (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
June 26, 1957 : JIMMY DONLEY also records in Nashville on this day, but at Bradley Studio (20:00-23:00). "South Of the Border"/"The Trail Of the Lonesome Pine" becomes his next single (Decca 30392, July). "I Gotta Go" sees a single release in December (Decca 30519), coupled with the previously recorded "Baby How Long". Backing by : Chet Atkins, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Prof Carpenter (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Lloyd Swetman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
June 28, 1957 : HANK LOCKLIN lays down material for two singles at RCA's Nashville studio. "Geisha Girl"/"Livin' Alone" is released on RCA 6984 in July and "Send Me the Pillow You Dream On"/"Why Don't You Haul Off And Love Me" on RCA 7127 in December. Personnel : Chet Atkins, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
Saturday, June 29, 1957 : RONNIE SELF is at Bradley Studio in Nashville for a four-track session. "Ain't I'm A Dog"/"Rocky Road Blues" is chosen for single release (Columbia 40989, late August). The other two tracks, "Too Many Lovers" and "Do It Now" finally see the light of day in 1990, when Bear Family issues the Ronnie Self CD "Bop-A-Lena" (BCD 15436). Personnel unknown, probably members of the Nashville A-team. Produced by Don Law.
June 29 - July 1, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY and the Crickets need three days at Norman Petty's Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico, for four songs. It is time well spent : the results are "Peggy Sue", "Oh Boy", "Listen To Me" and "I'm Gonna Love You Too". The release dates for these songs are as follows : "Peggy Sue" (b/w "Everyday") is issued on September 20 (Coral 61885), "Oh Boy" (b/w "Not Fade Away") on October 27 (Brunswick 55035, credited to The Crickets) and "I'm Gonna Love You Too"/"Listen To Me" on February 5, 1958 (Coral 61947). Musicians : Buddy Holly (vocals / lead guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Norman Petty.
June 30, 1957 : CLYDE McPHATTER covers "Long Lonely Nights" (first recorded by Lee Andrews and the Hearts), for release on Atlantic 1149 in July. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler at the Atlantic studio in New York City.
June 1957, unknown date : In New Orleans, BOBBY CHARLES waxes what will turn out to be his final Chess single, "One Eyed Jack"/"Yea Yea Baby" (Chess 1670, September). Accompaniment by : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles Williams (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
June 1957, unknown dates : Probably scattered over several sessions, THE DEL VIKINGS record 16 tracks this month. Most of these end up on the LP "The Del Vikings - They Sing … They Swing" (Mercury MG 20314, October) : "I'm Sitting On Top Of the World", "Is It Any Wonder", "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", "Summertime", "Heart And Soul", "My Foolish Heart", "Now Is the Hour" and "A Sunday Kind Of Love" (also released as a single in 1963, Mercury 30112). Five other tracks will appear on the album "The Swinging Singing Del Vikings Record Session" (Mercury MG 20353, May 1958) : "The Big Beat", "I Need Your Kisses (Oh Baby")", "There I Go", "What You Have Done To Me" and "String Along". "Can't Wait" is a B-side in January 1958 (Mercury 71266), while "No Huhu" and "The Gates Of Paradise" remain unissued till 1995. The(se) Del Vikings are : Gus Backus, William Blakely, Clarence Quick, Norman Wright and David Lerchey. Arranged and conducted by Carl Stevens (aka Chuck Sagle) at Universal Recorders in Chicago.
June 1957, unknown date : DUANE EDDY's first recording session (disregarding the Jimmy & Duane session from 1955) results in the single "Ramrod"/"Caravan" (Ford 500, July). Though Al Casey plays lead guitar on both sides, label credit goes to "Duane Eddy and the Rock-A-Billies". "Ramrod" will be overdubbed on July 28, 1958, with Plas Johnson's sax and rebel yells by the Sharps for release on Jamie 1109 in August 1958. There also exists a slightly edited version of "Ramrod" on Cindy 3010, credited to 'Frantic' Johnny Rogers (1958). Personnel : Duane Eddy, Al Casey, Corky Casey (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass guitar) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; poss. Ronnie Luplow (baritone sax). Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
June 1957, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY's second session yields the single "It Won't Be Long"/"I Found A Home" (Argo 5273, August). "Lady With the Hat Box" will turn up on disc 2 of the 4-CD box "Chess Rhythm & Roll" on MCA in 1994. "You're Part Of Me" remains unissued. Location : Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans. Personnel : Lee Allen, Eddie Smith (tenor saxes) ; Big Boy Myles (trombone) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Paul Gayten (piano, producer) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
June 1957, unknown date : SLEEPY LABEEF records the single “All the Time”/ “Lonely” (Mercury 71179, August 16) at Gold Star Studio in Houston. He is credited on the label as Sleepy LaBeff. Personnel : Charles Budby (guitar) ; Wendall Clayton (bass). More details unknown.
June 1957, unknown date : NED MILLER records the single "From A Jack To A King"/"Parade Of Broken Hearts" in Hollywood, produced by Fabor Robinson, who does not release the record on his own Fabor label, but leases it to Dot (15601, July). It does nothing, but a rerelease on Fabor 114 in late 1962 results in a # 6 pop hit in the USA and a # 2 hit in the UK (London HL 9658). Backing musicians include Roy Lanham and Bonnie Guitar on guitar. More details unknown.
June 1957 : WAYNE WALKER delivers three tracks at his second Columbia session. "Just A-Walkin' Around"/"Sands Of Gold" is issued on Columbia 40979 in August and "Come Away From His Arms" on Columbia 41042 in November (B-side of "Bo-Bo Ska Diddle Daddle", which will be recorded at Wayne's next session, in October). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
(Circa) June 1957, unknown date : EDDIE BOND records four tracks at Gold Star Studio in Houston. “Lovin’ You, Lovin’ You”/“Hershey Bar” is released on Mercury 71153 in July. “Love, Love, Love” will appear on November 14 (Mercury 71237, c/w “Backslidin’”, from a session on January 10, 1957). “One Step Closer To You” will get a place on the Various artists album “A Night At the Louisiana Hayride” (Mercury MG 20360) in 1958. Personnel : Eddie Bond (vocals / guitar) ; Phil Baugh (lead guitar) ; Hal Harris (rhythm guitar) ; Herb Remington (steel guitar / bass) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Jimmy Smith (piano) ; Doc Lewis (organ) ; Pee Wee Wamble (trumpet) ; Unknown (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
JULY 1957
July 1, 1957 : JOHNNY CASH is in the Sun Studio in Memphis with the Tennessee Two (Luther Perkins and Marshall Grant). They cut "Home Of the Blues" and "Give My Love To Rose" for release on Sun 279 (September 14). The A-side will peak at # 88 in the Billboard pop charts and # 3 on the country charts. "Give My Love To Rose" is also a country hit (# 13). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
July 1, 1957 : JIMMY BOWEN records at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis, New Mexico. Two tracks come out of this session : "Don't Tell Me Your Troubles" (Roulette 4017, last week of July) and "Cross Over" (Roulette 4023, September). Backing by : Donny Lanier (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Dave Alldred (drums) ; probably Vi Petty (piano) ; Unknown (chorus). Produced by Norman Petty.
July 2, 1957 : ROY MILTON is under contract to King Records at this time. In Cincinnati he records a cover version of the Huey Smith hit "Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" (King 5069, third week of July), along with "Jeep's Blues"/"A Brandnew Thrill" (King 5074, September) and a remake of his big 1945 hit "R.M. Blues" (King 5663, August 1962, coupled with a reissue of "Jeep's Blues"). The female voice on "Rockin' Pneumonia" is that of Mickie Champion.
July 5, 1957 : VERNON TAYLOR makes his debut as a recording artist, in Nashville. All four songs from the session will be released, on two singles : "I've Got the Blues"/"Losing Game" (Dot 15632, August) and "Satisfaction Guaranteed"/"Why Must You Leave Me" (Dot 15697, January 1958). Personnel : Vernon Taylor (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Roy Husky (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Mac Wiseman.
July 9, 1957 : BOBBY HELMS spends the afternoon at Bradley Studio with the Nashville A-team and producer Paul Cohen. "My Special Angel" will give him his second # 1 on the country charts and also goes Top 10 pop (Decca 30423, August). The flipside is "Standing At the End Of My World", recorded on July 20. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal group).
July 9, 1957 : With four country hits to his credit (but no pop success yet), JOHNNY HORTON pays another visit to Bradley Film & Recording Studio on 804 16th Avenue South in Nashville. The four tracks from this evening session (18:00-21:00) will be used for his next two singles : "Let's Take the Long Way Home"/"I'll Do It Everytime" (Columbia 40986, August) and "You're My Baby"/"Lover's Rock" (Columbia 41043, November). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Johnny Mathis, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law.
July 9, 1957 : Freshly signed to Federal Records, TINY TOPSY has her debut session for the label. "Aw ! Shucks Baby"/"Miss You So" is chosen as her first single (Federal 12302, late July). The third track from this session, "A Woman's Intuition" will have to wait until 1988 for inclusion on the Tiny Topsy LP "Aw ! Shucks Baby" (Sing 1161). Backing by : Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; John Faire (guitar) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Edison Gore (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Location : King Studio, Cincinnati.
Thursday, July 11, 1957 : RUSTY AND DOUG lay down their next two singles at RCA Victor Studio B in Nashville : "Love Me To Pieces"/ "I Never Had the Blues" (Hickory 1068, August) and "Dream Queen"/ Take My Love" (Hickory 1072, November). Musicians : Rusty and Doug Kershaw (vocals) ; Chet Atkins, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Wesley Rose.
July 11, 1957 : LARRY BIRDSONG waxes material for two singles : "If You Don't Want Me No More"/"I'm Pleading Just For You" (Vee-Jay 254, August) and "Time Will"/"My Darling" (Vee-Jay 262, December). Although three of the four tracks have been included on an Upsetters CD, the backing is not by the Upsetters, but by Cosimo Matassa's studio band : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Earl King (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Location : Cosimo's Recording Studio, New Orleans.
July 12, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY and the Crickets record their versions of "Send Me Some Lovin'" (Little Richard) and "It's Too Late" (Chuck Willis) at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis. The tracks will be included on their first LP "The Chirping Crickets" (Brunswick BL 54038, November). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums); The Picks (vocal overdubs, October 1957). Produced by Norman Petty.
July 12, 1957 : First solo session by JACKIE WILSON, at the Pythian Temple (Decca Recording Studio) in New York City. “Reet Petite (The Finest Girl You Ever Want To Meet)”/“By the Light of the Silvery Moon” is released in the first week of September on Brunswick 55024. In the USA it is only a modest hit (# 62), but in the UK it reaches # 6. “It’s So Fine” will be included on Jackie’s first LP, “He’s So Fine” (Brunswick BL 54042) in March 1958 and “Hush-A-Bye” on his second album, “Lonely Teardrops” (Brunswick BL 54045) in February 1959. Orchestra directed by Dick Jacobs.
July 12, 14-16, 1957 : JUSTIN TUBB spends several days at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record the twelve tracks for his forthcoming LP "Country Boy In Love" (Decca DL 8644, November). On the 12th he cuts "I Saw Your Face In the Moon" and "Someday You'll Want Me To Want You" (as well as the single "If You'll Be My Love", Decca 30408, August). On the 14th : "Try Me One More Time", "I'd Trade All My Tomorrows" and "Silver Dew On the Bluegrass". On the 15th : "Bonaparte's Retreat", "There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight" and "Gone And Left Me Blues". Finally on the 16th : "My Mary", "Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall", "I Gotta Have My Baby Back" and "Hang Your Head In Shame". Personnel : Grady Martin or Hank Garland (guitar) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; poss. Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
July 14, 1957 : GARY TOLLETT (aka Gary Dale) waxes "Honey Honey" and "Look To the Future" at the Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico. "Honey Honey" is first released on the Rollercoaster EP "Go Boy Go" (RCEP 125) in September 1998 and is also included on the superb CD "West Texas Bop" (Ace CDCHD 699) in 1999. "Look To the Future" is only available on the bootleg 4-CD Vigotone Buddy Holly box-set ("What You've Been A-Missing", 1999). There may have been some involvement of Niki Sullivan (producer?), who wrote "Look To the Future". Musicians : Gary Tollett (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Buddy Holly (lead guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin or George Atwood (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Ramona Tollett (backing vocal). Additional backing vocals by the Picks are overdubbed in mid-August.
July 15, 1957 : BILL HALEY and his Comets re-record
"Rock the Joint" (originally waxed for Essex in 1952) for release on
Decca 30461 (October). The flip is "How Many", also from this
session. "Move It On Over" is a track for the LP "Rock the
Joint" (Decca DL 8775, August 1958). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals /
rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar)
; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ;
Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York
City.
July 15, 1957 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW waxes "Barrel House" in New Orleans, for release on Imperial 5460 in August. The song has nothing to do with the Domino-Bartholomew composition "Barrel House" (an instrumental) that Fats Domino recorded in 1953. This is a vocal recording by Dave. Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty, Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
July 15, 1957 : RIC CARTEY does his final session for RCA Victor, at their studio in Nashville. "Mellow Down Easy"/"My Babe" is released in August on RCA 7011. The third track, "Crying Goodbye", will eventually be released in 1983 by Bear Family, on the Various artists LP "Rockin' Rollin' High School, Vol. 3" (BFX 15111). Personnel : Ric Cartey (vocals / guitar) ; Jack Eubanks and Jerry Reed (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Ray Ragsdale (Ray Stevens) (piano) ; Jeff Richards (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
July 15, 1957 : Sax man PLAS JOHNSON records his first single for Capitol : “The Big Twist”/“Come Rain Or Come Shine” (Capitol 3773, August). Two other numbers, “Walkin’ By the River” and “Come Back Where You Belong” stay in the vaults. Credited to “Plas Johnson, his saxophone and orchestra”. Produced by Tom Morgan in Los Angeles.
July 17, 1957 : WYNONIE HARRIS records his new single in New York City : "A Tale Of Woe"/"There's No Substitute For Love" (King 5073, late August). It will be four years before he records again. Personnel : Hal Singer (tenor sax) ; Leslie Johnakins (baritone sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Leo Spann (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) : Calvin Shields (drums).
July 17, 1957 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA also cut their next single in New York City on this day : "Love Is A Treasure"/"Let's Have A Picnic" (Vik 0290, August). Two other songs, "I'm Working At the Five And Dime" and "Loving You Darling" stay on the shelf until 1990, when Bear Family releases the double CD "Love Is Strange" (BCD 15438), which also includes the previously unreleased "I Gotta Be Home By Ten", recorded on July 12. Personnel unknown, apart from Mickey Baker and Sylvia Vanderpool on vocals / guitars.
July 18, 1957 : THE YORK BROTHERS (Leslie and George) cut the single "Everybody's Tryin' To Be My Baby"/"I Want My Baby Back" (Decca 30473, October). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville. Personnel unknown. Probably produced by Owen Bradley.
Friday, July 19, 1957 is the recording date of the WARNER MACK single "Roc-A Chick-A"/"Since I Lost You" (Decca 30471, October). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 19, 1957 : DON AND DEWEY do a three-track session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. The original version of "Leavin' It All Up To You" (a # 1 hit for Dale and Grace in 1963) is coupled with "Jelly Bean" for release on Specialty 610 in October. The third track, "Good Morning", stays in the can until 1985, when it is issued on the LP "Bim Bam!" (Ace CH 151, UK). Personnel : Don Harris, Dewey Terry (vocals / guitar) ; Rene Hall (piano or guitar, arranger) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
July 20, 1957 : The NORMAN PETTY TRIO records an instrumental version of Petty's composition "Moondreams" (which will be recorded by Buddy Holly in October 1958). It is released on Columbia 41039 in October. The reverse, "Toy Boy", is laid down on July 22. "Moondreams" will be overdubbed with vocals by the Picks in December and this version is released in January 1958 on Columbia 41096, this time coupled with "Look To the Future" (see also July 14). Label credit goes to The Picks. Personnel : Norman Petty (organ) ; Buddy Holly (guitar) ; Vi Petty (piano) ; George Atwood (string bass) ; Mike Mitchell (percussion). Location : Nor Va Jak studio, Clovis, New Mexico.
July 22, 1957 : MARTY ROBBINS continues to record at New York City's Columbia Studio on 7th Avenue. "The Story Of My Life"/"Once A Week Date" will be another # 1 country hit for him (Columbia 41013, October). "She Was Only Seventeen" (Columbia 41208, July 1958) also sells well. Personnel : Al Caiola, Billy Mure, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Andrew Ackers (piano) ; Ed Shaughnessy (drums). Arranged and conducted by Ray Conniff, produced by Mitch Miller.
July 22, 1957 : MALCOLM YELVINGTON is at the Sun studio in Memphis. The three tracks from this session will stay on the shelf for several decades. "First And Last Love" and "Mr. Blues" are first issued on the Various artists LP "Rockin' Rollin' Country Style" (Sun LP 1030, UK) in 1985. "Did I Ask You To Stay" is included on the 10-LP set "Sun Records : The Country Years, 1950-1959" (Bear Family BFX 15211) in 1986. Alternate versions of "Mr. Blues" and "Did I Ask You To Stay" will appear on Malcolm's "It's Me Baby : The Sun Years, Plus" CD (Bear Family BCD 16757) in 2006. Personnel : Malcolm Yelvington (vocals / guitar) ; Bubba Winn (guitar) ; poss. Stan Kesler (bass) ; Frank Tolley (piano) ; poss. Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Bill Justis.
July 23, 1957 : SKEETS McDONALD records his next two singles at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood : "Fingertips"/"Bless Your Little Ol' Heart" (Capitol 3778, August) and "I'm Hurtin'"/"Love Wind" (Capitol 3833, November). Personnel : Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Cliffie Stone (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Muddy Berry (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
July 24, 1957 : THE COASTERS, who are still a West Coast group in mid-1957, have their only-ever session in Chicago, at Sheldon Recording Studio in the Chess building. Carl Gardner takes the lead for "Idol With the Golden Head", which will become their next single (Atco 6098, August). The B-side of this 45 is "My Baby Comes To Me", with Billy Guy as the lead vocalist. Guy also leads on the third track from this session, "What Is the Secret Of Your Success" (Atco 6104, November). Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Leon Hughes, Bobby Nunn (vocals) ; Mike Stoller (piano, arranger) ; Adolph Jacobs, Floyd McDaniel (guitars) ; Willie Dixon or Louis Myers (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
July 24, 1957 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS waxes five tracks for his LP "At Home With Screamin' Jay Hawkins" (Epic LN 3448, April 1958) : "Deep Purple", "I Love Paris", "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot", "Temptation" and "Ol' Man River". Location : Columbia Recording Studio, New York City. Personnel : Billy Bauer (guitar) ; Jack Lesberg (bass) ; Bernie Leighton (harpsichord) ; Romeo Penque (sax) ; Warren Covington, Thomas Mitchell, Chauncey Welsch (trombones) ; Cliff Leeman (drums) ; Dominic Cortese (accordion on "I Love Paris") ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus); Unknown (organ on "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"). Arranged by Owen B. Masingill. Produced by Arnold Maxim.
Thursday, July 25, 1957 : BILLY LAMONT records four tracks in New York City. Two of them are released on a single : "I Got A Rock 'n' Roll Gal"/ I'm So Sorry" (Savoy 1522, October). The two others, "Uncle John Been Goofin'" and "Is You Is" remain unissued until now. Personnel : Bob McCain (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Buster Cooper (trombone) ; Sam Price (piano) ; Kenny Burrell (guitar) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums). Arranged by A.K. Salim.
July 26, 1957 : Four-track session for WYNN STEWART at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "I Wish I Could Say the Same"/"A Night To Remember" sees a release on Capitol 3803 in September, while "No Tomorrow" and "Is Love Out Of Style" are left in the can, until Bear Family issues the 10-CD box "Wishful Thinking" (BCD 15886) in 2000. Accompaniment by : Bob Bain, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Roland Bundock (steel guitar) ; Pee Wee Adams (bass) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
July 26, 1957 : Afters six years with Atlantic, THE CLOVERS record their final two singles for the label (in the 1950s at least) : "Down In the Alley"/ "There's No Tomorrow" (Atlantic 1152, September) and "Wishing For Your Love"/"All About You" (Atlantic 1175, February 1958). "Down In the Alley" was first recorded by the group in December 1953 ; this is a re-recording. The song "There's No Tomorrow" is better known under the titles "O Sole Mio" or "It's Now Or Never". Location : New York City.
July 26-27, 1957 : LOUIS PRIMA is at Harrah's Club at Lake Tahoe in California, with Sam Butera and the Witnesses. This results in the live LP "The Wildest Show At Tahoe" (Capitol T 908, November). Tracks recorded : "I Got A Right To Sing the Blues"*, "Angelina / Zooma Zooma" (Medley), "A Foggy Day"*, "Don't Worry 'Bout Me / I'm In the Mood For Love"**, "Come Back To Sorrento", "How High the Moon", "On the Sunny Side Of the Street / Exactly Like You", "Robin Hood / Oh Babe". Personnel : Louis Prima (vocals / trumpet) ; Keely Smith (vocals on *, duet vocals on **) ; Sam Butera (vocals / saxophone) ; Jack Marshall (guitar) ; Tony Liuzza (bass) ; Willie McCumber (piano) ; Jimmy "Little Red" Blount (trombone) ; Bobby Morris (drums).
July 1957, unknown date : RAY CAMPI cuts his only single for Dot Records : "It Ain't Me"/"Give That Love To Me" (Dot 15617, August). The location is Sellers Studio in Dallas, Texas. Musicians : Ray Campi (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Johnny Maddox (electric guitar) ; Henry Hill (bass) ; Harvey Campi (bongos) ; Bobby Reed (piano) ; 'Doc' Shyrock (fingersnaps).
July 1957, unknown date : BOBBY DAY and the Satellites cut the original version of "Little Bitty Pretty One" at Master Recorders in Hollywood, along with "When the Swallows Come Back To Capistrano" (the intended A-side). Released on Class 211 in August. The Satellites (probably Earl Nelson, David Ford, Curtis Williams and Clyde Tillis) are in fact the Hollywood Flames singing incognito because they are under contract to Ebb Records at this time. Produced by Leon Rene.
July 1957, unknown date : WERLY FAIRBURN's last session for Savoy results in the single "Telephone Baby"/"No Blues Tomorrow" (Savoy 1521, September). Musicians : Werly Fairburn (vocals / guitar) ; Unknown (lead guitar) ; poss. Joe Martin (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; poss. Eddie Landers (drums). Location : Cosimo's Recording Studio, New Orleans.
July 1957, unknown date : ROSCO GORDON cuts the single "Sally Jo"/"Torro" (Sun 305, September 1958) at the Sun studio in Memphis. "Torro" may be the strangest Sun record ever released. It is the creation of Gordon's guitarist Freddie Tavares, who also takes care of the vocal (in Spanish). Personnel : Rosco Gordon (vocals on "Sally Jo") ; Willie Wilkes (sax) ; Billy "Red" Love (piano) ; Kenny Banks (bass) ; Freddie Tavares (vocals on "Torro" / guitar) ; Murry Daley (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
July 1957, unknown date : In New York City, DON LANIER waxes the single "Private Property"/"Pony Tail Girl" (Roulette 4021, September), backed by the Rhythm Orchids. Personnel : Don Lanier (vocals / guitar) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Dave Alldred (drums).
(Probably) July 1957, unknown date : JERRY LEE LEWIS records three tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis : "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee" (the first version and by far the best), "Honey Hush" and "Singing the Blues". All three will remain unissued until the release of the album "Monsters" (Sun LP 124) in 1971 (tracks 3, 4 and 5 on side 2). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Jay W. Brown or Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
(Probably) July 1957, unknown date : BOB LUMAN and his backing group, the Shadows, record three tracks for the movie "Carnival Rock" (general release September 1957) : "This Is the Night", "The Creep" (instrumental) and a new version of "All Night Long". They are first issued on the Bear Family LP "Carnival Rock" (BFX 15345) in 1988. Personnel : Bob Luman (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Butch White (drums) ; Unidentified (piano). Location unknown, probably Hollywood.
July 1957, unknown date : THE MOONGLOWS record two tracks during this month, "Barcelona Rock" and "Confess It To Your Heart". The latter is issued on Chess 1669 in September. Strangely, "Barcelona Rock" has never been commercially released, though the group lip synched to it in the movie "Mr. Rock And Roll", complete with sombreros.
August 1, 1957 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo record four tracks in Los Angeles. "Dumplin's"/"Beautiful Weekend" (Imperial 5461) is rush released in the second week of August and gives Freeman his first pop hit (# 75). "Diane" is finally released in late 1961 on Ernie's LP "Twistin' Time" (Imperial LP 9157), which also includes the two tracks from the single mentioned above. A first attempt at "Indian Love Call" is rejected by Lew Chudd and remains unissued. Personnel : Ernie Freeman (piano, organ, arranger) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax, baritone sax) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Sharkey Hall (drums) ; The Halloween Singers (vocal chorus).
August 1, 1957 : JERRY REED is contracted to Capitol at this time and pays regular visits to Nashville studios (Bradley Studio in this case), where his sessions are supervised by Ken Nelson. This particular session results in one single, "Ba-bee"/"In My Own Backyard" (Capitol 3823, November) and one track, "So In Love", that will remain unissued until the appearance of the Bear Family CD "Here I Am" (BCD 16306) in 1999.
August 1, 1957 : RAY STEVENS, a good friend of Jerry Reed, is also in Nashville on this day, at RCA Victor Studio. "Tingle"/"Five More Steps" is released on Capitol's Prep subsidiary (F 122) in October. "Chickie- Chickie Wah Wah" comes out on the parent label (Capitol 3967), in April 1958. Personnel and producer unknown.
August 2, 1957 : PEE WEE CRAYTON does his third and last session for Vee-Jay in Chicago. Only "Is This the Price I Pay" is released (Vee-Jay 266, January 1958, c/w "Fiddle De Dee" from a September 1956 session). The other three tracks, "Second Hand Love", "I Love Her Still" and a new version of "Blues After Hours" are first released on the LP "Peace Of Mind" (Charly CFM 601, UK) in 1982. Personnel : Pee Wee Crayton (vocals / guitar) ; Red Holloway (tenor sax) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Horace Palm (piano) ; Al Duncan (drums) ; The Eldorados (vocal group).
Saturday, August 3, 1957 : FATS DOMINO is back at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans for a three-track session. "Oh Whee" and "My Love For Her" will not see a release until January 1963, on the LP "Walking To New Orleans" (Imperial LP 9227). "I Still Love You" (reportedly an overdub of the Dave Bartholomew instrumental track "Apple Honey") will become the B-side of his next 45, "Wait And See", from an earlier session (Imperial 5467, September). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Unknown (bass saxophone) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; probably Cornelius Coleman (drums). Production is, as usual, in the capable hands of Dave Bartholomew.
August 4, 1957 : JOHNNY CASH records seven tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis. "Country Boy","Doin' My Time", "If the Good Lord's Willing", "I Heard That Lonesome Whistle Blow", "Remember Me" and "I Was There When It Happened" will all appear on the LP "Johnny Cash With His Hot And Blue Guitar" (Sun LP 1220, November). "Leave That Junk Alone" will stay in the can until 1984 (Sunbox 103, UK). Musicians : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass). Produced by Sam Phillips.
August 12, 1957 : SONNY JAMES waxes his next single at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Mighty Loveable Man"/"Love Conquered" (Capitol 3792, September). Personnel unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 13, 1957 is the recording date of the FARON YOUNG single "Honey Stop! (And Think Of Me)"/"Vacation's Over" (Capitol 3805, September). Personnel : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; prob. Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 13, 1957 : THE "5" ROYALES record their next two singles at the King studio in Cincinnati : "Say It"/"Messin' Up" (King 5082, October) and "Dedicated To the One I Love"/"Don't Be Ashamed" (King 5098, December). "Dedicated.." will be rereleased on King 5453 in January 1961 (to compete with the Shirelles version) and peaks at # 81 on Billboard's pop charts.
August 14, 1957 : SONNY BURGESS does a three-track session at the Sun studio in Memphis. "My Bucket's Got A Hole In It"/"Sweet Misery" becomes Sonny's third single on the famous label (Sun 285, December). Both sides are overdubbed at a later date. "My Babe" is first issued on the LP "Sun - The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 8 : Sun Rocks" (Charly CR 30115, UK) in 1977. Backing by : Jack Clement (guitar, producer) ; Ray Hubbard (bass) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Kern Kennedy (piano).
August 15, 1957 : BO DIDDLEY records his next single in Chicago : "Say Boss Man"/"Before You Accuse Me (Take A Look At Yourself)". Released on Checker 878 in late November. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Clifton James or Frank Kirkland (drums) ; Jerome Green (maracas) : The Moonglows (vocal group).
August 15-16, 1957 : While "Bye Bye Love" is still at # 2 in the charts, THE EVERLY BROTHERS are in Nashville's RCA Victor Studio for their second Cadence session, trying to find a follow-up to their big hit. The first day produces "Wake Up Little Susie" and Don Everly's own composition "Maybe Tomorrow", both of which will be used for their next single (Cadence 1337, first week of September), followed by "Hey Doll Baby". This song, previously recorded by the Clovers, will be included on their first album, “The Everly Brothers : They’re Off And Rolling” (Cadence CLP 3003, January 1958). The harvest of August 16 is "Should We Tell Him", released as their third single in January 1958 (Cadence 1342) and the LP track "Brand New Heartache" (Cadence CLP 3003). Personnel : Don Everly, Phil Everly (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
Friday, August 16, 1957 : RICKY NELSON's first Imperial session takes place at Master Recorders in Hollywood, under the supervision of Jimmie Haskell and Ricky's father, Ozzie Nelson. The results are "Be-Bop Baby"/ Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" (Imperial 5463, September) and "If You Can't Rock Me", which will get a place on Ricky's first album, "Ricky" (Imperial LP 9048) in January 1958. Personnel : Bob Bain, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Roger Renner (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Four Preps (vocal group).
August 19, 1957 is the date of the first Capitol session by JOHNNY OTIS (and his revue). All eight tracks will be released on the LP "The Johnny Otis Show" (Capitol T 940) in February 1958, but eight tracks from the album will be pre-released as singles in September (Capitol 3799-3802). "Can't You Hear Me Callin'" and "Hum Ding A Ling" are coupled on Capitol 3799, and "Ma (He's Making Eyes At Me)" & "(Romance) In the Dark" on Capitol 3800. The other tracks are : "Loop De Loop", "Lonely River", "Stay With Me" (also on Capitol 3801), and "Good Golly" (also Capitol 3852, December). These are studio recordings with (in the case of "Ma") overdubbed audience noise, although they are presented as recorded live at the Orpheum Theatre. Personnel : Johnny Otis (vocals / vibraphone) ; Marie Adams and the Three Tons Of Joy (vocals on "Ma", "Loop De Loop" and "In the Dark"), Mel Williams (vocals on "Stay With Me" and "Lonely River") ; Don Johnson, Paul Lopez (trumpets) ; George Washington (trombone) ; Jackie Kelso, Fred Harmon (saxes) ; Jimmy Nolen (guitar) ; Curtis Counce (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus strings on some tracks. Produced by Tom Morgan in Los Angeles. Four additional tracks, by Jeannie Sterling and the Moonbeams (Capitol 3802) and Mel Williams, are recorded on August 20, with the same crew.
August 20, 1957 : During August, JOHNNY BOND records two tracks for the Various Artists LP "Town Hall Party" (Columbia CL-1072, March 1958) : "Oklahoma Waltz" on the 20th, and "Wait For the Light To Shine" on the 26th. Location : Radio Recorders on Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. Personnel on both days : Grady Martin (guitar, piano) ; Harold Bradley, Joe Maphis (guitars) ; Ernie Newton (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 20, 1957 : CHAMPION JACK DUPREE does one of his last sessions for Vik, in New York City. Only "Shake Baby Shake" is issued at the time (Vik 0304, November). The other three tracks, "The Wrong Woman", "Woman Trouble Again" and "You're Always Cryin' the Blues" stay on the shelf for 50 years, until they are released on the CD "Shake Baby Shake" (SPV Blue 50812) in 2007. Personnel : Jack Dupree (vocals / piano) ; Pete Brown (tenor sax) ; Larry Dale (guitar) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Willie Jones (drums).
August 21, 1957 : A productive afternoon for THE COLLINS KIDS : six tracks are completed in three and a half hours. Two singles result from this session : "Party"/"Heartbeat" (Columbia 41012, October) and "Hoy Hoy"/"Mama Worries" (Columbia 41087, January 1958). "Hot Rod" and "Soda Poppin' Around" are first released on the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Collins Kids" (Bear Family BFX 15074) in 1981. "Just Because" (recorded the day before) ends up on the LP "Town Hall Party" (Columbia CL-1072), mentioned above. Personnel : Lorrie and Larry Collins (vocals / guitars) ; Johnny Bond, Joe Maphis (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Muddy Berry, Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
August 21, 1957 : BOBBY DARIN's second session for Atco yields four tracks. "Pretty Betty" and "Don't Call My Name" are chosen for Bobby's next single (Atco 6103, November). "So Mean" is also released as a 45 (Atco 6109), in February 1958. It will be the last of his non-charting singles for quite some time ; Bobby's luck is about to change. The fourth track from this session, "(Since You're Gone) I Can't Go On" is saved for Bobby's first LP, titled "Bobby Darin" (Atco 33-102, September 1958). Produced by Herb Abramson in New York City.
August 22, 1957 : With "Raunchy" still unreleased, BILL JUSTIS is back at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, to record what will become the follow-up to "Raunchy" in February 1958 : "College Man"/"The Stranger" (Phillips International 3522). Even the single after that, "Wild Rice"/"Scroungie" (Phillips Int. 3525, May 1958) is already recorded at this session, though another source dates it on January 6, 1958. Colin Escott and Martin Hawkins give the following personnel info : Bill Justis (tenor sax) ; Sidney Manker, Roland Janes (guitars) ; Sid Lapworth (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Otis Jett (drums) ; Jamieson Bryant (unknown instrument).
August 23, 1957 : SAM COOKE waxes two tracks at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, both of which will go Top 30 pop. "(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons" becomes the A-side of his second Keen single (Keen 3-4002, late November). "You Were Made For Me" is released on Keen 3-4009 in February 1958. Backing by : Clif White, George Collier (guitars) : Ted Brinson (bass) ; Charles Blackwell (drums) ; Lawrence Bunker (vibes on "Made For Me"). Produced by Sam Cooke and Bumps Blackwell.
August 23, 1957 : JAMES "SUGAR BOY" CRAWFORD is in New Orleans for his final Imperial session. "No One But You, Dear"/"She's the One" will be used for his penultimate Imperial single (5468, January 1958). Huey 'Piano' Smith plays piano, other personnel details unknown, probably members of Cosimo Matassa's studio band.
August 23, 1957 : Former Sun artist BILLY "THE KID" EMERSON has his third and last session for Vee-Jay Records, in Chicago. "Do Yourself A Favor"/"You Never Miss Your Water" is issued in December on Vee-Jay 261. Two other tracks, "Lucinda" and a remake of "When It Rains It Pours", remain unissued. Personnel : Sonny Cohn (trumpet) ; Lucius Washington (tenor sax) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; Earl Washington (piano) ; Matt Murphy, Lefty Bates (guitars) ; Al Smith (bass) ; Al Duncan (drums).
August 24, 1957 : TIMMIE ROGERS cuts the single "Back To School Again"/ "I've Got A Dog Who Loves Me" (Cameo 116, September) at Reco-Art Sound Recording in Philadelphia. It will become his only chart entry, peaking at # 36 in Billboard. Produced by Bernie Lowe.
Monday, August 26, 1957 : Tenor sax man RED PRYSOCK is in New York City at an unknown studio, where he records "What's the Word? Thunderbird!", coupled with "Satellite" for release on Mercury 71214 in October. Three other tracks from this session, "Danger", "Happy Walk" and "Sun Spot" remain unissued.
August 27, 1957 : THURSTON HARRIS is rushed into the studio (Master Recorders in Hollywood) to cover Bobby Day's "Little Bitty Pretty One" (Aladdin 3398, September), coupled with "I Hope You Won't Hold It Against Me", also from this session. While the Bobby Day version stalls at # 57, the Harris version goes all the way to # 6 (pop). Two further tracks, "Do What You Did" and "I'm Asking Forgiveness", will make up Thurston's next single (Aladdin 3399) in December. Personnel : Pete Lewis (electric guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums, arranger) ; The Sharps (Al Frazier, Carl White, Sonny Harris, Rocky Wilson)(vocal group). More details unknown.
August 27, 1957 : Three-track session by MELVIN ENDSLEY at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "Lovin' On My Mind"/"Hungry Eyes" becomes his next 45 (RCA 7062, October). "Gettin' Used To the Blues" stays on the shelf until the release of Melvin's Bear Family LP "I Like Your Kind Of Love" (BFX 15275) in 1987. Musicians : Melvin Endsley (vocals / guitar / arranger) ; Jimmy Bryant (electric guitar) ; Chet Atkins (rhythm guitar, producer) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a 5-piece vocal chorus.
August 28, 1957 : LaVERN BAKER cuts three titles in New York City, but only one of these, "St. Louis Blues", is judged worthy of release (Atlantic 1163, November). "Full Time Baby" and "You Love Me" stay in the can. Personnel : Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Jerome Richardson (tenor sax) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Allen Hanson, Charles Macey (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). And a six-piece vocal group. Arranged and directed by Billy Mure.
August 28, 1957 : In Los Angeles, LOUIS JORDAN records an entire LP, "Man, We're Wailin'" (Mercury MG 20331), for release in March 1958. Tracks : "Saturday Night Fish Fry", "Sunday", "The Nearness Of You", "Peace Of Mind", "I Never Had A Chance", "Got My Mo-Jo Working", "A Man Ain't A Man", "The Slop", "Sweet Lorraine", "Route 66", "The Jamf" and "I Hadn't Anyone Till You". One single is drawn from the LP, "I Never Had A Chance"/"Peace Of Mind" (Mercury 71206, October). Personnel : Louis Jordan (vocals / alto sax) ; Austin Powell (tenor sax) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Billy Hadnott (bass) ; Jackie Davis (organ) ; Marvin Oliver (drums) ; Dorothy Smith (vocals on "Route 66").
August 29, 1957 is the recording date of the DALE HAWKINS single "Baby Baby"/"Mrs. Merguitory's Daughter" (Checker 876, October). It is Dale's first session in Chicago (Sheldon Recording Studio). Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Carl Adams, Fred Carter, Jody Williams (guitars) ; Lafayette Leake or Leon Post (piano) ; Unknown (bass, drums) ; Margaret & Rose Lewis (backup vocals). Produced by Leonard Chess.
August 29, 1957 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN does another New York City session. "Dinner Date"/"Uh Uh, Baby" is chosen as the new single (King 5083, September). "Until You Do" follows at the end of November (King 5091). "There's Someone New In This World For Me" has to wait until November 1961 for release on King 5577. Personnel : Willis Jackson, Buddy Lucas (tenor saxes) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Kenny Burrell, Bill Jennings, Chauncey Westbrook (guitars) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Solomon Hall (drums) ; Unknown (chorus).
August 30, 1957 : PIANO RED (Willie Perryman) waxes four tracks at RCA Victor's Studio A in New York City. "South"/"Coo Cha" is selected for single release (RCA 7065, October), while "Dixie Roll" and "Boston Scored" stay on the shelf until the release of the Bear Family 4-CD box-set "The Doctor's In!" (BCD 15685) in 1993. Personnel : Piano Red (vocals / piano / conductor) ; Carl Lynch, Eddie Thomas (guitars) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Ben Smith (baritone sax) ; Gus Johnson (drums). Produced by Brad McCuen.
August 30, 1957 : (Alvis Edgar) BUCK OWENS has his first session at the Capitol Recording Studio in Hollywood, in the afternoon (14:00-17:00). "Come Back" and "I Know What It Means" are selected for his debut single on the famous label (Capitol 3824, November), followed by "Sweet Thing"/ "I Only Know That I Love You" (Capitol 3957) in April 1958. Both records sink without trace and Buck, disillusioned, asks producer Ken Nelson to forget the contract ... Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Gene Moles, Ray Ernest Nichols (electric guitars) ; Jelly Sanders (bass) ; Glen Ayers (drums).
August 30, 1957 : TOMMY SANDS is next at the Capitol Tower, during the evening. He records the single "Man, Like Wow !"/"A Swingin' Romance" (Capitol 3810, September). The next day he cuts "Don't Blame Me" and "My Happiness", which will be used for his LP "This Thing Called Love" (Capitol T 1123, February 1959). Personnel : Bob Bain (guitar / leader) ; Buck Owens (rhythm guitar) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Unknown (bass, drums, vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
(Probably) August 1957, unknown date : THE BIG BOPPER, aka J.P. Richardson, records his first single for Mercury : "Crazy Blues"/"Beggar To A King" (Mercury 71219, release date October 16). The label credit reads "Jape Richardson and the Japetts". A first version of "Someone Watching Over You" may also have been waxed at this session. Musicians : Sunny Burns or Hal Harris (guitar) ; Herb Remington (steel guitar) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums) ; Unidentified (bass, background vocals). Produced by Pappy Daily at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas.
August 1957, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK waxes both sides of the single "The Man Who Made An Angel Cry"/"Swanee River Rock" (Dot 15646, September), though probably not on the same day. Backing by : Al Casey, Corky Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Mike Bermani (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
August 1957, unknown date : In New Orleans, PAUL GAYTEN records the instrumental "Tough Enough". It will be coupled with "Ol' Man River" by the Tune Weavers, (for release on Checker 880 at the end of November), which originally was the B-side of their big hit "Happy Happy Birthday Baby" (Checker 872), until it was replaced as such by "Yo Yo Walk" by Paul Gayten (in its turn a reissue of "Mother Roux", Checker 836).
(Probably) August 1957 : JERRY LEE LEWIS records five songs, four of which are owned by Sam Phillips's publishing company. "Ubangi Stomp" and "Matchbox" will be used for Jerry's debut LP ("Jerry Lee Lewis", Sun LP 1230, April 1958). "Matchbox" will be overdubbed on April 8, 1958. "Rock 'n' Roll Ruby" and "So Long I'm Gone" are first issued in 1974 on the "Rockin' And Free" LP (Sun 6467029). "Rockin' With Red" (aka "She Knows How To Rock") sees its first release on the 10-LP set "Jerry Lee Lewis : The Sun Years" (Sun Box 102) in 1982. Musicians : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
August 1957, unknown date(s) : JIMMY LLOYD (aka Jimmie Logsdon) does one or two sessions during this month, resulting in six tracks. "Where the Rio de Rosa Flows"/"The Beginning Of the End" is rush released at the end of August (Roulette RCW-7001). "I Got A Rocket In My Pocket"/ "You're Gone Baby" follows in March 1958 (Roulette 4062). The other two songs, "Lonesome For You" (a duet with Marta Toombs) and "You're Gonna Start Walkin' One Of These Days", remain unissued. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Vic McAlpin at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
SEPTEMBER 1957
September 1, 1957 : CHUCK CARBO, the former lead singer of the Spiders, does his second solo session for Imperial. The resulting single "I Miss You"/"Times" is released on Imperial 5479 in December. "I Miss You" was previously recorded by the Teen Queens (a Leiber-Stoller production). Carbo gets vocal support from Big Boy Myles and Issacher Gordon. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
September 1, 1957 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON waxes six tracks at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Born Blind"/"Ninety Nine" will come out on Checker 883 in January 1958 and "Cross My Heart"/"Dissatisfied" on Checker 910 in December 1958. "Unseen Eye" and "Little Village" stay in the vaults until the release of the LP "Bummer Road" (Chess LP 1536) in 1969. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson II (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr. and Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
Wednesday, September 4, 1957 : SID KING and the Five Strings do a four- track session at the Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. Selected for the next single is "I've Got the Blues"/"What Have Ya Got To Lose" (Columbia 41019, October). "Warmed Over Kisses, Left Over Love" and "Twenty-One" stay in the vaults until they are rescued by Bear Family in 1980 (LP "Gonna Shake This Shack Tonight", BFX 15048). Personnel : Sid King (vocals / guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; Ken Massey (bass) ; Mel Robinson (sax) ; Dewey Meadows (piano) ; Dave White (drums). Produced by Don Law.
September 4, 1957 : TOMMY BROWN is in New Orleans (Cosimo Recording Studio), where four songs are committed to tape. "Rock Away My Blues"/ "Someday, Somewhere" is chosen for single release (Imperial 5476, November), while "You've Got To Deal Sometime" and "Just Once More" remain unreleased. Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Paul Gayten (piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
September 4, 1957 : One of CLYDE McPHATTER's less memorable sessions at the Atlantic studio in New York City. "No Love Like Her Love" and "That's Enough For Me" end up on the same single (Atlantic 1170) in December. "If I Make It" remains unissued. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
September 5, 1957 : MARVIN RAINWATER and CONNIE FRANCIS duet on the single "The Majesty Of Love"/"You My Darlin' You" (MGM 12555, rush- released). It will become Connie's first entry into the Billboard charts, albeit a modest one (1 week at # 93). The orchestra is conducted by Sid Bass. Location is possibly Coastal Recording Company in New York City.
(Probably) September 5, 1957 : JERRY LEE LEWIS records the raw take of "You Win Again", which will be overdubbed with backing vocals in October for release on Sun 281 in November (B-side of "Great Balls Of Fire"). Also recorded are "Ooby Dooby" (first released on the 1974 LP "Rockin' And Free", Sun 6467029, UK) and "I Forgot To Remember To Forget" (first version, there also exists a better Sun version from 1961), which is first issued on the 10-LP box "Jerry Lee Lewis : The Sun Years" (Sun Box 102) in 1982. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Sid Manker (guitar) ; Otis Jett (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
September 5-7, 1957 : Three-day session for ELVIS PRESLEY at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The first day produces "Blue Christmas" and a new version of "Treat Me Nice" (the recording of April 30, 1957, is the movie version), which is rush-released as the B-side of "Jailhouse Rock" (RCA 7035). On September 6 five tracks are laid down : "My Wish Came True" (shelved until June 1959, when it becomes the flip of "A Big Hunk O'Love", RCA 7600), "White Christmas", "Here Comes Santa Claus", "Silent Night" and "Don't" (to be released in January 1958 as RCA 7150). The final day is devoted to four more songs for the LP "Elvis' Christmas Album" (RCA LOC 1035, October) : "O Little Town Of Bethlehem", "Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)", "Santa Claus Is Back In Town" and "I'll Be Home For Christmas". Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; The Jordanaires, Millie Kirkham (background vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes.
September 6, 1957 : HAYDEN THOMPSON cuts five tracks at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. "One Broken Heart" will be used for the B-side of his first single release, the previously recorded "Love My Baby" (Phillips International 3517, October). "Fairlane Rock"/"Blues, Blues, Blues" will see its first release on a French single (Sun 605) in 1976. "Mama, Mama, Mama" and "You Are My Sunshine" stay in the can until the release of the Various artists 10-inch LP "Rockabilly Jamboree" (Sun CFM 505, France) in 1981. Thompson is accompanied by : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Marvin Pepper (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
September 9, 1957 : THE BLOSSOMS, formerly the Dreamers, have their first session under their new name. Four tracks are recorded in Los Angeles. "Move On"/"He Promised Me" is selected for single release (Capitol 3822, October). "Baby" and "Misty Moon" stay in the vaults. The Blossoms are : Annette Williams, Nannette Williams, Fanita Barrett and Gloria Jones. Backing by Eddie Beal and his orchestra.
September 9-10, 1957 : Two days of sessions by THE FIVE KEYS at New York's Capitol studio yield eight tracks. First released is "It's A Cryin' Shame"/"Do Anything" (Capitol 3830, November), followed by "From Me To You"/"Whippety Whirl" (Capitol 3861, January 1958). "With All My Love" comes out in March 1958 (Capitol 3948), "Handy Andy" in July 1958 (Capitol 4009). "Every Heart Is Home At Christmas" has to wait until November 1990 for a release on Capitol CDP 7 947012 (Various artists CD "Christmas Kisses"). "Dog Gone Baby" remains in the vaults. Arranged and conducted by Sid Feller, with possibly King Curtis on tenor sax. Lead vocals by Rudy West, except on "Every Heart ".
September 10, 1957 : Five days after his previous session, JERRY LEE LEWIS is back at the Sun studio in Memphis. Three of the four songs that are recorded end up on the EP "The Great Ball Of Fire" (Sun EPA 107, November) : "Mean Woman Blues", "I'm Feeling Sorry" and "Turn Around". "Why Should I Cry Over You" stays in the can until the release of the 10-LP set mentioned above (1982). Co-producer Jack Clement had tuned the piano all day beforehand to get a strange harpsichord effect. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Jay W. Brown or Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
September 10, 1957 : THE DIAMONDS cut their next single, “Sweet Wild Honey”/ “Passion Flower” (Mercury 71194, last week of September). Also recorded is “Dance With Me”, which ends up on an EP (Mercury EP 1-3390) in early 1958. Arranged and conducted by David Carroll at Universal Recording in Chicago.
September 11, 1957 : LARRY WILLIAMS records two genuine rock 'n' roll classics at Master Recorders in Hollywood : "Bony Moronie" (Specialty 615, October) and "Slow Down" (Specialty 626, March 1958). " I Was A Fool To Let You Go" will be used as the B-side of "Peaches And Cream" in September 1958 (Specialty 647). "Lawdy Miss Clawdy" eventually gets a place on the LP "Here's Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2109, October 1959) and "Zing Zing" stays on the shelf until the appearance of the LP "The Unreleased Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2158) in 1974. Personnel for this session : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Plas Johnson and John E. Oliveri (tenor saxes) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
September 11, 1957 : During the evening (20:30-23:30) STAN FREBERG records "Wun'erful, Wun'erful (Side Uh-one)" and "Wun'erful, Wun'erful, (Side Uh-Two) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Released on October 14 (Capitol 3815), the record will peak at # 32 on the Billboard charts. Some artists didn't mind being satirized by Freberg (Johnnie Ray, Eartha Kitt, Elvis Presley), but Lawrence Welk was definitely not one of them. ("Turn off the bubble machine!") Backing by Billy May and his orchestra (12 musicians). The label says "Featuring Chuck Schrouder and The Lemon Sisters with accordion medley by Billy Liebert" (side 1) ; "Featuring Peggy Taylor and Daws Butler" (side 2). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 11, 1957 : JIMMY BREEDLOVE, formerly with the Cues, waxes his second and last single for Atlantic in New York City : "I Can Still Hear You Say You Love Me"/"I Wish I Were Twins" (Atco 6105, November). Three other titles from this session have never been issued : "I Sold My Heart To the Junkie", "Stop Dem Clouds" and "The Giant".
Friday, September 13, 1957 : CHARLES BROWN waxes a one-off single for the Atlantic subsidiary East-West. It is the first New York City session of his long career. "When Did You Leave Heaven"/"We've Got A Lot In Common" is released on East-West 106 in February 1958. A third track, "The Bells", is first issued on the LP "Merry Christmas Baby" (Varese Sarabande) in 2000. Personnel : Al Caiola, Charles Holloway (guitars) ; Jerome Richardson (sax) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Harry Brewer (marimba) ; Unknown (vocal group).
September 15, 1957 : PAT BOONE spends the afternoon at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "April Love"/"When the Swallows Come Back To Capistrano" (Dot 15660, October) will give him his fifth number one. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Tony Rizzi (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Milt Rogers (piano) ; Conrad Gozzo (trumpet) ; Gene Cipriano, Mahlon Clark, Justin Gordon, Babe Russin (saxes) ; Nick Fatool (drums). Plus a 6-piece string section conducted by Felix Slatkin. Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn, produced by Randy Wood.
September 16, 1957 : THE DEL VIKINGS, now without Gus Backus who is in the Army, cut the single "I'm Spinning"/"When I Come Home" (Mercury 71198, October). Two days later they record "Your Book Of Life" (Mercury 71241, December) and the LP tracks "Nobody's Kisses But Yours" and "A Meeting Of the Eyes" ("The Swinging Singing Del Vikings Record Session", Mercury MG 20353, May 1958). Lead singer is Clarence Quick. Location on both days : New York City, unknown studio.
September 17, 1957 : WANDA JACKSON records one of her best rockers, "Fujiyama Mama", and its flip, "No Wedding Bells For Me" (Capitol 3843, November). "Fujiyama Mama" was originally recorded by Annisteen Allen in 1954, also for Capitol (3048). The third track from this session is "Just A Queen For A Day" (Capitol 3941, March 1958, B-side of "Honey Bop"). Personnel : Buck Owens, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Hollie Bundock (bass) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
September 18, 1957 : DICKEY LEE (re)records the single "Good Lovin'"/ "Memories Never Grow Old" (Sun 280, October), after a previous, rejected attempt on August 21. "Good Lovin'" is the Clovers hit (# 2 R&B) from 1953. Label credit goes to "Dickey Lee and the Collegiates". It will remain his only Sun 45. Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
September 22, 1957 : Singer-songwriter PAUL HAMPTON makes his debut as a recording artist, at New York City's Columbia Studio. The resulting single, "Play It Cool"/"Classy Baby" is released on Columbia 41037 in October. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
September 23, 1957 : JOHNNY OTIS and his revue complete the recording of the LP "The Johnny Otis Show" (Capitol T 940, February 1958) with the long opening track, "Shake It Lucy Baby", "Livin' In Misery" and the instrumental "Theme", which segues on the LP into "Good Golly" (recorded on August 19). Unreleased from this session is a track by Little Arthur Matthews, which is listed in the Capitol files as "Little Arthur's number". Several overdubs follow in October and November. Personnel : Johnny Otis (vocals / vibraphone) ; Don Johnson, Paul Lopez (trumpets) ; George Washington (trombone) ; Plas Johnson, Jackie Kelso, Fred Harmon (saxes) ; Jimmy Nolen (guitar) ; Curtis Counce (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Red Gilson (announcements on "Shake It Lucy Baby") ; Plus a 4-piece vocal group led by Vince Howard. Produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
September 24, 1957 : In Hollywood (Master Recorders), RICKY NELSON cuts four titles for his first LP, "Ricky" (Imperial LP 9048, November) : "Boppin' the Blues", Your True Love", "Honeycomb" and "Baby I'm Sorry". Musicians : Joe Maphis, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; George DeNaut (bass) ; Roger Renner (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Arranged by Buzz Adlam, produced by Jimmie Haskell and Ozzie Nelson.
September 24-26, 1957 : During three days of extended sessions, HANK THOMPSON records the LP "Dance Ranch" (Capitol T 975, April 1958), at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Tracks : "Beaumont Rag", "Headin' Down the Wrong Highway", "After All the Things I've Done", "Woodchopper's Ball", "Drivin' Nails In My Coffin", "Klishama Klingo", "Bartender's Polka", "Bubbles In My Beer", "Make Room In Your Heart", "Summit Ridge Drive", "I Wouldn't Miss It For the World", "Lawdy What A Gal". Two singles are also laid down, on the 25th : "Just An Old Flame"/ "If I'm Not Too Late" (Capitol 3850, December) and "How Do You Hold A Memory"/"Li'l Liza Jane" (Capitol 3950, March 1958). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Bobbie White (steel guitar) ; Billy Briggs Stewart (bass) ; Billy Armstrong, Harold Hensley, Billy Peters (fiddles) ; Vic Davis (piano) ; Paul McGhee (drums) ; The Stamps Quartet (vocal group). Bob Bain's guitar is overdubbed during several sessions in October. Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 25, 1957 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, JOE MAPHIS and LARRY COLLINS record four instrumental tracks for an EP called "Swinging Strings" (Columbia B-2141, November) : "Early American", "The Rockin' Gypsy", "Hurricane" and "Bye Bye". Musicians : Joe Maphis, Larry Collins (guitars) ; Johnny Bond (rhythm guitar) ; Leon M. Silby (guitar / banjo) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law.
September 25, 1957 : Marvin Gaye's first group, THE MARQUEES, have their first session at the CBS Building on Broadway in New York City. Backed by Bo Diddley and his band, they cut "Wyatt Earp"/"Hey Little School Girl", for release on Okeh 7096 in late November. However, after the session, Okeh decides that it doesn't like the way Bo's band sounds on "Wyatt Earp". On November 12, the Marquees return to re-record the song using a studio band ; this is the cut that was released. From Washington D.C., the Marquees consist of Reese Palmer (first tenor), Marvin Gaye, James Nolan (both second tenor / baritone) and Chester Simmons (bass).
Thursday, September 26, 1957 : BOBBY MITCHELL records the song most associated with him, "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" and its flip, "You Better Go Home", both written by Roy Hayes and Dave Bartholomew (Imperial 5475, November). Accompaniment by : Justin Adams (guitar) ; George Davis (bass) ; Paul Gayten (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans.
September 26, 1957 : SMILEY LEWIS waxes his next single, also at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans : "Bad Luck Blues"/"School Days Are Back Again" (Imperial 5478, November). Personnel : Herb Hardesty, Clarence Hall (saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet, producer) ; poss. Justin Adams (guitar) ; poss. Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). This may have been a split session with Bobby Mitchell, but the personnel is not the same.
September 26, 1957 : THE MONOTONES lay down their first record, "Book Of Love" c/w "You Never Loved Me", for Bea Caslon's Hull label in New York City. Release follows in December, on the Hull subsidiary Mascot (# 124). By February 1958 it has become too big for cash-poor Mascot and is licensed to Chess Records, who reissue it on Argo 5290. The disc goes Top 5 on the Billboard charts (# 5 pop, # 3 R&B). The Monotones are a sextet : Charles Patrick (lead singer), Warren Davis, George Malone, Frank Smith, Warren Ryanes and John Ryanes. This was possibly a split session with the Pastels, see below.
September 26, 1957 : THE PASTELS, with Big Dee Irwin as their lead singer, record for Hull Records in New York City. The resulting single, "Been So Long"/"My One And Only Dream" is first released on Mascot 123 in November, then on Argo 5287 in December. It will peak at # 24 on the Billboard pop charts. Arranged by Teacho Wiltshire, produced by Bea Caslon.
September 27, 1957 : HUELYN DUVALL, freshly signed to the new Challenge label, undertakes his first session for the company, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Teen Queen"/"Comin' Or Goin'" is chosen as his debut single (Challenge 1012, November). "Boom Boom Baby" and "Pucker Paint" are held in the can until the release of the Various artists CD "Wild Men Ride Wild Guitars" in 1990 (Hollowbody HC 12001). Personnel includes : Grady Martin (lead guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). More details unknown.
September 28, 1957 : THURSTON HARRIS's second session for Aladdin yields the track "Smokey Joe's" (aka "I Got Loaded at Smokey Joe's Joint"), which will appear on Aladdin 3428 in June 1958. Harris is vocally supported by THE SHARPS, who also record their own 45, "What Will I Gain"/"Shufflin'" (Aladdin 3401, December). Personnel : Wilburn Whitfield (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown. Location : Master Recorders in Hollywood.
September 28/29, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY records at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, under the supervision of Norman Petty. All four tracks will be released on the Crickets' debut LP, "The Chirping Crickets" (Brunswick BL 54038, November) : "Maybe Baby", "You've Got Love", "Rock Me My Baby" and "An Empty Cup". "Maybe Baby" will also be released as a single on February 12, 1958 (Brunswick 55053). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / lead guitar) ; Nikki Sullivan (rhythm guitar) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Picks (backing vocals, overdubbed in October).
September 30, 1957 : OTIS BLACKWELL records two singles for Atlantic in New York City. “Make Ready For Love”/“When You’re Around” is released in November (Atlantic 1165) and also sees a UK release on London HLE 8616. “What A coincidence”/“Turtle Dove” hits the market in March 1958 (Atlantic 1178). Personnel : Al Caiola, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Charles Macey (steel guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Dominic Cortese (accordion) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 4-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
September 30, 1957 : JACKIE WALKER covers Buddy Holly’s “Peggy Sue” for release on Imperial 5473 in October. The other side is “Wonderful One”, also from this session. Two other tracks are consigned to the vaults, “I Understand” and “That’s How It Got To Be”. Joe Maphis plays guitar, more details unknown. The location is Los Angeles.
September 1957, unknown date : EDDIE COCHRAN records thirty-two takes of "Ah, Pretty Girl", of which only take 19, 24 and 32 have survived. Take 32 is first released in 1962 on Liberty L 22 202 (Germany) and Liberty 10032 (Holland), with an overdubbed guitar solo by Eddie (overdub date : April 7, 1958). The title on the label says "Pretty Girl", but this is not the same song as the "Pretty Girl" that will be cut on January 12, 1958. First UK release on "The Eddie Cochran Memorial Album" (Liberty LBY 1127) in March 1963. Musicians : Eddie Cochran (guitar / vocals) ; Guybo Smith (electric bass) ; poss. Earl Palmer (drums). Location : Gold Star Studio, Hollywood.
(Circa) September 1957 : After two years without a recording contract, COWBOY COPAS is now signed to Dot Records. His first session for the label yields the single "Blue Kimona"/"Breeze" (Dot 15668, November). Personnel unknown. Produced by Mac Wiseman in Nashville.
(Probably) September 1957, unknown date : 13-year old JIMMY DEE records the single "Henrietta"/"Don't Cry No More", with the Offbeats (personnel unknown). It is first released on TNT 148 (a San Antonio label) in early October, then leased to Dot Records for national distribution and reissued on Dot 15664 in the last week of October. Probably produced by Bob Tanner, TNT's owner.
September 1957, unknown date : JIMMY EDWARDS records his only hit, "Love Bug Crawl"/"Honey Lovin'" (Mercury 71209, release date October 2). Two other tracks, "The Way To My Heart" and "Wedding Band" stay in the vaults until Bear Family issues the CD "Love Bug Crawl" (BCD 16621) in 2010. Jimmy will return to "Wedding Band" in June 1958. "Love Bug Crawl" and "The Way To My Heart" were previously recorded for the Wednesday label under the name Jim Bullington. Personnel : Jimmy Edwards (vocal / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
(Circa) September 1957 : JACK SCOTT waxes the single "Two Timin' Woman"/ "I Need Your Love" at Universal Sound Studio in Detroit. The masters are purchased by ABC-Paramount on October 7 and released in the last week of October (ABC 9860). Backing by Stan Getz and his Tom Cats. Personnel : Jack Scott (vocals / guitar) ; Dave Rohillier (lead guitar) ; Stan Getz (bass) ; Dominic Scafone (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
OCTOBER 1957
October 1, 1957 : NAPPY BROWN does another NYC session for Savoy. The results are : "The Right Time"/"Oh You Don't Know" (Savoy 1525, third week of October), "If You Need Some Lovin'" (Savoy 1530, February 1958) and "Because I Love You" (unissued). Personnel : Budd Johnson (tenor sax) ; Hilton Jefferson (alto sax) ; Buster Cooper (trombone) ; Skeeter Best (guitar) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums).
October 1, 1957 : Meanwhile in Hollywood (at Master Recorders), RICKY NELSON records four more tracks for his first album : "I'm Confessin'", "True Love", "Am I Blue" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On". Together with the previously recorded tracks (see August 16 and September 24), "Ricky" (Imperial LP 9048, November) is rounded off on October 3 with "Teenage Doll". Personnel : Joe Maphis, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; George DeNaut (bass) ; Roger Renner (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Arranged by Jimmie Haskell, produced by Jimmie Haskell and Ozzie Nelson.
October 1, 1957 : Three-song session by WAYNE WALKER at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Bo-Ba Ska Diddle Daddle” is selected as the A-side of his next single (Columbia 41042, c/w “Come Away From His Arms”, recorded on June 19, 1957), released on October 28. “I’m Finally Free”/“It’s Written in the Stars” is the subsequent single (Columbia 41130, February 24, 1958). Produced by Don Law.
Wednesday, October 2, 1957 : In New York City, 46-year old JOE TURNER records "Teenage Letter" and "Wee Baby Blues" (which opens with "It was early one morning and I was on my way to school"), which will end up together on Atlantic 1167 in November. "Blue Moon" and "Howlin' Winds" have never been issued. Personnel : Jerome Richardson (alto sax) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Allen Hanlon, Mundell Lowe (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano on "Teenage Letter") ; Ray Charles (piano on "Wee Baby Blues") ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Arranged by Jesse Stone, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
October 2, 1957 : After a series of flop singles, CONNIE FRANCIS does a session that is intended as her last one for MGM, as she has recently accepted a pre-med scholarship to New York University. Having recorded two songs ("You Were Only Fooling" and the unissued "Promise Of Love"), she thanks the technicians and musicians, hoping not to have to record the third song her father had in mind, an old tune from 1923, called "Who's Sorry Now". After a false start, she sings it in one take. Released in November on MGM 12588, "Who's Sorry Now"/"You Were Only Fooling" will peak at # 4 in the USA and # 1 in the UK and Italy. Arranged and conducted by Joe Lipman. Produced by Harry Myerson. Location : Coastal Recording Company, New York City.
October 2, 1957 : TINY TOPSY's second session, again in Cincinnati, yields the single "Come On, Come On, Come On"/"Ring Around My Finger" (Federal 12309, late October), which even sees a British release on Parlophone R 4397, thanks to George Martin. Personnel : Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; Ivory Joe Hunter (piano) ; John Faire, Arthur Porter (guitars) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Philip Paul (drums) ; The Charms (vocal group).
October 3, 1957 : MARTY ROBBINS records an entire LP in six hours ("Song Of the Islands", Columbia CL 1087, release date December 30). Tracks : "Song Of the Islands", "Don't Sing Aloha When I Go", "Beyond the Reef", "Crying Steel Guitar Waltz", "My Isle Of Golden Dreams", "Now Is the Hour", "Sweet Leilani", "Down Where the Tradewinds Blow", "Constancy", "Island Echoes", Moonland", "Aloha Oe". Personnel : Hillous Butrum (guitar) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Jack Pruett (ukelele) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Powell Hassell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums) ; Don Law (producer).
October 5, 1957 : In Memphis, MALCOLM YELVINGTON records at least three versions of "Trumpet" and two of "Goodbye Marie". The latter is first released in 1979 on the Various artists LP "Sun Sound Special : Tennessee Country" (Charly CR 30150, UK). "Trumpet" (full title "It's My Trumpet And I'm Gonna Blow It") first shows up on the LP "Hillbilly Rock" (Charly CFM 509, UK) in 1982. Personnel : Malcolm Yelvington (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Sid Manker (bass) ; Frank Tolley (piano) ; Otis Jett (drums). Produced by Bill Justis for Sun Records.
October 6-8, 1957 : In late July, JERRY LEE LEWIS quickly recorded a movie version (for the film "Jamboree") of "Great Balls Of Fire", but neither Sam Phillips nor Jerry is satisfied with that take for single release. Three days' effort and tape is expended in the Sun studio on getting things just right. The result is pure magic. The song will be released on November 3 (Sun 281), coupled with "You Win Again" (recorded on September 5, and overdubbed with an unknown vocal chorus in October). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
October 6, 1957 : FATS DOMINO records only one track in the autumn of 1957 : "I Want You To Know", which is released in December on Imperial 5477, as the B-side of the previously waxed "The Big Beat". According to Bear Family, only the backing track was laid down on this day, with Fats' vocal being overdubbed at a later (unknown) date. Personnel : Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; probably Allen Toussaint (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
October 6, 1957 : BOBBY MITCHELL also records at Cosimo's on this day, with Fats Domino's band. "You're Going To Be Sorry" will see a release in December 1958 on Imperial 5558. Two other tracks, "Don't Put That Monkey On My Back" and "I Cried", are unissued and lost. Personnel : Lee Allen or Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Fats Domino (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).
October 7, 1957 : GEORGE HAMILTON IV records at the Capitol Studio in New York City. His next single is “Why Don’t They Understand”/“Even Tho’” (ABC-Paramount 9862, late October). A # 10 hit. A third track from this session, “Little Tom”, is also released as a single (ABC-Paramount 10059), but not until October 1959 (c/w “One Little Acre”, from a session on May 27, 1959). Arranged, conducted and produced by Don Costa.
October 8, 1957 : At Master Recorders, Hollywood, BOB LUMAN waxes four tracks, to be released on two subsequent singles : "Red Hot"/"Whenever You're Ready" (Imperial 8313, late October) and "Make Up Your Mind Baby"/ "Your Love" (Imperial 8315, January 1958). Alternate versions of the last two songs can be found on the UK album "Try Me" (Rockstar LP 1015, 1988) ; a third version of "Make Up Your Mind Baby" is included on the 4-CD set "Let's Think About Living" (Bear Family BCD 16259, 2006). Personnel : Bob Luman (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Jimmie Haskell (arranger).
October 9, 1957 : THE FOUR PREPS record their biggest hit, "26 Miles" (aka "Santa Catalina") at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Release follows on December 2 (Capitol 3845). It will reach a peak position of # 2. Three other tracks are rejected : "Someday (You'll Want Me To Want You)", "Somewhere Along the Line" and "Foolish Promises". The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Glen Larson and Marvin Inabnett. Backing by Joe Maphis and his orchestra. Arranged and directed by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
October 9, 1957 : IVORY JOE HUNTER does a four-track session in New York City. "Baby, Baby Count On Me"/"You're On My Mind" is selected for single release (Atlantic 1173, January 1958). "Now I Don't Worry No More" will appear in March 1959 (Atlantic 2020). "You Gave Everything But Love" is consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; Billy Mure, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Dick Hyman (organ) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 7-piece vocal backing group. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
October 11, 1957 : GUITAR SLIM (Eddie Jones) does another session for Atco in New York. "I Won't Mind At All"/"Hello, How Ya' Been? Goodbye" is released on Atco 6108 in January 1958. "Guitar Slim Boogie" will stay unissued. Backing by Lloyd Lambert and his orchestra.
October 13, 1957 : In Philadelphia, CHARLIE GRACIE records "You Got A Heart Like A Rock" for his next single (Cameo 118, b/w "Cool Baby" from a June session). Released at the end of October. "Baby You've Changed" remains unissued until the release of the UK LP "Cameo-Parkway Sessions" (London HAU 8513) in 1978. Personnel : Charlie Gracie (vocals / lead guitar) ; Joe Sgro (rhythm guitar) ; Joe Macho (bass) ; Jerry Kilgore (drums) ; Bernie Lowe (piano) ; Dave Appell and the Applejacks (backing vocals). Produced by Bernie Lowe.
Monday, October 14, 1957 : In Hollywood, ERNIE FREEMAN and his Combo record an excellent cover of Bill Justis's "Raunchy". Coupled with "Puddin'" from the same session, it is released on Imperial 5474 on November 18 and will peak at # 4 on the Billboard pop charts (# 1 R&B). A third track, "It's Magic", remains unissued. Musicians : Ernie Freeman (piano, organ, leader) ; Plas Johnson (soprano sax) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
October 14, 1957 : Saxophonist PLAS JOHNSON waxes the instrumental single "Swanee River Rock"/"You Send Me" (Capitol 3835, November) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Arranged and produced by Tom Morgan.
October 14, 1957 is also the date of RAY PETERSON's very first recording session, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Fever"/"We're Old Enough To Cry" is chosen for his first single (RCA 7087, November). The third track from this session, "Doggonit", is first issued by Bear Family in 1987 (LP "All His Hits", BFX 15245). Arranged by Milton Rodgers, produced by R.H. Peirce.
October 15-16, 1957 : RUDY GRAYZELL does his only session for the Sun label. "Judy"/"I Think Of You" is chosen for single release (Sun 290, May 1958). "Remember When" is finally released in 1995 on the Charly CD "Unissued Sun Masters" (CPCD 8137) and "I Won't Be the Fool" in 1998 on the Swedish CD "The Legendary Sun Artists" (Sunjay SJ 70601). Backing by : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Dick Ketner (bass) ; Jimmy Smith (piano) ; Otis Jett (drums). Arranged by Bill Justis. Location : the Sun studio in Memphis.
October 16, 1957 is the recording date of the WARREN SMITH single "Got Love If You Want It"/"I Fell In Love" (Sun 286, December). Musicians : Warren Smith (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes, Al Hopson (guitars) ; Will Hopson (bass) ; Jimmie Lott (drums) ; Vernon Drake, Asa Wilkerson, Lee Holt (vocal chorus, overdubbed on "I Fell In Love"). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
October 16, 1957 : THE CHANTELS, from the Bronx, New York City, record their first major hit (# 15 pop, # 2 R&B): "Maybe"/"Come My Little Baby" (End 1005, early December). Lead vocal by Arlene Smith. Produced by Richard Barrett at Bell Sound studio in New York City.
October 16, 1957 : TERRY NOLAND cuts the single "Patty Baby"/"Don't Do Me This Way"(Brunswick 55036, November) at the Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico. Noland (vocals / rhythm guitar) is backed by The Big Beats : Trini Lopez (lead guitar) ; Donny McCord (rhythm guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Larry Pigg (sax) ; Chester Kendall (piano, arranger) ; Jerry Zapeta (drums). Produced by Norman Petty.
October 16, 1957 : In October, ROY ORBISON spends several days in the Sun studio in Memphis. On the 16th he waxes "Fools' Hall Of Fame" and "A True Love Goodbye", both first issued on "Sun Rockabillys, Vol. 3" (Sun 6467 028) in 1974. The next day is devoted to "I Like Love" and "Chicken Hearted", which will be coupled for release on Sun 284 in December. "Mean Little Mama" and "Problem Child" are recorded on either 19, 21 or 22 October and stay in the can until 1961, when they appear (with overdubs) on the LP "Roy Orbison At the Rockhouse" (Sun LP 1260). Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Stan Kesler or Dick Ketner (bass) ; Bill Justis (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Smith (piano) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano on Oct. 16) ; Otis Jett (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips, possibly assisted by Jack Clement.
October 17, 1957 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS spends the afternoon at New York's Columbia studio. Three tracks will end up on the LP "At Home With Screamin' Jay Hawkins" (Epic LN 3448, April 1958) : "Take Me Back To My Boots And Saddle", "Orange Colored Sky" and "If You Are But A Dream", while a fourth track, "Danny Boy", remains unissued. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; George Dorsey, Hayward Henry (saxes) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland.
October 17, 1957 : DENNIS HERROLD undertakes the only recording session of his entire life. All four songs are Dub Dickerson compositions. "Make With the Lovin'"/"Hip Hip Baby" is released on Imperial 5482 in December. "You Arouse My Curiosity" is first issued on Bear Family's Various artists CD "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 12" (BCD 16102) in 1997. "Don't Push Away" has yet to be located. Personnel (guitar, bass, drums, piano) unknown. Location : probably Dallas, Texas, unknown studio.
October 18, 1957 : LITTLE RICHARD and the Upsetters arrive at Master Recorders in Hollywood for what was to be Richard's last Specialty session in the 1950s. First recorded is "I'll Never Let You Go (Boo Hoo Hoo Hoo)", released on Specialty 645 in September 1958 as the B-side of "Baby Face". "She Knows How To Rock" (based on Piano Red's "Rockin' With Red") and "Early One Morning" will be coupled for release on Specialty 652 (November 1958). "Good Morning Little Schoolgirl" is rehearsed, but never completed. A fresh go at "Ooh! My Soul" is attempted, but the sheer power of the earlier Washington, D.C. cut was missing. These two last tracks will eventually be issued on the box-sets (one 3-CD and one 6-CD set) that UK Ace puts out in 1989. The final track committed to tape is "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On", which appears first on Richard's third LP (Specialty LP 2104, "The Fabulous Little Richard") and a little later as a single (Specialty 680, October 1959). Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals / piano) ; Clifford Burks, Grady Gaines, Wilbert Smith (tenor saxes) ; Nathaniel Douglas (guitar) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Charles Connor (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
October 19, 1957 : SONNY JAMES is in Hollywood, at the Capitol Tower. He records three tracks, as usual under the supervision of Ken Nelson. "Uh-Huh-Mm"/"Why Can't They Remember" is his next single (Capitol 3840, November). "Climb Up the Ladder Of Love" is shelved until it is rescued by Bear Family for release on the 6-CD set "Young Love" (BCD 16373) in 2002. Personnel : Bob Bain (guitar, arranger) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Eddie Beal (piano) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Raymond Martinez (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
October 21, 1957 : One week after Ernie Freeman, orchestra leader BILLY VAUGHN also covers the Bill Justis number "Raunchy" (Dot 15661, November). It will peak at # 10, but the reverse, "Sail Along Silvery Moon", is an even bigger hit (# 5 in the US and # 1 in several European countries). A third track, "Monday Blues", is consigned to the vaults until the appearance of the 6-CD set "Sail Along Silvery Moon" (Bear Family BCD 15970) in 1997. Personnel : Justin Gordon (alto sax, double-tracked on "Sail Along") ; Babe Russin, Ryland Weston (saxes) ; Milt Rogers (piano) ; Bobby Gibbons, Bill Pitman, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Nick Fatool (vibes) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood at Master Recorders in Hollywood, California.
October 21, 1957 : DON COSTA records a guitar instrumental in New York City. Yet another cover of “Raunchy” is coupled with “The Other Side” for release on ABC-Paramount 9869 in November. The record is credited to MUVVA “GUITAR” HUBBARD.
October 21-22, 1957 : Two-day session for THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES in Los Angeles. On the 21st they record two songs. "Buzz Buzz Buzz" will become their biggest hit (Ebb 119, October, c/w "Crazy" from an October 10, 1955 session). "Ooh Baby Ooh" stays in the vaults until 1988, when it comes out on Specialty SP 2166 (LP "Buzz Buzz Buzz"). The harvest of the next day is : "Chains Of Love" (Ebb 146, June 1958), "So Good" (Ebb 158, February 1959) and "This Heart Of Mine" (Specialty SP 2166, 1988). The Hollywood Flames at this time are : Earl Nelson, Bobby Day (his last session with the group), David Ford, Clyde Tillis and Curtiss Williams. Produced by John Dolphin, who sells the masters to Lee Rupe (Ebb's owner).
October 23, 1957 : JIMMIE HASKELL and his orchestra record four instrumental tracks in Los Angeles. “Astrosonic”/“Rockin’ in the Orbit” is released in November on Imperial 5480. “Bems” follows in February 1958 (Imperial 5491, c/w “I’m All Woke Up”, recorded on January 17, 1958). “Indian Love Call” remains unissued.
October 24, 1957 : CONWAY TWITTY does his second and last session for Mercury, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Double Talk Baby"/"Why Can't I Get Through To You" will be issued in November 1958 (Mercury 71384), after the success of "It's Only Make Believe". The Eddie Cooley-penned "Golly Gosh Oh Gee" stays on the shelf until the release of the Bear Family box-set "Conway Twitty : The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BFX 15174) in 1985. Personnel (probably) : Jimmy Ray Paulman (guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Billy Weir (drums). Produced by Bob Shad.
October 24, 1957 : FREDDIE HART records material for two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Heaven Only Knows"/"You Are My World" is released in December (Columbia 41081) and "I Won't Be Home Tonight"/ "Love Come To Me" (Columbia 41144) in March 1958. Personnel : Freddie Hart (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law.
Friday, October 25, 1957 : While touring in France, THE PLATTERS record their next single at the Barclay Studio in Paris : "Goodnight Sweetheart, It's Time To Go"/"My Serenade" (Mercury 71201, October). Also laid down are the LP track "Sixteen Tons" (Wing LP MGW 12112) and - on October 22 - the single "Indiff'rent" (Mercury 71246, January 1958). Backing by : Don Byas (tenor sax) ; Rupert Branker (piano) ; Pierre Cavalli (guitar) ; Pierre Michelot (bass) ; Kenny Clarke (drums).
October 25, 1957 : Five-track session for LEFTY FRIZZELL at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Tell Me Dear"/"Time Out For the Blues" is chosen as his next single (Columbia 41080, December). "The Torch Within My Heart" appears in April 1958 on Columbia 41161. "You've Still Got It" and "To Stop Loving You (Means Cry)" stay in the can until the release of Bear Family's 12-CD box-set "Life's Like Poetry" (BCD 15550) in 1992. Musicians : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Eddie Hill (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law.
October 26, 1957 : BUDDY KNOX cuts his next single, "Swingin' Daddy"/ "Whenever I'm Lonely" (Roulette 4042, December), probably in Seattle, Washington. Label credit goes to "Buddy Knox and the Rhythm Orchids", but Knox (vocals / guitar) is probably backed by the Crickets : Buddy Holly (lead guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Both Buddy's were touring with "The Biggest Show Of Stars For 1957" at the time.
October 28, 1957 is the recording date of a single by THE MONITORS, “Rock ’n’ Roll Fever”/“Closer To Heaven” (Specialty 622, December). Lead vocal by Adolph Smith. Recorded at Cosimo’s Recording Studio in New Orleans. Produced by Art Rupe and/or Harold Battiste.
October 29, 1957 : BOBBY HELMS waxes the Christmas single "Jingle Bell Rock"/"Captain Santa Claus" (Decca 30513, November). It peaks at # 6 (pop) and will chart again in December 1958, 1960, 1961 and 1962. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 30, 1957 : JANIS MARTIN, the "female Elvis", waxes her next two singles at RCA Victor Studio 3 in New York City. "All Right Baby"/ "Billy Boy, Billy Boy" is a November release (RCA 7104), "Cracker Jack"/ "Good Love" follows in March 1958 (RCA 7184). Personnel : George Barnes, Tony Mottola, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Arnold Fishkin (bass) ; Joe Harnell (piano) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Plus a 5-piece vocal chorus (three men, two women). Arranged by Hutch Davie, produced by Steve Sholes.
October 30, 1957 : Another CHUCK WILLIS session at Atlantic Recording Studios in New York City. "Betty And Dupree"/"My Crying Eyes" (Atlantic 1168, late November) will become one of Chuck's most successful singles, peaking at # 33 pop and # 15 R&B. "Thunder And Lightning" (Atlantic 1192, August 1958) will also register on both charts, but the singer would not live to see it. Personnel : Al Caiola, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Unknown (baritone sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Harry Breuer (xylophone) ; And a six-piece vocal chorus. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
October 1957, unknown date : DANNY AND THE JUNIORS record the future number one "At the Hop" (originally titled "Do the Bop") and its flip, "Sometimes". First release on Singular 711 on November 11, then on ABC- Paramount 9871 in December. Produced by Artie Singer in Philadelphia. Danny and the Juniors are : Danny Rapp (lead) ; Dave White (first tenor) ; Frank Maffei (second tenor) ; Joe Terranova (baritone).
October 1957, unknown date : Inspired by the launching of the Sputnik satellite on October 4, 1957, JERRY ENGLER writes and records the song "Sputnik (Satellite Girl)". Coupled with "Unfaithful One" from the same session, it is released in November on Brunswick 55037. Label credit goes to Jerry Engler and the Four Ekkos (Carl, Pat, Leo and Joe). Location : "an ill-equipped studio" (Bill Millar) in Rochester, New York.
October 1957, unknown date : NARVEL FELTS cuts his next single at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville : "Dream World"/"Rocket Ride" (Mercury 71249). The latter is an instrumental. Release date is January 2, 1958. Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocals / guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; Chet Atkins (rhythm guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jerry Tuttle (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Bob Cloud and Art Talmadge.
October 1957, unknown date : LAZY LESTER (Leslie Johnson) does a four- track session in Crowley, Louisiana. "Tell Me Pretty Baby"/"I Told My Little Woman" is released on Excello 2129 in February 1958. "Whoa Now" is held in the can until it appears on the Lazy Lester CD "I'm A Lover, Not A Fighter" (Ace 518, 1995). A first attempt at "I'm A Lover, Not A Fighter"(to which he will return in May 1958) will be included on the Various artists CD "Authentic Excello R&B" (Ace 492, 1994). Backing by Guitar Gable and his band. Produced by Jay Miller.
(Circa) October 1957, unknown date : NEIL SEDAKA's first solo session (at JAC Studio in New York City) yields six tracks, which will come out on four different labels. "Laura Lee"/"Snowtime" is picked up by Decca (30520) for release in December. "Ring-A Rockin'"/"Fly Don't Fly On Me" is first released on Legion 133 in the summer of 1958 and then on Guyden 2004 in October 1958. "Oh Delilah"/"Neil's Twist" is finally issued in February 1962 on Pyramid 623, the (instrumental) B-side credited to The Marvels, who also supply the vocal chorus on "Oh Delilah". Personnel : Neil Sedaka (vocals / piano) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Sol Gubin (drums). Guitar, bass and drums are overdubbed at a later date.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1957
November 1, 1957 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW and his band record at Cosimo's in New Orleans. "Cinderella" becomes the B-side of his next single (Imperial 5481, December). "I Can't Take It No More" stays on the shelf until 1984, when it appears on Dave's LP "Jump Children" (Pathe-Marconi 1546601, France). See also November 7. Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet) ; Clarence Hall, Herb Hardesty , Lee Allen (tenor saxes) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
November 1, 1957 : ERSEL HICKEY makes his debut as a recording artist at the National Studio in New York City. "Bluebirds Over the Mountain"/ "Hangin' Around" is purchased by Epic Records on January 24, 1958 and released a few weeks later (Epic 9263). It will be Ersel's only chart entry, peaking at # 75. Musicians : Ersel Hickey (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Mitchell (lead guitar, percussion) ; Mike Corda (bass, producer).
November 1, 1957 : SAMMY SALVO covers the Crescendos' smash "Oh Julie", scoring a # 23 hit in the process. The reverse, "Say Yeah" is another cover, of a Wayne Handy number. Release on RCA 7097 in late November. Personnel : Chet Atkins, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 3, 1957 : Also at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, THE EVERLY BROTHERS record more tracks for their first LP ("The Everly Brothers", Cadence CLP 3003), due for release in January 1958. Two of the five tracks will also see a release as a single : "This Little Girl Of Mine" (Cadence 1342, January 1958) and "Be Bop A Lula" (Cadence 1380, May 1960). The other three tracks are "Keep-A Knockin'", "Leave My Woman Alone" and "Rip It Up". Personnel : Don and Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Hank Garland, Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
Monday, November 4, 1957 : THE CADILLACS cover "Buzz Buzz Buzz" (the Hollywood Flames version hasn't even charted yet!) and the Bobby Charles number "Yea Yea Baby". Release on Josie 829 at the end of the month. The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, James Bailey, Charles Brooks, Earl Wade and Bobby Phillips. Label credit goes to "The Original Cadillacs". Location : New York City. See also November 20.
(Probably) November 5, 1957 : SONNY WEST records the first version of the Buddy Holly classic “Rave On!” (Atlantic 1174, February 1958). The reverse is “Call On Cupid”, also from this session. Personnel : Sonny West (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Trini Lopez (lead guitar) ; Don McCord (rhythm guitar) ; Earl Slocomb (bass) ; Larry Randall (sax) ; Chester Ware Kendall (piano) ; Jerry Zapata (drums). Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
November 7, 1957 : Six days after his last session, DAVE BARTHOLOMEW is back at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. This time he records two instrumental tracks : "Hard Times (The Slop)", which is chosen as the A-side of the new single (Imperial 5481, December), and "Good News", which is held in the can until the release of the "Jump Children" LP mentioned above. Personnel is the same as on November 1, except that Allen Toussaint replaces Edward Frank on piano.
November 7, 1957 : FARON YOUNG waxes the single "The Locket"/"Snowball" (Capitol 3855, December) at Bradley Studio in Nashville, with : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Rufus Long (tenor sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 11, 1957 : MARIE ADAMS and JOHNNY OTIS join forces on "Bye Bye Baby" (Capitol 3852, December). Marie also records "All I Want Is Your Love" (Capitol CL 14837, UK, February 1958), which is overdubbed with the same audience tape that was used for "Ma! He's Making Eyes At Me" on January 8, 1958. "Shuggie's Song" from this session remains in the vaults. Personnel : Jimmy Nolen (guitar) ; Curtis Counce (bass) ; Plas Johnson, Jackie Kelso (saxes) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
November 11, 12, 15, 19 and 21, 1957 : Spread over five days, BILL HALEY and his Comets record the LP "Rockin' Around the World" (Decca DL 8692, March 17, 1958) and the single "Mary Mary Lou"/"It's A Sin" (Decca 30530, release date December 23). LP contents : "Pretty Alouette", "Piccadilly Rock", "Rockin' Rollin' Schnitzlebank", "Vive La Rock 'n' Roll", "Come Rock With Me", "Wooden Shoe Rock", "Me Rock A Hula", "Oriental Rock", "Rockin' Matilda", "El Rocko", "Rockin' Rita", "Jamaica, D.J.". Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Joe Oliver, Rusty Keefer (guitars) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax / clarinet) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rex (double bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
Tuesday, November 12, 1957 : JOHNNY CASH cuts his next single at the Sun Studio in Memphis : "Ballad Of A Teenage Queen"/"Big River" (Sun 283, December). It will top the country charts for ten weeks and also reaches # 14 pop. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Jack Clement (guitar, producer) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Unknown (drums, possibly Jimmy Van Eaton) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed at a later date).
November 14, 1957 : GUY MITCHELL is at Columbia Recording Studio A in New York City for a three-track session. "The Lord Made A Peanut"/"One Way Street" is released on Columbia 41075 on December 2. "Wonderin' And Worryin'" is not issued in the US, but sees a UK release on Philips PB 798 in March 1958. Backing by Ray Conniff's orchestra and chorus. Produced by Mitch Miller.
November 15, 1957 : Freshly signed to King Records, RUSTY YORK does a demo session for the label. All five tracks, "Peggy Sue", "Mean Woman Blues", "Sweet Love", "Great Balls Of Fire" and "A Fallen Star" stay in the can until 1990, when they are released on the LP "Sweet Love" (Eagle 901008, Germany). Backing by : Bill Lanham (rhythm guitar) ; Gordon Clemons (bass). Produced by Syd Nathan in Cincinnati. See also November 29.
November 17, 1957 : Also in Cincinnati, BOYD BENNETT and his Rockets have their penultimate session for King Records, which results in two singles : "Boy Meets Girl"/"Sentimental Journey" (King 5097, December) and "Her Momma Doesn't Think It's Right"/"Signed, Sealed, Delivered" (King 5113, February 1958).
November 18, 1957 : While RICKY NELSON is still in the Top Five with "Be-Bop Baby", it's time to record a follow-up single. This becomes the excellent double-sider "Stood Up"/"Waitin' In School" (Imperial 5483, December). It is the first Ricky Nelson session to feature James Burton (on rhythm guitar, soon he will switch to lead) and Richie Frost. Also the last session to feature Joe Maphis and to be co-produced by Ozzie Nelson, Ricky's father. From 1958 on, Jimmie Haskell will be the sole producer of Ricky's Imperial output. Personnel : Joe Maphis (lead guitar) ; James Burton (rhythm guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Don Ferris (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Arranged and co-produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in L.A.
November 18, 1957 : JERRY REED is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he lays down three tracks. "Bessie Baby"/"Too Young To Be Blue" becomes his next single (Capitol 3882, January 1958). The third (and best, IMO) song, "Teardrop Street" is held in the can, until it is saved by Bear Family (CD "Here I Am", BCD 16306) in 1999. Personnel : Jerry Reed (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; more details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 19, 1957 : TONY ALLEN records four tracks at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Holy Smoke Baby"/"Time Won't Wait On You" is released on Aladdin 3403 in January 1958. On "Now You Tell Me"/"Lillie Mae" Tony is joined by his cousin Beulah Mae Allen ; this is credited to The Cupids (Aladdin 3404, February 1958). Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
November 19, 1957 : TOMMY SANDS records 12 numbers for the soundtrack of the movie "Sing Boy Sing" : "I'm Gonna Walk And Talk With My Lord", "Who Baby", "A Bundle Of Dreams", "Just A Little Bit More", "People In Love", "Crazy 'Cause I Love You", "Your Daddy Wants To Do It Right", "That's All I Want From You", "Soda Pop Pop", "Would I Love You", "Rock Of Ages" and "Sing Boy Sing". The LP "Sing Boy Sing" is issued in January 1958 on Capitol T 929. The title song and "Crazy 'Cause I Love You" will be rerecorded in December for single release. Orchestra conducted by Lionel Newman. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
Wednesday, November 20, 1957 : CLINT MILLER covers "Bertha Lou", previously recorded by Dorsey Burnette and Johnny Faire. The flip is "Doggone It Baby, I'm In Love", a 1954 country hit for Carl Smith. Release on ABC-Paramount 9878 in the first week of December. "Bertha Lou" is arranged and conducted by Don Costa, the other side by Nick Perito. Location : New York City.
November 20, 1957 : MACK VICKERY auditions for Sun Records in Memphis. Three tracks are laid down : "Drive-in", "Fool Proof" and "Have You Ever Been Lonely". They are first released in 1985 on the Various artists LP "Rockin' Rollin' Country Style" (Sun LP 1030, UK). Backing by : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
November 20, 1957 : Second session for THE CADILLACS this month, as usual in New York City. "Holy Smoke Baby"/"I Want To Know" will appear on Josie 842 in August 1958, this time simply credited to the Cadillacs (see also November 4). Arranged by saxophonist Jesse Powell, who also cuts his own single, "Ain't You Gonna"/"Turnpike" (Josie 834, March 1958). Credit goes to Jesse Powell and the Caddys, who probably are the Cadillacs (on the A-side at least, "Turnpike" is an instrumental).
November 21, 1957 : JIMMY DONLEY is at Bradley Studio in Nashville for a three-track session. "Born To Be A Loser"/"Please Baby Come Home" is chosen for single release (Decca 30574, April 1958). "Child Love" is first released on Jimmy's LP "Give Me My Freedom" (Charly CR 30265) in 1987. Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; Prof Carpenter (sax) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; more details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley.
November 21, 1957 : In Los Angeles, LOUIS PRIMA records "Beep! Beep!", which will be used as the B-side of "Buona Sera" (an LP track recorded in April 1956, which suddenly proves popular in Europe). Release follows on December 23 (Capitol 3856). Also recorded is "Natural Guy" with a vocal by Keely Smith, which stays in the vaults until 1994 (8 CD-set "Louis Prima : The Capitol Recordings", Bear Family BCD 15776). Personnel : Louis Prima (vocals / trumpet) ; Sam Butera (sax, vocals) ; Keely Smith (vocals) ; Bobby Roberts (guitar) ; Tony Liuzza (bass) ; Harvey Lang (drums) ; Willie McCumber (piano) ; Lou Sino (trombone).
November 25, 1957 : A busy day for BILLY RILEY and his Little Green Men. Six tracks are recorded at the Sun studio in Memphis. "Wouldn't You Know"/ "Baby Please Don't Go" is selected for single release (Sun 289, February 1958). "That's Right", "Open the Door Richard" and a new version of "Rock With Me Baby" stay in the can until the release of the LP "The Legendary Sun Performers : Billy Lee Riley" (Charly CR 30131, UK) in 1977. "Searchin'" is first released on the Various artists LP "Sun - The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 8 : Sun Rocks" (Charly CR 30115, UK), also in 1977. Personnel : Billy Riley (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Marvin Pepper (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
November 25, 1957 : Also recording at Sun on this day is ERNIE CHAFFIN. "The Heart Of Me" is held in the can until 1977, when Charly releases the Various artists LP "Sun - The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 10 : Sun Country" (CR 30117). "I Walk Alone" is first issued on Bear Family's 10-LP set "Sun Records : The Country Years, 1950-1959" (BFX 15211) in 1986. Personnel : Ernie Chaffin (vocals / guitar) ; Sid Manker (guitar) ; Pee Wee Maddux (fiddle) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
November 25, 1957 : TABBY WEST is in Nashville (probably Bradley Studio) to record four songs which will appear on two singles : "All That I Want"/ "If You Promise Not To Tell" (Capitol 3896, February 1958) and the rocking "I Can't Stop Loving You" c/w "Careless Darlin'" (Capitol 4039, August 1958). Produced by Ken Nelson. Personnel unknown.
November 26, 1957 : SAM COOKE records a version of "You Were Made For Me" that is finally deemed suitable for release (Keen 3-4009, February 1958), after earlier attempts on June 1 and August 23. Personnel : Rene Hall, Cliff White (guitars) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell at Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
November 27, 1957 : THE DIAMONDS are at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City, where they record three titles. "The Stroll" is released on Mercury 71242 in December and will become the second biggest hit of their career, peaking at # 4. "Walking Along"/"Eternal Lovers" is saved until September 1958, for release on Mercury 71366 (peak position # 29). The Diamonds are : Dave Somerville, John Felton, Evan Fisher and Mike Douglas. The sax player is King Curtis, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Clyde Otis.
November 27, 1957 : JOE BENNETT and the Sparkletones are at Capitol Recording Studio in New York City. "Cotton Pickin' Rocker" will become the A-side of their third single (ABC-Paramount 9885, February 1958). "Blue Bop" from this session has never been issued. Personnel : Joe Bennett, Howard Childress (vocals / guitar) ; Wayne Arthur (bass) ; Jimmy Denton (drums). Produced by Don Costa.
November 27, 1957 : LOU GRAHAM records the single "Wee Willie Brown"/ "You Were Mean Baby" for Bill Haley's Clymax label (C-318, December). However, the master is assigned to Coral Records when Haley's enterprise runs into financial difficulties. Rerelease follows in early January 1958 on Coral 61931. Unissued from this session are "Sweet Sensation" and "Take Me As I Am". Backing by Bill Haley's Comets. Location probably Chester, Pennsylvania.
Friday, November 29, 1957 : BRENDA LEE, two weeks short of her 13th birthday, waxes her next single at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Rock the Bop"/"Rock-A-Bye Baby Blues" (Decca 30535, December). Personnel (probably) : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
November 29, 1957 : RUSTY YORK rerecords "Peggy Sue" for King and this time the recording is deemed fit for commercial release, coupled with "Shake 'Em Up Baby" from the same session (King 5103, December). Personnel : Zeke Turner (guitar) ; Bill Lanham (rhythm guitar) ; Gordon Clemons (bass) ; Edison Gore (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan at the King Studio in Cincinnati.
November 29, 1957 : CLIFF THOMAS records his first single, “I’m On My Way Home”/“Treat Me Right” (Phillips International 3521, January 1958). Personnel : Cliff Thomas (vocals / guitar) ; Ed Thomas (background vocals / piano) ; Barbara Thomas (background vocals) ; Bill Justis (saxophone) ; Sid Manker (guitar) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
(Circa) November 1957, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE records "Bertha Lou"/"Til the Law Says Stop" (Surf 5019) at Master Recorders in Hollywood. But the single is almost immediately withdrawn, as Dorsey is contracted to Imperial Records. Both sides are then "overdubbed" (in this case sung over Dorsey's voice) with new vocals by Johnny Faire (aka Donnie Brooks), whose record also appears as Surf 5019, in early December. Personnel : Dorsey Burnette (vocals / bass) ; Johnny Burnette (guitar / handclaps / backing vocals) ; prob. Odell Huff (guitar) ; Danny Flores (piano) ; H.B. Barnum (drums). Produced by John Marascalco.
November 1957, unknown date : AL CASEY cuts the single "Willa Mae"/ "She Gotta Shake" (Liberty 55117, December) at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood. Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill. Personnel for "Willa Mae" is : Al Casey (vocals / lead guitar) ; Eddie Cochran (rhythm guitar) ; Gerald Wiggins (piano) ; Unidentified (stand-up bass) ; Sharkey Hall (drums). On "She Gotta Shake", Casey is accompanied by Duane Eddy on guitar ; the backing track will be recycled (with overdubs by Plas Johnson and the Sharps) as "The Walker" by Duane Eddy (Jamie 1109).
November 1957, unknown date : DUANE EDDY records his first single for Jamie Records, "Moovin' And Groovin'"/"Up And Down" (Jamie 1101, February 1958), at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Peak position in Billboard will be # 72. Backing by : Vivian 'Corki' Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Al Casey (bass) ; Jimmy Dell (piano) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Producers Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill will overdub the sax of Plas Johnson in January 1958, at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood.
(Probably) November 1957, unknown date : RENE HALL cuts the instrumental single "Twitchy"/"Flippin'" (Specialty 618, December) in Los Angeles. "Twitchy" gives label credit ("Featuring Willie Joe") to Willie Joe Duncan on unitar, a one-string guitar. Additional personnel includes : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown. Involvement of Sonny Bono, who co-wrote "Flippin'" with Hall, is likely.
November 1957, unknown date : Singer-pianist CHUCK MILLER records "Down the Road Apiece"/"Mad About Him Blues"(Mercury 71308, May 1958) at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. Three other titles are rejected : "Last Night in the Moonlight", "The Rooster And the Turkey" and "Hong Kong Blues".
November 1957, unknown date : BOBBY LEE TRAMMELL records his first single, "Shirley Lee"/"I Sure Do Love You Baby" at Western Recorders in Hollywood. First released on Fabor 4038 in December, then on ABC-Paramount 9890 in January 1958. Personnel : Bobby Lee Trammell (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass). Produced by Fabor Robison.
With thanks to Steve Walker and the late Stuart Colman.
Dik
DECEMBER 1957
December 2, 1957 : FARON YOUNG records two tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville that stay in the can for quite some time. "When It Rains It Pours" is first released on the LP "Falling In Love" (Capitol DT 2307) in 1965 and "The Face Of Love" on the album "Faron Young" (Hilltop JS 6073) in 1966. Personnel : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Rufus Long (tenor sax) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 2, 1957 : THE MOONGLOWS cut the single "Ten Commandments Of Love"/"Mean Old Blues", which is credited to Harvey and the Moonglows and issued on Chess 1705 in August 1958. A third track, "Don't Be Afraid To Love" is saved until April 1959 (Chess 1725) and is credited to Harvey Fuqua only, though the whole group is present. Location : Chicago.
December 2, 1957 : KIP TYLER does a session in Los Angeles, resulting in the single "She Got Eyes"/"Shadow Street" (Challenge 1014, January 1958). Tyler (vocals / bongos) is not backed by his own group, the Flips, but by unknown studio musicians on guitar, bass and drums. Probably also in December (exact date unknown), Tyler records "Wail Man Wail", "Nothing But Tough" and "Hello Mr. Dee-Jay", which are first issued on the Various artists LP "Rock and Roll Cannibals" (Bear Family BFX 15233) in 1987. This time the Flips are present : Steve Douglas (sax) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Mike Deasy (guitar) ; Mike Bermani (drums).
December 2, 1957 : FERLIN HUSKY records the rocker “Wang Dang Doo”, issued on Capitol 3862 in January 1958. The other side is What’Cha Doin’ After School”, recorded on November 13, 1957. “Somewhere There’s Sunshine” is an EP track, while “When It Rains It Pours” and “Don’t Walk Away” haven’t been released at all. Personnel ; Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Rufus Long (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Tuesday, December 3, 1957 : DON GIBSON waxes the single "Oh Lonesome Me"/ "I Can't Stop Loving You" (RCA 7133, late December), which will give him his first pop hit (# 7, also # 1 C&W). "It Has To Be" will be included on the LP "That Gibson Boy" (RCA LPM 2038, 1959) and "Tell It Like It Is" stays in the can until 1982, when it appears on the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Don Gibson, Vol. 2" (Bear Family BFX 15097). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus) ; Troy Hatcher (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
December 3, 1957 : GLEN GLENN records two songs at Garrison Studio in Long Beach, California. "One Cup Of Coffee And a Cigarette" will come out on Era 1074 in June 1958. "Kathleen" is first issued on the Dutch LP "Rocking From Hollywood To Groningen" (Dial LP-002) in 1977. Personnel : Gary Lambert (guitar) ; Wynn Stewart (rhythm guitar) ; Johnny Mosby (bass) ; Helen Peaches Price (drums) ; Jean Smith, Glenda Smith, Beverly Stewart (vocal chorus). (With thanks to Tapio Vaisanen.)
December 3, 1957 : THE JODIMARS do a 4-track session for Imperial in Hollywood. All the tracks - "Hip Shakin' Baby", "Be My Love", "Honey Baby" and "Bring Along Your Lovin'" - remain in the can until 1994 when they are released on the Jodimars CD "Let's All Rock Together" (Rockstar RSRCD 007, UK). Credit in the Imperial files goes to Marshall Lytle and the Jodimars, though the other two Jodimars (Joey D'Ambrosia and Dick Richards) were probably absent. Personnel : Marshall Lytle (vocals) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Richie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
December 3, 1957 : PERRY COMO records his big hit "Magic Moments" (# 4 US, # 1 UK) at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. It is a one-song session. The reverse, "Catch A Falling Star", was recorded on October 9, 1957. Both sides are arranged by Joe Reisman, produced by Joe Carlton and accompanied by the Mitchell Ayres orchestra with the Ray Charles Singers. Release on RCA 7128 at the end of the month.
December 3, 4 and 6, 1957 : Three days of sessions for THE PLATTERS at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. The four tracks from December 3 ("Try A Little Tenderness", "My Old Flame", "Sleepy Time Gal" and "Don't Blame Me") are released on the LP "The Flying Platters Around the World" in April 1958 (Mercury MG 20366) ; "My Old Flame" is also issued as a 45 (Mercury 71320, May 1958). Four songs are also recorded on the 4th : "Helpless" (Mercury 71246, January 1958), "I Wish" (Mercury 71353, August 1958), "No Matter What You Are" (Mercury 71383, November 1958, B-side of "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes") and "Wish Me Love". The latter was scheduled for release on Mercury MG 20541 (Platters Greatest Hits) in 1959, but this LP was withdrawn and the track stayed in the vaults until the release of the 9-CD Bear Family box in 1994 (BCD 15741). Finally, on December 6, the group waxes the future number one "Twilight Time" (Mercury 71289, April 1958) and two more tracks for the "Flying Platters Around the World" LP : "My Serenade" and "That Old Feeling".
December 4, 1957 : THE COASTERS have their first session in New York City, at Capitol Studios. Bobby Nunn has already left the group, but Will 'Dub' Jones has not yet joined ; the bass vocalist here is probably Tommy Edwards. "Gee Golly"/"Dance" is chosen for their next single (Atco 6111, February 1958). The Bobby Darin composition "Wait A Minute" is kept on the shelf until January 1961 (Atco 6186). The fourth song from this session, "I'm Fallin'", remains unissued until today. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Young Jessie, Tommy Evans (vocals) ; Al Caiola, Adolph Jacobs (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano, arranger) ; Jesse Powell (tenor sax) ; Joe Marshall, Alvin Stoller (drums) ; Harry Breuer (tambourine). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 4, 1957 : JOHNNIE AND JACK (Johnny Wright and Jack Anglin) record the single “Stop the World (And Let Me Off)”/“Camel walk Stroll” at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville (RCA 47-7137, January 1958). A # 7 country hit. Personnel : Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Andrew Goodrich (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 5, 1957 : Time for another RUTH BROWN session. Two songs are selected for her next single, "Just Too Much"/"Book Of Lies" (Atlantic 1177, February 1958). A third track, "Pity Pity On Me", is consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Jerome Richardson (alto sax) ; Dick Hyman (piano) ; Al Caiola, Allen Hanlon, Mundell Lowe (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 4-piece vocal chorus. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
December 5, 1957 : JOE BENNETT and the Sparkletones record "I Dig You Baby" for their next single (ABC-Paramount 9885, February 1958). The reverse, "Cotton Pickin' Rocker", was recorded on November 27. Only one other track is recorded, namely "Maybe Baby", which stays in the vaults until the release of the "Black Slacks" LP in 1983 (MCA 1553). Produced by Don Costa in New York City, probably Bell Sound Studio.
December 6, 1957 : CARL PERKINS cuts "Look At That
Moon" (originally unissued, but included on the 5-CD Bear Family box-set
"The Classic Carl Perkins", BCD 15494, in 1990) and "Lend Me
Your Comb" at the Sun studio.
December 6, 9, 10 and 15, 1957 : Busy times for GENE
VINCENT and his Blue Caps at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Unless otherwise
indicated, the tracks appear on Gene's third LP, "Gene Vincent Rocks
And the Blue Caps Roll" (Capitol T 970, March 1958). Tracks recorded
on the 6th : "Your Cheatin' Heart", "Baby Blue" (first
version, Capitol 3959, April 1958), "It's No Lie" and "Walking
Home From School" (Capitol 3874, January 1958). On the 9th :
"Should I Ever Love Again", "Flea Brain", "Brand
New Beat" and "Frankie And Johnnie". On the 10th : "You
Belong To Me", "Keep It A Secret" (LP "A Gene Vincent
Record Date", Capitol T 1059, November 1958) and "Yes I Love You
Baby" (Capitol 4010, July 1958). Finally on the 15th : "By the Light
Of the Silvery Moon", "Right Now" (Capitol 4237, June
1959), "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "I Got A Baby"
(Capitol 3874, January 1958). Personnel : Johnny Meeks (lead guitar) ; Max
Lipscomb (rhythm guitar / piano) ; Bobby Jones (bass) ; Dickie Harrell (drums)
; Paul Peek, Tommy Facenda (clapper boys / backing vocals). Produced by Ken
Nelson.
December 8, 1957 : JIMMY DELL does a four-track session at Ramsey's Recording Studio in Phoenix, Arizona. "Teeny Weeny"/"She Won't Pet" is selected for single release (RCA 7134, first week of 1958). "The Message" becomes the B-side of his next single (RCA 7194, March 1958). "Oh Oh Baby" stays on the shelf for 52 years, until 2009, when the song is included on Jimmy's Bear Family CD "Cool It, Baby" (BCD 16508). Backing by the Jimmy Wilcox orchestra : Al Casey (lead guitar) ; Corki Casey (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Howard Crook (piano) ; Darrel Macey, Ronnie Luplow (saxophones) ; Bob Taylor or Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Connie Conway and Floyd Ramsey.
December 11, 1957 : MARVIN AND JOHNNY (Marvin Phillips and Emory Perry) lay down their next single at Radio Recorders in Hollywood : "You're In My Heart"/"Smack Smack" (Aladdin 3408, January 1958).
December 11, 1957 : RAY PRICE is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record three tracks. “Curtain in the Window” is chosen as his new single, issued on January 20, 1958 (Columbia 41105, c/w “It’s All Your Fault”, recorded on May 24, 1957). A # 3 country hit. “Wall of Tears” will be used as the B-side of “Heartaches By the Number” (from a session on January 29, 1959), which comes out on Columbia 41374 in April 1959. “Talk To Your Conscience” stays in the vaults until it is included on the 10-CD box-set “Honky Tonk Years” in 1995 (Bear Family BCD 15843). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Hank Garland , Pete Wade (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
December 12, 1957 : ROY HALL does a demo session for Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee. The three tracks, "Lost My Baby", "Sweet Love On My Mind" and "Christine", linger in the Sun vaults until they are released on the Various artists LP "Sunset Special" (Sun LP 1035, UK) in 1986. On December 10, Hall had already waxed "My Girl And His Girl", which was previously recorded for Decca, but went unissued until 1984. This new version sees its first release in 1995, on the bootleg CD "Diggin' That Rock-A-Billy Boogie" (TRG 505101, Holland). On both days Hall is backed by : Reggie Young (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Jimmy Smith (piano) ; Otis Jett (drums).
December 12, 1957 : In Los Angeles, THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES record "Two Little Bees" and "It's Love", intended for release on Ebb 143 in March 1958, but this disc was either never issued or very quickly withdrawn. First release of "Two Little Bees" on Specialty LP 2166 (LP "Buzz Buzz Buzz") in 1988, and of "It's Love" on P-Vine PCD-2155 in 1990 ("The Ebb Rhythm and Blues Masters", a Japanese release).
December 12, 1957 : GEORGE JONES is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record two tracks that will both end up on the LP "The Crown Prince Of Country Music" (Starday SLP-125) in 1960 : "Maybe Little Baby" and "Rain, Rain". A few days earlier (exact date unknown), Jones was at Gold Star Studio in Houston where he also cut two tracks : "Eskimo Pie" (his next single, released January 15, 1958, Mercury 71257) and "I'm With the Wrong One", a duet with Jeanette Hicks (Mercury 71339, June 1958). Both sessions produced by Pappy Daily.
Friday, December 13, 1957 : JOHNNY HORTON is in excellent form on "Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor"/"The Wild One" (Columbia 41110, February 1958). A third track, "Every Time I'm Kissing You" will end up as a track for the LP "Honky Tonk Man" (Columbia CS-8779), which is posthumously released in March 1962. Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar / electric bass) ; Tommy Tomlinson (guitar) ; Jesse Sparks (bass) ; Allen Harris (piano). No drummer! Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 13, 1957 : PATSY CLINE is also at Bradley Studio where she cuts four tracks, all released as singles. "Stop the World (And Let Me Off)"/ "Walking Dream" (Decca 30542) is chosen as her next single, released on January 13, 1958. "If I Could See the World (Through the Eyes Of A Child)" appears in September 1958 (Decca 30746) and "Cry Not For Me" in February 1959 (Decca 30846). Backing by unknown members of the Nashville A-team and the Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
December 14, 1957 is the recording date of the JERRY KENNEDY single "Teenage Love Is Misery"/"Oo-Wee Baby" (Decca 30577, March 1958). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Monday, December 16, 1957 : RONNIE SELF records from 14:00 till 17:00 at Bradley Studio, turning in two of the most frenetic performances from the early days of rock 'n' roll. "Bop-A-Lena"/"I Ain't Going Nowhere" is issued on Columbia 41101 in the last week of January 1958. Ronnie's own composition "You're So Right For Me" (just as wild as "Bop-A-Lena") will follow in August 1958 (Columbia 41241). Personnel : Ronnie Self (vocals / guitar) ; John T. Hill, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Ike Inman (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
December 16, 1957 is also the date of the very first recording session of THE KALIN TWINS (Herbert and Harold Kalin). "Jumpin' Jack"/"Walkin' To School" becomes their first single (Decca 30552, January 1958). "The Spider And the Fly" stays in the can until the release of the Bear Family CD "When" (BCD 15597) in 1992. Arranged and conducted by Jack Pleis. Location : Decca Studio A, New York City.
December 17, 19, 1957 : BUDDY HOLLY pays another visit to the Nor Va Jak Studio in Clovis, New Mexico, where he records "Little Baby". Two days later he cuts "Look At Me" and "You're So Square (Baby I Don't Care)". All three tracks will appear on the LP "Buddy Holly" (Coral CRL 57210, release date February 20, 1958). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; C.W. Kendall, Jr. (piano on December 17) ; Vi Petty (piano on December 19) ; Jerry Allison (drums / cardboard box percussion). Produced by Norman Petty.
December 18, 1957 : During an afternoon session, BILLY BROWN records three tracks, all released as singles. "Meet Me In the Alley, Sally"/ "I Wanted You" appears on Columbia 41100 in January 1958 and "Flip Out" on Columbia 41297 in November 1958. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Jerry Reed (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Ray Stevens (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 18, 1957 : RODDY JACKSON waxes his first single : "Love At First Sight"/"I've Got My Sights On Someone New" (Specialty 623, January 1958). Also recorded is an incomplete version of "Lend Me Your Comb", which is included on Roddy's CD "Central Valley Fireball" (Ace CDCHD 1101) in 2007. Personnel : Roddy Jackson (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unknown (bass, backing vocals). Location : Hollywood, unknown studio.
December 18, 1957 : LaVERN BAKER is in New York City for a four-track session. "Substitute" becomes the next single (Atlantic 1176, c/w the previously recorded "Learning To Love"), to be released in February 1958. "Whipper Snapper" will follow in June 1958 (Atlantic 1189, c/w "Harbor Lights" from an October 1956 session) and "It's So Fine"/"Why Baby Why" in September 1958 (Atlantic 2001). Personnel : Taft Jordan, Red Solomon (trumpets) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Allen Hanlon (guitar) ; Wendel Marshall (bass) ; Mike Stoller, Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Harry Breuer (xylophone) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Arranged and directed by Howard Biggs. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 18, 1957 : Another big-voiced lady, TINY TOPSY, commits her next single to tape : "You Shocked Me"/"Waterproof Eyes" (Federal 12315, January 1958), at the King Studio in Cincinnati. Backing by : John Faire, Clifford Bush (guitars) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Jon Thomas (piano) ; Edison Gore (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
December 18, 1957 : TOMMY SANDS rerecords "Sing Boy Sing" (in a faster version) and "Crazy Cause I Love You" for single release (Capitol 3867, January 1958). Backing by Bob Bain's Music : Bob Bain (lead guitar) ; Buck Owens (rhythm guitar) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Unknown (tenor sax, bass, drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 19, 1957 : DAVE RICH does a three-track session at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "School Blues"/"I've Thought It Over" is his next single (RCA 7141, January 1958), "Rosie Let's Get Cozy" (RCA 7334) will appear in September 1958. Personnel : Dave Rich (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Hank Garland, James Rich (electric guitars) ; Velma Smith (rhythm guitar) : Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus), possibly the Jordanaires. Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 19, 1957 : Guitarist IRVING ASHBY waxes his version of the much-recorded instrumental "Big Guitar", which is coupled with "Motatin'" from the same session (Imperial 5485, January 1958). Location : Los Angeles.
December 20, 1957 : Tenor saxophonist PLAS JOHNSON records the single "Hoppin' Mad"/"Popcorn" (Capitol 3875, January 1958), at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, under the supervision of Tom Morgan. It is a split session with THE BLOSSOMS, who lay down "Have Faith In Me"/"Little Louie" (Capitol 3878, January). It is the first Blossoms single featuring Darlene Wright (the later Darlene Love), but she does not yet sing lead here. That honour is bestowed upon Fanita Barrett. The other group members are Gloria Jones and Nannette Williams. Backing by Eddie Beal and his orchestra.
December 20, 1957 : FRANKIE LYMON, now officially departed from the Teenagers, does a four-track session in New York City. "Thumb Thumb"/ "Footsteps" is released on Roulette 4044 in January, "Portable On My Shoulder" follows in April 1958 (Roulette 4068). "That's the Way Love Goes" stays in the can until it is saved by Bear Family in 1994 (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers : Complete Recordings, 5-CD set, BCD 15782).
December 22, 1957 : BOBBY HELMS cuts his next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Love My Lady"/"Just A Little Lonesome" (Decca 30557, January 1958) and "Jacqueline"/"Living in the Shadows of the Past" (Decca 30619, April 1958). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
December 23, 1957 : First recording session of THE CHAMPS, at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. At this point the group, as yet unnamed, consists of Dave Burgess (guitar) ; Danny Flores aka Chuck Rio (sax, piano) ; Buddy Bruce (guitar) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Gene Alden (drums). Most of the three-hour session is spent on "Train To Nowhere", followed by "Night Beat" (which will become the closing track of their first LP, "Go Champs Go!", Challenge CHL-601, June 1958) and "All Night Rock" (never issued and untraced). As an afterthought, "Tequila" is recorded in three takes. On January 15, 1958, it is released on Challenge 1016 as the B-side of "Train To Nowhere". That's exactly where "Train" went, until some DJ flipped the record over … "Tequila" tops the Billboard charts for five weeks. Produced by Joe Johnson.
December 23, 1957 : Also in Hollywood (Radio Recorders), GENE AND EUNICE record their next single, "The Angels Gave You To Me"/"I Mean Love", for release on Aladdin 3414 in March 1958. Produced by Earl Palmer.
Friday, December 27, 1957 : LOWELL FULSON records his most rocking tune, "Rock This Morning", and its flip, "I Want To Make Love To You" (Checker 882, January 1958). Also recorded at this L.A. session are "That's All Right" (Checker 937, December 1959) and "Rock 'Em Dead", which is first issued on the double LP "Lowell Fulson" (Chess 2ACMB-205) in 1976.
December 27, 1957 : T-BONE WALKER does a session in Los Angeles. Three tracks end up on the LP "T-Bone Blues" (Atlantic LP 8020, 1959) : "Two Bones And A Pick", "Evenin'" and the instrumental "Blues Rock". "How Long Blues" stays on the shelf until 1972 (Various artists LP "Texas Guitar : From Dallas To L.A.", Atlantic SD 7226), while an untitled instrumental is consigned to the vaults. Musicians : T-Bone Walker (vocals / guitar) ; Barney Kessel, R.S. Rankin (guitars) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
December 28, 1957 : GENE MALTAIS records his second single, "The Bug"/ "Lovemakin'" (Regal 7502, April 1958), at Ramsey's Recording Studio in Phoenix, Arizona. Unissued from this session are "Rock and Roll Beat" and "I'm In Love", the tapes of which are lost. Backing by : Al Casey (guitar) [according to the session log files ; Gene recalls Duane Eddy as being the guitarist] ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Unidentified (drums, vocal group). Produced by Joe Sedar.
December 29, 1957 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER does his first
solo session for RCA. "Flip Flop and Bop"/"Sophisticated
Swing" becomes his first single for the label (RCA 7156, February 1958),
which will peak at # 87 on the Billboard charts. "Theme From A Dream"
and "Shaggy Bop" stay in the can until June 1967, when they are
issued on the LP "Night Train" (RCA Camden CAS-2152). Produced
by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
December 29, 1957 : MAC CURTIS, recently enlisted into the US Army, records his final King session during Christmas home leave. The results are "You Are My Very Special Baby"/"What You Want" (King 5107, January 1958) and "Little Miss Linda"/"Missy Ann" (King 5121, March 1958). Personnel : Mac Curtis (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Jay Brinkley (lead guitar) ; Kenny Cobb (bass) ; George Campbell (piano) ; Bill Peck (drums) ; Bob Kelly (backing vocals). Produced by Ralph Bass at Clifford Herring Sound Studio, Fort Worth, TX.
December 1957, unknown date : JIMMY McCRACKLIN's debut session for Chess-Checker Records will bring him his first hit. "The Walk"/"I'm To Blame" (Checker 885, January 1958) reaches a peak position of # 5 on the R&B charts and # 7 on the pop charts. "Take Care Of Yourself" is first issued in 1962 on the LP "Jimmy McCracklin Sings" (Chess LP 1464) and "Minnie Lee" stays on the shelf until 1985 when it becomes the opening track of the Japanese LP "The Best Of Jimmy McCracklin With Lafayette Thomas" (P-Vine 6033). Personnel : Jimmy McCracklin (vocals / piano) ; Lafayette Thomas (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Johnny Parker, Willie Cowart (tenor saxes) ; Raymond Boyd (alto sax) ; Ray Cotton (drums). Location : Chicago.
December 1957, unknown date : HARDROCK GUNTER records the
single "Boppin' To Grandfather's Clock"/"Beggars Can't Be
choosers" (Island IR-6, January 1958) at WWVA radio station in Wheeling,
Virginia. Label credit goes to Sidney Jo Lewis, a pseudonym of
Gunter.
December 1957, unknown date(s) : DALE HAWKINS records at Sheldon Studio in Chicago under the supervision of Leonard Chess. "Tornado"/"Little Pig" is chosen for single release (Checker 892, April 1958). "Juanita" and "Heaven" end up on Dale's LP "Oh! Suzie-Q" (Chess LP 1429, 1958). Three other tracks, "Boogie Woogie Teenage Girl", "Teenage Dolly" and "Sweetie Pie" gather dust in the vaults until the release of the CD "Rock 'n' Roll Tornado" (Ace CDCHD 693, UK) in 1998. Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Carl Adams, Kenny Paulsen (guitars) ; Unknown (bass) ; Marc Mathis (piano) ; Ronnie Lewis (drums) ; Margaret and Rose Lewis (vocal chorus). An alternate version of "Little Pig" is recorded on December 16, 1957, in Shreveport, Louisiana (first released on the LP "Oh Suzie-Q : The Best of Dale Hawkins, Vol. 1", Checker 6467301, UK, 1976) by Dale Hawkins (vocals / guitar / producer) ; Carl Adams (guitar) ; Sonny Trammell (bass) ; Nick Roppolo (drums) ; Margaret Lewis (second vocal).
December 1957, unknown date : MARVIN RAINWATER cuts "Whole Lotta Woman", which will top the UK charts, though it is only a minor hit (# 60) in the USA. Release on MGM 12609 in January. The George Jones composition "That's the Way I Feel" is first issued on Marvin's Bear Family LP "With A Heart, With A Beat" (BFX 15132) in 1984. The flip of "Whole Lotta Woman", "Baby Don't Go", is also laid down sometime in December, but at a later date and with a different drummer (Ray Rainwater). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
JANUARY 1958
January 3, 1958 : THE RIO ROCKERS record two tracks at Porter Studio in Phoenix, Arizona : "Mexicali Baby" and the instrumental "Mexican Rock 'n' Roll", produced by Frank Porter, who sells the tapes to Tom Morgan of Capitol Records. Release on Capitol 3884 in February. The Rio Rockers include : Rusty Isabell (vocals / piano) ; Don Cole (guitar) ; more details unknown.
January 4, 1958 : ROY ORBISON is still contracted to Sun Records at this time. On this day he cuts "You Tell Me" (also recorded by Johnny Cash later in the year), "I Give Up" and "One More Time" and on January 10 "Lovestruck", "The Clown" and "Claudette" (soon to be recorded by the Everly Brothers). None of these six songs (all Roy's own compositions) is issued at the time, but they all appear on the 2-CD "The Sun Years - Roy Orbison" (Charly/Sun CDX 4) in 1984. Location : Sun studio, Memphis.
January 4, 1958 : MACK SELF is also in the Sun studio to cut two of his own compositions, "Vibrate" and "Little One". Sam Phillips stores the tape box, which stays closed until 1982 when Charly releases the Various artists LP "Hillbilly Rock" (CFM 509, UK), which includes "Vibrate". "Little One" makes its first appearance on the 10-LP box-set "Sun Records : The Country Years, 1950-1959" (Bear Family BFX 15211) in 1986. An alternate version of "Vibrate", also from this session, appears on "Mack Self : Easy To Love : The Sun Years, Plus" (Bear Family BCD 16519) in 2007. Personnel : Mack Self (vocals / guitar) ; Thurlow Brown, Roland Janes (guitars) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
January 4, 1958 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records his next single : "Talk To Me, Talk To Me"/"Spasms" (King 5108, February, a Top 20 pop hit) and "Don't Be Ashamed To Call My Name", which is released on King 5147 in August. Location : New York City. Musicians : Hal Singer (tenor sax) ; Bill Graham (baritone sax) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; Everett Barksdale, George Barnes (guitars) ; Al McKibbon (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
January 6, 1958 : An important CHUCK BERRY session, for which the date has also been mentioned as December 29, 1957 (Slaven, Leadbitter), but January 6 seems to be correct. Selected for the next single is "Sweet Little Sixteen"/"Reelin' and Rockin'" (Chess 1683, first week of February). "Rockin' At the Philharmonic" and "Guitar Boogie" are tracks for the LP "One Dozen Berrys" (Chess LP 1432, April) and "Night Beat" stays on the shelf until 1964 (LP "Saint Louis To Liverpool", Chess LP 1488). A slow version of "Time Was" is first issued on the 3-CD set "Chess Box" in 1988 (MCA CHD3-80). The 7th track recorded this day is the immortal "Johnny B. Goode", issued in April (Chess 1691). Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums).
January 6, 1958 : JOHNNY OTIS and his Revue are at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Well Well Well"/"You Just Kissed Me Goodbye" has Mel Williams as the vocalist on both sides (Capitol 3889, February), while "The Light Still Shines In My Window" is sung by Marie Adams (Capitol CL 14837, UK, February). Otis himself takes the lead on "Lonesome Train", but this track remains unissued. Produced by Tom Morgan.
January 6, 1958 : LARRY WILLIAMS records at Radio Recorders in Los Angeles (Hollywood). "Make A Little Love" and "Little School Girl" are first issued on the LP "Here's Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2109, October 1959). "Little School Girl" is also released as a single in January 1960 (Specialty 682). "Marie Marie" and "Baby (You're Driving Me Crazy)" stay in the vaults until 1974 (first release on the LP's "The Unreleased Larry Williams", Specialty SP 2158 and "Hocus Pocus", SP 2162 respectively). Personnel : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus, overdubbed on "Make A Little Love" in August 1959). Produced by Art Rupe.
January 6, 1958 : JIMMY NEWMAN records his next two
singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. First released is “Step Aside Shallow
Water”/“With Tears In My Eyes” (Dot 15704, January 31). This is followed by
“Carry On”/“Bop A Hula” (Dot 15766) in June. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ray
Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy
Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
Wednesday, January 8, 1958 : The OWEN BRADLEY Quintet records what will turn out to be the best selling version of "Big Guitar" (Decca 30564, end of January). The reverse, "Sentimental Dream", is also laid down at this session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Dutch McMillin (tenor sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
January 8, 1958 is also the recording date of the GLEN GLENN single "Everybody's Movin'"/"I'm Glad My Baby's Gone Away" (Era 1061, end of February). A third track, "Would Ya", appears on Era 1086 in November (coupled with the yet-to-record "Blue Jeans And A Boys' Shirt"). Personnel : Gary Lambert (lead guitar) ; Wynn Stewart (rhythm guitar) ; Guybo Smith (bass) ; Joe O'Dell (drums). Location : Gold Star Recording Studios, Hollywood, California.
January 8, 1958 : In Chicago, MEMPHIS SLIM records material for two singles. “Stroll On Little Girl”/“Guitar Cha Cha Cha” is released on Vee-Jay 271 in February, “This Time I’m Through”/“What’s the Matter” on Vee-Jay 294 in October. Credited to Memphis Slim and his House Rockers.
January 9, 1958 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo cut "The Tuttle"/"Leaps And Bounds" (Imperial 5486, rush-released). The B-side is a cover of a Bill Doggett number. The combo includes Plas Johnson on tenor sax and Earl Palmer on drums. Location : Los Angeles.
January 10, 1958 : 17-year old LAURA LEE PERKINS records four tracks in Hollywood. "Kiss Me Baby"/"I Just Don't Like This Kind Of Livin'" is released in February on Imperial 5493. The two other tracks from this session, "Gonna Rock My Baby Tonight" and "Come On Baby", stay in the can until 1988, when Bob Jones issues them on his Detour label (Detour DT-45-02, UK). Personnel : Joe Maphis (lead guitar) ; James Burton (rhythm guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Jimmie Haskell (producer). Although Imperial 5493 was Laura Lee's first release, it was not her first session. In late 1957 she had recorded "Don't Wait Up" and "Oh La Baby" in Cleveland, on which she played the piano herself. These tapes were purchased by Imperial and released on Imperial 5507 in March.
January 10, 1958 : First ever session for RAY SMITH, at the Sun studio in Memphis, supervised by Sam Phillips, who does not release any of the four tracks recorded : "I Want To Be Free", "Little Girl", "Breakup" and "Forever Yours". In 1988 they are included on the LP "I'm Right Behind You Baby! : Sun Sessions 1958" (Sun LP 1009, UK). There is also a first attempt at "Why, Why, Why" (unissued). Personnel : Stanley Walker, Dean Perkins (guitars) ; James Webb (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Gary Diamond (drums).
Second week of January 1958 : DAVID SEVILLE records the future number one “Witch Doctor” and its flip, “Don’t Whistle At Me Baby” (Liberty 55132, released April 1). The location is Los Angeles.
January 12, 1958 : EDDIE COCHRAN goes into Liberty's Custom Recorders studio in Hollywood to record the two wildest tracks he had done up till then. "Jeannie, Jeannie, Jeannie" is rush released on Liberty 55123, c/w "Pocketful Of Hearts" from a session in the summer of 1957. "Pretty Girl" is used for the next single (Liberty 55138, May). Two other versions of "Pretty Girl" will be kept on the shelf for many years. Musicians : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Guybo Smith (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
January 12, 1958 : FULLER TODD does a four-track session at the King studio in Cincinnati. "Top Ten Rock"/"Jeanie Marie" comes out on King 5111 in February. The other two tracks, "Cuddle Up" and "You Baby", stay unissued till 2003, when they are included on the Various artists CD "King Rock 'n' Roll" (Ace CDCHD 975, UK). Produced by Louis Innis.
January 14, 1958 : GENE SUMMERS cuts three tracks during a session at Master Recorders in Hollywood, resulting in the release of Gene’s first single, “School Of Rock & Roll”/“Straight Skirt” on February 1 (Jan 11-100). The third track from the session, “I’ll Never Be Lonely”, is released in January 1959 on Jane 106 (c/w “Twixteen” from a later session). Personnel : Gene Summers (vocals / guitar) ; James McClung (lead guitar) ; Benny Williams (bass) ; Red Callendar (piano) : Gary Moon (drums).
January 14, 1958 : HOMER AND JETHRO record four tracks at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Their version of "At the Hop", which they call "At the Flop" is selected as their new single (RCA 7162, February), coupled with "My Special Angel", also from this session. "Rock Boogie" (RCA 7277, June) and "Lullaby Of Bird Dog" (RCA 7342, September) are also released as singles later in the year. Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocals / mandolin) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
January 14, 1958 is also the recording date of the JACKIE WALKER single "Only Teenagers Allowed"/"Oh Lonesome Me" (Imperial 5490, rush released). Backing by : James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell in Hollywood.
January 15, 16 and 23, 1958 : The induction of ELVIS PRESLEY into the US Army is imminent, so this is a busy month for him. The entire soundtrack for the movie "King Creole" (RCA LPM 1884, August) is recorded during these three days : "King Creole", "As Long As I Have You", "Hard Headed Woman", "Trouble", "Dixieland Rock", "Don't Ask Me Why", "Lover Doll", "Crawfish", "Young Dreams", "Steadfast Loyal And True" and "New Orleans". "Hard Headed Woman"/"Don't Ask Me Why" is selected for single release (RCA 7280, June). Personnel : Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Neal Matthews (bass guitar) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Teddy Buckner (trumpet) ; Mahlon Clark (clarinet) ; Justin Gordon (tenor sax) ; Ray Siegel (tuba / bass) ; Elmer Schneider (trombone) ; Gordon Stoker (bongos) ; Hoyt Hawkins (bongos) ; The Jordanaires (backing vocals). Produced by Walter Scharf at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
January 16, 17, 21, 1958 : At 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee, JERRY LEE LEWIS is in the Sun studio to record "Cool Cool Ways" (his self-invented title for "Sexy Ways"), "Milkshake Mademoiselle" (six complete takes), "Down the Line" and "Sorry I'm Not Sorry". On the 21st he records the definitive take of "Breathless", which is selected as the follow-up to "Great Balls Of Fire" (Sun 288, February, b/w "Down the Line"). The other tracks stay in their tape boxes until the 1970s, after the Sun catalogue has been sold to Shelby Singleton. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Billy Riley (guitar) ; J.W. Brown (bass, now Jerry's father-in-law) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
January 16-17, 1958 : TERRY NOLAND is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City where he cuts seven tracks for his forthcoming LP "Terry Noland" (Brunswick BL 54041, March) : "Oh ! Baby Look At Me", "Oh Judy", "Let Me Be Your Hero", "Puppy Love", "You And I", "Teenage Teardrops" and "Forever Loving You". Also released as a single are "Oh ! Baby Look At Me"/"Puppy Love" (Brunswick 55054, February) and "Teenage Teardrops" (Brunswick 55122, March 1959). Arranged and conducted by Milton DeLugg. Produced by Bob Thiele.
January 17, 1958 : After recording the LP "Honey!" (Capitol T 988, April) on January 8, 9 and 10, SONNY JAMES is back at the Capitol Tower to lay down his next two singles : "Kathleen"/"Walk To the Dance" (Capitol 3888, February) and "Let's Play Love"/"Are You Mine" (Capitol 3962, April). Personnel : Bob Bain (guitar, arranger) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ray Sherman (piano) ; Raymond Martinez (drums) ; Frank Flynn (percussion). The female voice on "Are You Mine" belongs to Darla Daret (overdubbed on March 27). Produced by Ken Nelson in Hollywood.
January 17, 1958 : LEROY VAN DYKE records the single “Leather Jacket”/“My Good Mind (Went Bad On Me)” in Hollywood. Release on Dot 15698, February 3. Musicians unknown. Produced by Randy Wood.
January 18, 1958 : FARON YOUNG waxes the single "I Can't Dance"/"Rosalie (Is Gonna Get Married)" (Capitol 3898, February). "Rosalie" is also known under the title "Teenage Wedding". A third track from this session, "Once In A While", is first released on the 5-CD set "Faron Young" : The Classic Years" (Bear Family BCD 15493) in 1991. Personnel : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Monday, January 20, 1958 : Drummer EARL PALMER cuts the single "Drum Village, Parts 1 and 2" (Capitol 3899, February) in Hollywood. Label credit goes to "Earl Palmer and his Ten Piece Rockin' Band" (6 horns, piano, guitar, bass, drums). Arranged and composed by Bill Holman. Part 2 was possibly recorded on January 21, after the Stan Freberg session mentioned below.
January 20/21 1958 : STAN FREBERG records two sides, for which he needs six hours (19:00-22:00 and 22:30-01:30). "Ya Got Trouble"/"Gary, Indiana" is released on Capitol 3892 in February. Orchestra and chorus arranged and conducted by Billy May. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 22, 1958 : JOE TURNER is back at Atlantic's NYC studio. Five tracks are recorded, some very good ("Jump For Joy", Atlantic 1184, April), some very bad ("Sweet Sue", Atlantic 2072, August 1960). The reverse of "Jump For Joy", "Blues in the Night" is also recorded at this session. "Switchin'" and "Go Red Go" have never been issued. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Hilton Jefferson (alto sax) ; George Barnes, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Howard Biggs (piano, arranger) ; Mike Chimes (harmonica) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
January 22, 1958 : JACK CLEMENT and an anonymous group of singers and session players are in the Sun studio in Memphis to record the single "The Minstrel Show"/"Three Little Guitars" (Phillips International 3536, February 1959), which is credited to The Clement Travelers. The B-side is an instrumental. Clement's single "Ten Years"/"Your Lover Boy" (Sun 291, April) was probably recorded in January or February of 1958.
January 22, 1958 : GUITAR SLIM does another session for Atco in New York City. "If I Had My Life To Live Over"/"When There's No Way Out" is released in July (Atco 6120). "Along About Midnight" stays in the can until 1972, when it comes out on the Various artists LP "Texas Guitar : From Dallas To L.A." (Atlantic SD 7226). "My Time Is Expensive" has never been issued. Personnel : Eddie Jones aka Guitar Slim (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Morris (trumpet) ; Matthew Gee (trombone) ; Johnny Griffin (tenor sax) ; Elmo Hope (piano) ; Percy Heath (bass) ; Philly Joe Jones (drums). Arranged and directed by Lloyd Lambert.
January 23, 1958 : DEAN MARTIN waxes his next single, "Return To Me"/ "Forgetting You" (Capitol 3894, February), which will bring him back in the Top 10 (peak position # 4). Also recorded are "Angel Baby" (Capitol 3988, June), "Tu Sei Bella Signorina" (Capitol 4518, February 1961) and the LP track "Buona Sera" (Capitol T 1047, "This Is Dean Martin", 1958). Orchestra (29 musicians!) and chorus conducted by Gus Levene. Location : Capitol Tower, Hollywood.
January 23, 1958 : BOBBY NORRIS is also at the Capitol Tower where he records the excellent double-sider "I Went Rockin'"/"Rock-A-Bye Me Mama" (Capitol 3945, March). Session musicians include the Johnson brothers (Plas on sax, Ray on piano), more details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
Friday, January 24, 1958 : BOBBY DARIN is still searching for a hit. This session won't bring it, but the next one will. "Brand New House" and "Actions Speak Louder Than Words" will end up on Bobby's first LP, simply titled "Bobby Darin" (Atco 33-102, September). "All the Way Home" and "You Never Called" are temporarily shelved and used for the LP "For Teenagers Only" (Atco SP-1001), which is released in September 1960. Produced by Herb Abramson in New York City.
January 25, 1958 (and the early hours of January 26) : Two producers (Norman Petty and Bob Thiele) are in attendance as BUDDY HOLLY records "Rave On" and "That's My Desire" at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "Rave On" is released on April 20 (Coral 61985). "That's My Desire" is eventually issued on "The Complete Buddy Holly" (MCA Coral 8071-76, UK) in 1978, a 6-LP set. Backing by : Al Caiola (lead guitar) ; Don Arnone (rhythm guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Norman Petty (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Jivetones (backing vocals).
January 26, 1958 : EDWIN BRUCE waxes the A-side of his second Sun single, "Sweet Woman" (Sun 292, April), plus "That's Good", which stays in the can until Richard Weize releases it on Bear Family BFX 15194 (LP "Rock Boppin' Baby") in 1986. Backing by : Billy Riley (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). The B-side of "Sweet Woman", "Part Of My Life" will be recorded on March 5, with Roland Janes and Roy Orbison on guitars instead of Billy Riley.
January 27, 1958 : HUELYN DUVALL has his second session for Challenge, this time at Gold Star studios in Hollywood. "Hum-Dinger"/"You Knock Me Out" is selected as his new single (Challenge 59002, March). "Friday Night On A Dollar Bill" follows in September (Challenge 59025). "Fools Hall Of Fame" stays unreleased until Bear Family issues two different takes of the song on the LP "The Challenge Masters / Huelyn Duvall" in 1987 (BFX 15200). Dave Burgess plays lead guitar ; other details unknown.
January 27, 1958 : JOHNNY HORTON records a 10-track LP for the SESAC label (A 1201), designed for airplay only. After Horton's death, Columbia purchased the SESAC masters, added two tracks and issued them as the LP "I Can't Forget You" (Columbia CL-2299, March 1965). Tracks : "Hot In the Sugarcane Field", "Lonesome And Heartbroken", "Seven Comes Eleven", "I Can't Forget You", "Wise To the Ways Of A Woman", "Out In New Mexico", "Tetched In the Head", "Just Walk A Little Closer", "Don't Use My Heart For A Stepping Stone", "I Love You Baby". Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Tommy Tomlinson (guitar) ; Tillman Franks (bass) ; Sonny Harville (piano) ; The Four B's (vocal group). Location : KWKH Studio, Shreveport, Louisiana.
January 27-29, 1958 : LaVERN BAKER cuts the LP "LaVern Baker Sings Bessie Smith" (Atlantic LP 1281, May). Tracks : "Nobody Knows You When You're Down And Out", "Gimme A Pigfoot", "Baby Doll", "On Revival Day", "Money Blues", "Empty Bed Blues", "I Ain't Gonna Play No Second Fiddle", "There'll Be A Hot Time In the Old Town Tonight", "Back Water Blues", "After You've Gone", "Young Woman Blues" and "Preaching the Blues". Arranged and conducted by Phil Moore. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
January 28, 1958 : FATS DOMINO returns to Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to lay down "Yes My Darling" (clearly sped up on its released version) and "Don't You Know I Love You", for release on Imperial 5492 in February. Fats may not have been present at the session ; his vocals were probably overdubbed at a later, unknown date. Personnel : Lee Allen, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Walter Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Allen Toussaint or Edward Frank (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Dave Bartholomew (producer).
January 28, 1958 : GLENN REEVES records the single "Rock-A-Boogie Lou"/ "Betty Bounce" (Decca 30589, March) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The third track from this session, "Rock Around the World" is first released in 1979 on the LP "Rare Rockabilly, Vol. 4" (MCA MCF 3035, UK).
January 29, 1958 is the recording date of the WYNONA CARR single "Touch And Go"/"The Things You Do To Me" (Specialty 628, April). Produced by Sonny Bono in Hollywood. Personnel unknown.
January 29, 1958 : Six-track session for BO DIDDLEY in Chicago. "Dearest Darling"/"Hush Your Mouth" is a single release in June (Checker 896). "The Great Grandfather" (Checker 924, July 1959) and "Say Man"/"The Clock Strikes Twelve" (Checker 931, September 1959) will appear much later. Finally, "Bo's Guitar" is a track for the LP "Go Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 1436, July 1959). Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Jerome Green (maracas, co-lead vocal on "Say Man") ; Peggy Jones (guitar) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Frank Kirkland (drums).
January 29, 1958 : THURSTON HARRIS does a four-track session at Capitol Studios in New York City. "I'm Out To Getcha"/"Be Baba Leba" is selected as his next single (Aladdin 3415, March). "Only One Love Is Blessed" will follow in June (Aladdin 3428, B-side of "Smokey Joe's") and "You're Gonna Need Me" in July (Aladdin 3430, B-side of "Over And Over").
January 29, 1958 : First solo session for pianist ALLEN TOUSSAINT, who records two instrumentals : "Whirlaway"/"Happy Times" (RCA 7192, March). On the label he is credited as 'A. Tousan'. Personnel : Allen Toussaint (piano) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Nat Perrilliat (tenor sax) ; Justin Adams or Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Danny Kessler at Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
Thursday, January 30, 1958 : Saxophonist-singer JIMMIE MADDIN records his version of "Jeannie, Jeannie, Jeannie" (originally recorded by the G-Notes as "Johnny, Johnny, Johnny" ; see also January 12). The flip, "Party Line", also comes from this session. Release on Imperial 5494 in February. Location : Los Angeles, unknown studio.
January 1958, unknown date : HOWARD CROCKETT's second Dot session yields the single "Branded"/"Night Rider" (Dot 15701, February). Backing by : Grady Martin, poss. Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Mac Wiseman in Nashville, probably Bradley Studio.
January 1958, unknown date : In Dallas, BIG AL DOWNING waxes his first single : "Down On the Farm"/"Oh! Babe", which is first issued on White Rock 1111 in March, then (for national distribution) on Challenge 59006 in April. Label credit goes to Al Downing with the Poe Kats. The other vocalist of the Poe Kats, BOBBY POE (aka Bobby Brant), also cuts two tracks, "Rock & Roll Boogie" and "Rock & Roll Record Girl", which come out on White Rock 1112 in April. Personnel : Big Al Downing (vocals / piano) ; Bobby Poe (vocals / guitar) ; Vernon Sandusky (guitar) ; Joe Brawley (drums). Produced by Lelan Rogers.
January 1958, unknown date : THE PLATTERS record their versions of two foreign hits. The Italian song "Come Prima" becomes "For the First Time" and will be included on their LP "The Flying Platters Around the World" in April (Mercury MG 20366). "It's Raining Outside" ("Chove La Fora" from Brazil) is released in September as the B-side of "I Wish" (Mercury 71353). Produced by Buck Ram.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1958
Saturday, February 1, 1958 : ELVIS PRESLEY does another
session before entering the US Army. "Wear My Ring Around Your
Neck"/"Doncha' Think It's Time" is chosen for the new single
(RCA 7240, April). The third track, "Your Cheatin' Heart" is first
released on the "Elvis For Everyone" LP in August 1965 (RCA LPM
3450). There are further attempts at "My Wish Came True", but these
are no improvement over the version of September 6, 1957, which is the version
that eventually will be released in June 1959. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Tiny
Timbrell (guitars) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; D.J. Fontana
(drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Steve Sholes at Radio
Recorders, Hollywood. The same personnel minus Tiny Timbrell is present on February
11, for the finishing touches of the film "King Creole". The movie
version of "Steadfast, Loyal and True" is recorded, plus
"Danny", intended for the film, but not used and first released on
"A Legendary Performer, Vol. 3" (RCA Victor CPL 1-3078) in 1978.
February 3, 1958 : CARL PERKINS enters the Quonset Hut in Nashville (producer Don Law's preferred studio) for his first Columbia session. "The facility was large enough to house two or three studios the size of Sun's. There were two pianos. Extra guitars. And a clock - a clock in a recording studio! This was a daunting place." (Carl's autobiography, "Go Cat Go", 1996, page 261). Four tracks are recorded, spawning one single. Released on March 10, "Pink Pedal Pushers"/"Jive After Five" spends one week at # 91 on the pop charts before dropping out of sight. "Rockin' Record Hop" does not see a release until 1982 (LP "Rockabilly Stars, Vol. 3", Epic LP 37984), while "Just Thought I'd Call" has to wait even longer, until the 5-CD box-set "The Classic Carl Perkins" (Bear Family BCD 15494, 1990). Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) is supported by : Jay Perkins (guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; Marvin Hughes (piano).
February 4, 1958 : FATS DOMINO records "No No" and "Sick and Tired" for release on his next single (Imperial 5515, April). The Bear Family discography locates this session in Los Angeles (Master Recorders), Michel Ruppli and others in New Orleans. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Willie Jones (guitar) ; Jimmy Davis (bass) ; Herb Hardesty, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
February 5, 1958 : After the split-up of the Rock and Roll Trio, JOHNNY AND DORSEY BURNETTE team up without Paul Burlison for a four-track session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Warm Love"/"My Honey" is chosen for single release (Imperial 5509, April), while the equally strong "Do Baby Do" and "Boppin' Rosalie" will stay in the vaults until they are released on the LP "We're Having A Party" (Rockstar LP 1017, UK) in 1988. All four tracks have excellent rockabilly guitar solos. Backing by : Joe Maphis (guitar) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
February 5, 1958 : Sax player KING CURTIS does his first solo session for Atco. "Birth Of the Blues"/"Just Smoochin'" is selected for single release (Atco 6114, March), while "Strollin'" and "Waling With the King" remain unissued. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Bob Bushnell (fender bass) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Ram Ramirez (organ) ; Walter Spriggs (bongos) ; Belton Evans (drums). Audience sounds on "Birth Of the Blues" are overdubbed later. Produced by Herb Abramson at Atlantic Studios in New York City.
February 5, 1958 : THE KINGSTON TRIO cuts four numbers for their first album, called "The Kingston Trio" (Capitol T 996, release date June 2). Three tracks will also be released as singles : "Three Jolly Coachmen" (Capitol 3970, May), the # 1 hit "Tom Dooley" (Capitol 4049, September) and "Scotch And Soda" (Capitol 4740, April 1962). The fourth track is "Hard, Ain't It Hard". Personnel : Dave Guard, Bob Shane (both vocals / guitar / banjo) ; Nick Reynolds (vocals / guitar / congas) ; Buzz Wheeler (bass). Produced by Voyle Gilmore at Capitol Studio B, Capitol Tower, Hollywood.
February 5, 1958 : MARVIN RAINWATER records three duets with his sister Patty. “Because I’m A Dreamer” is released on MGM 12625 in March (c/w “Two Fools In Love” from a session in January 1958). Label credit goes to “Marv and Patty”. “Down In the Cellar” (without Patty) and “Crazy Love” will see their first release on the Bear Family LP “Marvin Rainwater Sings With A Heart, With A Beat” (BFX 15132) in 1984. “When It’s Lamplighting Time In the Valley” is unissued and lost. The next day Marvin records “Moanin’ the Blues” (MGM 12665, June), which will be paired - at least in the USA - with “I Dig You Baby” (recorded in London on April 15, 1958). Also laid down on February 6 is “Long Time No See”, which is unissued and considered lost. Grady Martin plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 6-7, 1958 : BILL HALEY and his Comets also have a two-day session. The harvest will be used for two subsequent singles, "Skinny Minnie"/"Sway With Me" (Decca 30592, March) and "Lean Jean"/"Don't Nobody Move" (Decca 30681, July). A fifth track, "The Walking Beat", is held back until February 1963 (LP "Bill Haley And His Comets", Vocalion LP 3696). The Comets at this time are : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rex (bass) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Rudy Pompilli (sax) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
February 7, 1958 : THE SHIRELLES have their very first recording session, in New York City, under the supervision of Stan Greenberg. "I Met Him On A Sunday"/"I Want You To Be My Boyfriend" is first (rush-) released on Tiara 6112 and then on Decca 30588 in March for national distribution. The result is a # 49 pop hit. At this time the Shirelles are Shirley Owens (lead vocal), Doris Coley, Micki Harris and Beverly Lee.
February 8, 1958 : JIMMIE AND JOHNNY (Jimmy Lee Fautheree and Johnny Mathis) record the single "I Can't Find the Doorknob"/"Keep Telling Me" (D 1004, June) at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas. Personnel : Jimmy Lee Fautheree (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Johnny Mathis (vocals) ; Hal Harris (lead guitar) ; Tillman Franks (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily.
February 9, 1958 : One week after his 17th birthday, JERRY BYRNE is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record his first single. The A-side, "Lights Out", is one of the most intense rockers of all time. Coupled with "Honey Baby", it is released on Specialty 635 in June. Personnel : Edgar Blanchard, Justin Adams (guitars) ; Harold Battiste (tenor sax, producer) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Art Neville (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
February 11, 1958 : THE FIVE KEYS record four tracks at the Capitol studio in New York City. First released is “You’re For Me” (Capitol 3948, March, c/w ”With All My Love”, recorded on September 9, 1957). “Emily Please” is issued on Capitol 4009 in June (c/w “Handy Andy” from a session on September 10, 1957). “One Great Love” and “Really-O Truly-O” are coupled for release on Capitol 4092 in November. Lead vocals by Rudy West. Orchestra conducted by Dave Cavanaugh, who also produced the session.
February 12, 1958 : The second RCA session of SAMMY SALVO results in two singles. “She Takes Sun Baths”/“Julie Doesn’t Love Me Anymore” is released in March (RCA 47-7190). “Loving’ At Night”/“Me And You” follows in June (RCA 47-7272). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Hank Garland, Gerald Parker (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). The location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
February 12, 1958 : DEAN BEARD records his third and last single for Atlantic in New York City : “Take Time To Love Me”/“Hold Me Close”. Released on Atlantic 1182 in May.
February 12-15, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY and the Crickets spend four days at the Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. "Take Your Time" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "Rave On" (Coral 61985, April). "Think It Over"/"Fool's Paradise" is credited to the Crickets (Brunswick 55072, release date May 27). "Well . All Right" comes out on Coral 62051 on November 5 (B-side of "Heartbeat"). Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Vi Petty (piano, overdubbed) ; Norman Petty (producer / organ on "Take Your Time").
February 13, 1958 : PATSY CLINE cuts six numbers at Bradley Studio in Nashville. A remake of "Come On In" is coupled with "Let the Teardrops Fall" for release on Decca 30659 (June). "I Can See An Angel"/"Never No More" follows in August (Decca 30706) and "Just Out Of Reach" in September (Decca 30746). "If I Could Only Stay Asleep" is first released on the LP "In Memoriam Patsy Cline" (Everest 1217, April 1963). Vocal backing by the Anita Kerr Singers, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley.
February 13, 1958 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his Combo record the single "Theme From Igor"/"Shape Up" in Hollywood (Imperial 5499, rush-released). The A-side is based on the then-current hit "Dinner With Drac".
February 13, 1958 : Another Imperial single recorded on this day is BILL ALLEN's "Please Give Me Something"/"Since I Have You" (Imperial 5500, March). Backing by the Backbeats (guitar, bass, drums). Location : Audio Recording Studio, Cleveland, Ohio.
February 14, 1958 : JERRY LEE LEWIS records no less than 14 takes of "High School Confidential", but none of them is approved for release by Sam Phillips. Neither are "Pink Pedal Pushers", "Jailhouse Rock" (both first released on the "Monsters" LP, Sun 124, in 1971), "Hound Dog" (first issued in 1974 on the LP "Rockin' And Free", Sun 6467029), "Good Rockin' Tonight" (this particular version has never been released) and "Someday (You'll Want Me To Want You)", which is eventually included on the LP "Jerry Lee Lewis And His Pumping Piano" (Charly CR 300 002) in 1974. Only "Don't Be Cruel" gets the thumbs up and becomes the opening track of Jerry's first LP ("Jerry Lee Lewis", Sun LP 1230) that will appear in May 1958. Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
Friday, February 14, 1958 : Unaware that this will be the last recording session of his life, CHUCK WILLIS records "What Am I Living For?"/"Hang Up My Rock and Roll Shoes" (Atlantic 1179, March), a posthumous hit after Chuck's untimely death on April 10, 1958. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 9 and # 24 respectively (pop that is, # 1 and # 9 R&B). Also laid down are "Keep-A Driving" and "You'll Be My Love" (Atlantic 2005, November). Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Sammy Price (piano) ; Al Caiola, George Barnes (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Teddy Charles (vibes) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; The Cues (vocal group). Arranged and directed by Reggie Obrecht, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Studio in New York City.
February 15, 1958 : CHARLIE PHILLIPS records two tracks in New York City, at Bell Sound Studio. “Be My Bride”/“Too Many Tears” comes out on Coral 61970 in the first week of April. George Barnes plays guitar and banjo ; more details unknown. Orchestra conducted by Milton DeLugg. Produced by Bob Thiele.
February 16, 1958 : THE BOBBETTES record a future single, “The Dream”/ “Um Bow Wow” (Atlantic 1194, July) in New York City. The next day they attempt three more numbers, “Woop”, “Blessed Love” and “Zoomy Zoomy”, all unissued. See also March 13. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Reggie Obrecht (piano / arranger) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Teddy Charles (vibraphone) ; Joe Marshall (drums). The Bobbettes are : Reather Dixon, Emma Pought, Jannie Pought, Helen Gathers and Laura Webb. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 17, 1958 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, RICKY NELSON records his next single (considered by many as his best), "Believe What You Say"/"My Bucket's Got A Hole In It" (Imperial 5503, March). Peak positions in Billboard : # 4 for the A-side, # 12 for the B-side. Ricky now feels confident enough to play rhythm guitar on his own records. He is supported by : James Burton (lead guitar for the first time, instead of Joe Maphis) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
February 17, 1958 : At 706 Union, Memphis Tennessee, former Drifters member BILL PINKNEY records "After the Hop"/"Sally's Got A Sister" for his sole Phillips International single (3524, May). "High School Rock", the third track from this session, stays in the can until the release of the CD "Sun Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 3" (Charly CPCD 8353) in 1999. Credit on the record label goes to BILL PINKY and the Turks. Personnel : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Bill Justis (tenor sax, arranger) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Turks (vocal group).
February 17, 1958 : JOHN ASHLEY records “Born To Rock” at the Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. It will coupled with “Pickin’ Up the Wrong Chicken” from a later date (probably early May) and released on Dot 15775 on May 27. Also recorded is an alternate take of “Believe Me”, which is held in the can until 2002, when it is included on the CD “Born To Rock” (Hydra BCK 27114, Germany). Orchestra conducted by Milton Rogers.
February 17 and 24, 1958 : THE CHAMPS record nine tracks for their first LP, "Go Champs Go" (Challenge CHL-601, June) : "Midnighter", "Robot Walk", "What's Up Buttercup" (on the 17th) ; "El Rancho Rock", "Sky High", "Go Champs Go", "I'll Be There" and "Lollipop" (on the 24th). "El Rancho Rock" and "Midnighter" are picked for the follow-up single to "Tequila" (Challenge 59007, April). Both sides will chart (# 30, # 94). Personnel : Chuck Rio (sax, piano) ; Dave Burgess, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Joe Burnas or Cliff Hills (bass) ; Gene Alden (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
February 18, 1958 is the recording date of the JUSTIN TUBB single "Rock It On Down To My House"/"Sugar Lips" (Decca 30606, March). Location is Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Grady Martin or Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Harold Bradley (rhythm guitar) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Jerry Rivers (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
February 19, 1958 : IVAN (Jerry Allison) covers "Wild One", originally recorded by Australian Johnny O'Keefe. The title is changed to "Real Wild Child". Together with "Oh You Beautiful Doll", also from this session, it is released on Coral 62017 in August and peaks at # 68 on the Billboard charts. Location : Clovis, New Mexico. Personnel : Jerry Allison (vocals) ; Buddy Holly (guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Bo Clarke (drums) ; The Roses (overdubbed backing vocals, handclapping) ; Norman Petty (producer / wine glasses on "Oh You Beautiful Doll").
February 19, 1958 : LARRY WILLIAMS does another session at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Dizzy Miss Lizzy", with the now classic guitar intro by Rene Hall, becomes Larry's next single (Specialty 626, March), coupled with the previously recorded "Slow Down". "Hootchy-Koo" will be used as the B-side of "The Dummy" (Specialty 634, June), while "Heeby- Jeebies" stays on the shelf until the release of the LP "Hocus Pocus!" (Specialty SP 2162) in 1974. Personnel : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
February 20, 1958 : Same studio, the next day. THE COLLINS KIDS, Lorrie and Larry, record four tracks with their Columbia producer, Don Law. Two singles are the result : "Mercy"/"Sweet Talk" (Columbia 41149, April) and "Rock Boppin' Baby"/"Whistle Bait" (Columbia 41225, August). Personnel : Lorrie Collins (vocals / guitar) ; Larry Collins (vocals / guitar) ; Leon Silby (guitar) ; Tiny Timbrell (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
February 20, 1958 : All five tracks from this day's RAY CHARLES session are released as singles : "Yes Indeed"/"I Had A Dream" (Atlantic 1180, March), "My Bonnie"/"You Be My Baby" (Atlantic 1196, late July) and "Tell All the World About You" (Atlantic 2010, December). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Marcus Belgrave, Lee Harper (trumpets) ; David Newman (tenor sax, alto sax) ; Emmett Davis (baritone sax) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Richie Goldberg (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal chorus). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 21, 1958 : In New Orleans, TOMMY BROWN has his second and last session for Imperial. "Just For You"/"Heart With No Feeling" is released on Imperial 5533 in July, while "Walking With An Angel" and "These Bones" are consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Tommy Brown (vocals / whistling on "Just For You") ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
February 22, 1958 : JIMMY DELL undertakes his second session for RCA. "Cool It Baby" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (RCA 7194, March). The other three tracks, "Chicken Hawk", "Left Right Here" and "Me And My Big Mouth" stay on the shelf for 51 years, until they are saved from oblivion by Bear Family (CD "Cool It Baby", BCD 16508) in 2009. Location is Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Personnel : Al Casey (lead guitar) ; Corky Casey (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass, arranger) ; Howard Crook (piano) ; Darrel Macey, Ronnie Luplow (saxophones) ; Bob Taylor or Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Connie Conway and Floyd Ramsey.
Sunday, February 23, 1958 : WARREN SMITH is in the Sun studio in Memphis, recording "Uranium Rock". This fine track, unissued for 15 years, sees its first release in 1973, on the LP "Sun Rockabillys - Put Your Cat Clothes On" (UK Sun 6467025). Personnel : Al Hopson (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano).
February 23, 1958 : REX ALLEN does a five-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Knock Knock Rattle"/"Invitation To the Blues" is released on Decca 30651 at the end of May. "A Woman (Can Change A Man)"/ "The Waltz That Never Ends" has to wait until January 1967 for a release on Decca 32072. "Scarlet Woman" is not released at all. Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Further details unknown. Produced by Paul Cohen.
February 24, 1958 : After recording four unissued tracks on February 19 (remakes of his 1950-51 hits), LEFTY FRIZZELL returns to Radio Recorders in Hollywood for a nine-track session. Only "Silence" is released as a single (Columbia 41161, April). "Why Should I Be Lonely", "Nobody Knows But Me", "Signed, Sealed And Delivered" and "Release Me" end up on the LP "The One And Only Lefty Frizzell" (Columbia CL 1342) in August 1959. "You Win Again", "Darling, Let's Turn Back the Years", "Our Love's No Bluff" and "If You're Ever Lonely, Darling" are first released on the Bear Family 12-CD set "Love's Like Poetry" (BCD 15550) in 1992. Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Kenneth Baker, Neil Levang (guitars) ; Wayne Burdick (steel guitar) ; Paul Duffy (bass) ; Edwin Carver (piano) ; Muddy Berry (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Bobby Bruce, produced by Don Law.
February 24, 1958 : BUDDY KNOX pays another visit to the Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. Two songs are laid down : "All For You" (a track for the LP "Buddy Knox / Jimmy Bowen", Roulette R 25048, November) and "Hey Love" (unissued). Backing by : Sonny Curtis (guitar) ; Sid King (bass) ; Vi Petty (piano) ; Bo Clarke (drums) ; The Roses (vocal chorus). It is a split session with JIMMY BOWEN, who records "Can She Kiss"/"I'm Keeping You" (Roulette 4057, March). George Atwood replaces Sid King on bass. Produced by Norman Petty.
February 24, 1958 : SHIRLEY AND LEE are at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record their new single : "Everybody's Rockin'"/"Don't Leave Me Here To Cry" (Aladdin 3418, May). Backing by Cosimo Matassa's studio band. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
February 24, 1958 : WAYNE HANDY records the single “Betcha Didn’t Know”/ “Don’t Be Unfair” in Durham, North Carolina. It is first released on Renown 104 in March, later on Trend 30-006. Billy Joe Austin is the saxophonist, more details unknown.
February 25, 1958 : At Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, MELVIN ENDLSEY cuts his next two singles : "Let's Fall Out Of Love"/"I'd Just Be Fool Enough" (RCA 7216, April) and "Getting Used To the Blues"/"Just Want To Be Wanted" (RCA 7312, August). Personnel : Melvin Endsley (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Boyce Hawkins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 26, 1958 : CLYDE McPHATTER's next single is "Come What May"/ "Let Me Know" (Atlantic 1185, April), laid down on this day. The A-side will later be recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley. Two other tracks are shelved for two years and coupled with 1953 tracks from Clyde's period with the Drifters : "Just Give Me A Ring" (Atlantic 2049, January 1960, c/w "Don't Dog Me") and what is probably McPhatter's most rocking record, "Deep Sea Ball" (Atlantic 2060, April 1960, c/w "Let the Boogie Woogie Roll"). Personnel : Steve Lipkins, Red Solomon (trumpets) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; George Barnes, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Unknown (drums). Arranged by Howard Biggs, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Studio in New York City.
February 26, 1958 : This is the last of MARTY ROBBINS' New York sessions with Mitch Miller (producer) and Ray Conniff (arranger), before returning to the Nashville studios. Four tracks are recorded in the evening. "Just Married"/"Stairway Of Love" (Columbia 41143, March) is a very successful single, with the A-side peaking at # 1 and the flip at # 2 on the country charts. Melvin Endsley's composition "Ain't I the Lucky One" will come out in October (Columbia 41282). "Foolish Decision" will finally see the light of day in 1991 (Bear Family BCD 15567, "Ruby Ann : Rockin' Rollin' Robbins, Vol. 3"). Backing by : Tony Mottola, Billy Mure, Don Arnone (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Ed Shaughnessy (drums) ; The Ray Conniff Singers (vocal chorus).
February 26-27, 1958 : ALLEN TOUSSAINT records ten tracks for the all- instrumental LP "The Wild Sound Of New Orleans By Tousan" (RCA LPM 1767, June) : "Up the Creek", "Tim Tam", "Me And You", "Bono", "Java", "Wham Tousan", "Nowhere To Go", "Nashua", "Po Boy Walk" and "Pelican Parade". Personnel : Allen Toussaint (piano) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Nat Perrilliat (tenor sax) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax on "Tim Tam" and "Wham Tousan") ; Justin Adams or Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Danny Kessler at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
February 27, 1958 : In Nashville (RCA Victor studio) DON GIBSON cuts eight tracks for his first RCA LP, "Oh Lonesome Me" (RCA LPM !743, April) : "Bad Bad Day", "I Can't Leave", "Take Me As I Am", "Heartbreak Avenue", "We Could", "If You Don't Know It", "Blues In My Heart" and "Sweet Sweet Girl" (soon to be covered by Warren Smith on Sun). Also recorded are the future single "Look Who's Blue" (RCA 7330, September) and a first attempt at "Give Myself A Party". Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Rusty Kershaw, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore, Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 27, 1958 : THE PLATTERS record four tracks at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City, "Out Of My Mind" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "Twilight Time" (Mercury 71289, late March). "You Don't Say" is eventually used as the flip of "I'll Never Smile Again" (Mercury 71847) in July 1961. "Don't Let Go" and "Are You Sincere" end up on the low-priced LP "Encores" (Wing MGW 12112) in September. Produced by Buck Ram.
February 27-28, 1958 : THE FOUR PREPS are at the Capitol Tower in Los Angeles to record the follow-up to "26 Miles" (# 4 in Billboard at that time). "Big Man", recorded on the 27th (Capitol 3960, April), will peak at # 3. Its flip, "Stop Baby", is recorded the next day, along with "Someday You'll Want Me To Want You" and "Somewhere Along the Line" (both unissued). Personnel : Bruce Belland, Don Clarke, Ed Cobb, Glen Larson (vocals) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Joe Maphis, Leon Silby (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
Friday, February 28, 1958 : Another CHUCK BERRY session in the Chess Studio in Chicago. "Around and Around" becomes the B-side of Chuck's next single, "Johnny B. Goode" (Chess 1691, April). The instrumental "In-Go" and "It Don't Take But A Few Minutes" end up on the LP "One Dozen Berries" (Chess LP 1432, April). The final track recorded, "Blues For Hawaiians" (aka "Surfin' Steel"), will get a place on the LP "Chuck Berry Is On Top" (Chess LP 1435, July 1959). Backing musicians unknown.
February 1958, unknown date : JACK CLEMENT waxes his first Sun single, "Ten Years"/"Your Lover Boy" (Sun 291, April). Unusual for a Sun recording, it is not recorded at the Sun studio, but in Nashville. Personnel : Jack Clement (vocals / guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) : Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; probably Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers vocal chorus).
February 1958, unknown date : MICKEY GILLEY's only single for Dot, "Call Me Shorty"/"Come On Baby" (Dot 15706, late February) is committed to tape at WMPS Studio, 112 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee. At least, that is the location according to Gilley himself ; some other sources mention the Sun studio. A third track, "Wolfhound", has never been issued. Produced by Charles 'Red' Matthews.
February 1958, unknown date : In Chicago, JIMMY McCRACKLIN cuts the follow-up single to his big hit "The Walk" : "Everybody Rock"/"Get Tough" (Checker 893, April). "Later On" is saved until December 1961 for release on Chess 1809. A fourth track, "Suffer", is first issued on the Japanese LP "The Best Of Jimmy McCracklin With Lafayette Thomas" (P-Vine PLP 6033) in 1985.
February 1958, unknown date : JODY REYNOLDS debuts as a recording artist, with "Endless Sleep"/"Tight Capris" (Demon 1507, March). A # 5 pop hit is his reward. The location is Gold Star Recording Studios in Hollywood. Backing by : Al Casey (lead guitar) ; Howard Roberts (rhythm guitar) ; Irving Ashby (bass) ; Raymond Martinez (drums).
February 1958, unknown date : LINK WRAY and the Ray Men record “Rumble” and “The Swag” at the Ben Adelman Studio in Washington, D.C. These two instrumentals are purchased by Cadence boss Archie Bleyer and paired for release on Cadence 1347 on March 17. “Rumble” will peak at # 16 on the Billboard charts. This was probably a split session with Ray Vernon (aka Vernon Wray, Link’s brother), who did his last session for Cameo. Personnel : Link Wray (lead guitar) ; Vernon Wray (rhythm guitar) ; Shorty Horton (bass) ; Doug Wray (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MARCH 1958
March 1, 1958 : Ex-Cricket NIKI SULLIVAN records the single "It's All Over"/"Three Steps To Heaven" (Dot 15751, April). The B-side is not the same song as later recorded by Eddie Cochran, but Niki's own composition. Personnel : Niki Sullivan (vocals / guitar) ; Jack Davies (guitar) ; Cearcy Andrews (bass) ; Unknown (sax) ; Bob Tate (drums). Location : Hestor Studio, Lubbock, Texas.
March 2, 1958 : PIANO RED does his last session for RCA, which results in six songs. "One Glimpse Of Heaven" is coupled with the instrumental "Comin' On" for release on RCA 7217 in April. The catalogue number 7217 was originally also assigned to "Eighter From Decatur", but this track is withdrawn on March 28 and gets its first release in 1993, along with "Blues Blues", "Work With It" and "Please Come Back Home" (Bear Family 4-CD set "The Doctor's In!", BCD 15685). Personnel : Willie Perryman aka Piano Red (vocals / piano) ; George Adams, Wesley Jackson (guitars) ; Kid Miller (bass) ; Horace Prayor, Clyde 'Blow Top' Lynn (saxes) ; Marion Booker, Bobby Lee Tuggle (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 3 or 5, 1958 : DICKEY LEE is in the Sun Studio in Memphis, to record his second single for the label, "Fool, Fool, Fool"/"Dreamy Nights" (Sun 297, May). A third track, "Hey Heart", eventually sees a release in 1990 on the LP "I Saw Linda Yesterday" (Star Club 33-8039, Sweden).
Tuesday, March 4, 1958 : THE DIAMONDS cover the Gene Summers number "Straight Skirt". It is released as a single in Canada and the United Kingdom (c/w "Patsy"), but not in the US, where it appears on an EP (Mercury EP 1-3392). Also recorded is "Chick-Lets(Don't Let Me Down)", which will become the B-side of "High Sign" (Mercury 71291) in April. The backing is provided by Herb Hardesty and his orchestra. Location : Mercury Sound Studio, New York City.
March 5, 1958 : ROY BROWN's last Imperial session yields four tracks. "Hip Shakin' Baby"/"Be My Love Tonight" is released on Imperial 5510 in April. "We're Goin' Rockin' Tonight" and "I Love You, I Need You" stay in the vaults until the release of Brown's CD "The Complete Imperial Recordings" (Capitol 7243 8 31743 2 4) in 1995. Personnel information is contradictory. On the authority of Bill Millar : Howard Roberts, Neil Levang (guitars) ; John Kelleher (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
March 5, 1958 : IVORY JOE HUNTER does his final session for Atlantic, in New York City. He bows out in style with two great up-tempo tracks, "Shooty Booty" (Atlantic 1183, April) and "You Flip Me Baby" (Atlantic 1191, June). Also recorded are the flip of "Shooty Booty", "I'm So Glad I Found You" and "I Just Want To Love You" (Atlantic 2020, March 1959). Personnel : Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (tenor sax, baritone sax) ; Dick Hyman (organ) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 4-piece (male) vocal chorus.
March 6, 1958 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS lay down their next single, "All I Have To Do Is Dream"/"Claudette" (Cadence 1348, April). The A-side is written by Boudleaux and Felice Bryant, the B-side by Roy Orbison. Personnel : Don and Phil Everly (vocals) ; Chet Atkins, Hank Garland and Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 6, 1958 : MARTY ROBBINS records an entire album on this Thursday. Simply titled "Marty Robbins", it will be released on Columbia CL 1189 on December 20. The tracks are : "Kaw-Liga", "Jodie", "Nothing But Sweet Lies", "Oh How I Miss You", "Baby I Need You", "Shackles And Chains", "Waltz Of the Wind", "Paper Face", "Then I Turned And Walked Slowly Away", "Wedding Bells", "A House With Everything But Love" and "The Hands You're Holding Now". Backing by : Hillous Butrum, Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer, Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 7, 1958 : On this day BIG DANNY OLIVER records the single "Sapphire"/"I Wanna Go Steady" (Trend 30.012, June). Both sides are Jack Hammer compositions. The pianist is almost certainly David Clowney, aka Dave "Baby" Cortez. Produced by Goldie Goldmark in New York City.
March 10, 1958 : TOMMY SANDS, who usually records in Hollywood, does a New York session. His next single will become "Hawaiian Rock"/"Teenage Doll" (Capitol 3953, April). Backing by Rudy Traylor's Music.
March 11, 1958 : LLOYD COPAS, aka Cowboy Copas, records "Circle Rock"/ "(Won't You Ride In) My Little Red Wagon" for his next single (Dot 15735, end of March). The A-side is by far the wildest recording of Copas's career. A third track, "Cryin' Doll", will stay on the shelf until the release of the album "Shake A Hand" (Starday LP 371) in 1966. Personnel : Cowboy Copas (vocals) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). More details unknown. Produced by Mac Wiseman at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 11, 1958 is also the recording date of the RENE HALL single "Thunderbird"/"When the Saints Go Marchin' In" (Specialty 629, April). Both sides are instrumentals. Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Possibly H.B. Barnum (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Sonny Bono in Los Angeles.
(Circa) March 12, 1958 : BOB DENTON records the single “Playboy”/“Skinny Minnie” (Dot 15743, April) at the Gold Star Recording Studio in Hollywood. “Playboy” will be released again in September on Dot 15833, with a new flip-side, “24 Hour Night”, on which Eddie Cochran plays guitar.
March 13, 1958 : THE BOBBETTES record their next Atlantic single, “Zoomy”/ “Rock and Ree-ah-zole” (Atlantic 1181, April). Unissued from this session is “Skippy Doo-Wah”. Personnel : Allen Hanlon, George Barnes (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Reggie Obrecht (piano / arranger) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
March 14, 1958 : AL HENDERSON waxes his first single "Ding Dong Dandy"/ "Mary Jane" (East West 113, May) in Nashville. Backing probably by Boyd Bennett and his band. East West is a division of Atlantic Records.
Saturday, March 15, 1958 : THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES, now without Bobby Day, cut their new single, "Frankenstein's Den"/"Strollin' On the Beach" (Ebb 144, April). Produced by Lee Rupe and J.J. Jones in Los Angeles. At this time the Hollywood Flames are Earl Nelson, David Ford, Clyde Tillis and Don Wyatt.
March 15-16, 1958 : TOMMY BLAKE is back in the Sun studio in Memphis to record his next single, "Sweetie Pie"/"I Dig You Baby" (Sun 300, June). Credit for both tunes goes to "Blake-Ross", but "Sweetie Pie" is clearly based on the then unissued Dale Hawkins composition of the same name. Also recorded are "You Better Believe It" and "Shake Around", which are held in the can until they appear on a French single (Sun 614) in 1977. Personnel : Tommy Blake (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes, Carl Adams (guitars) ; Eddie Hall (bass on March 15) ; Stan Kesler (bass on March 16) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums / cowbell). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 17, 1958 : Carl Gardner and Billy Guy of THE COASTERS have relocated to New York City, leaving Bobby Nunn and Leon Hughes behind in California. Their replacements are Will 'Dub' Jones (from the Cadets), bass, and Cornel Gunter, tenor. This is now known as the classic line-up of the Coasters (1958-61). Their first NYC session, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, results in the # 1 hit "Yakety Yak" (Atco 6116, May), its flip, "Zing! Went the Strings Of My Heart", "Three Cool Cats" (the later flip-side of "Charlie Brown", Atco 6132, January 1959) and "Stewball", which will become the B-side of "Wake Me, Shake Me' in June 1960 (Atco 6168). Supporting the Coasters are : Adolph Jacobs, Clifton Best, Allan Hanlon (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Francisco Pozo (bongos).
March 17, 1958 : RUSTY AND DOUG record two of their best singles : "Hey Mae"/"Why Don't You Love Me" (Hickory 1077, April) and "Hey Sheriff"/ "Sweet Thing" (Hickory 1083, July). The location is RCA Studio B in Nashville. Personnel : Rusty and Doug Kershaw (vocals) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose.
March 17, 1958 : At the Sun studio in Memphis, WARREN SMITH records a first version of "Goodbye Mr. Love" (to which he will return in January 1959) and a second version of "Uranium Rock". Both are first released on the Bear Family CD "Classic Recordings / Warren Smith" (BCD 15514) in 1992.
March 18, 1958 : A four-track session for THE CADILLACS in New York City results in the single "Speedo Is Back"/"A' Looka Here" (Josie 836, April). The other two tracks, "Great Googly Moo" and "It's Spring" are first released on the Murray Hill LP box set (MH 61285) in 1983. The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll (lead), James Bailey, Bobby Phillips, Bobby Spencer and Earl Wade. Arranged by Jesse Powell.
March 18-19, 1958 : After a recording career of eight years, SKEETS McDONALD finally gets the chance to record an LP. "Goin' Steady With the Blues" is released on Capitol T 1040 in July. Tracks : "Goin' Steady With the Blues", "Gone And Left Me Blues", "Yard And A Half Of Blues", "You're There", "Hawaiian Sea Breeze", "Tomorrow Never Comes", "Blues In My Mind", "My Room Is Crowded", "I'll Sail My Ship Alone", "Lost Highway", "I'm Sorry Now" and "Fort Worth Jail". Personnel : Skeets McDonald (vocals / leader) ; Joe Maphis, Buck Owens (guitars) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 19, 1958 : JOE JONES is in New Orleans for a recording session paid by Sylvia Vanderpool (of Mickey & Sylvia fame). "Every Night About Eight" and "A-Tisket A-Tasket" are selected for his first Roulette single (4063, April). "I'm Glad For Your Sake" and the instrumental "Indian Love Call" will stay on the shelf until the release of the CD "You Talk Too Much : The Best Of Joe Jones" (UK Sequel NEM CD 672, 1994). Later in the month (exact date unknown), another session follows. "To Prove My Love To You"/"The Prisoner's Song" becomes his next single (Roulette 4087, July). A second attempt at "I'm Glad For Your Sake" and "I Cried For You" remain unissued. Personnel : Joe Jones (vocals / piano) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (additional vocals on "A-Tisket A-Tasket") ; Charles Fairley (tenor sax) ; Teddy Riley (trumpet) ; James Fairman (bass) ; Charles Williams (drums).
March 19, 1958 : RAY SMITH's third Sun session results in his first single for the label : "Right Behind You Baby"/"So Young" (Sun 298, June). "Break-Up" and "Two Pennies And a String" stay in the vaults until 1988 (LP "I'm Right Behind You Baby!", Sun LP 1009, UK). There's another session on 26 and 27 March. "Willing And Ready" and "Shake Around" are eventually released in 1978 on the compilation LP "Raunchy Rockabilly" (Charly CR 30147, UK). A first attempt at "You Made A Hit" remains unissued. Personnel : Stanley Walker (lead guitar) ; Dean Perkins (rhythm guitar); Charlie Rich (piano) ; James Webb (bass on March 19) ; Stan Kesler (bass on March 26-27) ; Gary Diamond (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun studio in Memphis.
Wednesday, March 19, 1958 : TINY TOPSY has her penultimate Federal date, out of which comes the single "Western Rock 'n' Roll"/"Cha Cha Sue", to be issued on Federal 12323 in April. Backing by the Johnny Pate Quintet : Ronald Wilson (tenor sax) ; William Wallace (piano) ; Wilbur Wynne (guitar) ; Johnny Pate (bass) ; Donald Clarke (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Location : Chicago, unknown studio.
March 20, 1958 : CAROLE KING makes her debut as a recording artist. Her single “Goin’ Wild”/“The Right Girl” is released on ABC-Paramount 9921 in the first week of May. Arranged and conducted by Don Costa in New York City.
March 24-25, 1958 : FRANKIE LYMON records an LP made up of covers of rock n roll material by other artists. Title is "Frankie Lymon : Rock 'n' Roll" (Roulette R 25036, June). Tracks : "Waiting In School", "Wake Up Little Susie", "Silhouettes", "Next Time You See Me", "Send For Me", "It Hurts To Be In Love", "Jailhouse Rock", "Diana", "Buzz Buzz Buzz", "Searchin'", "Short Fat Fannie" and "Little Bitty Pretty One". This last track is issued as a single in June 1960 (Roulette 4257) and reaches # 58 on the Billboard Hot 100.
March 25, 1958 : SANFORD CLARK has another session at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona, as usual produced by Lee Hazlewood, with Al Casey on guitar. The new single (Dot 15738, April) is "Modern Romance" (written by Danny Wolfe and originally recorded by Huelyn Duvall) b/w "Travelin' Man" (not the same song as the Ricky Nelson hit). The third track, Ray Sharpe's "That's the Way I Feel (Ooh Wee)" is perhaps the best of the trio, but stays in the can until the Bear Family LP "Rockin' Rollin' Sanford Clark, Vol. 1" (BFX 15198) is released in 1986.
March 25, 1958 : RONNIE SELF is recording in Nashville (Bradley Film and Recording Studio) at a time that his "Bop-A-Lena" is in the charts. For the follow-up, producer Don Law selects "Date Bait"/"Big Blon' Baby" (Columbia 41166, early May). The third track, "Petrified", ends up on the B-side of "You're So Right For Me" (Columbia 41241, August), which was recorded at the "Bop-A-Lena" session of December 1957. Personnel : Ronnie Self (vocals / guitar) ; John Hill, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Andrew Goodrich (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
March 25-29, 1958 : Busy days for GENE VINCENT and the Blue Caps, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The superb "Rocky Road Blues" (Capitol 4010, release date July 7) and "Git It"/"Little Lover" (Capitol 4051, September) are released as singles. "Dance In the Street" and "Lovely Loretta" are included on the EP "Hot Rod Gang" (Capitol EP 985, May). "Teenage Partner", "Five Feet Of Lovin'" (both remakes of the 1956 recordings), "I Love You", "Peace Of Mind", "Somebody Help Me", "Look What You Gone And Done To Me", "Hey Good Lookin'", "Summertime", "I Can't Help It" and "The Wayward Wind" are all selected for Gene's fourth album, "A Gene Vincent Record Date" (Capitol T 1059, September). Finally, "Now Is the Hour" ends up as a track for the LP "Sounds Like Gene Vincent" (Capitol T 1207, June 1959). Personnel : Johnny Meeks (lead guitar) ; Grady Owen (rhythm guitar) ; Bobby Jones (bass) ; Cliff Simmons (piano) ; Juvey Gomez (drums) ; Tommy Facenda, Paul Peek, aka The Clapper Boys (handclapping / backing vocals) ; Eddie Cochran (backing bass vocals on some tracks). Produced by Ken Nelson.
March 26, 1958 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his Combo record their biggest seller since "Raunchy" : the Billy Vaughn-styled "Indian Love Call"/"Summer Serenade" (Imperial 5518, April, peak position # 59 pop). "Estrellita" and "Celebration" are tracks for the LP "Ernie Freeman" (Imperial LP 9057, September), which also includes the two songs on the single.
March 26, 1958 : The second session of THE KALIN TWINS yields their biggest hit : "When"/"Three O'Clock Thrill" (Decca 30642, release date May 12). "Tag-A-Long" will be included on their LP "The Kalin Twins" (Decca DL 8812, November). Orchestra conducted by Jack Pleis. Location : Decca Studio A, New York City.
March 26-27, 1958 : RAY SMITH is back at the Sun studio in Memphis where he cuts “Shake Around” and “Willing and Ready”. Both numbers will get their first release on the Various artists LP “Raunchy Rockabilly” (Charly CR 30147, UK) in 1978. Also recorded is a first (unissued) attempt at “You Made A Hit”. Ray will return to this song on May 13. Personnel : Stanley Walker, Dean Perkins (guitars) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Gary Diamond (drums).
March 27, 1958 : DON AND DEWEY are in great form on this four-track session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Justine"/"Bim Bam" comes out in the first week of May on Specialty 631. "Koko Joe" follows in late July (Specialty 639, c/w "The Letter" from an October 1957 session). "Day By Day" gets its first release on the LP "Bim Bam" (Ace CH 151, UK) in 1985. Personnel : Dewey Terry (piano / leader) ; Don Harris (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (alto sax) ; Rene Hall, Melvin Jaye Glass (guitars) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Art Rupe.
March 27, 1958 : JOHN D. LOUDERMILK's first session for Columbia yields two singles : "Susie's House"/"Yearbook" (Columbia 41165, April) and "Yo-Yo"/"Lover's Lane" (Columbia 41209, July). Backing by : Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 27, 1958 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON II does another session for Chess in Chicago. "Your Funeral And My Trial"/"Wake Up Baby" is selected for the next single (Checker 894, June). "She Got Next To Me" and "Keep Your Hand Out Of My Pocket" have to wait until 1969 for a release on the LP "Bummer Road" (Chess LP 1536). Personnel : Rice Miller aka Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr, Eugene Pierson (guitars) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). Some sources credit Lafayette Leake on piano.
March 27, 1958 : SHEB WOOLEY records the future # 1 hit "The Purple People Eater"/"I Can't Believe You're Mine" (MGM 12651, May) at Radio Recorders in Hollywood during a four-hour session (18:30-22:30). Personnel : Howard Roberts, Bobby Gibbons (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; John Williams (piano) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Arranged by Neely Plumb, produced by Jesse Kaye.
Friday, March 28, 1958 : EDDIE COCHRAN delivers a true rock 'n' roll classic in the shape of "Summertime Blues" (Liberty 55144, release date June 11), recorded at Gold Star Recording Studio in Hollywood. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar / guitar overdubs) ; Guybo Smith (electric bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). The handicapping is either by Sharon Sheeley and Jerry Capehart (say Sharon Sheeley and Derek Glenister), by Capehart, Cochran and Smith (says Jerry Capehart) or overdubbed by Cochran himself (say Darrel Higham and Julie Mundy in their Cochran biography). Earlier in the month, on March 3, Cochran had recorded "Teresa", for release on Liberty 55138 in May (c/w "Pretty Girl" from a session on January 12).
March 28, 1958 : THE SHIELDS record their only hit, "You Cheated" (# 12 pop) and its much more interesting flip, "That's the Way It's Gonna Be", in Los Angeles. First release on Tender 513 in June, then on Dot 15805 in August. The Shields are : Frankie Ervin (lead), Jesse Belvin (falsetto), Johnny 'Guitar' Watson, Mel Williams and Buster Williams. Backing by : Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Irving Ashby (bass) ; Davis Williams (drums). Produced by George Motola.
March 28, 1958 : CARL SMITH does a three-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Goodnight Mister Sun"/"Guess I've Been Around Too Long" is issued on Columbia 41170 in the first week of May. "We're Not Going Steady Anymore" remains unissued until it is included by Bear Family on the 5-CD set "Satisfaction Guaranteed" (BCD 15849) in 1995. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Sammy Pruett (guitars) ; Tom Pritchard (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Delwyn Murphy (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 28, 1958 : KIP TYLER and the Flips cut their second and last single for Challenge : "Jungle Hop"/"Ooh Yeah Baby" (Challenge 59008, April). Location is Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. Personnel : Kip Tyler (vocals) ; Mike Deasy (guitar) ; Steve Douglas (sax) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Mike Bermani (drums)
March 28, 1958 : JACKIE WALKER records two compositions by the Burnette brothers, Johnny and Dorsey. “Good Good Feelin’”/”Eternally (Wanting You, Needing You)” is released in May on Imperial 5521. Personnel : James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell in Hollywood.
March 29, 1958 : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS is at Columbia Recording Studio in New York City, where he records his next single, "Alligator Wine"/ "There's Something Wrong With You" (Okeh 7101, April). "Knock-Kneed Nana" has to wait until 2008 for a first release on Bear Family BCD 16687 (CD "Screamin' Jay Rocks"). Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell, Al Casamenti (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Romeo Penque (sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Leroy Kirkland.
March 1958, unknown date : AL CASEY cuts a vocal single, "(Got the) Teen-Age Blues"/"Give'n Up" (Highland 1002, April). "Teen-Age Blues" was originally issued as the flip of "The Adventures Of Frank N Stein" (Highland 1001), but seemingly this single was soon withdrawn. Credit goes to Al Casey and the Bats : Al Casey (vocals / guitar) ; Corky Casey (guitar / second vocal on "Give'n Up") ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; Unknown (piano). Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
March 1958, unknown date(s) : DUANE EDDY records his first Top 10 hit at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona : "Rebel Rouser"/"Stalkin'" (Jamie 1104, May). Production is in the hands of Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill. Also present are : Corky Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (electric bass) ; Alvin Simmons (string bass) ; Al Casey (piano) ; Bob Taylor (drums). The sax of Gil Bernal and the rebel yells / handclaps of The Sharps will be overdubbed at a later date, in Hollywood.
(Circa) March 1958, unknown date : PAUL GAYTEN records the follow-up to "Nervous Boogie", an instrumental called "Tickle Toe" (Argo 5300, May). Personnel is probably the same as on "Nervous Boogie" (see March 1957). The reverse, "Windy", is laid down on the same day and also credited to Paul Gayten, though it is in fact by the Ramsey Lewis Trio, augmented by a flute. Surprisingly, this is the side that charts (# 78 pop).
March 1958, unknown date(s) : JERRY LEE LEWIS records eight tracks in the Sun studio during this month. "Jambalaya" and "It All Depends" (aka "Who Will Buy the Wine", later overdubbed with backing vocals) will find a place on Jerry's first LP (Sun LP 1230, May). "Big Legged Woman", with its raunchy lyrics, stays on the shelf until 1969 (LP "Rockin' Rhythm and Blues", Sun LP 107). In the same style, but with more acceptable lyrics, is "Hello Hello Baby", which is included on Lewis's second Sun album in 1962 ("Jerry Lee's Greatest", Sun LP 1265), as is "Frankie and Johnny". "Friday Night", "Lovesick Blues" and "Your Cheatin' Heart" will not see a release until the 1970s, on three different LP's. Musicians : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley or Jay W. Brown (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement in Memphis.
March 1958, unknown date : PAUL PEEK, a member of Gene Vincent's Blue Caps, records the first single for the new NRC label : "Sweet Skinny Jenny"/"The Rock-A-Round" (NRC 001, April). Location is WGST radio station in Atlanta, Georgia. Personnel : Joe South, Jerry Reed (guitars) ; Bill Mack (upright bass) ; Ray Jones (sax) ; Ray Stevens (piano) ; Esquerita (second pianist on "The Rock-A-Round") ; Nelson Rogers (drums). Produced by Bill Lowery.
(Probably) March 1958, unknown date : J.P. RICHARDSON (aka The Big Bopper) records his second Mercury single, "Monkey Song"/"A Teen-Age Moon" (Mercury 71312, release date May 23). Label credit goes to 'Jape Richardson with the Echoes'. The guitarist is Sonny Burns, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Pappy Daily at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas.
March 1958, unknown date : BOBBY LEE TRAMMELL is at Western Recorders on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood to record his second single, "You Mostest Girl"/"Uh Oh", both his own compositions. Release on Radio 102 at the end of March. Personnel includes a black male chorus of four singers, details unknown. Produced by Fabor Robison.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
APRIL 1958
April 1, 1958 : In Cincinnati, THE "5" ROYALES lay down their next two singles, "The Feeling Is Real"/"Do the Cha Cha Cherry" (King 5131, May) and "Tell the Truth"/"Double Or Nothing" (King 5141, July). "Tell the Truth" will be covered by Ray Charles in May 1959 (released August 1960).
April 1, 1958 : RODDY JACKSON does a four-track session in his hometown of Merced, California. None of the tracks - "I Love Her Just the Same", "Juke Box Baby", "Until the End Of Time" and "Cherry Pie" - is originally issued by Art Rupe, but they finally see the light of day in 2007 on the UK CD "Central Valley Fireball" (Ace 1101). Personnel : Roddy Jackson (vocals / piano ) ; Kenny Craig (guitar / backing vocal) ; Clarence Lewis (sax) ; Gilbert Fraire (bass) ; Buddy Wiggins (drums).
April 1, 1958 : THE LOUVIN BROTHERS record their next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "My Baby Came Back"/"She Didn't Even Know I Was Gone" (Capitol 3974, May) and "My Baby's Gone"/"Are You Wasting My Time" (Capitol 4055, September). Personnel : Charlie Louvin (vocals / guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocals) ; Hank Garland, Paul Yandell, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 1, 1958 : During his first session for Capitol, BOB LUMAN records "Try Me" and "I Know My Baby Cares" for his new single (Capitol 3972, May). "Everybody's Talkin'" and "Chain Of Love" will stay in the can until the release of the UK album "Try Me" (Rockstar LP 1015, 1988). Personnel : Bob Luman (vocals / guitar) ; Fred Carter, Connie 'Guybo' Smith (guitars) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Jackie Kelso (sax) ; Ritchie Frost (drums). After the session is finished, Ritchie Frost leaves the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, as Ricky Nelson needs him for an evening session at Master Recorders.
April 1, 11, 17 and 21, 1958 : It's a busy month for RICKY NELSON, with four sessions, resulting in twelve tracks for his second LP, simply titled "Ricky Nelson" (Imperial LP 9050, July). On April 1 he records four covers of rocking songs : "Down the Line", "Shirley Lee", "There's Good Rockin' Tonight", "I'm Feelin' Sorry". On the 11th these are followed by "Someday (You'll Want Me To Want You)" and "Unchained Melody" and on April 17 by "Poor Little Fool" and "My Babe". The final session, on April 21, yields "I'll Walk Alone", "I'm In Love Again", "There Goes My Baby" and "Don't Leave Me This Way". "Poor Little Fool"/"Don't Leave Me This Way" is chosen for single release (Imperial 5528, June), resulting in a # 1 hit. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed). All sessions produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
Wednesday, April 2, 1958 : ART NEVILLE is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record his next single, released in June : "Zing Zing"/"Cha Dooky-Doo" (Specialty 637). A third track is called "That Old Time Rock 'n' Roll", which is also the title of the LP on which this song will first appear many years later (Specialty SP 2165, 1986). Personnel : Art Neville (vocals / piano) ; Charles Fairley (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Irving Charles (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Harold Battiste.
April 2, 1958 : RAY SHARPE's very first recording session takes place at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Sharpe records two of his own compositions, "Oh My Baby's Gone" and "That's the Way I Feel". The coupling is first released on Hamilton 50002 in May, then on Dot 15788 in June and reissued (after the success of "Linda Lu") on Dot 15974 in August 1959. Personnel : Ray Sharpe (vocals / guitar) ; Duane Eddy (guitar) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; 'Easy Deal' Wilson (piano). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill.
April 2, 1958 : NICK VENET does a four-track session in Hollywood, probably at Master Recorders. "Love In Be Bop Time"/"Honey Baby" is issued on Imperial 5522 at the end of May. "Darlin' Sue" and "Baby Doll" are consigned to the vaults. Joe Maphis plays lead guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
April 3, 1958 : HOWLIN' WOLF's next single is "Moaning For My Baby"/ "I Didn't Know" (Chess 1695, June), recorded on this day. "Howlin' Blues" (aka "I'm Going Away") comes out on Chess 1726 in May 1959. Personnel : Chester Burnett (Howlin' Wolf) (vocals / harmonica) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Hubert Sumlin, Jody Williams (guitars) ; Alfred Elkins (bass) ; Abb Locke (tenor sax) ; Earl Phillips (drums). Location : Chess studio, Chicago.
April 3, 1958 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA lay down their new single, "Rock And Stroll Room"/"Bewildered" (Vik 0324, late April), in New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocals / guitar) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Eric Dixon (flute) ; Unknown (bass) ; probably Panama Francis (drums).
April 3, 1958 : JOHNNY OTIS records his biggest pop hit : "Willie and the Hand Jive"/"Ring A Ling" (Capitol 3966, third week of April), at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Personnel includes Plas Johnson on tenor sax, Jimmy Nolen on guitar and Earl Palmer on drums, further details unknown. Produced by Tom Morgan.
April 4, 1958 : GLEN GLENN is at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood and records many versions of two songs. "Laurie Ann" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "One Cup Of Coffee And A Cigarette" (Era 1074, June). "Blue Jeans And A Boy Shirt" appears in November on Era 1086. Personnel : Gary Lambert (lead guitar) ; Wynn Stewart (rhythm guitar) ; Guybo Smith (bass) ; Joe O'Dell (drums) ; Jean Smith, Glenda Smith, Beverly Stewart (vocal chorus).
April 7, 1958 : EDDIE COCHRAN does three different overdubs of take 32 of "Ah Pretty Girl" (originally recorded in September 1957). One is a vocal overdub by Eddie and the Johnny Mann Singers (first issued on the "Eddie Cochran Memorial Album", Liberty LBY 1127 in 1963), the second has an overdubbed guitar solo in mono (Liberty LIB 10032, Holland, 1962) and the third a guitar overdub in stereo (Rockstar LP 1008, 1984). Location : Liberty Custom Recorders, Hollywood.
April 7-10, 1958 : WANDA JACKSON spends four days at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, accompanied by her new backing group, Bobby Poe and the Poe-Kats : Bobby Poe (guitar) ; Vernon Sandusky (lead guitar) ; Big Al Downing (piano) ; Joe Brawley (drums). As the Poe-Kats lacked a bass player, producer Ken Nelson brings in Skeets McDonald to slap an old upright bass and reportedly Buck Owens (guitar) and Merrill Moore (piano) are also present. Enough material is recorded for an entire album (her first), just titled "Wanda Jackson" (Capitol T 1041, July) : "Day Dreaming", "I Wanna Waltz", "Heartbreak Ahead", "Making Believe", Here We Are Again", "Long Tall Sally", "Just Call Me Lonesome", "Let Me Go Lover", "Money Honey", "I Can't Make My Dreams Understand", "Happy Happy Birthday Baby" and - best of all - "Let's Have A Party". This last track will be issued as a single in June 1960 (Capitol 4397). Also recorded are "Mean Mean Man"/"Our Song" for her next single (Capitol 4026, July), "Rock Your Baby"/"Sinful Heart" (Capitol 4081, October), "You've Turned To A Stranger" (Capitol 4142, January 1959) and "A Date With Jerry" (Capitol 4207, May 1959).
April 9, 1958 : JOHNNY CASH sings and plays acoustic guitar in the Sun studio, backed by : Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal group). Jack Clement acts as producer. "Guess Things Happen That Way"/"Come In Stranger" is picked for release on Sun 295 in May. "Oh Lonesome Me" stays in the can until December 10, 1960, when it is released on Sun 355, with plenty of overdubs.
April 10, 1958 : BOBBY DARIN has written a new song called "Splish Splash". Atco boss Herb Abramson hates it and Jerry Wexler does not want to produce it either. But Ahmet Ertegun is willing to give it a chance and supervises three tracks : "Splish Splash"/"Judy Don't Be Moody" (Atco 6117, release date May 19) and "Queen Of the Hop" (Atco 6127, September). Both singles will become million sellers. Personnel : Bobby Darin (vocals / piano) ; Al Caiola, Billy Mure (guitars) ; poss. Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Jesse Powell (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Ray Ellis.
April 10, 1958 : BOBBY HELMS is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records four tracks. "School Boy Crush" (soon to be covered by Cliff Richard) is released on Decca 30682 in June. "The Fool And the Angel" follows in August (Decca 30749) and "I Guess I'll Miss the Prom"/"Soon It Can Be Told" (Decca 30886) in April 1959. The reverse of "School Boy Crush", "Borrowed Dreams" is recorded on April 23. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano, producer) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singes (vocal chorus).
April 11, 1958 : Orchestra leader BILLY VAUGHN records his next two A-sides, "Singing Hills" (Dot 15771, May) and "La Paloma" (Dot 15795, July) at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. In most European countries (not the UK), these two tracks will be issued on the same single. "La Paloma" sells over a million copies in Germany alone. Also recorded are the EP tracks "Estrellita", "Cool Water", "La Golondrina" and "Mexicali Rose" (Dot DEP 1066). Lead alto sax by Justin Gordon (double tracked).
April 14-17, 1958 : During a marathon session at Hollywood's Capitol Tower, HANK THOMPSON records the LP "Favorite Waltzes By Hank Thompson" (Capitol T 1111, December) and two singles : "Squaws Along the Yukon"/"Gathering Flowers" (Capitol 4017, July) and "You're Going Back To Your Old Ways Again"/"I've Run Out Of Tomorrows" (Capitol 4085, November). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray, Merle Travis (guitars) ; Billy Briggs Stewart (bass) ; Vic Davis (piano) ; Bob White, Harold Hensley, Tom Camfield (fiddles) ; Butch White (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Tuesday, April 15, 1958 : Sax player PLAS JOHNSON records his next two singles : "Little Rockin' Deacon"/"Dinah" (Capitol 3977, May) and "Blow Your Blues Away"/"Everyone Knows" (Capitol 4029 August). Vocal chorus on the first single is the Corairs, on the second single the Evelyn Freeman Voices. Location : Capitol Tower, Hollywood.
April 15, 1958 : While touring the United Kingdom, MARVIN RAINWATER pays a visit to EMI's London studio at Abbey Road, to record "I Dig You Baby" and "Dance Me Daddy" with Ken Jones and his orchestra. "I Dig You Baby" is first released in the UK (MGM 980, May), then in the US (MGM 12665, June). "Dance Me Daddy" is a single in the UK (MGM 988, September), but an LP track in the US.
April 16, 1958 : LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS does a four-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "(I Got) A Hole In My Pocket"/"Me And My Big Loud Mouth" is picked as his new single (Columbia 41173, May). "Recipe For the Blues" and "Darling, My Darling" stay in the vaults until the release of the 4-CD box-set "Out Behind the Barn" (Bear Family BCD 16218) in February 1998. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Tommy Jackson, Tommy Vaden (fiddles) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Don Law.
April 17, 1958 : MAD MAN TAYLOR (real name Wayne Taylor) records the single "Rumble Tumble"/"Rock 'n' Roll Espanole" (East West 117, July). Besides the vocalist, he is also the pianist, more personnel details unknown. East West is a division of Atlantic, but this is not an Atlantic recording, but a purchased master. Location unknown.
April 18, 1958 : JOEY CASTLE is at RCA Victor Studio B in New York City for a four-track session. "That Ain't Nothing But Right"/"Come A Little Closer Baby" is released on RCA 7283 in June. "Please Love Me" and "Shake Hands With A Fool" stay in the can until the release of the LP "Rockin' Rollin' High School, Vol. 6" (Bear Family BFX 15114) in 1983. Personnel : James Liddle (guitar / leader) ; Dorsey Ray Beavers (guitar) ; Victor Battista (bass) ; Greg Morabito (piano) ; Robert Freeman (drums). Produced by Herman Diaz, Jr.
April 18, 1958 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER cuts his second single for RCA, "Mumble Jumble"/"Cryin'" (RCA 7250, May). "Cryin'" is a strange title for such a happy uptempo number. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 20, 1958 : CHUCK BERRY records his next single at the Chess studio in Chicago, "Beautiful Delilah"/"Vacation Time" (Chess 1697, June). Also recorded are two variations on "Vacation Time", "21" (taken at a faster tempo) and "22 Blues", which stay in the vaults until the 1980s. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; G. Smith (bass) ; Johnny Johnson (piano) ; Ebby Hardy (drums). Plus possibly a second, unknown guitarist.
April 20-21, 1958 : JERRY LEE LEWIS is back at the Sun studio in Memphis with : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley or Jay W. Brown (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; (and probably another guitarist on some titles). Quite a few songs are laid down : "Put Me Down", "Fools Like Me", "Wild One" (aka "Real Wild Child"), "Crazy Heart" : Carryin' On" ("Sexy Ways") ; "Let the Good Times Roll", "Slippin' Around", the instrumental "I'll See You In My Dreams" and the definitive version of "High School Confidential", after many earlier attempts. "High School Confidential"/"Fools Like Me" is chosen for single release (Sun 296, May). "Put Me Down" gets a place on Jerry's first album ("Jerry Lee Lewis", Sun LP 1230) and the rest stays in the can until the 1970s and 1980s.
April 21, 1958 : JESSE BELVIN is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record his next single, "Sugar Doll"/"Let Me Dream" (Aladdin 3431, July). Credit goes to 'Jesse Belvin with the X-Tones'.
April 21, 1958 : DAVE RICH cuts three tracks at the RCA Victor studio in Nashville during an afternoon session. The original version of "City Lights" (soon to be covered by Ray Price) will appear on RCA 7247 in May, c/w "Burn On Love Fire", also from this session. "Sunshine In My Heart" becomes the flip of the previously recorded "Rosy Let's Get Cozy" (RCA 7334, September). Personnel : James Rich, Hank Garland, Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
April 23-25, 28, and 29, 1958 : Spread over five days, TOMMY SANDS cuts an LP with his versions of R&B songs. The album gets the title "Sands Storm" and is released on Capitol T 1081 in July. Tracks : "Maybelline", "Hearts Of Stone", "Since I Met You Baby", "Oop Shoop", "Warm Your Heart", "Hey Miss Fannie", "Tweedle Dee", "Such A Night", "Honey Love", "Blue Velvet", "Little Mama", "The Chicken And the Hawk". Also laid down is the single "Big Date"/"After the Senior Prom" (Capitol 3985, May). Backing by Bob Bain's Music : Bob Bain (guitar) ; Buck Owens (rhythm guitar) ; Merrill Moore (piano). More details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
April 24, 1958 : Another session for BOBBY DARIN, but not for the label (Atco) to which he is contracted at this time. His one-year contract had become effective on May 1, 1957, so there is still one week to go. Atco boss Herb Abramson had declined to produce "Splish Splash" and intends to drop Bobby from the label. Fearing that his contract will not be renewed, Bobby wants to have "something in the can for future release" and returns to his former record company, Decca. With Dick Jacobs producing, he records "Early in the Morning"/"Now We're One" (Brunswick 55073, credited to "The Ding Dongs", late May), "Mighty Mighty Man" and "You're Mine". But Bobby's contract is renewed (Abramson is overruled by Ahmet Ertegun) and Atlantic threatens legal action against Decca. The Brunswick single is withdrawn, followed by a rerelease on Atco (6121, July), while the remaining tracks of the Decca session will be used for a future single (Atco 6128, October), credited to Bobby Darin and the Rinky Dinks. Personnel : Bobby Darin (vocals) ; George Barnes, Al Chernet (guitars) ; Sanford Bloch (bass) ; Sam Taylor (sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Phil Krause (percussion) ; The Helen Way Singers (vocal chorus). Location : Pythian Temple, New York City.
April 24, 1958 : LOUIS JORDAN's final Mercury session yields four tracks. "Sweet Hunk Of Junk"/"Wish I Could Make Some Money" is released in June on Mercury 71319. "I Love You So" and "That's What True Love Can Do" are first released on Jordan's LP "Rockin' And Jivin', Vol. 1 : 1956-58" (Bear Family BFX 15207) in 1986.
April 24, 1958 : FARON YOUNG records the biggest country hit of 1958 : "Alone With You"/"Every Time I'm Kissing You" (Capitol 3982, May, # 1 for 13 weeks). A third track, "Out Of My Heart" eventually ends up on the LP "Falling In Love" (Capitol T 2307) in 1965. Personnel : Hank Garland, Chet Atkins, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson, Dale Potter (fiddles) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 26, 1958 : TERRY NOLAND does a three-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville, produced by Paul Cohen. "Crazy Dream"/"Everybody But One" is released on Brunswick 55069 in May. "One Sweet Kiss" stays in the vaults until Bear Family issues the CD "Hypnotized" (BCD 15428) in 1990. Vocal backing is supplied by the Anita Kerr Singers, more details unknown.
Monday, April 28, 1958 : THE DRIFTERS at this time are Bobby Hendricks (lead), Gerhart Thrasher (tenor), Jimmy Millender (baritone) and Tommy Evans (bass). In New York City they cut "Drip Drop" c/w "Moonlight Bay" (Atlantic 1187, May) and "Suddenly There's A Valley" (the later B-side of "I Count the Tears", Atlantic 2087, December 1960), produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Soon the entire group will be fired by their manager, George Treadwell and replaced by the Five Crowns (with lead singer Ben E. King), who are renamed the Drifters.
April 29-30, 1958 : MOON MULLICAN does his first session for the Coral label, produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville. All eight tracks (some of them re-recordings of King material) are included on the LP "Moon Over Mullican" (Coral LP 57235, August) : "You Don't Have To Be A Baby To Cry", "I'll Sail My Ship Alone", "Anything That's Part Of You" (not the same tune that Elvis recorded), "Early Morning Blues", "I Was Sorta Wonderin'", "Every Which-a Way", "Sweeter Than the Flowers" and "The Leaves Mustn't Fall". Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano) ; Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (rhythm guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
April 1958, unknown date : BOBBY CHARLES does his last session for Chess, at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. The two tracks are shelved for many years. "Good Lovin'" is first released in 1977 on the LP "Chess Masters" (Chess Platinum CMP 2009, UK). "Your Picture" has to wait even longer, until 1996, for release on a CD also called "Chess Masters" (MCA MVCM 22078, Japan). Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Justin Adams or Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
(Probably) April 1958, unknown date : JIMMY CLANTON records his first hit, "Just A Dream"/"You Aim To Please" (Ace 546, May) at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Earl King (guitar, claims to have produced the session) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Huey 'Piano' Smith (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums); Unknown (female vocal chorus).
(Circa) April 1958, unknown date : Former Crickets member SONNY CURTIS records his only single for Dot : "Laughing Stock"/"Wrong Again" (Dot 15754, late April), both his own compositions. The label says 'Sonny Curtis, vocal, with chorus and orchestra directed by Milton DeLugg', which indicates that it was probably a New York session.
April 1958, unknown date : JOHN AND JACKIE record two compositions by Gene Maltais, "Little Girl"/"The Raging Sea" (Aladdin 3425, June), at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Little Girl" is an extraordinary track, featuring orgasmic wailing by an unknown female. Maltais would later cut "The Raging Sea" himself.
(Probably) April 1958, unknown date : At Detroit's Universal Sound Studio JACK SCOTT records his first big seller, "My True Love"/"Leroy" (Carlton 462, rush released). "Leroy" was previously recorded for ABC-Paramount as a demo, under the title "Greaseball". Personnel : Jack Scott (vocals / guitar) ; Dave Rohillier (lead guitar) ; Al Allen (guitar) ; Stan Getz (bass) ; Dominic Scafone (drums) ; The Chantones (vocal group). Produced by Joe Carlton.
April 1958, unknown date : THE SHARPS record their second single for the Jamie label : "Have Love, Will Travel"/"Look At Me" (Jamie 1108, July). Personnel : Carl White, Al Frazier, Sonny Harris, Rocky Wilson (vocals) ; Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Corki Casey, Donnie Owens (rhythm guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (electric bass) ; Jimmy Simmons (string bass) ; Al Casey (piano) ; Bob Taylor (drums). A sax was overdubbed in Hollywood, possibly by Plas Johnson. Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
April 1958, unknown date : EARL SINKS makes his debut as a recording artist. "Whatcha Gonna Do"/"I Am the Man" is released at the end of the month on Dot 15756 and credited to Earl Henry. Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
MAY 1958
May 1, 1958 : Third consecutive day of MOON MULLICAN's Coral sessions at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Moon's Rock" is a future single (Coral 62042, October). "I'm Waiting For Ships That Never Come In" and "I Don't Know Why" are tracks for the LP "Moon Over Mullican" (Coral CRL 57235, August). A new version of "Pipeliner Blues" stays in the vaults until 1984, when Charly in the UK issues the LP "Sweet Rockin' Music" (CR 30231). Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano) ; Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (rhythm guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Jack Gregory (sax) ; Farris Coursey (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley.
Friday, May 2, 1958 : The harvest of this day's CHUCK BERRY session is one single, "Carol"/"Hey Pedro" (Chess 1700, August) and three tracks ("Oh Yeah", "Time Was" and "House Of Blue Lights") that will not be released until April 1974, on the double album "Golden Decade, Vol. 3" (Chess LP 2CH 60028). Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Ebby Hardy (drums) ; G. Smith (bass). Location : Chess studio, Chicago.
May 2, 1958 : At Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans, FATS DOMINO does the vocal overdubs for "It Must Be Love" (Imperial 5537, August) and the album track "Sailor Boy" (LP "Walking To New Orleans, Imperial LP 9227, January 1963). These two songs had been recorded as backing tracks, without vocals, on June 1, 1957.
May 3, 1958 : CHET ATKINS records "Slinkey" and "Jessie", which will see their first release on the LP "Mr. Guitar" (RCA LPM 2103, October 1959). "Slinkey" is subsequently released as a single in May 1960 (RCA 7747), coupled with "Rainbow's End" from an unknown session. Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville. Musicians : Chet Atkins (guitar, producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
May 4, 1958 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS records six tracks at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Chariot Rock"/"Subway" is selected for single release (Challenge 59018, July). "Ali Baba" and "Lavinia" will be used as tracks for the second Champs LP, "Everybody's Rockin' With the Champs" (Challenge CHL 605, December). "TNT" and "Eternal Love" stay on the shelf until 1993, when they are issued on the CD "Wing Ding" (Ace CHCHD 460, UK). Personnel : Chuck Rio (sax, piano) ; Dave Burgess, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Van Norman (bass) ; Gene Alden (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
May 5, 1958 : The SCOTTY MOORE TRIO records the single “Have Guitar Will Travel”/“Rest” (Fernwood 107, June) in Memphis. Personnel : Scotty Moore (guitar / producer) ; Bill Black (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums).
May 6, 1958 : Between their fairly successful stints at Checker and End, THE FLAMINGOS are contracted to Decca, where none of their records has any chart success. On this day they record four tracks that will appear on two singles : "The Rock And Roll March"/"Where Mary Go" (Decca 30687, July) and "Kiss-A-Me"/"Ever Since I Met Lucy" (Decca 30880, June 1959).
May 6, 1958 : ROBIN LUKE makes his debut as a recording artist with the single "Susie Darlin'"/"Living's Loving You", cut in Honolulu, Hawaii and first released on the Bertram International label (206) from Honolulu. Soon the distribution is taken over by Dot Records, which issues the disc on Dot 15781 at the end of June, scoring a # 5 hit in the process. Personnel : probably Bill Lawrence (guitar) ; Sonny Lawrence (bass) ; Bob Bertram (percussion, producer).
May 6, 1958 : JERRY REED is at Bradley Studio in Nashville for his final Capitol session, supervised by Ken Nelson. "Your Money Makes You Purty"/ "How Can I Go On This Way" is issued on Capitol 3992 in June. "Heart Appeal" is first released on the French Capitol LP "Rock and Roll at the Capitol Tower" in 1975 and "You Make It, They Take It" on "Rock and Roll at the Capitol Tower, Vol. 2" in 1977. Personnel unknown, undoubtedly members of the Nashville A-team.
May 6, 1958 : THE JAYE SISTERS record two compositions by Bobby Darin and Woody Harris, “School’s Out” and “Real Love”. They are coupled for release on Atlantic 1190 in June. Also laid down is the Sedaka-Greenfield number “Stop! You’re Knocking Me Out” (Atlantic 2000, September, c/w “Little Daddy” from a session on February 17, 1958). Personnel : Kenny Burrell, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (sax) ; Howard Biggs (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
May 7, 1958 : Freshly signed to MGM Records, CONWAY TWITTY has his first session for the label, at Bradley Studio in Nashville, produced by Jim Vienneau. "It's Only Make Believe" and "I'll Try" are selected for single release (MGM 12677, July), a wise choice considering its # 1 chart success. Also recorded are "I Vibrate (From My Head To My Feet)" and "Will You Love Me Then As You Love Me Now". All four tracks will be included on Conway's first EP ("It's Only Make Believe", MGM EP 1623). Personnel : Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Ray Edenton, Joe E. Lewis (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
May 8, 1958 : BILL JUSTIS records four tracks for the album "Cloud Nine" (Phillips International 1950, the first LP on that label, released in mid- 1959) : "Flip, Flop And Bop", "Moosejaw", "Rollin'" and "The Stinger". Reportedly, "Fonkie", with Justis on glockenspiel, also stems from this session ; it is finally released in 2006 on an album of MP3 tracks, called "Bill Justis Selected Hits" (Charly). Personnel : Bill Justis (tenor sax / arranger) ; Vernon Drane (sax) ; Sid Manker (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Location : Sun studio, 706 Union Avenue, Memphis.
May 8, 1958 : BRENDA LEE was produced by Paul Cohen until now, but from this session on production duties are taken over by Owen Bradley, who will remain her producer until 1967. "Ring-A My Phone" is her next single (Decca 30673, June), coupled with "Little Jonah (Rock On Your Steel Guitar)", which is recorded on May 15. The Wayne Walker tune "The Golden Key" (May 8) stays on the shelf until 1985, when it is released on the LP "Brenda Lee : The Early Years" (MCA MCL 1792, UK), while "My Baby Likes Western Guys", from the pen of Jackie Dee (see below) and recorded on May 15, stays in the can until August 1960, for release on Brenda's second LP, just called "Brenda Lee" (Decca DL 4039). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel Guitar) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus on May 8) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus on May 15). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
May 8, 1958 : Another 13-year old girl, JACKIE DeSHANNON, also records in Nashville on this day. "Buddy" and "Strolypso Dance" are selected for single release (Liberty 55148, July), while "I Need Lovin'" stays in the can until the release of the CD "The Drugstore's Rockin', Vol. 2" (Bear Family BCD 16607) in 2002. Label credit goes to 'Jackie Dee'.
May 8, 1958 : THE PONY-TAILS (sic) record the single “Born Too Late”/“Come On Joey, Dance With Me” (ABC-Paramount 9934, June), in New York City. It will reach # 7 on the Billboard charts. Unissued from this session is “Boom Dada Snap Snap”. The Poni-Tails are : Toni Cistone, Laverne Novak and Patti McCabe. Arranged and conducted by O.B. Masingill.
May 9, 1958 : TONY ALLEN does his only session for Imperial, in Los Angeles. Two singles are the result : "Strange Talk"/"Call My Name" (Imperial 5523, June) and "Rockin' Shoes"/"Forgive Me" (Imperial 5547, September). Personnel includes : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown.
May 13, 1958 : SID KING and the Five Strings are without a recording contract at this time. They go into Commercial Recording Studio in Dallas on their own dime and record "I Cried" and "Oh, What You Do To Me". They hawk the songs around, but can't find a buyer. In the end Bear Family will release the two tracks on the CD "Gonna Shake This Shack Tonight" (BCD 15535) in 1991. Personnel : Sid King (vocals / guitar) ; Billy King (lead guitar) ; Mel Robinson (steel guitar / harmony vocal) ; Ken Massey (bass) ; Dave White (drums / background vocals).
May 13, 1958 : First solo session for saxophonist BOOTS RANDOLPH, a mix of vocals and instrumentals. "Difficult"/"I'm Getting Your Message Baby" is chosen as his first single, credited to Randy Randolph (RCA 7278, June). "Hey Elvis" and "Little Big Horn" are shelved and eventually rescued by Bear Family in 1989 (CD "Yakety Sax", BCD 15459). Personnel : Boots Randolph (vocals / sax) ; James Rich, Wallace Smithhart (guitars) ; Chester Kenney (bass) ; Pete Dooley (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 13, 1958 : Five-track session for MARTY ROBBINS at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Three tracks will appear on the LP "Marty Robbins" (Columbia CL 1189, December) : "Shackles And Chains", "Wedding Bells" and "Oh, How I Miss You". "It's Driving Me Crazy" and "Footprints In the Snow" stay in the vaults until Bear Family issues them on the LP "Marty Robbins Sings" in 1982 (BFX 15045). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Jack Pruett, Bobby Sykes (guitars) ; James Farmer (steel guitar) ; Hillous Butrum (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 13, 1958 : RAY SMITH records a new version of "You Made A Hit", after a previous attempt in March. This time Sam Phillips gives the thumbs up and he will issue the song on Sun 308 in October (c/w "Why Why Why" from a later session). Musicians : Stanley Walker (lead guitar) ; Dean Perkins (rhythm guitar) ; James Webb (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Gary Diamond (drums).
Wednesday, May 14, 1958 : At Mercury Sound Studio in New York City, THE GAYLORDS record the single "Ma Ma Ma Marie"/"Buona Sera" (Mercury 71337, June). It spends only one week on the Billboard charts (at # 97), but will become a # 2 hit in the Netherlands (in 1959, with a different flipside) and also reaches the Top 10 in Belgium.
May 14, 1958 : Pianist / bandleader HUTCH DAVIE records his version of "In the Mood", which is released on Atco 6123 in July, coupled with "Gwendolyn And the Werewolf", also from this session. Two other tracks, "Rock and Roll Party" and "Opus, No. 1" end up on the LP "Hutch Davie And His Swinging Piano - Much Hutch" (Atco 33-105, October). Location : New York City.
May 15-16, 1958 : Two days of sessions for ESQUERITA (Steven Quincy Reeder), his first for Capitol. On the first day he records the single "Oh Baby"/"Please Come On Home" (Capitol 4007, end of June) as well as "Sarah Lee" and the first version of "I Live the Life I Love", which are first released in 1977 on the French Capitol double LP "Believe Me When I Say Rock 'n' Roll Is Here To Stay" (2S150-85370/71). The next day he cuts "Rockin' the Joint" (Capitol 4058, September), "Katie Mae" and "Wait A Minute Baby". The last two stay in the vaults until the release of the 1977 2-LP mentioned above. Personnel : Esquerita (vocals / piano) ; Vincent Moses (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (double bass) ; Andy Goodrich (tenor sax on May 15) ; Dutch McMillin (tenor sax on May 16) : Ricardo Young (drums) ; The Gardenias (vocal group). Produced by Ken Nelson at RCA Victor studio in Nashville.
May 19, 1958 : PEGGY LEE records her million selling version of Little Willie John's "Fever" (Capitol 3998, June), accompanied by only bass (Joe Mondragon) and drums (Shelly Manne) and unknown finger snappers. Arranged and conducted by Jack Marshall. The reverse, "You Don't Know" is laid down on May 25. Location : Capitol Tower, Hollywood.
May 21, 1958 : THE MORGAN TWINS, Jim and Bob, record material for two singles at Nashville's RCA Victor studio : "TV Hop"/"This Feelin's Bound To Be Love" (RCA 7300, July) and "Let's Get Goin'"/"While It Lasted" (RCA 7373, October). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
May 22, 1958 : CLINT MILLER records three tracks in New York City. “Teenage Dance” is issued at the end of June on ABC-Paramount 9938 (c/w “Polka Dotted Poliwampus”, recorded on June 10, 1958). “No Never My Love” will be coupled with “A Lover’s Prayer” (from a session on May 16, 1958) for release on ABC- Paramount 9979 in November. “The Rest Of My Life” remains in the vaults. Arranged and conducted by O.B. Masingill.
May 23, 1958 : TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood where he records material for two singles. "Love Makes the World Go Round" (to be covered by Perry Como on September 16) is coupled with "Sunday Barbecue" for release on Capitol 3997 in June. "Sleepin' At the Foot Of the Bed"/ "Glad Rags" is released on Capitol 4107 in December. Orchestra conducted by Harry Geller. Produced by Lee Gillette.
May 25, 1958 : During his third and last session for Challenge, HUELYN DUVALL cuts "Three Months To Kill"/"Little Boy Blue" (Challenge 59014, June) and "Juliet" (Challenge 59025, September, c/w "Friday Night On A Dollar Bill" from an earlier session). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville. Backing by : Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Grady Martin (rhythm guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Unknown (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Overdubbed in Los Angeles with a third guitar and a second piano (Chuck Rio). “Little Boy Blue” reached # 88 on the Billboard charts in June 1959, Huelyn’s only chart entry.
May 25, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY and the Crickets pay another visit to Norman Petty's studio in Clovis, New Mexico. "It's So Easy"/"Lonesome Tears" is released on September 12 on Brunswick 55094. Probably also from this session comes "Heartbeat", which will appear on Coral 62051 on November 5. Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Tommy Allsup (lead guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Norman Petty.
Tuesday, May 27, 1958 : JOHN ASHLEY records "Born To Rock" at an unknown studio in Los Angeles, for release on Dot 15775 in June. The reverse, "Pickin' Up the Wrong Chicken", comes probably from a different session. On both sides the orchestra is conducted by Milton Rogers (aka Milton Adelstein). This is not the version of "Born To Rock" that features Eddie Cochran on guitar. That was a demo recorded in early 1958, now available on a Hydra CD.
May 27, 1958 : RUTH BROWN does a five-track session in New York City. "Bewitched", "It Could Happen To You", "We'll Be Together Again", "Why Don't You Do Right" and "Baubles, Bangles And Beads" are all rejected for release. However, the first four titles will be rerecorded in February 1959, resulting in release on the LP "Late Date With Ruth Brown". Personnel unknown.
May 28, 1958 : Another JOHNNY CASH session for Sun, but this time only two tracks are recorded, with Luther and Marshall. "Katy Too" is first released on the LP "Johnny Cash, Greatest!" (Sun LP 1240, January 1959) and then as a single in June 1959 (Sun 321). "Blue Train" will come out on Sun 376 (single) in April 1962, soon followed by a release on LP ("All Aboard the Blue Train", Sun LP 1270). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement in Memphis.
May 29, 1958 : THURSTON HARRIS does a six-track session at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Five of the six songs will be released on singles. "Over Somebody Else's Shoulder"/"Tears From My Heart" is issued on Aladdin 3435 in September. "You Don't Know How Much I Love You" (Aladdin 3447) is a January 1959 release and "Recess In Heaven"/"Moonlight Cocktails" follows in November 1959 (Aladdin 3462). "Tell Me So" sees its first appearance in 1986 on the LP "Little Bitty Pretty One" (EMI America SQ 17237). Personnel includes : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown.
May 29, 1958 : One-track session for RAY PRICE who covers "City Lights" (previously recorded by Dave Rich). Released on Columbia 41191 in June, "City Lights" will top the country charts for thirteen weeks. The reverse, "Invitation To the Blues", was recorded on May 6. Personnel : Ray Edenton, Roger Miller, Sammy Pruett (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 30, 1958 : Faced with an ugly situation after the disastrous UK tour of JERRY LEE LEWIS, Sun tries to deal with it humorously by compiling "The Return Of Jerry Lee", with extracts from previously recorded titles by Jerry. Credited to "George and Louis", this break-in novelty is written and produced by Jack Clement and narrated by Clement and DJ George Klein (as "Edward R. Edward"), though the idea came from Barbara Pittman, who gets a co-writing credit. It is released as a single (Sun 301, June), coupled with "Lewis Boogie" from an earlier session in the summer of 1957. An entire May 1958 session (exact date unknown) of solo piano and vocal performances by Jerry Lee Lewis has been preserved for posterity. Probably Jerry is just running through songs to be cut later at formal sessions. Several versions of "Break-Up" and "I'll Make It All Up To You" are recorded, but the issued 45 version comes from a later date. The session further includes "Memory Of You", "Come What May", "Live And Let Live" (incomplete), "Crazy Heart", "Settin' the Woods On Fire", "Crazy Arms" and "Johnny B. Goode". Some of the raw takes will later be overdubbed with instrumental accompaniment and all tracks will be released in the 1970s and 1980s on various compilations.
May 1958, unknown date : EDDIE BO is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record the single "Oh Oh"/"My Dearest Darling" (Chess 1698, July). Personnel : Eddie Bo (vocals / piano) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Roland Cook (bass) ; Unknown (sax) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
May 1958, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK is now contracted to the Jamie label and does his first session for the company. The outcome is the single "Still As the Night"/"Sing 'Em Some Blues" (Jamie 1107, July). Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar on "Sing 'Em Some Blues") ; Al Casey (lead guitar on "Still As the Night") ; Donnie Owens (rhythm guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Mike Bermani (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
May 1958, unknown date : EDDIE COCHRAN records two songs that will be used as B-sides : "Love Again" (flip of "Summertime Blues", Liberty 55144, June) and "Lonely" (flip of "Sweetie Pie", Liberty 55278, August 1960). Musicians : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Guybo Smith (electric bass) ; Unidentified (drums). Location : Gold Star studio, Hollywood.
May 1958, unknown date : BILLY "THE KID" EMERSON does his first session for Chess, in Chicago. Two singles are the result : "Woodchuck"/"Give Me A Little Love" (Chess 1711, November) and "Holy Mackeral Baby"/"Believe Me" (Chess 1728, May 1959). Personnel : Cliff Davis (tenor sax) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; Sonny Cohn (trumpet) ; Sleepy Anderson (organ) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Al Duncan (drums). Arranged by Willie Dixon.
May 1958, unknown date : MICKEY HAWKS records the single "Bip Bop Boom"/ "Rock And Roll Rhythm", with Moon Mullins and his Night Raiders. It is first (rush) released on the Robbins Red label (no catalogue number), a limited edition of 500 copies. Almost simultaneously, there is a release on Mart (45-113), a label from Martinsville, Virginia. A slightly remixed version is issued on Profile 4002 (a Chicago label) in October ; this is the best known version. Personnel : Mickey Hawks (vocals / piano) ; Moon Mullins (sax) ; Bill Ballard (guitar) ; John Owens (bass) ; Leroy Butler (drums). Location : Robbins Recording Studio, Greensboro, North Carolina.
(Circa) May 1958, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY records his next single, "I'm In Love"/"Baby Baby Please" (Argo 5305, July), with unknown musicians from Cosimo Matassa's studio band. Produced by Paul Gayten at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
May 1958, unknown date : Bill Haley's Comets minus Bill Haley masquerade as THE KINGSMEN for a session at Haley's Basement Studio in Chester, Pennsylvania. The four tracks, all instrumentals except "Better Believe It", will be released on two singles : "Weekend"/"Better Believe It" (East West 115, June) and "The Catwalk"/"Conga Rock" (East West 120, November). East West is a subsidiary of Atlantic Records, which leased the masters on June 6, 1958. Personnel : Franny Beecher, Bill Fisher (guitars) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rex (bass guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums).
May 1958, unknown date : LAZY LESTER (real name Leslie Johnson) is at J.D. Miller's studio in Crowley, Louisiana. All four tracks are released as singles. "I'm A Lover Not A Fighter"/"Sugar Coated Love" is issued in September (Excello 2143). "I Hear You Knockin'" comes out in May 1959 (Excello 2155) and "Late, Late In the Evening" in September 1959 (Excello 2166). Personnel : Lazy Lester (vocals / harmonica) ; Guitar Gable, Al Foreman (guitars) ; Bobby McBride (bass) ; Warren Storm (drums).
May 1958, unknown date : LLOYD PRICE's KRC label is now being distributed by Ace Records and starts a new numbering series. First single in this new series is Lloyd's own "Such A Mess"/"No Limit To Love" (KRC 5000, July), which is recorded in May or June 1958, at U.S. Recording Studio in Washington, D.C. Probably from the same session is "Down By the River"/"Gonna Let You Come Back Home" (KRC 5002, April 1959). Produced by Lloyd Price himself.
May 1958, unknown date : WARREN STORM's first session yields his debut single and his only hit (# 81) : "Prisoner's Song"/"Mama Mama Mama" (Nasco 6015, July). Produced by Jay Miller at his studio in Crowley, Louisiana. Personnel : Warren Storm (vocals / drums) ; Al Foreman (guitar) ; Bobby McBride (bass guitar) ; Merton Thibodeaux (piano).
With thanks to Steve Walker (and, as always, Michel Ruppli, Frank Frantik, Terry Gordon, Galen Gart and Bear Family). Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JUNE 1958
June 1, 1958 : During the week that their "Book Of Love" drops out of the Top Ten, THE MONOTONES record a follow-up, "Tom Foolery"/"Zombi" (Argo 5301, end of June), probably in New York City. But their first hit would also be their last.
Monday, June 2, 1958 : JOHNNY HORTON is at Bradley Film & Recording Studio in Nashville for an evening session (19:30-23:00). "All Grown Up"/"Counterfeit Love" is chosen for his next single (Columbia 41210, July). "Mister Moonlight" will be included on the album "The Spectacular Johnny Horton" (Columbia CL 1362, June 1959). The session is closed with a first attempt at "Got the Bull By the Horns", which finally sees a release in 1990, on the CD "Rockin' Rollin' Johnny Horton" (Bear Family BCD 15543). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Reggie Young (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
(Possibly) June 2, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY records two demos intended for the Everly Brothers, but their manager, Wesley Rose, refuses to permit anyone outside his stable of songwriters, even Buddy Holly, to write for the Everlys. "Wishing" will eventually be released, with overdubs, on June 29, 1963 (Coral 62369). "Love's Made A Fool Of You" gets its first release on the LP "Showcase" (Coral CRL 5 7450) in May 1964, also with overdubs. (Prior to that, the song was recorded by the Crickets in 1959, with Earl Sinks on lead.) Personnel : Buddy Holly (double-tracked vocal / rhythm guitar) ; Tommy Allsup (lead guitar) ; George Atwood (bass) ; Bo Clarke (drums). Produced by Norman Petty at his Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
June 3, 1958 : THE DEL VIKINGS record four tracks at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City, only one of which sees an immediate release, namely "Pretty Little Things Called Girls" (Mercury 71345, July, coupled with a cover of "You Cheated", to be recorded on July 3). "You Are Invited" and "Heaven On Earth" are first issued on Harlem Hitparade LP HHP-5009 in 1973 and "The Bells" stays in the can until 1986 (LP "Swinging Singing Record Session, Mercury 826960-1, Germany). Lead vocals by Clarence Quick. Arranged and conducted by Hal Mooney.
June 3, 1958 : BILL HALEY and his Comets have a busy recording schedule with four sessions this month. On this day they record two instrumentals, "Chiquita Linda" (Decca 30741, September) and "Joey's Song (Decca 30956, August 1959). For personnel and other details see June 9.
June 3, 1958 : JERRY WALLACE records his first hit, which will peak at # 11 in Billboard : "How the Time Flies" (Challenge 59013, late June). The sax player is Plas Johnson, other details unknown. The reverse, "With This Ring", had already been recorded on February 3, 1958. Location : probably Gold Star studio, Hollywood. Produced by Joe Johnson.
June 3-4, 1958 : During a two-day session, CARL PERKINS records no less than sixteen tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Twelve of these constitute the LP "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" (Columbia CL 1234, November) : "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On", "Tutti Frutti", "Shake, Rattle and Roll", "Sittin' On Top Of the World", "Ready Teddy", "Long Tall Sally", "That's All Right", "Where the Rio de Rosa Flows", "Good Rockin' Tonight", "I Got A Woman", "Hey Good Lookin'" and "Jenny Jenny". Also laid down are "Pop Let Me Have the Car" and "Levi Jacket" for his next single (Columbia 41207, July). "Because You're Mine" and "You Were There" remain unheard until 1990 (box-set "The Classic Carl Perkins", Bear Family BCD 15494). Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) ; Eddie Starr (guitar) ; Clayton Perkins (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Don Law.
June 4, 1958 : Pianist ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo record eight tracks in Los Angeles. "After Sunset"/"Rose Marie" is the next single (Imperial 5527), released in the third week of June. "School Room Rock" is issued in October (Imperial 5551, c/w "Blues After Hours" from a later session). Four tracks find a place on the LP "Ernie Freeman" (Imperial LP 9057) : "The Glory Of Love", "Sleepy Lagoon", "The Bells Of St. Mary's" and "I'll See You In My Dreams". Finally, "Once In A While" is a track that has never been issued.
June 4, 1958 : SMILEY LEWIS does his only session of 1958. "Li'l Liza Jane"/"My Love Is Gone" is chosen as his next single (Imperial 5531, July). "I Shall Not Be Moved" will come out on Knight 2007 (January 1959), an Imperial subsidiary. "Crazy" is first released on a French LP titled "No No" in 1986 (Pathe-Marconi 156 6321). Location is Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Herb Hardesty, Clarence Hall (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums) ; Gerri Hall (vocals).
June 5, 1958 : BILL JUSTIS is at the Sun studio in Memphis with his band. "Cattywampus" (aka "Tuff") is coupled with "Summer Holiday" for his next 45 (Phillips International 3529, July). "The Snuggle" will be included on the LP "Cloud Nine" (Phillips International PLP 1950) in mid-1959. A fourth track, "Raunchihula" is unissued and probably lost.
June 5, 1958 : SLICK SLAVIN (real name Trustin Howard) records a single for Imperial in Hollywood : "Speed Crazy"/"She Says She's Mine" (Imperial 5540, September). "Speed Crazy" will be featured in a film of the same name in 1959. It is a split session with Frankie Sands, who lays down "Got Me A Baby"/ "Wondrous One" (Imperial 5535, August). Accompaniment by : James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
June 6, 1958 : BILLY "CRASH" CRADDOCK has his first Columbia session, again supervised by that busy producer Don Law. "Ah, Poor Little Baby"/"Lulu Lee" is chosen for single release (Date 1007, July). "Sweetie Pie" is issued in March 1959 (Columbia 41367), while "School Day Dreams" stays on the shelf until 1992 when it is included on the Bear Family CD "Boom Boom Baby" (BCD 15610). Personnel : Billy Craddock (vocals / guitar) ; Patrick Sullivan, Jack Parrish (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Basil Freeman Jr (sax) ; Jack Tysinger (drums) ; The A. Beasley Group (vocal chorus). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville, Tennessee.
June 7, 1958 : CHUCK BERRY is back in the Chess studio in Chicago to record four tracks, all released on singles. "Sweet Little Rock and Roller"/"Jo Jo Gunne" appears in October (Chess 1709), followed by "Anthony Boy" in January 1959 and the classic "Memphis Tennessee" in June 1959 (Chess 1729), hidden on the B-side of "Back In the USA" (from a later session). Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Fred Below (drums). Rumours that Bo Diddley also played on this session are unconfirmed.
June 9, 1958 : SAM BUTERA does an evening session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, with his group The Witnesses. "Bim Bam"/"A Twinkle In Your Eye" is his new single (Capitol 4014, July). "Handle With Care" also gets a release on single (Capitol 4119, December). "Dig That Crazy Chick" appears eventually as the opening track of the CD "Wild, Cool & Swingin'" (Capitol 5 20335 2) in 1999. Herb Alpert received his first royalty check (for $ 2,48) for co-writing "Bim Bam". Personnel : Sam Butera (vocals / tenor sax) ; Bobby Roberts (guitar) ; Tony Liuzza (bass) ; Lou Sineaux (trombone) ; Willie McCumber (piano) ; Paul Ferrara (drums).
June 9, 1958 : ERNIE CHAFFIN is at the Sun studio in Memphis with unknown musicians. He records material for what will become his last two Sun singles : "Born To Lose"/"My Love For You" (Sun 307, October) and "Don't Ever Leave Me"/ "Miracle Of You" (Sun 320, April 1959). "Be Faithful To Me" is first issued in 1986, on the 10-LP box-set "Sun Records : The Country Years, 1950-59" (Bear Family BFX 15211) and "Got You On My Mind" stays in the vaults until 2006 (CD "Laughin' & Jokin' : The Sun Years", Bear Family BCD 16780).
June 9, 1958 : CONNIE FRANCIS does two one-track sessions at Metropolitan Studio in New York City (1697 Broadway) this month. On this day she records "Carolina Moon", with Joe Lipman and his orchestra. On June 18 she lays down the other side, "Stupid Cupid" (MGM 12683, July), with LeRoy Holmes and his orchestra. "Stupid Cupid" is written by Neil Sedaka, who plays piano on the session. The sax player is probably Seldon Powell. Other details unknown. Both sides are produced by Morty Craft. A # 1 hit in the UK, # 14 in the US.
June 9, 1958 : TOMMY EDWARDS re-records "It's All In the Game", a # 18 hit for him in 1951. This time it will go all the way to # 1 (both US and UK). The reverse is "Please Love Me Forever", also from this session. Release date is July 7 (MGM 12688). "Love Is All We Need" is the follow-up single (MGM 12722, October). "Love Is A Sacred Thing" gets a place on the LP "It's All In the Game" (MGM E 3732, November). Arranged by LeRoy Holmes, whose orchestra also provides the accompaniment. Produced by Harry Myerson at Metropolitan Studios in New York City.
June 9, 12 and 18 : BILL HALEY continues his sessions at the Pythian Temple in New York City. The following nine tracks will all appear on the LP "Bill Haley's Chicks" (Decca DL 78821, January 1959). Recorded on the 9th are "Dinah" and "Ida, Sweet As Apple Cider", followed on the 12th by "Marie", "Eloise", "Whoa Mabel" (also a single, Decca 30741, September) and "Corrine Corrina" (also Decca 30781, November). Finally on the 18th, Bill and the Comets cut "Sweet Sue, Just You", "B.B. Betty" (flip of "Corrine Corrina") and "Charmaine" (Decca 30844, February 1959). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rex (bass) ; Rudy Pompilli (sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
Tuesday, June 10, 1958 : JOHN LEE HOOKER waxes one of his better singles, "I Love You Honey"/"You've Taken My Woman" (Vee-Jay 293, September), in Chicago. Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Eddie Taylor (guitar) ; Everett McCrary (bass) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ; Richard Johnson (drums).
June 10-11, 1958 : With a two-week leave scheduled at the beginning of June, Private ELVIS PRESLEY is booked into RCA's new studio B in Nashville. In the course of six hours, five sides are cut : "I Got Stung" (RCA 7410, October, b/w the previously recorded "One Night"), "I Need Your Love Tonight"/"A Fool Such As I" (RCA 7506, March 1959), "A Big Hunk O'Love" (RCA 7600, June 1959) and "Ain't That Loving You Baby" (RCA 8440, September 1964). In the absence of Scotty and Bill, there is for the first time a whole new line-up. Elvis (vocals / guitar) is accompanied by : Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums / bongos) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Steve Sholes.
June 11, 1958 : THURSTON HARRIS is rushed into Radio Recorders in Hollywood to cover another Bobby Day number (after "Little Bitty Pretty One"), namely "Over And Over". It is released on Aladdin 3430 in July, coupled with "You're Gonna Need Me" from a January session. Vocal backing by the Sharps.
June 11, 1958 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records his next single, "Let's Rock While the Rockin's Good"/"You're A Sweetheart" (King 5142, end of June). Produced by Henry Glover in New York City. Personnel : Lowell Hastings (tenor sax) ; George Barnes, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Bill Pemberton (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
June 13, 1958 : BOBBY BARE is at Gold Star studio in Hollywood to record the single "Vampira"/"Tender Years" (Jackpot 48010, release date September 8). Jackpot is a subsidiary of Challenge Records. A third track, "When the One You Love" remains unfinished, but is included in 1994 on Bobby's Bear Family 4-CD set "All American Boy" (BCD 15663). Personnel : Luther Roundtree, Buddy Bruce (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Gary Wilson (poss. drums). Arranged by Ace Odell, produced by Joe Johnson.
June 14, 1958 : More recording activity by FATS DOMINO at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Young School Girl" will be issued as a single in September (Imperial 5537) and "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" in July 1959 (Imperial 5606). "How Can I Be Happy" ends up as an LP track on "Walking To New Orleans" (Imperial LP 9227, January 1963), while a first attempt at "Let the Four Winds Blow" is unissued and lost. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Wendell Duconge (alto sax) ; Herb Hardesty, Clarence Ford, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Band members (vocal chorus). Produced by Dave Bartholomew. According to Bear Family, Fats was absent at this session and overdubbed his vocals at a later (unknown) date. In that case the pianist would possibly have been Allen Toussaint.
Monday, June 16, 1958 : SONNY JAMES pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville. The harvest is the single "You Got That Touch"/"I Can See It In Your Eyes" (Capitol 4020, July). "I'm Makin' Time With You" stays in the vaults until the release of Sonny's 6-CD box-set "Young Love, 1952-62" (Bear Family BCD 16373) in 2002. Produced by Ken Nelson.
June 16, 1958 : LARRY WILLIAMS takes a trip to New Orleans to record at Cosimo Recording Studio. The resulting two tracks will not see a release until 1974 : "Took A Trip" (with references to the then popular Purple people eater) on the LP "The Unreleased Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2158) and "Hocus Pocus" on an LP with the same title (Specialty SP 2162). Personnel : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Norman Rich (sax) ; Roy Montrell, Lonnie Fowler (guitars) ; Richard Payne (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
June 18, 1958 : JIMMY BOWEN records his next single, "By the Light Of the Silvery Moon"/"The Two Step" (Roulette 4083, July). Label credit goes to Jimmy Bowen and the Rhythm Orchids (Donny Lanier, lead guitar, more details unknown). It is a split session with Buddy Knox, see below. Location : Bell Sound Studio, New York City.
June 18, 1958 : THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES record "Much Too Much"/"In the Dark" in Los Angeles. Release is postponed until June 1959 (Ebb 163), not long before the Ebb label folds. (Ebb 164, by Earl Nelson, is the last Ebb single.)
June 18, 1958 : BUDDY KNOX records three tracks at Bell Sound Studio in New York City, with the Rhythm Orchids. "C'mon Baby"/"Somebody Touched Me" appears on Roulette 4082 in July. "The Girl With the Golden Hair" is included on the LP "Buddy Knox / Jimmy Bowen" (Roulette R 25048, November).
June 18, 1958 : ART NEVILLE does his penultimate session for Specialty Records, at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Only two songs are recorded : "What's Going On" (Specialty 656, January 1959) and "I'm A Fool To Care". The latter is not the same song as the later Joe Barry hit and is not released until 1986, on the LP "That Old Time Rock 'n' Roll" (Specialty LP 2165). Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar / leader) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Clarence Ford (sax) ; Edward Frank (piano) ; Charles Williams (drums). Produced by Harold Battiste.
June 18, 1958 : Yet another session on this Wednesday : the final New York City session for MARTY ROBBINS. "Sittin' In A Tree House" is released on July 7, on Columbia 41208. "The Last Time I Saw My Heart" is also chosen for release on a 45 (Columbia 41282, October 18). "Jeannie And Johnnie" stays in the vaults until Bear Family issues the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Marty Robbins, Vol. 2" (BFX 15105) in 1982. Personnel : Al Caiola, Bucky Pizzarelli, Carmen Mastren, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Dick Hixson (trombone) ; Ed Shaughnessy (drums). Arranged by Ray Conniff, produced by Mitch Miller.
June 18, 1958 : Also at Hollywood's Gold Star Studio, RITCHIE VALENS records his first single, "Come On, Let's Go"/"Framed" (Del-Fi 4106, September 1). Session musicians include Rene Hall on guitar and Earl Palmer on drums ; more details unknown. Produced by Bob Keane. Peak position in Billboard : # 42.
June 19, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY is rushed into the Pythian Temple in New York City to cover both sides of Bobby Darin's "Early In the Morning"/"Now We're One", after Bobby's Brunswick single (credited to the Ding Dongs) had to be withdrawn, as Darin was legally contracted to Atco. Buddy's version is released on July 5 (Coral 62006), but will be outsold by Darin's version (reissued on Atco). The musicians are exactly the same as on Bobby's session of April 24 : George Barnes (lead guitar) ; Al Chernet (acoustic guitar) ; Sanford Bloch (string bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sam Taylor (sax) ; Phil Kraus (percussion) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Helen Way Singers (vocal chorus). Both versions are produced by Dick Jacobs.
June 22, 1958 : SAM COOKE is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood to record his new single. “Win Your Love For Me”/“Love Song From Houseboat (Almost In Your Arms)” is released in July on Keen 3-2006 and will peak at # 22 on the Billboard pop charts. Personnel : Cliff White, Bob Bain, Ulysses Livingston (guitars) ; Adolphus Albrook (bass) ; Jack Costanzo (percussion) ; Charles Blackwell (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
June 23, 1958 : At Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, JIMMY EDWARDS records his third Mercury single, "Do That Again"/"Wedding Band" (Mercury 71348, August). Personnel : Jimmy Edwards (vocals / guitar) ; Narvel Felts, Chet Atkins, Leon Barnett (guitars) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jerry Tuttle (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; The Jordanaires and Millie Kirkham (vocal chorus). Produced by Bob Cloud.
June 23, 1958 : The session above was probably a split session with NARVEL FELTS, who records "Vada Lou"/"Little Girl Step This Way" (Mercury 71347, August). Studio and producer are the same, but Chet Atkins and Floyd Cramer are absent this time. Musicians : Narvel Felts (vocals / guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; The Jordanaires and Millie Kirkham (vocal chorus).
June 24, 1958 : DON GIBSON starts work on the religious LP "No One Stands Alone" (RCA LPM 1918, December). Recorded on this day are "Taller Than Trees", "Wait For the Light To Shine", "Canaan's Land" and a first, rejected version of "Satisfied", which will be included on the Bear Family box-set "Don Gibson, The Singer - The Songwriter, 1949-1960" (BCD 15495) in 1991. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville, Tennessee.
June 24, 26, 1958 : THE FOUR PREPS record their next single, "Lazy Summer Night"/"Summertime Lies" (Capitol 4023, July), along with "Cinderella" (also a single, Capitol 4078, October), "Listen Honey" (the later B-side of "Down By the Station", Capitol 4312, November 1959) and the LP tracks "Avalon" and "Love Letters In the Sand" (Capitol T 1090, "The Things We Did Last Summer"). The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Glen Larson, Ed Cobb and Don Clarke. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
June 25, 1958 : Second recording session for THE CRESTS, in New York City. "Pretty Little Angel"/"I Thank the Moon" is their next single (Coed 501, July). "Beside You" will become the B-side of their monster hit "Sixteen Candles" (yet to be recorded), in November (Coed 506). "Strange Love" stays in the can until the release of the CD "Johnny Maestro and the Crests : The Best Of the Rest" (Ace CDCHD 322, UK) in 1991.
June 25, 1958 : JOHNNY GARNER does a four-track session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. The songs are released on two singles : "Kiss Me Sweet"/"Little Starry Eyes" (Imperial 5536, July) and "Didi, Didi"/"Fool" (Imperial 5548, September). This may have been the only session Garner ever did. Personnel : Roy Lanham (lead guitar) ; Neil Levang (rhythm guitar) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Robert Gilman (drums). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell.
June 26, 1958 : Four-track session for HANK LOCKLIN at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "That Inner Glow"/"The Upper Room" is selected as Hank's next 45 (RCA 7317, August). "The Other Side Of the Door" follows in October (RCA 7393). "Paper Face" stays in the can until May 1963, when it appears on the LP "This Song Is Just For You" (RCA Camden CAL 765). Personnel : Grady Martin, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
June 26, 1958 : RAY PETERSON records three tracks during an afternoon session at New York City's RCA Victor Studio A on 24th Street. "My Blue Eyed Baby" is the B-side of his next single (RCA 7303, July ; A-side recorded on June 30, see below). "Dream Away"/"I'll Always Want You Near" follows in September (RCA 7336). Personnel : Mundell Lowe, Carmen Mastren (guitars) ; Harry Roser (ukulele) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Boomie Richman, Sol Schlinger (saxes) ; Mel Davis (trumpet) ; Sol Gubin (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a 10-piece string section. Arranged by Hugo Winterhalter, produced by Lee Schapiro.
Friday, June 27, 1958 : KENNY LEE MARTIN is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records the single "The Rock Keeps Rollin' On"/"The Shape I'm In" (Decca 30754, October). The B-side is the original version of the 1959 Johnny Restivo hit. A third track, "At the End Of My Rope", remains unissued. Backing by unknown members of the Nashville A-Team.
June 30, 1958 is mentioned by Bear Family as the recording date of "Chantilly Lace"/"The Purple People Eater Meets the Witch Doctor" by THE BIG BOPPER. However, as the single (Mercury 71343) is already reviewed in Billboard of July 7, this is very unlikely. Even more so seeing that the Mercury single is already the second release, preceded by an appearance on Pappy Daily's D label (D 1008). A recording date in May 1958 seems more likely. Personnel : J.P. Richardson aka The Big Bopper (vocals) ; probably Glenn Barber or Sonny Burns (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums). Produced by Harold 'Pappy' Daily at Gold Star studio in Houston, Texas.
June 30, 1958 : JESSE STONE undertakes a session for RCA Victor, at their studio in New York City. Both "Tadpole Wiggle" and "Crawfish" are mainly instrumentals. They are released back to back on RCA 7309 in July, with label credit going to "The Stone Crushers". Personnel : Jesse Stone (leader) ; The Stone Crushers (vocal chorus, consisting of four men and three women) ; Everett Barksdale, Wally Richardson (electric guitars) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Unidentified (flute) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Walter Spriggs (bongos). Produced by Herman Diaz, Jr. It is a split session with Ray Peterson, who waxes a vocal version of the Perez Prado hit "Patricia" (RCA 7303, July).
(Probably) June 1958, unknown date : EDDIE FONTAINE is without a recording contract at this time and goes into a New York studio to record "Nothin' Shakin" and "Don't Ya Know" at his own cost. But he finds no buyers for the masters and will soon rerecord "Nothin' Shakin'" for the Sunbeam label. However, without his knowledge, the original version is sold to Chess and released on Argo 5309 in early August, resulting in a # 64 hit, Fontaine's only chart entry. Personnel : George Barnes, Eddie O'Connor (guitars) ; Cozy Cole (drums) ; more details unknown.
June 1958, unknown date : Three songs are recorded by DALE HAWKINS at KWKH Radio in Shreveport, Louisiana : "La-Do-Dada"/"Cross-Ties" (Checker 900, July) and "Superman". The latter is first released as by Wailin' Dale on Rarin' LP 666 (a Various artists bootleg LP from 1978) and sees its first legal release on Norton 256 (LP/CD "Daredevil") in 1997. Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Roy Buchanan, Joe Osborn (guitars) ; Marc Mathis (bass) ; Shelton Bissell (alto sax) ; Al 'Puddler' Harris (piano) ; Jerry Hawkins (maracas) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Margaret Lewis, Dean Mathis (overdubbed backing vocals). Produced by Dale Hawkins.
June 1958, unknown date : SHIRLEY AND LEE have their penultimate session for Aladdin Records. The result is the single "Come On And Have Your Fun"/"All I Want To Do Is Cry" (Aladdin 3432, last week of July). Although recorded in Los Angeles, the sound is pure New Orleans and the backing is probably provided by members of Dave Bartholomew's band.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
JULY 1958
July 1, 1958 : DEE CLARK does his first session for the Abner label, in Nashville. "Nobody But You"/"When I Call On You" becomes his debut single for the label (Abner 1019, November), also his first chart entry, peaking at # 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. "If It Wasn't For Love" ends up on the B-side of "Hey Little Girl" (from a later session) in August 1959. Arranged and conducted by Riley Hampton. Background vocals by the Anita Kerr Singers.
July 1, 1958 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS records three tracks in New York City. "Ific"/"You Made Me Love You" is chosen for single release (Atco 6124, August), while "King" stays in the vaults. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Wally Richardson, Al Casey (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Belton Evans (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus on "You Made Me Love You").
Monday, July 7, 1958 : EDDIE COCHRAN records "Don't Ever Let Me Go" at RCA's Hollywood studio. The track will be released as the flip of "C'Mon Everybody" in October (Liberty 55166). Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Connie 'Guybo' Smith (electric bass) ; Unknown (drums and chorus).
July 7, 1958 : On the same day, JANIS MARTIN is in Nashville, at the RCA Victor Studio. "Bang Bang"/"Please Be My Love" is chosen for her next single (RCA 7318, August), credited to "Janis and her Boyfriends". "William" and the Boudleaux Bryant composition "Love Me Love (Cha Cha)" will stay in the vaults until 1979, when Bear Family releases the LP "The Female Elvis Sings My Boy Elvis" (Bear Family BFX 15032). Personnel : Hank Garland, poss. Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boyce Hawkins (organ on "William") ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
July 8, 1958 : WEBB PIERCE records the A-sides of his next two singles : “Tupelo County Jail” (Decca 30711, August, a # 7 country hit) and “I’m Letting You Go” (Decca 30789, November, a # 22 country hit). In both cases the B-side was recorded on July 5 : “Falling Back To You” (30711, charted in its own right, # 10) and “Sittin’ Alone” (30789). Also recorded on 8th July is the unissued track “Let Forgiveness In”. Personnel : Hank Garland, Mel Tillis (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano / producer) ; Tommy Vaden, Tommy Jackson (fiddles) ; Morris Palmer (drums). The location is Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 9, 1958 : Two-track session for WARNER MACK at Bradley Film & Recording Studio in Nashville. "First Chance I Get" is issued on Decca 30714 in August, coupled with "Going Away To School" from a session on June 30. "Too Bashful" has to wait until February 1959 for a release on Decca 30841. Produced by Owen Bradley.
July 9, 1958 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA do one of their last sessions for RCA / Vik in New York City. The single "It's You I Love"/"True True Love" is released in the second half of July on Vik 0334. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocals / guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums).
July 10, 1958 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS lay down their next single, "Bird Dog"/ "Devoted To You" (Cadence 1350, rush released), at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. It will give them their third # 1 hit. Personnel : Don and Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
July 10, 1958 : SKEETS McDONALD approaches the end of his long tenure at Capitol. None of the four tracks from this session are originally released. "The Echo Of Your Footsteps" and "Let's Spend Some Time With Me" are first issued on the LP "Rockin' Rockin' Skeets McDonald" (Bear Family BFX 15191) in 1986. "I'll Make Believe" and "The All American Boy" (not the Bill Parsons number) make their first appearance on the LP "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes" (Bear Family BFX 15195, also 1986). The personnel information on the sleeves of those two LP's is completely incorrect, though. Personnel : Bob Bain, Merle Travis (guitars) ; Buddy Kendrick (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; PeeWee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
July 10 and 17, 1958 : Before the expiration of his Sun contract, JOHNNY CASH is brought into the Sun studio for two final sessions. On July 10 he records "Fools Hall Of Fame" (first issued on "Rough Cut King Of Country Music", Sun LP 122, 1970), "The Ways Of A Woman In Love" (his next single, Sun 302, rush released) and "Thanks A Lot" (released as Sun 316 on February 15, 1959). On July 17 these are followed by "It's Just About Time"/"I Just Thought You'd Like To Know" (Sun 309, issued November 12), "I Forgot To Remember To Forget" (Sun 321, June 1959) and "Down the Street To 301" (Sun 343, July 1960). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano on July 10) ; Charlie Rich (piano on July 17) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Some tracks are overdubbed later with a vocal chorus (The Gene Lowery Singers) and an extra guitar (Billy Riley). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement in Memphis.
July 11, 1958 : BILLY WALKER is at Bradley Studio in Nashville for a four- track session. "It's Doggone Tough On Me"/"Ghost Of A Promise" will become his next single (Columbia 41226, August 11). "Love's Got A Hold On Me" and "I Dreamed Of An Old Love Affair" have to wait for a release until 1992, on the Bear Family 6-CD box-set "Cross the Brazos At Waco" (BCD 15657). Backing by : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Morris Palmer (drums). Produced by Don Law.
July 11, 1958 : SHEB WOOLEY records an unsuccessful follow-up to his # 1 hit "Purple People Eater", titled "Monkey Jive" (MGM 12704, August). Also waxed is a first (unissued) attempt at "Star Of Love", to which Wooley will return in October. The reverse of "Monkey Jive", "The Chase", is laid down on July 16, along with "A Love Like Mine" (MGM 12851, November 1959). That session is conducted by Bob Porter. Personnel on July 11 : Howard Roberts, Al Hendrickson (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ray Sherman (piano) ; Jewell Grant (sax) ; Charles Blackwell (drums) ; Louis Miranda (bongos). Produced by Jesse Kaye, arranged by Neely Plumb at Radio Recorders, Hollywood.
July 14, 1958 : DEAN MARTIN covers Domenico Modugno's "Volare" (aka "Nel Blu Di Pinto Di Blu"), which has not even entered the US charts yet. Martin's version, which will peak at # 12, is rush released on Capitol 4028. Orchestra conducted by Gus Levene. Produced by Lee Gillette at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
July 14-15, 1958 : THE CHAMPS record (instrumental) tracks for their second LP, "Everybody's Rockin' With the Champs" (Challenge CHL 605, December) : "The Toast" on the 14th and "Bandido" and "The Caterpillar" on the 15th. Apparently, "Club House" (laid down on July 15) is rejected for the album ; it will see a release in 1962, on the 10-track LP "Spotlight On the Champs and the Fabulous Cyclones" (Design DLP 159). Personnel : Dave Burgess, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Van Norman (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dean Beard (piano) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Location : Gold Star studio, Hollywood. Produced by Joe Johnson.
Tuesday, July 15, 1958 : BOBBY CHARLES does his first session for the Imperial label, at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Two singles are the result : "At the Jamboree"/"Since She's Gone" (Imperial 5542, September) and "What Can I Do"/"The Town Is Talking" (Imperial 5579, March 1959). Produced by Dave Bartholomew, who co-wrote all four songs.
July 15, 1958 : THE MONOTONES cut their third single, "Legend Of Sleepy Hollow"/"Soft Shadows", in New York City. Release is postponed until December (Argo 5321). The group also records the novelty "The Ride Of Paul Revere", which is credited to the Terrace Tones and released on Apt 15037 in October.
July 16, 1958 : At New York's Atlantic studio BOBBY DARIN records "Lost Love", which will become the B-side of the previously recorded "Queen Of the Hop" (Atco 6127, September). The three other songs from this session, "Pity Miss Kitty", "Keep A Walkin'" and "I Want You With Me", are shelved until September 1960, when they are included on the album "For Teenagers Only" (Atco LP 1001). Personnel : Bobby Darin (vocals / piano) ; Al Caiola, Sal Salvador (guitars) ; probably Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
July 16, 1958 : MARVIN RAINWATER is back at Bradley Studio in Nashville, for a five-track session. "(There's Always) A Need For Love"/"Nothin' Needs Nothin' (Like I Need You)" is his next single (MGM 12701, August). "(Don't Be) Late For Love" is included on the LP "Marvin Rainwater Sings With A Heart / With A Beat" (MGM E 3721) later in 1958. "The Last Time" is first released on the Bear Family LP "With A Heart, With A Beat" (BFX 15132) in 1984 and "No Good Runaround" on the box-set "Classic Recordings" (Bear Family BCD 15600, 1992). Backing by : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; poss. The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
July 16-17, 1958 : In the Sun studio in Memphis, JERRY LEE LEWIS records many, many takes of the two Charlie Rich songs scheduled for his next single, "Break-Up" and "I'll Make It All Up To You". Producer Sam Phillips is not easily satisfied. Charlie Rich is brought in to help with piano work, so that Jerry can concentrate on singing. "I'll Make It All Up To You" is overdubbed with an unknown vocal chorus on July 27. The single will come out on August 10 (Sun 303). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Charlie Rich (piano on some or all of the takes of "I'll Make It All Up To You") ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Co-produced by Jack Clement.
July 17, 1958 : DON GIBSON spends seven hours (14:00-17:00 and 18:30-22:30) at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio to complete the religious album "No One Stands Alone" (RCA LPM 1918, December, see also June 24). The nine tracks recorded on this day are : "Faith Unlocks the Door", "Evening Prayer", "Lord I'm Coming Home", "Satisfied", "Climbing Up the Mountain", "Where No One Stands Alone", "Known Only To Him", "My God Is Real" and "That Lonesome Valley". Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
July 17, 1958 " Three-track session for FRANKIE LYMON in New York City. "The Only Way To Love"/"Melinda" becomes his new single in August (Roulette 4093). "No Matter What You've Done" will be used as the B-side of "Up Jumped A Rabbit" (yet to be recorded) in January 1959 (Roulette 4128). Backing by Rudy Traylor and his orchestra.
July 17, 1958 : RAY STEVENS cuts his next single, "Cat Pants"/"Love Goes On Forever" (Capitol 4030, August), at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Two tracks from this session remain unissued : "Cholly-Wholly-Chang-Chang" and "Always On My Mind". Produced by Ken Nelson. Personnel unknown.
(Circa) July 18, 1958 : THE TEDDY BEARS record their million seller "To Know Him Is To Love Him" (Dore 503, August) at Gold Star studio in Hollywood. The reverse, "Don't You Worry My Little Pet", originally the A-side, had been recorded at an earlier date on May 20. Also recorded at the "To Know Him …" session is "Wonderful Lovable You", which is released (with overdubs) in April 1959 on Dore 520. By that time the group is contracted to Imperial. Personnel : Annette Kleinbard (lead vocal) ; Phil Spector (guitar / background vocals / producer) ; Marshall Leib (background vocals) ; Sandy Nelson (drums).
July 22, 1958 : SONNY BURGESS cuts two instrumentals at the Sun studio in Memphis : "Thunderbird"/"Itchy" (Sun 304, September). Some sources mention August 30 as the date of recording, but that is the day that the session was belatedly filed. Personnel : Sonny Burgess (guitar) ; Jack Clement (bass / producer) ; Billy Riley (harmonica) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
July 22, 1958 : Recording date of the single "Here I Stand"/"My Baby Likes To Rock" by WADE FLEMONS and the Newcomers (Vee-Jay 295, October). Despite a poor review in Billboard, the record is a minor hit (# 80) at the end of the year. Produced by Calvin Carter in Chicago.
July 24, 1958 : Only one week after his last Sun session, JOHNNY CASH has his first appointment with his new label, Columbia. Six tracks are laid down. "What Do I Care" becomes the B-side of his first Columbia single (41251, September, b/w "All Over Again"). Three tracks end up on LP's : "Suppertime" ("The Fabulous Johnny Cash", Columbia CL 1253, January 1959), "It Was Jesus" ("Hymns By Johnny Cash", Columbia CL 1284, May 1959) and "Drink To Me"("Songs Of Our Soil", Columbia CL 1339, September 1959). "Oh What A Dream" and "I'll Remember You" have to wait until November 1990 for a release on the 5-CD set "The Man In Black, 1954-1958" (Bear Family BCD 15517). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Morris Palmer (drums); The Jordanaires (backing vocals). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 24, 1958 : Second session for THE CHAMPS this month, as usual at Gold Star studio in Hollywood. "Mau Mau Stomp", "Turnpike" and "Rockin' Mary" are tracks for the "Everybody's Rockin' With the Champs" LP, but "Turnpike" is also issued as a single (Challenge 59026, October), coupled with a version of "Rockin' Mary" that is different from the LP version. "Istanbul" from this session remains unissued ; the group will return to this song in October. For personnel details see July 14-15.
July 24, 1958 : A new British singer, CLIFF RICHARD, records his first single at EMI Studio nr 2 in London (19:00-22:00). The intended A-side is "Schoolboy Crush", a cover of a Bobby Helms number, but the side that will become the hit is the Ian Samwell composition "Move It". Release date is August 29 (Columbia DB 4178). Personnel : Ernie Shear, Ian Samwell (guitars) ; Frank Clarke (bass) ; Terry Smart (drums) ; The Mike Sammes Singers (vocal chorus on "Schoolboy Crush"). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
July 26, 1958 : TOMMY SANDS does another session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, where he cuts his next single, "Blue Ribbon Baby"/"I Love You Because" (Capitol 4036, August). "Blue Ribbon Baby" started out as "Playin' the Field" ; the version under that title is first released in 1992, on the CD "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 3" (Bear Family BCD 15624). Label credit goes to "Tommy Sands and the Raiders". The Raiders are : Scotty Turner (lead guitar) ; Eddie Edwards (rhythm guitar) ; Leon Bagwell (bass) ; Hal Blaine (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
July 28, 1958 : An overdub session is held at Master Recorders in Hollywood, supervised by Lee Hazlewood. DUANE EDDY's name will appear on the label of "Ramrod"/"The Walker" (Jamie 1109, rush released), though the contribution of guitarist Al Casey is far more substantial. "Ramrod" had originally been recorded in July 1957 and was issued on Ford 500, without the sax of Plas Johnson and the rebel yells of the Sharps that were overdubbed on this day. The backing track for Al Casey's "She Gotta Shake" (Liberty 55117, recorded November 1957) is overdubbed to produce "The Walker".
July 29, 1958 : Sax player RED PRYSOCK does another session for Mercury, in New York City. "Billie's Blues"/"Willow Weep For Me" is chosen as his next single (Mercury 71358, September). "Chop Suey" comes out in February 1959 (Mercury 71411, c/w "Margie", recorded on December 10, 1957). "Ting Tang, Parts 1 & 2" remains in the vaults.
July 30, 1958 : RUTH BROWN is at Atlantic's New York studio. Her next single will be her biggest pop hit : "This Little Girl's Gone Rockin'" (co-written by Bobby Darin)/"Why Me?" (Atlantic 1197, August). "I Haven't Met" from the same session has never been released. Personnel : Steve Lipkins, Joe Wilder (trumpets) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Everett Barksdale, Charles Macey (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Mike Stoller (?) (piano) ; Brad Spinney (percussion) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Arranged by Howard Biggs, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler. The presence of Mike Stoller on this session is disputed by his son, Peter.
Thursday, July 31, 1958 : JOHNNY OTIS visits the Capitol Tower in Hollywood to record his next 45, "Willie Did the Cha Cha"/"Crazy Country Hop" (Capitol 4060, September). Personnel unknown, though the presence of Jimmy Nolen (guitar) and Earl Palmer (drums) is very likely.
July 1958, unknown date : HAROLD BURRAGE records his last single for Cobra : "Betty Jean"/"I Cry For You" (Cobra 5026, August), in Chicago. The A-side is a Little Richard-styled rocker. Personnel : Otis Rush (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Harold Ashby, Abb Locke (saxes) ; Henry Gray (piano) ; Odie Payne (drums).
July 1958, unknown date : Drummer COZY COLE records the million selling single "Topsy, Parts 1 and 2" (Love 5004, August), in New York City. Personnel : Cozy Cole (drums) ; Dick Hyman (organ / arranger) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Bert Farber (piano) ; Peanuts Hucko (clarinet) ; Pepper Adams, Barney Bigard (saxes) ; Bernie Pervin, Joe Wilder (trumpets) ; Urbie Green, Frank Rehak (trombones). Produced by Alan Hartwell, owner of the Love label.
July 1958, unknown date : While on home leave from the U.S. Army, BOB DENTON records "Pretty Little Devil" and "Thinkin' About You", with the help of Eddie Cochran (guitar, harmony vocals). The songs are not released until September 1961, when they appear on Crest 1086. Location is Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, California.
July 1958, unknown date : FRANKIE FORD makes his debut as a recording artist, at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. The harvest of his first session is the single "Cheatin' Woman"/"Last One To Cry" (Ace 549, late July). Personnel : Lee Allen, Robert Parker, Red Tyler (saxes) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; poss. James Booker (piano) ; Charles Williams (drums).
July 1958, unknown date : JERRY NEAL (Jerry Capehart)
does a one-off session for Dot, out of which comes the single "I Hate
Rabbits"/"Scratchin'" (Dot
15810, release date August 8). The B-side is an instrumental. The studio
is Gold Star in Hollywood. Personnel :
Eddie Cochran (guitar / guitar overdubs) ; Connie 'Guybo' Smith (electric bass)
; Plas Johnson (sax) ; probably Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ;
Stan Ross (novelty vocal effects).
July 1958, unknown date : WYNN STEWART does a session for Challenge at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, under the supervision of Joe Johnson. All three tracks, "Long Black Limousine", "Hungry Heart" and "I Sold the Farm" stay in the can until they are released by Bear Family on Wynn's LP "The Challenge Years, 1958- 1963" (BFD 15261) in 1988. This is the first recorded version of "Long Black Limousine", which was recorded by Elvis Presley in 1969.
(Probably) July 1958, unknown date : BIG AL DOWNING records a follow-up single to “Down On the Farm” in Dallas, Texas. “Miss Lucy”/“Just Around the Corner” is first released on White Rock 1113 in August, then on Carlton 489 in October. His backing group, Bobby Poe and the Poe-Kats, also records two numbers sung by Bobby Poe, “Piano Nellie” and “I Found A New Love”. These are coupled for release on White Rock 1114 in October, subsequently leased to Atlantic, which reissues the single on its East West subsidiary (124) in February 1959. Label credit goes to Bobby Brant and his Rhythm Rockers. Personnel : Bobby Poe (vocals on two tracks) ; Big Al Downing (vocals / piano) ; Vernon Sandusky (guitar) ; Johnny Dumas (bass) ; Mitch Corday (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker, Bill Daniels and Henk Gorter. Additions and corrections welcome.
Dik
AUGUST 1958
August 5, 1958 : At Mercury Sound Studio in New York City, tenor sax man SIL AUSTIN records his next single : "Riff Raff"/"The Charmer", which is released on Mercury 71361 in September.
August 6, 1958 : THE KALIN TWINS, Herbie and Harold, cut three songs for their forthcoming LP, called "The Kalin Twins" (Decca DL 8812, November) : "Cool" (also issued as a single, Decca 30868, April 1959), "You Mean the World To Me" (also Decca 31220, February 1961) and "School Bell Dream". Orchestra conducted by Jack Pleis. Location : Decca Studio A, New York City.
August 6-7, 1958 : SAM COOKE records seven tracks for his next LP, "Encore" (Keen LP 2003, November) : "Accentuate the Positive", "Today I Sing the Blues", "Oh Look At Me Now", "My Foolish Heart", "When I Fall In Love", "I Cover the Waterfront" and "The Gypsy". Arranged and conducted by Rene Hall. Produced by Bumps Blackwell. Location : Rex Productions, Inc. in Los Angeles.
Thursday, August 7, 1958 : CLYDE McPHATTER records what will become his biggest single, "A Lover's Question"/"I Can't Stand Up Alone", for release in September on Atlantic 1199. Also cut at this session are "Lovey Dovey" (Atlantic 2018, March 1959) and the unissued "Rockin' And Rollin'". Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
August 7, 1958 : First of two PAUL ANKA sessions this month. "Put Your Head On My Shoulder" is held back for almost a year : the release date is August 5, 1959 (ABC-Paramount 10040). "Your Love" will be used as the B-side of Paul's biggest hit, "Lonely Boy" (see August 27), which comes out on April 28, 1959, on ABC-Paramount 10022. Arranged, conducted and produced by Don Costa at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
August 8, 1958 : JOHNNY CASH cuts nine tracks during the afternoon and evening. "All Over Again" (Columbia 41251, September) and "Frankie's Man Johnny" (Columbia 41371, March 1959) are single releases. "Run Softly Blue River", "The Troubadour", "That's All Over" and "One More Ride" are tracks for the LP "The Fabulous Johnny Cash" (Columbia CL 1253, January 1959). "Mama's Baby", "Fool's Hall Of Fame" and "Walkin' the Blues" are first released on the LP "The Unissued Johnny Cash" (Bear Family BFX 15016) in 1978. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville. See also August 13.
August 8, 1958 : THE COASTERS, still in the Top 10 with "Yakety Yak", try to find a follow-up hit, but don't quite succeed. Selected for the next 45 is "The Shadow Knows"/"Sorry But I'm Gonna Have To Pass" (Atco 6126, Sept.). There are a few first attempts at "I'm A Hog For You", to which they will return in December. Also recorded is the up-tempo "Crocodile", which stays on the shelf until the appearance of the bootleg CD "Charlie Brown" (Mr R&B 102, Sweden) in 2001. Personnel : Billy Guy (lead vocal on "The Shadow Knows"), 'Dub' Jones (lead vocal on "Sorry But I'm Gonna Have To Pass"), Carl Gardner, Cornel Gunter (vocals) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Adolph Jacobs, Alan Hanlon (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Chino Pozo (bongos) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Atlantic's New York studio.
August 8, 1958 : The group from which the Coasters evolved, THE ROBINS, is now contracted to Imperial and has two singles released on Imperial's new Knight subsidiary in 1958. The first of these is "Pretty Little Dolly"/ "A Quarter To Twelve" (Knight 2001, September), recorded on this day in Los Angeles. The Robins are : Grady Chapman (lead vocal) ; Ty Terrell (tenor) ; Billy Richards (baritone) ; Roy Richards (bass).
August 10, 1958 : Final Brunswick session for TERRY NOLAND. All three tracks will appear on singles : "There Was A Fungus Among Us"/"Sugar Drop" (Brunswick 55092, late August) and "Guess I'm Gonna Fall" on Brunswick 55122 in February 1959 (c/w "Teenage Teardrops" from a session on January 17, 1958). The vocal chorus comes courtesy of the Anita Kerr Singers, more details unknown. Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 11, 1958 : PAT
BOONE lays down the Phil Everly composition "Gee But It's Lonely" for his next single
(Dot 15825, release date August 27). The
reverse, "For My Good Fortune", is first attempted on this day,
but the released version comes from a
session on August 21. The guitarists on
August 11 are Rene Hall and Irving Ashby, on August 21 Bill Pitman and Joseph Gibbons. Arranged and
conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by
Randy Wood at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
August 11, 1958 : WAYNE WALKER does his first session under his new contract with the Decca group of labels. The result is the single "After the Boy Gets the Girl"/"Just Before Dawn" (Coral 62026, rush released). "Just Before Dawn" is a duet with "The Redhead", who may be Red Sovine. Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville.
August 12, 1958 : THE CRESTS record "Sixteen Candles" and "Molly Mae" in New York City. The former is released as the B-side of "Beside You" in the last week of October (Coed 506), but both Alan Freed and Dick Clark flip the record over and start pushing "16 Candles", which will eventually peak at # 2. "Molly Mae" ends up as the flip of "Flower Of Love" (Coed 511), which comes out in June 1959.
August 12, 1958 is also the recording date of the JIMMY DONLEY single "Radio, Jukebox, And T.V."/"I'm Alone" (Decca 30738, September). Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Grady Martin (vibes) ; Marion 'Prof' Carpenter (alto sax) ; Owen Bradley (organ) ; Morris Palmer (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 12, 1958 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo cut their next single, "Jamboree"/"Junior Jive" (Imperial 5541, late August) in Los Angeles. Personnel : Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
August 12, 1958 : In New York City, BUDDY KNOX records "Teasable Pleasable You"/"That's Why I Cry" (Roulette 4120, November). The other singer of the Rhythm Orchids, JIMMY BOWEN, waxes "My Kind Of Woman"/ "Blue Moon" for his next single (Roulette 4102, September) plus the album tracks "Stick With Me" and "Whenever I'm Lonely". All six tracks will be included on the LP "Buddy Knox & Jimmy Bowen" (Roulette LP 25048, November). Personnel : Don Lanier (lead guitar) ; Unknown (rhythm guitar, bass, drums, chorus) ; Bobby Darin (piano on "That's Why I Cry") ; Neil Sedaka (piano on the Bowen tracks, except "Whenever I'm Lonely"). Produced by Hugo Perreti.
August 12, 1958 : FARON
YOUNG is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to cut his next single, "I Hate
Myself (For Falling In Love With You)"/"That's the Way I Feel"
(Capitol 4050, September 8). On August 13-14 he records twelve songs for the
religious LP "My Garden Of Prayer" (Capitol T 1185, April 1959).
Personnel : Hank Garland, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ;
Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 12-15, 1958 : Some of the wildest and most chaotic rock 'n' roll ever is recorded during a four-day Nashville session by ESQUERITA (real name Steven Quincy Reeder). On the first day six tracks are recorded : "Esquerita And the Voola" (for his next single, Capitol 4058, b/w "Rockin' the Joint" from May 1958), "Hey Miss Lucy", "I'm Battie Over Hattie" and "Crazy Crazy Feeling" (selected for his May 1959 LP "Esquerita!", Capitol T 1186), "I Found Her" and "Gollie Gollie Annie Mae" (the last two stay unissued until 1978). The next day five tracks are laid down : "Laid Off" for a future single (Capitol 4145, March 1959) ; "She Left Me Crying", "Why Did It Take You So Long", "Getting' Plenty Lovin'" and "Believe Me When I Say Rock And Roll Is Here To Stay", all for the 1959 album.
August 13, 1958 : Five days after his last session, JOHNNY CASH is back in the studio for another eight tracks. Six of these end up on the LP "The Fabulous Johnny Cash" (Columbia CL 1253, January 1959) : "That's Enough", "Pickin' Time" (also a single in October 1965, Columbia 43420), "I'd Rather Die Young", "Shepherd Of My Heart", "Don't Take Your Guns To Town" and "I Still Miss Someone". These last two are issued together on a single (Columbia 41313) in December. "Lead Me Father" gets a place on the LP "Hymns By Johnny Cash" (Columbia CL 1284) in May 1959. Finally, "Cold Shoulder" is first released on the LP "The Unissued Johnny Cash" in 1978 (Bear Family BFX 15016). Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Morris Palmer (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law.
August 13 and 16, 1958 : Accompanied only by their own guitars and the bass of Lightnin' Chance, THE EVERLY BROTHERS record their second LP, "Songs Our Daddy Taught Us" (Cadence CLP 3016, November), at Nashville's RCA Victor studio. Four tracks are done on the 13th ("Roving Gambler", "Who's Gonna Shoe Your Pretty Little Feet", "Rockin' Alone In An Old Rocking Chair" and "Put My Little Shoes Away"), the other eight on the 16th ("Down In the Willow Garden", "Long Time Gone", "Lightning Express", "That Silver Haired Daddy Of Mine", "Barbara Allen", "Oh So Many Years", "I'm Here To Get My Baby Out Of Jail", "Kentucky"). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
August 14, 1958 : LARRY WILLIAMS (vocals / piano) is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood with : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). The harvest is : "Peaches And Cream" (Specialty 647, September), "Bad Boy" (the later B-side of "She Said Yeah", Specialty 658, January 1959) and "Give Me Love", which will be overdubbed with a vocal group (The Blossoms) on August 5, 1959 and released as a single (Specialty 677) in September 1959.
On August 14 ESQUERITA records "Get Back Baby" for his 1959 LP and three tracks that will be shelved until 1978 : a second version of "I Live the Life I Love", "This Thing Called Love" and "Baby Come Back". On the last day another six tracks are cut : "Just Another Lie" (Capitol 4145, March 1959), "Baby You Can Depend On Me", "I Need You", "Maybe Baby" and "Hole In My Heart" for the LP and "You Can't Pull Me Down" for the vaults, until 1978. In 1978, the complete Capitol recordings by Esquerita will see a legal release in France by Pathe-Marconi, on the double album "Believe Me When I Say Rock And Roll Is Here To Stay" (Capitol 85370/85371). Personnel : Esquerita (vocals / piano) ; Vincent Moses (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (second piano) ; Dutch McMillin (tenor sax) ; Ricardo Young (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus on August 14). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 14, 1958 : JOHN D. LOUDERMILK is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single. “Goin’ Away To School”/“This Cold War With You” is released on September 2 (Columbia 41247). Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 15, 1958 : Another session by FATS DOMINO at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Coquette", clearly inspired by Jimmy Beasley's 1956 version, will become the B-side of "Whole Lotta Loving" (from a later session, Imperial 5553, October). "Isle Of Capri" and "Once In A While" are first released in January 1961 on the LP "I Miss You So" (Imperial LP 9138). "Isle Of Capri" will also be issued as a single (Imperial 5959, May 1963). "The Sheik Of Araby" ends up on the LP "A Lot Of Dominos" (Imperial LP 9127, October 1960). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Ernest McLean (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Herb Hardesty, Clarence Ford (tenor saxes) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums) ; poss. The Velvetones (female vocal chorus).
August 15, 1958 : The BILLY VAUGHN orchestra has its most rocking line-up ever with : Rene Hall, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Jackie Kelso, Jewell Grant, William Green, Hubert Myers (saxophones) ; Charles Blackwell (drums). "Juke" and "Dig These Blues" are probably too "wild" for Randy Wood's taste, because these tracks stay in the vaults until the release of the 6-CD box-set "Sail Along Silvery Moon" (Bear Family BCD 15970) in 1997. But "You're My Baby Doll" gets a release on the B-side of "Cimarron" (recording date September 11, 1958) in October (Dot 15836). Co-arranged by Billy Vaughn and Milton Rogers. It is a split session with pianist Johnny Maddox, who records "Long Gone"(Dot 15841, October). Location : Master Recorders, Hollywood.
Saturday, August 16, 1958 is the recording date of the single "Carry On"/ "Raining" by JERRY BYRNE (Specialty 662, April 1959). Location is Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, where Jerry is backed by unknown members of the studio band. Produced by Harold Battiste.
August 17, 1958 : After six (!) previous 1958 sessions that did not lead to a record release, CHARLIE RICH's recording career finally gets off the ground with "Whirlwind"/"Philadelphia Baby" (Phillips International 3532, October), both tracks recorded on this day. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus, overdubbed). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
August 19, 1958 :
Four-track session for NAPPY BROWN in New York City. "It Don't Hurt No
More"/"My Baby" becomes his next single (Savoy 1551, September).
"You're Going To Need Someone" follows in December (Savoy 1555) and
"A Long Time" in March 1959 (Savoy 1562). Backing by Teacho Wiltshire
and his orchestra.
August 20, 1958 : The instrumental group THE ROYALTONES has its first session, at Carmen Towers Recording Studio in Dearborn, Michigan. The resulting single, "Poor Boy"/"Wail!" (Jubilee 5338, September) will reach a peak position of # 17 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : George Katsakis, Ken Anderson (saxes) ; Dave 'Bob' Sanderson (guitar) ; Mike Popoff (piano) ; Greg Popoff (drums).
August 20, 1958 : SIMON
CRUM, the "hayseed" alter ego of Ferlin Husky, records a single at
Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Country Music Is Here To
Stay"/"Stand Up, Sit Down, Shut Your Mouth" (Capitol 4073,
October). It will peak at # 2 on the Billboard country charts. A third track
from this session, "Wrong", will be credited to Ferlin Husky and
released in February 1959 (Capitol
4123). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 21, 1958 : RICKY NELSON records his next single, "Lonesome Town"/ "I Got A Feeling" (Imperial 5545, September). Both sides are Baker Knight compositions, both will go Top 10. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals) ; James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced and arranged by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
August 21, 1958 : JOHNNY TILLOTSON makes his debut as a recording artist, at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. His first single is "Dreamy Eyes"/ "Well I'm Your Man", which hits the market in September (Cadence 1353). Also recorded is a duet with Genevieve, "I'm Never Gonna Kiss You" (Cadence 1354, October, c/w "Cherie Cherie" by Genevieve). The Jordanaires provide the backing vocals, while Archie Bleyer occupies the producer's chair.
Friday, August 22, 1958 : BILLY GRAMMER is at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio to record the single "Gotta Travel On"/"Chasing A Dream". It becomes the first release on the new Monument label (Monument 400, October) and will peak at # 4 on the Billboard charts. Bob Moore is listed as bassist, leader and producer, label owner Fred Foster as "executive producer".
August 25, 1958 : OTIS WILLIAMS and the Charms visit the King studio in Cincinnati to lay down four tracks. "Don't Wake Up the Kids"/"You'll Remain Forever" is selected as the new single (De Luxe 6174, September). "Pretty Little Things Called Girls" will follow in January 1959 (De Luxe 6181). "So Be It" stays on the shelf until it is remastered on August 2, 1960, and released on King 5389 a few weeks later.
August 25-26, 1958 : HOMER AND JETHRO record the LP "Life Can Be Miserable" (RCA LPM 1880, January 1959) and a parody of the Johnny Cash tune "I Guess Things Happen That Way" (RCA 7342, September, c/w "Lullaby Of Bird Dog" from a session on January 14, 1958). Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocals / mandolin) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
August 26, 1958 : JIMMY DELL has his third and last session for RCA, resulting in the single "I've Got A Dollar"/"Rainbow Doll" (RCA 7355, September). Two other tracks - "Sittin' On the Roof" and "No Passing Zone" - stay in the vaults for 51 years, until Bear Family releases Jimmy's CD "Cool It, Baby" (BCD 16508) in 2009. Personnel : Al Casey (lead guitar) ; Corky Casey (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Howard Crook (piano) ; Darrel Macey, Ronnie Luplow (saxes) ; Bob Taylor or Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Connie Conway and Floyd Ramsey at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
August 27, 1958 : Second visit to Bell Sound Studio in NYC for PAUL ANKA this month. "Just Young" is the A-side of the next single (ABC-Paramount 9956, September). "Lonely Boy" is released on ABC-Paramount 10022 on April 28, 1959, and will top the Billboard charts for four weeks. "Something Happened" ends up on the reverse of "My Hometown" in April 1960 (ABC-Paramount 10106). Arranged, conducted and produced by Don Costa.
August 28, 1958 : DORSEY BURNETTE undertakes his first solo session for Imperial, at Master Recorders in Hollywood. The two ballad sides, "Try" and "You Came As A Miracle" are selected for single release (Imperial 5561, February 1959), while the two rockers "It's Late" (intended as a demo for Ricky Nelson) and "I Only Came Here To Dance" stay in the can until the release of the LP "Imperial Rockabillies" (United Artists UAG 30312) in 1980. Backing by : James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (string bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
August 29, 1958 : JIMMY NEWMAN is now contracted to MGM, after four years with Dot. The first session for his new label results in the single “You’re Makin’ A Fool Out Of Me”/”Outside Your Door” (MGM 12707, September). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 1958, unknown date : THE APPLEJACKS record the instrumental hit "Mexican Hit Rock"/"Stop Red Light" (Cameo 149, September) at Reco-Art Sound Recording in Philadelphia. There are three sax players : Buddy Savitt and George Young (tenor sax) and Fred Nuzzullio (baritone sax) ; further personnel details unknown. Arranged and produced by Dave Appell.
(Probably) August 1958, unknown date : THE BIG BOPPER (J.P. Richardson) does a four-track session at Houston's Gold Star Studio. "Walking Through My Dreams" will be released in February 1959, shortly after the Bopper's tragic death (Mercury 71416). "It's the Truth, Ruth"/"That's What I'm Talking About" will follow in April 1959 (Mercury 71451). "One More Chance" is first released on the Bear Family CD "Hellooo Baby!" (BCD 17109) in 2010. Personnel : probably Hal Harris, Glenn Barber or Sonny Burns (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Unknown (drums, vocal chorus). Produced by Pappy Daily.
August 1958, unknown date : At the Chess studio in Chicago BO DIDDLEY records the single "Bo Meets the Monster"/"Willie And Lillie" for release on Checker 907 in September. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Jody Williams (guitar) ; Jerome Green (maracas / second vocal on "Bo Meets the Monster") ; Lafayette Leake (piano ) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Frank Kirkland or Clifton James (drums).
August 1958, unknown date : JOHNNY BURNETTE has his first session for the Freedom label, a Liberty subsidiary. "I'm Restless"/"Kiss Me" is the first single on the new imprint (Freedom 44001), released on September 11, with Johnny's name misspelled as Burnett on the label. It is possible that "Gumbo" (Freedom 44011, March 6, 1959) was also recorded at this session in Hollywood, California. Produced by Jerry Capehart.
August 1958, unknown date : LOU JOSIE cuts his next single, "Breezin' Out"/"Time's A Wastin'" (Argo 5312, September), accompanied by unknown guitar, bass, drums and piano. The location is Audio Recording Studio in Cleveland, Ohio.
August 1958, unknown date : LITTLE WALTER lays down his new single, "Key To the Highway"/"Rock Bottom" (Checker 904, September), as well as "Walkin'On", which is first released on a French LP (Le Roi Du Blues LP 2012) in 1989. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Muddy Waters, Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; George Hunter (drums). Location is the Chess studio in Chicago.
(Probably) August 1958, unknown date : WHITEY PULLEN records material for two singles : "Walk My Way Back Home"/"Don't Make Me Cry" (Sage 274, October) and "By You By the Bayou"/"It's Over With" (Sage 279, December). Location is probably the Sage & Sand Recording Studio in Hollywood.
August 1958, unknown date
: MUDDY WATERS does a three-track session in Chicago. "She's Nineteen
Years Old"/"Close To You" becomes his next single (Chess 1704,
September). "Walking Thru the Park" will also be released as a single
(Chess 1718, February 1959, c/w "Mean Mistreater" from a later
session). Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals / guitar) ; Pat Hare, Luther Tucker
(guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; James Cotton (harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano)
; Francis Clay (drums).
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Frank Frantik and Michel Ruppli. Dik
SEPTEMBER 1958
Tuesday, September 2, 1958 : CONNIE FRANCIS records the follow-up to her two-sided hit "Stupid Cupid"/"Carolina Moon", at Metropolitan Studio in New York City. "Fallin'" (written by Neil Sedaka, who also penned "Stupid Cupid") is coupled with "Happy Days And Lonely Nights" for release on MGM 12713 in the last week of September. Orchestra and chorus are conducted by Morty Craft, who also acts as producer.
September 2, 1958 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, RICKY NELSON records "It's All In the Game" (included on his LP "Ricky Sings Again", Imperial LP 9061, December), a first version of "Restless Kid" (unissued and lost) and two songs for the movie Rio Bravo, "Cindy" (a duet with Walter Brennan) and "My Rifle, My Pony And Me" (duet with Dean Martin). The latter sees a release in 1993 on a Various artists CD with the same title (Bear Family BCD 15625). Also cut is a second version of "Lonesome Town", which is finally released in 2000, on the 4 CD-set "Legacy" (Capitol CDP 5-29521). Personnel : Howard Roberts, Billy Strange (guitars) ; George DeNaut (bass); Gene Garf (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Jack Halloran Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell. See also September 11.
September 4, 1958 : KEN COOK does his only session for Sun Records, at their studio in Memphis. "Crazy Baby"/"I Was A Fool" (the latter a duet with Roy Orbison) appears on Phillips International 3534 in October. Three other songs from this session are issued much later, on UK Various artists LP's. "I Fell In Love" is included on the LP "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 5" (Charly CR 30105) in 1976. "Don't Be Runnin' Wild (Problem Child)" is first issued in 1977 on "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 9" (Charly CR 30116) and "I'm Thinking Tonight Of My Blue Eyes" on the LP "Rockabilly Tunes" (Sun LP 1026, 1985). During this session ROY ORBISON records "Jenny", which is first released in 1984 on the 2-LP "Roy Orbison : The Sun Years" (Charly CDX 4). Personnel : Roy Orbison (guitar, second vocal on "I Was A Fool") ; Billy Riley (guitar) ; Jack Clement (bass) ; Bill Justis (sax) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
September 4, 1958 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo record "Blues After Hours" (a # 1 R&B hit for Pee Wee Crayton in 1948), which is released on Imperial 5551 in October (c/w "School Room Rock" from a session exactly three months earlier). Also recorded is the Joe Liggins classic "The Honeydripper", but this version remains unissued. Freeman will return to the song in February 1959.
September 4, 1958 : Four-track session for AL TERRY at the Hickory studio in Nashville. "My Baby Knows" is chosen as the next single (Hickory 1088, October, b/w "Your Sweet Lies" from a May 1957 session). "Watch Dog"/ "Passing the Blues Around" is shelved for a future single (Hickory 1111, January 1960). "What A Fool I Was (To Fall For You)" stays in the can until the release of the LP "Good Deal Lucille" (Bear Family BFX 15107, 1984). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose.
September 5, 1958 : At the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, THE BLOSSOMS record their third and last single for Capitol : "No Other Love"/"Baby Daddy-O" (Capitol 4072, October). Unreleased from this session are "I Don't Care How You Do It" and "'Deed I Do". Arranged and conducted by Eddie Beal. Darlene Wright (the later Darlene Love) takes her first lead as a Blossom. The other members are : Gloria Jones, Fanita Barrett and Nanette Williams.
September 5, 1958 : JERRY STONE records with the Four Dots at Liberty Custom Recorders in Hollywood. The result is the single "My Baby (She Loves Me)"/"It's Heaven" (Freedom 44002, release date October 3). Personnel : Albert 'Jerry' Stone (lead vocal) ; Jewel Akens (vocals) ; Warren Crosby (bass vocal) ; Eddie Cochran (guitar / electric bass over- dub) ; probably Connie 'Guybo' Smith (electric bass on "It's Heaven") ; Earl Palmer (drums). Unidentified (other vocals).
September 8, 1958 : RODDY JACKSON arrives at Master Recorders in Los Angeles (Hollywood) to record his second single, "Hiccups"/"There's A Moose On the Loose" (Specialty 649, October). Personnel : Roddy Jackson (vocals / piano) ; Jackie Kelso (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; H.B. Barnum (second piano) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Tommie Guthrie (drums) ; Sonny Bono (backing vocals / producer).
September 8, BOOTS RANDOLPH's second session for RCA, in Nashville, yields the single "Yakety Sax"/"Percolator" (RCA 7395, October), which is credited to Randy Randolph. The A-side is an instrumental, which Boots would re-record for Monument in 1963, with more success. "Percolator" has a vocal by Boots. The third track recorded, "Betty", is unissued and lost. Personnel : Boots Randolph (sax, vocals) ; James Rich, James Wilkerson (guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
September 9, 1958 : Time for a new SONNY JAMES single. This becomes "Let Me Be the One To Love You"/"I Can't Stay Away From You" (Capitol 4066, October), recorded on this day. A third track, "Sweet Thing", stays in the vaults until the release of the 6-CD box-set "Young Love, 1952-62" (Bear Family BCD 16373) in 2002. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Howard Roberts (guitar) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Roy Harte (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
September 9, 1958 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, GEORGE JONES records the future single "White Lightning"/"Long Time To Forget" (Mercury 71406, January 1959). It will top the country charts for five weeks and will also give Jones his first entry into the pop charts. The pianist is Hargus 'Pig' Robbins and the bassist probably Buddy Killen. Other musicians unknown. Produced by Pappy Daily.
September 9, 1958 : JIM REEVES will score a # 1 country hit with the Roger Miller composition "Billy Bayou" (RCA 7380, October). The reverse is "I'd Like To Be", also recorded on this day. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor studio in Nashville.
Wednesday, September 10, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY does his last session at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis, New Mexico, resulting in two tracks. "Reminiscing" is posthumously released on August 20, 1962 (Coral 62329, b/w "Wait Till the Sun Shines Nellie" from January 1959). "Come Back Baby" sees its first release on the album "Showcase" (Coral LP 57450) in May 1964. Personnel : Buddy Holly (vocals / guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (string bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Jerry Allison (drums).
September 10, 1958 : Also present at Petty studio on this day is WAYLON JENNINGS, who is just starting in the music business. His first single will become "When Sin Stops"/"Jole Blon" (Brunswick 55130, May 1959). An alternate take of the A-side can be found on the CD "Clovis to Phoenix - The Early Years" (Zu-Zazz ZCD 2021), released by Bear Family in 1995. Personnel : Waylon Jennings (vocals) ; Buddy Holly (guitar / producer) ; George Atwood (string bass) ; King Curtis (sax) ; Bo Clarke (drums).
September 10, 1958 : THE KINGSMEN (Bill Haley’s Comets minus Haley) record their second single for the East West label, “The Cat Walk”/“Conga Rock” (East West 120, October). Both sides are instrumentals. Personnel : Franny Beecher (guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rex (bass) ; Rudy Pompilli (sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). The location in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
September 11, 1958 : Four-track session for LaVERN BAKER in New York City. "I Cried a Tear"/"Dix-A-Billy" is chosen as her next single (Atlantic 2007, November). It will be her biggest pop hit. The great "Voodoo Voodoo" is held in the can until October 1961, when it comes out as the B-side of "Hey Memphis". The fourth track is "I'm Leaving You", which ends up on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071) in February 1963. Personnel : Al Caiola, Everett Barksdale (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Urbie Green (trombone) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Unknown (vibraphone). Arranged by Reggie Obrecht, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
September 11, 1958 : RICKY NELSON returns to Master Recorders in Los Angeles (Hollywood) and to the song "Cindy", the (unissued) movie version of which was laid down on September 2. Three other versions of "Cindy" are recorded, this time without Walter Brennan. All three are eventually released in 2001, on the 6-CD box-set "The American Dream" (Bear Family BCD 16196). Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar ) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell.
September 11, 1958 : LLOYD PRICE's first session for ABC-Paramount will produce a million seller : "Stagger Lee"/"You Need Love" (ABC-Paramount 9972, late October). The location is Bell Sound Studio in New York City. Personnel : Charles McClendon, Eddie Saunders (tenor saxophones) ; Ted Curson (trumpet) ; Unidentified (baritone sax) ; Clarence Johnson (bass) ; John Patton (piano) ; Sticks Simpkins (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Costa.
September 11-12, 1958 : TOMMY SANDS is back at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "The Worryin' Kind" (Capitol 4082, November) is recorded on September 11, its flip, "Bigger Than Texas", the next day. Also waxed on the 12th are another attempt at "Playin' the Field" (unissued) and "Wicked Woman", which is eventually released in 1992 on the CD "The Worryin' Kind" (Bear Family BCD 15643). Sands is backed by the Raiders : Scotty Turner (lead guitar) ; Eddie Edwards (rhythm guitar) ; Leon Bagwell (bass) ; Hal Blaine (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 11-12, 1958 : BAKER KNIGHT does a one-off session for the Jubilee label, probably in New York City. “Ain’t Nothin’ But Love”/“My Heart Cries For You” is an October release (Jubilee 5342).”I Never Get To Kiss You Anymore”/“Wishing” will follow in January 1959 (Jubilee 5357). Arranged by Rene Hall.
September 12, 1958 : THE CHAMPS have another session at Hollywood's Gold Star studio. "Gone Train" will become the B-side of "Beatnik" (yet to record) in December (Challenge 59035). "Percolator" and "Baja" stay in the can until the release of the CD "Wing Ding!" in 1993 (Ace CDCHD 460). Personnel : Dave Burgess, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Van Norman (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dean Beard (piano) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
September 12, 1958 : LEFTY FRIZZELL does a four-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The great double-sider "Cigarettes And Coffee Blues"/ "You're Humbuggin' Me" is selected as his next single (Columbia 41268, October 6). "She's Gone" is not released until April 4, 1960 (Columbia 41635), while "I Need Your Love" lingers in the vaults until 1992, when Bear Family releases the 12-CD set "Life's Like Poetry" (BCD 15550). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Charles O'Neal (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Gregory (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law.
September 13, 1958 : RAY SMITH cuts two tracks at the Sun studio. "Why Why Why" becomes the B-side of his next single (Sun 308, October 25, c/w "You Made A Hit" from a session on May 13), after a vocal overdub by the Confederates on September 19. "Life Is the Flower" stays in the vaults until 1988, when it appears on the LP "I'm Right Behind You Baby" (Sun LP 1009, UK). Personnel : Stanley Walker (lead guitar) ; Dean Perkins (guitar) ; Stan Kesler (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Gary Diamond (drums).
September 15, 1958 : MERRILL MOORE starts recording an album of piano instrumentals at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. On this day Moore completes "Music, Music, Music", "Sun Valley Walk" and "Back Home In Indiana". Five further tracks will follow on September 23 : "South", "Sentimental Journey", "Shanty In Old Shanty Town", "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Moore Blues". The remaining four tracks will be recorded on October 7, 1958. For some unknown reason, Capitol decides not to release the LP and all the tracks are shelved until Bear Family issues the 2-CD "Boogie My Blues Away" (BCD 15505) in 1990, with the complete Capitol recordings. Personnel : Merrill Moore (piano) ; Cameron Hill (guitar on September 15) ; Howard Roberts (guitar on September 23) ; Unknown (rhythm guitar) ; Morty Korb (bass) ; Ted Kovar (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 17, 1958 : THE "5" ROYALES are at Cincinnati's King studio to record material for their next two singles : "The Slummer the Slum"/ "Don't Let It Be In Vain" (King 5153, October) and "The Real Thing"/ "Your Only Love" (King 5162, December).
September 18, 1958 : On the next day, at the same studio, JAMES BROWN and the Famous Flames record "Try Me"/"Tell Me What I Did Wrong". Released in the first week of October (Federal 12337), it will become Brown's first pop hit (peaking at # 48) and his first R&B number one. Produced by Andy Gibson.
September 18, 1958 : ART NEVILLE and WYNONA CARR have a split session at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, under the supervision of Sonny Bono. Neville's tracks are "Arabian Love Call" (Specialty 656, January 1959) and "Bella Mae" (first released in 1986 on the album "That Old Time Rock 'n' Roll", Specialty SP 2165). Wynona lays down "I'm Mad At You"/"If I Pray" (Specialty 650, November). Personnel : Rufus Gore, Jr. and Red Tyler (saxes) ; Allen Toussaint (piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Ed Blackwell (drums).
Sunday, September 21, 1958 : CLIFF THOMAS is in the Sun
studio at 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, to
record his second single, "Sorry I Lied"/"Leave It To Me" (Phillips International 3531,
October). Two other tracks stay in the
vaults for decades. "Dance Little Girl" is first issued in 1995 on the CD "Unissued Sun Masters"
(Charly CPCD 8137) and "Mean Old World" on the CD "Sun Rock 'n' Roll, Vol.
1" (Charly CPCD 8277) in 1997. Personnel : Cliff Thomas (vocals / guitar)
; Barbara Thomas (background vocals) ; Ed Thomas (piano) ; Billy Riley (guitar)
; Jack Clement (bass / producer) ; Jimmy
Van Eaton (drums).
September 22, 1958 is the recording date of the first single of THE FIESTAS : "So Fine"/"Last Night I Dreamed" (Old Town 1062). Released in October, it takes six months before the disc enters the Billboard charts and will peak at # 11 pop and # 3 R&B. Produced by Hy Weiss in New York City. The Fiestas are : Tommy Bullock (lead) ; Eddie Morris (tenor) ; Sam Ingalls (baritone) ; Preston Lane (bass).
September 22, 1958 : PEE WEE KING does his last session for RCA, after having been contracted to the label for twelve years. "Unbreakable Heart"/ "Janie" is released in October (RCA 7375), while "Do You Remember" is consigned to the vaults. Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Pee Wee King (accordion / leader) ; Hank Garland, Dick Glasser, Gene Stewart, Redd Stewart (guitars) ; Chuck Wiggins (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
September 22, 1958 : MARVIN RAINWATER cuts two duets with his younger sister PATTY RAINWATER : "Can I Count On Your Love"/"Let Me Live Again" (MGM 12728, October), with unknown musicians. The location is A & R Recording Studio on 48th Street in Manhattan, New York City, and the producer is Jim Vienneau.
September 23, 1958 : Another FATS DOMINO session at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Whole Lotta Lovin'" is chosen for the new single (Imperial 5553, October, b/w "Coquette", recorded in August). "I Miss You So" and "I'll Always Be In Love With You" end up on the LP "I Miss You So" (Imperial LP 9138), which is released in January 1961. A first stab at "Margie" went originally unissued, but has been included on the 8-CD box-set "Out Of New Orleans" (Bear Family BCD 15541, 1993). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Clarence Ford (alto and tenor sax) ; Warren Bell (tenor sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Ernest McLean, Walter Nelson (guitars) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
September 24, 1958 : TOMMY EDWARDS cuts six tracks for his first LP, "It's All In the Game" (MGM E 3732, November) : "Mr. Music Man" (also released as the B-side of his next single, "Love Is All We Need", MGM 12722, October), "That's All", "The Morningside Of the Mountain" (also MGM 12757, January 1959), "I'll Always Be With You", "My Sugar, My Sweet" and "You Win Again" (also MGM 13317, January 1965). Some of these are re-recordings of songs that Edwards previously recorded in 1951-52. Arranged and conducted by LeRoy Holmes, produced by Harry Myerson at Metropolitan Studio in New York City.
September 24, 1958 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN is in New York City to record three tracks. "All My Love Belongs To You"/"Why Don't You Haul Off And Love Me" is his next single (King 5154, October). "I'll Never Go Back On My Word" is saved until January 1961, when it is used as the B-side of the rerelease of "Leave My Kitten Alone" (King 5452). Personnel : Roy Gaines, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Hal Singer (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums).
September 24-26, 1958 : During a long European tour, THE PLATTERS do a three-day session in Paris, France. The future number one "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes", recorded on the first day, becomes the new single (Mercury 71383, November, b/w "No Matter What You Are" from a session on December 4, 1957). "If I Didn't Care" will be released on Mercury 71749 (November 1960). Also recorded on the 24th : the album tracks "Thanks For the Memory", "I Can't Get Started" and "Somebody Loves Me" (LP "Remember When", Mercury MG 20410, January 1959). The second day also yields two future singles, "Remember When" (Mercury 71467, May 1959) and "I'll Never Smile Again" (Mercury 71847, June 1961), plus more tracks for the LP "Remember When" : "My Blue Heaven", "Until the Real Thing Comes Along", "Prisoner Of Love" and "Love In Bloom". Two tracks are recorded on September 26 : "A-Tisket A-Tasket" (also for the LP) and "Hula Hop", which will stay in the can until the 2-CD "The Magic Touch : An Anthology" hits the market in 1991 (Mercury 510314-2). Produced by Buck Ram. Lead vocal on most tracks by Tony Williams.
September 25, 1958 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records his third solo single for RCA, "Rumpus"/"The Big Chihuahua" (RCA 7388, October). Also laid down is a new version of "Fancy Pants" (previously recorded for Abbott, 1953), which will get a place on the LP "Last Date" (RCA LPM 2350, November 1960). The vibraphone player is probably Grady Martin. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 25, 1958 : CAROLE KING records her second and last single for the ABC-Paramount label : “Baby Sittin’”/“Under the Stars” (ABC 9986, March 1959). Arranged and conducted by Don Costa in New York City.
September 26, 1958 : DON GIBSON records five tracks at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. Only one of these is originally issued during the 1950s : "Won't Cha Come Back To Me", on the LP "That Gibson Boy" (RCA LPM 2038) in September 1959. The other four tracks have all been included on Don's 4-CD box "The Singer, The Songwriter, 1949-60" (Bear Family BCD 15495, 1991) and in some cases on earlier Bear Family LP's. First versions of "Who Cares" and "A Stranger To Me" are initially rejected ; the released single comes from a later session in December 1958. Also recorded are "When Will This Ever End" and a new version of "Sweet Sweet Girl". Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Ray Edenton (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
September 26, 1958 : THE PONI-TAILS do a two-track session in New York City. “Close Friends” is selected as their next single, released on ABC-Paramount 9969 in November (c/w “Seven Minutes In Heaven”, recorded on July 31, 1958). “Early To Bed” will be released in January 1959 (ABC-Paramount 9995, coupled with “Father Time” from a session on December 30, 1958). It does not chart in the USA, but reaches # 26 on the UK charts (HMV POP 596). Arranged and conducted by O.B. Masingill.
Monday, September 29, 1958 : ROY ORBISON has left Sun for RCA and records the first single for his new label, "Seems To Me"/"Sweet And Innocent" (RCA 7381, October), produced by Chet Atkins. A third song, "I'll Never Tell", from the pen of John D. Loudermilk, is rejected by RCA, but will later appear on the CD "The RCA Sessions", a joint release with Sonny James (Bear Family BCD 15407) in 1987. Personnel includes Dutch McMillin on sax and the Jordanaires on backing vocals. More details unknown. Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
(Probably) September 1958, unknown date : THE BIG BOPPER records his next single, "Little Red Riding Hood"/"Big Bopper's Wedding" (Mercury 71375, late October) and "Pink Petticoats", which will be released posthumously as a single in June 1959 (Mercury 71482). All three tracks will also appear on the LP "Chantilly Lace" (Mercury MG 20402), issued in January 1959. Personnel : J.P. Richardson (The Big Bopper) (vocals) ; Hal Harris or Glenn Barber (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas.
September 1958, unknown date : DUANE EDDY waxes "Cannonball"/"Mason Dixon Lion" for his next single (Jamie 1111, October), at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Al Casey, Corki Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass guitar) ; Alvin Simmons (bass) ; Steve Douglas (sax, his first appearance on a Duane Eddy record) ; Connie Conway (piano / percussion / maracas) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; The Sharps (vocal chorus). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill.
September 1958, unknown date : THURSTON HARRIS does a five-song session in Los Angeles. All five tracks will be issued as singles. "Purple Stew"/ "I Hear A Rhapsody" is a November release (Aladdin 3440). "From the Bottom Of My Heart" follows in January 1959 (Aladdin 3447) and "Hey Little Girl"/ "My Love Will Last" in March 1959 (Aladdin 3450). Vocal backing by the Masters, who are in fact the Turbans.
(Circa) September 1958, unknown date : HOWLIN" WOLF cuts his next single, "I'm Leaving You"/"Change My Way" (Chess 1712, November) at the Chess studio in Chicago. The other two tracks from this session, "Can't Put Me Out" and "Getting Late", are shelved until 1979, when the LP "Can't Put Me Out : Chicago 1956-1972" (Blues Ball LP 2002) hits the market. Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals / harmonica) ; Hubert Sumlin, L.D. McGhee (guitars) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; S.P. Leary (drums).
September 1958, unknown date : GEORGE JONES records five tracks this month (during - not quite clear - one or two sessions) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Four songs are used for his next two singles : "Treasure Of Love"/"If I Don't Love You" (Mercury 71373, October) and "White Lightning"/ "Long Time To Forget" (Mercury 71406, January 1959). Both A-sides were written by J.P. Richardson aka The Big Bopper. The fifth track, "My Soul's Been Satisfied" will be included on the LP "Country Church Time" (Mercury MG 20462) in October 1959. The pianist is Hargus 'Pig' Robbins and the bassist probably Buddy Killen. Other musicians unknown. Produced by Pappy Daily.
September 1958, unknown date : ROBIN LUKE records the follow-up to his big hit "Susie Darlin'" : "Chicka Chicka Honey"/"My Girl" (Dot 15839, late September). Label credit goes to Robin Luke with the Jolly Drifters. Arranged and produced by Bob Bertram in Honolulu, Hawaii. Also released on Bertram International 208.
(Probably) September 1958, unknown date : EARL SINKS does his second session for Dot, and again the resulting single is credited to Earl Henry : "My Suzanne"/"Believe A Traveller" (Dot 15875, November). Produced by Norman Petty at his Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
September 1958, unknown date : BOBBY LEE TRAMMELL does a session at Western Recorders on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. The single "Should I Make Amends"/"My Susie J. - My Susie Jane" gets a rush release on Radio 114. Personnel : Bobby Lee Trammell (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar) ; more details unknown. Produced by Fabor Robison.
OCTOBER 1958
October 2, 1958 : LITTLE ANTHONY and the Imperials record the Neil Sedaka composition "The Diary" (End 1038, January 1959). The reverse is a new version of "Cha Cha Henry", previously attempted during the "Tears On My Pillow" session of May 29. The third track from this session is "Traveling Stranger", first released on the LP "We Are the Imperials, Featuring Little Anthony" (End LP 303, May 1959). The single version of "Traveling Stranger" (End 1091, May 1961) is a different recording.
October 3, 1958 : Second recording session for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, resulting in his next single, "High Class Baby"/"My Feet Hit the Ground" (Columbia DB 4203, November 14). A third track, "Don't Bug Me Baby", is shelved until 1997, when Cliff's CD "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (EMI 8 59309 2) hits the market. Personnel is probably : Ernie Shear and Ian Samwell (guitars) ; Frank Clarke (bass) ; Terry Smart (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
Monday, October 6, 1958 : The CHARLIE BOP TRIO records the single "Mr. Big Feet"/"Tokyo Queen" (Capitol 4100, December 1) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The vocal is by Jimmy Kersey, accompanied by Charles Johnston and his band. Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 6, 1958 : RON HARGRAVE is also in Hollywood on this day, at the RCA Victor studio, where he cuts the single "Drive In Movie"/"Buttercup" (Cub 9025, February 1959), both sides his own compositions.
October 6, 1958 : JERRY WALLACE records the follow-up to his hit "How the Time Flies", which is called "Diamond Ring" (Challenge 59027, October 15, peak position in Billboard # 78). The reverse, "All My Love Belongs To You", had been recorded one week earlier. Also laid down are "Open Sesame" (for the LP "Just Jerry", Challenge CHL 606) and "Mystic Moonlight Night" (first issued in 1998 on the Collectables CD "Primrose Lane : The Best Of Jerry Wallace", COL 6035). Produced by Joe Johnson. Location is probably Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
October 7, 1958 : BOBBY LORD does an evening session (19:00-22:00) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "When I've Learned"/"Walkin' Alone" is his next single (Columbia 41288, November). "What A Thrill" is released in March 1959 on Columbia 41352. Personnel : Bobby Lord (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
October 7, 1958 : MERRILL MOORE records another four tracks for an LP of piano instrumentals (see also September 15 & 23, 1958) : "Nobody's Sweetheart", "Jumpin' At the Woodside", "Somebody Stole My Gal" and "Lazy River" (the latter was probably laid down on October 8). Capitol decides not to release the album and the twelve tracks will stay on the shelf until Merrill's Bear Family 2-CD "Boogie My Blues Away" (BCD 15505) appears in 1990. Personnel : Merrill Moore (piano) ; Howard Roberts (guitar) ; Unknown (rhythm guitar) ; Morty Korb (bass) ; Ted Kovar (drums). Produced by Buck Stapleton at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 8, 1958 : Final Capitol session for SKEETS McDONALD, after an association of seven and a half years. It yields four tracks, released on two singles : "What Am I Doing Here"/"What I Know About Her" (Capitol 4095, November) and "Baby Wait"/"What A Lonesome Life It's Been" (Capitol 4147, February 1959). Personnel : Skeets McDonald (vocals / leader) ; Joe Maphis, Roy Nichols (guitars) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 8, 1958 : One-track session for BOBBY MITCHELL at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Hearts Of Fire" will come out on Imperial 5558 in January 1959, coupled with "You're Going To Be Sorry" from a session on October 6, 1957. Justin Adams is the guitarist, more details unknown. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 8 and 15, 1958 : JOHNNY OTIS is in the studio (Capitol Tower, Hollywood) with his orchestra and vocalists Mel Williams and Marie Adams. None of the six tracks is originally issued. "Little Angel", sung by Mel Williams, is eventually released on the CD "Johnny Otis : The Capitol Years" in 1990 (Capitol CDP 7 92858 2) ; this is the same song that Eddie Cochran will record in October 1959. Also included on that 1990 CD is "I Wonder", recorded on the 15th, sung by Marie Adams. Unissued are the songs "Couples Only", "My Dear" and "My Heart Tells Me" (all with a vocal by Mel Williams) and a first attempt by Marie Adams at "What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For".
October 9, 1958 is the date of BUCK OWENS' only session in 1958. It will yield two singles : "Walk the Floors"/"I'll Take A Chance On Loving You" (Capitol 4090, November 10) and "Second Fiddle"/"My Everlasting Love" (Capitol 4172, March 23, 1959). Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Al Williams (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood (1750 North Vine Street).
October 10, 1958 : RUTH BROWN records rock 'n' roll versions of her 1952-53 R&B hits "Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean" (Atlantic 2008, November) and "5-10-15 Hours" (Atlantic 2015, February 1959). The flip- sides of these two singles, respectively "I'll Step Aside" and "Itty Bitty Girl", are also laid down at this session. Personnel : King Curtis, Seldon Powell (tenor saxes) ; Sy Mann (piano) ; Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Belton Evans (drums). Plus a 5-piece vocal chorus (3 women, 2 men). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
October 10, 1958 : EDDIE COCHRAN does an evening session at the Gold Star studio in Hollywood. After finishing "Let's Get Together", the feeling is that the song isn't dynamic enough. Eddie and Jerry Capehart retitle the song "C'mon Everybody" and a new backing track is recorded, this time with stops at the end of each verse to emphasize the song's new title. The sped- up master of "C'mon Everybody" is rush-released on Liberty 55166 on October 14 (coupled with "Don't Ever Let Me Go" from a session on July 7). "Let's Get Together" survived as a master and was released on the 1962 Liberty LP "Cherished Memories" (LBY 1109, UK), as was "I've Waited So Long", which Eddie had recorded on October 1, 1958. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar / guitar and drum overdub) ; Guybo Smith (electric bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; possibly Jerry Capehart (tambourine).
Saturday, October 11, 1958 : A rare Hollywood session for MARTY ROBBINS, at Radio Recorders Annex Studio. Only two tracks are recorded, which are released back to back on January 12, 1959 : "The Hanging Tree"/"The Blues Country Style" (Columbia 41325). Peak chart positions : # 15 country, # 38 pop. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Bill Pitman, Allan Reuss, Trefoni Rizzi, Hilmer Trimbell (guitars) ; Philip Stevens (bass) ; Ted Romersa (drums) ; Si Zentner (trombone). Produced by Don Law, arranged by Ray Conniff.
October 13, 1958 : Four-track session by THE CADILLACS in New York City. "Peek-A-Boo"/"Oh Oh Lolita" is their next single (Josie 846, late October) and will become their second biggest hit, peaking at # 28 (pop). "Copy Cat" is released on Josie 857 in February 1959. "Jelly Bean" is first issued in 1983 on the 5-LP box-set "The Cadillacs : For Collectors Only" (Murray Hill M 61285). Arranged by Jesse Powell. The Cadillacs are : James Bailey, Earl Carroll, Bobby Phillips, Bobby Spencer and Earl Wade.
October 13, 1958 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS, Don and Phil, record their next single, "Problems"/"Love Of My Life" (Cadence 1355), to be released in November. The usual Nashville session men are present at Nashville's RCA Victor studio : Chet Atkins, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; (and this time no Floyd Cramer, but) Marvin Hughes (piano). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
October 13-17, 1958 : GENE VINCENT and his Blue Caps have recording dates on no less than seven days this month. "You Are the One For Me", "Maybe", "I Got To Get To You Yet", "My Heart", "In Love Again", "Maybelline" and "I Can't Believe You Wanna Leave" will appear on the LP "Sounds Like Gene Vincent" (Capitol T 1207, May 1959). "Say Mama"/"Be-Bop Boogie Boy" is selected as the next single (Capitol 4105, release date December 1), followed by "Who's Pushing Your Swing" (Capitol 4153, March 1959). "The Night Is So Lonely" will be used for the single after that (Capitol 4237, June 1959, c/w "Right Now" from a December 1957 session). "Anna Annabelle" is saved until September 1960 for release on a 45 (Capitol 4442, b/w "Pistol Packin' Mama" from a May 1960 UK session). "Lonesome Boy", "Rip It Up", "High Blood Pressure" and "Gone Gone Gone" will find a place on the LP "The Crazy Beat Of Gene Vincent" (UK Capitol T 20453, March 1963). Finally, "Beautiful Brown Eyes" is first released on the LP "The Gene Vincent Story 6 : A Tribute To My Best Friend" (Capitol 2C 066-81618, France) in 1974. Personnel : Johnny Meeks (lead guitar) ; Grady Owen (bass guitar) ; Cliff Simmons (piano) ; Jackie Kelso (tenor sax) ; Plas Johnson (baritone sax) ; Clyde Pennington (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 14, 1958 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS cuts three tracks at Hollywood's Gold Star studio, all of which remain unissued until the release of the CD "Wing Ding!" (Ace CDCHD 460) in 1993. The titles are "Roughneck", "Baja" and "Istanbul". Personnel : Dave Burgess, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Van Norman (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dean Beard (piano) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
October 14, 1958 : The final Decca session of GLENN REEVES yields three tracks. "Tarzan"/"Born To Cry" is released on Decca 30780 in November. "I Can't Love You (Like You Want Me To Do)" is rescued from the vaults by Bear Family in 2011 (CD "Johnny On the Spot", BCD 16658). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Boots Randolph (saxophone) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Vic McAlpin at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 15, 1958 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA record their last single for RCA / Vik : "Oh Yeah Uh Uh"/"To the Valley" (RCA 7403, November), in New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (vocals / guitar) ; Charles Macey (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums).
October 15, 1958 : SHEB WOOLEY returns to the subject of his biggest hit with "Santa And the Purple People Eater" (MGM 12733, November, c/w "Star Of Love" from a session two days later). Also recorded is the later single "Deep Goes My Love" (MGM 12778, March 1959). Personnel : Rene Hall and Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Carson Smith (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Plas Johnson (sped-up sax) ; Jack Sperling (drums). Produced by Jesse Kaye at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
October 16, 1958 : THE FOUR DOTS cover "Don't Wake Up the Kids" by Otis Williams and the Charms. Release date is December 15 (Freedom 44005). It's not clear when the reverse, "Pleading For Your Love" was recorded, somewhere between September and December 1958, but probably not at this session. Personnel : The Four Dots, featuring Albert 'Jerry' Stone and Jewel Akens on vocals ; Eddie Cochran (guitar / electric bass overdub) ; Johnny Meeks (guitar) ; Cliff Simmons (piano) ; Clyde Pennington (drums). Produced by Jerry Capehart at Liberty Custom Recorders in Hollywood.
October 20-21, 1958 : GENE VINCENT continues his sessions at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, delivering six more tracks. "I Might Have Known", "My Baby Don't 'Low" (October 20), "Ready Teddy" and "Vincent's Blues" (Oct. 21) are tracks for the LP "Sounds Like Gene Vincent" (see October 13-17). "Over the Rainbow" becomes the flip of "Who's Pushing Your Swing", recorded on the 17th (Capitol 4153). A new version of "Important Words" will be included on the LP "The Crazy Beat Of Gene Vincent" (see October 13-17). Personnel and producer are the same as on October 13-17.
Tuesday, October 21, 1958 : CHUCK BERRY returns to the Chess Studio in Chicago for a two-track session. "Little Queenie" will be issued in March 1959 on Chess 1722 (c/w "Almost Grown" from a later session). "That's My Desire" becomes the B-side of "Anthony Boy" (recorded on June 7, 1958), Chuck's next single (Chess 1716, January 1959). Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Unknown (second guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
October 21, 1958 : BOBBY CHARLES cuts his second single for Imperial, "Oh Yeah"/"Since I Lost You" (Imperial 5557, December). "Always" remains unissued from this session. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
October 21, 1958 : Unaware that this will be the last formal recording session of his life, BUDDY HOLLY (sans Crickets) enters the Pythian Temple in New York City for his "string session", produced by Dick Jacobs. Four tracks are laid down. Paul Anka's "It Doesn't Matter Anymore" (a last-minute addition) is recorded in one take. It will be released on January 5, 1959 (Coral 62074), coupled with the Boudleaux/ Felice Bryant song "Raining In My Heart". "True Love Ways" and "Moon- dreams" come out on one 45 in the UK in 1960, but in the US "True Love Ways" is paired with "That Makes It Tough" from a later home session (Coral 62210, release date June 29, 1960), while "Moondreams" is first released on the LP "The Buddy Holly Story, Vol. 2" (Coral CRL 57326) in March 1960. Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Sanford Bloch (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Abraham 'Boomie' Richman (sax) ; Doris Johnson (harp) ; Cliff Leeman (drums). Plus a string section (8 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos) recruited from the New York Philharmonic and the NBC Symphony Orchestra.
October 21, 1958 : RICKY NELSON records two Dorsey Burnette compositions, "It's Late" and "One Of These Mornings". Both are included on Ricky's third LP, "Ricky Sings Again" (Imperial LP 9061, December). "It's Late" is also released as a single in February 1959 (Imperial 5565) and will peak at # 9 in the Billboard charts. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed at a later date). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
October 21, 1958 : RAY STEVENS does his last session for Capitol, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The harvest is one single, "The Clown"/"School" (Capitol 4101, December) and one unissued track, "Your Kisses". Personnel unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 27, 1958 : STAN FREBERG records a controversial Christmas single, "Green Chri$tma$"/"The Meaning Of Christmas" (Capitol 4097, December 1). The label of "Green Chri$tma$" says : "Stan Freberg as Scrooge with the Jud Conlon Chorale and Billy May's Music. Featuring Daws Butler as Crotchet with Marvin Miller and Wil Wright." Produced by Ken Nelson and Stan Freberg at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 27, 1958 : First Sun session for VERNON TAYLOR. "Breeze"/"Today Is A Blue Day" comes out on Sun 310 on November 12. "Your Lovin' Man" sees its first release on a French Sun single (Sun 601) in 1975. Personnel : Vernon Taylor (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
October 28, 1958 : RAY CHARLES waxes four tracks in New York City, which will be released on four different singles : "The Right Time" (Atlantic 2010, December), "Tell Me How Do You Feel" (Atlantic 2022, April 1959), "Early In the Morning" (Atlantic 2094, February 1961) and "Carryin' That Load" (Atlantic 2174, December 1962). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano / organ) ; Marcus Belgrave, John Hunt (trumpets) ; David Newman (tenor sax) ; Bennie Crawford (baritone sax) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Teagle Fleming (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal group).
October 29, 1958 : BOBBY DARIN does another session at the Atlantic studio in New York. Three of the four songs are saved until September 1960, when the LP "For Teenagers Only" is released (Atco SP 1001) : "Here I'll Stay", "A Picture No Artist Could Paint" and "That Lucky Old Sun". The fourth track from this session is an unissued version of "Some Of These Days", a song to which Darin will return in December. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
October 29, 1958 : JUSTIN TUBB is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he waxes four tracks. "Mine Is A Lonely Life"/"Almost Lonely" is selected for the next single (Decca 30792, December). The other two tracks, "Give Away Girl" and "Heart's Command" stay in the vaults until they are issued by Bear Family on the 2-CD "Rock It On Down To My House" (BCD 15761) in 1991. Personnel : Roger Miller (guitar / duet vocal on "Mine Is A Lonely Life") ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Shorty Lavender (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Owen Bradley, produced by Paul Cohen.
Thursday, October 30, 1958 : JACK CLEMENT waxes his second solo single for the Sun label, "The Black Haired Man"/"Wrong" (Sun 311, November 20), at the Sun studio in Memphis. Surprisingly, the record also sees a belated release in the Netherlands on London FL 1943 in January 1960.
October 30, 1958 : While touring on the West Coast, FATS DOMINO does a session at Master Recorders in Hollywood, accompanied by two members of his own band and three ace Los Angeles session men. First recorded is a new version of "If You Need Me", which will become the B-side of "Country Boy" (Imperial 5645) in January 1960. "Hands Across the Table", a second attempt at "The Sheik Of Araby" and "So Glad" end up on three different LP's in 1959, 1960 and 1963 respectively. "Margie" (previously attempted on September 23) is selected for single release in April 1959 (Imperial 5585). For some obscure reason, the excellent "Darktown Strutters' Ball" stays on the shelf until 1987, when it first comes out a Dutch Liberty LP called "Don't You Know" (BOSP 10). First CD release on the EMI 4 CD-set "They Call Me the Fat Man ..." in 1991. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Herb Hardesty (tenor sax) ; Plas Johnson (tenor and baritone sax) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 30, 1958 : MARVIN RAINWATER records his next single, "Lonely Island"/"Born To Be Lonesome" (MGM 12739, November) at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Vocal backing by the Anita Kerr Singers, more details unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
October 30, 1958 : NEIL SEDAKA returns to NYC's RCA Victor Studio A to cut a new version of "The Diary", which becomes the A-side of his first RCA 45 (RCA 7408, November, c/w "No Vacancy" from the session three days earlier). The rocking "(Stop!) You're Knockin' Me Out" is also recorded on this day and will get a place on Neil's first LP (see October 27). Personnel : Neil Sedaka (vocals / piano) ; Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; Sticks Evans (drums / leader). Plus a five-piece vocal chorus. Produced by Bob Ballard.
October 31, 1958 : THE FLAMINGOS have their second session for George Goldner's End label, at Regency Sound Studio in New York City. It will bring them their biggest hit, "I Only Have Eyes For You" (End 1046, April 1959), peaking at # 11 pop and # 3 R&B. Only one other song is recorded, "Without A Song", which remains unissued until this day. Lead vocal by Nate Nelson Arranged by Sammy Lowe, produced by George Goldner.
(Circa) October 1958, unknown date : THE BIG BOPPER (J.P. Richardson) records four tracks that will be issued on his LP "Chantilly Lace" on December 8 (Mercury MG 20402) : "Old Maid", "Preacher And the Bear", "It's the Truth Ruth (version 2)" and "White Lightning". Personnel : Jape Richardson (vocals) ; probably Hal Harris or Glenn Barber (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas. Possibly from the same session are four further tracks for the LP : "Strange Kisses", "The Clock" (also released as a single, Mercury 71482, June 1959), "Walking Through My Dreams (version 2)" and "Someone Watching Over You (version 2)" (also Mercury 71416, February 1959).
October 1958, unknown dates : DUANE EDDY records six tracks for his first LP, "Have Twangy Guitar, Will Travel" (Jamie LP 3000, December) : "Detour" (also issued as a single, Jamie 1117, in December, c/w "The Lonely One" from an August session), "The Lonesome Road","I Almost Lost My Mind", "Loving You", "Anytime" and "Three-30 Blues". The latter took two and a half days to record, according to Steve Douglas, and - abbreviated from 3:30 to 2:14 - became the B-side of "Yep!" in the US (Jamie 1122, March 1959). Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar), Corki Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Jimmy Simmons (string bass) ; Al Casey (piano) ; Steve Douglas (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; The Sharps (vocal chorus). Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood at Ramsey Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
October 1958, unknown date : JIMMIE AND THE NIGHTHOPPERS record the instrumental single "Night Hop"/"Cruising" (Knight 2006, December) in Hollywood. It is a collaboration between arranger Jimmie Haskell and saxophonist Jimmy Maddin, who wrote both sides together.
October 1958, unknown date : RITCHIE VALENS records his second and most famous single, "Donna"/"La Bamba" at Gold Star studio in Los Angeles, under the supervision of Bob Keane. Released in late October, "Donna" will peak at # 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Personnel on "La Bamba" : Ritchie Valens (vocals / guitar) ; Rene Hall (Danelectro six-string bass guitar) ; Carol Kaye (rhythm guitar); Buddy Clark (string bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
October 1958, unknown date : JIMMY ISLE records four tracks at the Sun studio in Memphis. They will be released as his second and third/last Sun single. “Time Will Tell”/“Without A Love” is released on Sun 318 on March 23, 1959, and “What A Life”/“Together” on Sun 332 on September 15, 1959. Personnel : Billy Riley (guitar) ; Pat O’Neill (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Tommy Ross (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jack Clement.
(Circa) October 1958, unknown date : JACKIE WILSON records his next single, “Lonely Teardrops”/“In the Blue Of the Evening” (Brunswick 55105, last week of October). A # 7 pop hit (# 1 R&B). Orchestra directed by Dick Jacobs. The location is the Pythian Temple in New York City.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1958
November 3, 1958 : BROOK BENTON has his first session for Mercury, in New York City (Mercury Sound Studio). "It's Just A Matter Of Time"/"Hurtin' Inside" is released in December (Mercury 71394) and will become the biggest R&B hit of 1959 (9 weeks at # 1, also # 3 pop). "Hurtin' Inside" will chart in its own right (# 23 R&B, # 72 pop). Rejected are "Hold My Hand", "Tell Me the Truth" and a first attempt at "I Want You Forever". King Curtis plays the tenor sax, more personnel details unknown. Arranged by Belford Hendricks, produced by Clyde Otis.
November 4, 1958 : Second Hollywood session for FATS DOMINO within a week, again at Master Recorders. "When the Saints Go Marching In" is chosen for the next single (Imperial 5569, January 1959). "Country Boy" will be issued as a single in January 1960 (Imperial 5645). "I Hear You Knocking" and "My Heart Is Bleeding" get their first release on the album "I Miss You So" (Imperial LP 9138, January 1961), but are also issued as singles in October 1961 (Imperial 5796) and May 1962 (Imperial 5833) respectively. "Li'l Liza Jane" appears on the LP "Let's Play Fats Domino" (Imperial LP 9065, Sept. 1959) and a new version of "Every Night About This Time" on "Twistin' the Stomp" in February 1962 (Imperial LP 9170). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Plas Johnson, Herb Hardesty (saxes) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Adolph Alsbrook (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
November 4, 1958 : BILL PARSONS and his friend BOBBY BARE record several tunes at the King Studio in Cincinnati. Which tunes is not exactly known, but among them are "The All American Boy" (vocal by Bare) and "Rubber Dolly" (vocal by Parsons). The next day the tapes are sold to Fraternity Records, who release these two songs on a single in late November (# 835), with credit going to Parsons on both sides. While Bare is in the US Army, "All American Boy" climbs to # 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is possible that "Buddies With the Blues" by Bobby Bare (Fraternity 848, May 1959) was also recorded on this day. Backing by : Luke Brandon (guitar) ; Sharrill Raper (bass) ; Kenny Walker (piano).
November 5, 1958 : While in Los Angeles, DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records "Button Holes" (probably an instrumental), which will be released on Imperial 5560 in January 1959, c/w "Short Subjects" from a session on January 25, 1957. Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (trumpet) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
November 5, 1958 : Another one-track session for Imperial on this day : MERLE KILGORE records "Tom Dooley, Jr." at KCIJ Radio Station Studio in Shreveport, Louisiana. Released on Imperial 5555 in December, coupled with "Hang Doll" from a session in January 1956. Label credit goes to "Merle Kilgore and the Four B's". J.D. Crowe plays banjo, more personnel details unknown.
November 5, 1958 : JERRY LEE LEWIS is back in the Sun studio at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. "I'll Sail My Ship Alone"/"It Hurt Me So" becomes his next single (Sun 312), released on November 30. For his own pleasure, Jerry turns to two songs he had already recorded before : "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee- O-Dee" and "You're the Only Star In My Blue Heaven". These version remain unissued until the release of the 12-LP set "The Sun Years" (Sun Box 102) in 1982. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes, Billy Riley (guitars) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Charlie Rich (piano on some takes of "It Hurt Me So") ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
November 6, 1958 : PAUL ANKA records his next single, "(All Of A Sudden) My Heart Sings"/"That's Love", rush-released in the third week of November (ABC-Paramount 9987). Location : Bell Sound Studio, New York City. Arranged, conducted and produced by Don Costa. Peak position : # 15.
November 6, 1958 : CONNIE FRANCIS records at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, backed by 38 musicians : 2 guitars, 1 bass, 1 drummer, 1 piano, 1 sax (Plas Johnson), 2 trombones, 3 trumpets, 4 cellos, 1 harp, 4 violas and 18 violins. The results are : the # 2 hit "My Happiness" (MGM 12738, release date November 24), "You're My Everything" and "Don't Speak Of Love" (both EP tracks), "Love Eyes", which is first released on the Bear Family 5-CD set "White Sox, Pink Lipstick And Stupid Cupid" (BCD 15616) in July 1993. The B-side of "My Happiness" (at least in the US) is recorded on November 13 in New York City (Metropolitan Studio) : "Never Before". Produced by Morty Craft and Jesse Kaye. Orchestras conducted by David Rose (Hollywood) and LeRoy Holmes (New York).
November 6, 1958 : Four-track session by CARL PERKINS at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "This Life I Live"/"Y.O.U." is selected for the new single (Columbia 41296, late November). "Honey, Cause I Love You" is saved until October 1960 for release on Columbia 41825. "Please Say You'll Be Mine" is first released on the Bear Family box-set "The Classic Carl Perkins" (BCD 15494, 5 CD's) in March 1990. Produced by Don Law.
November 7, 1958 : CARL DOBKINS Jr. records his biggest hit (# 3) : "My Heart Is An Open Book"/"My Pledge To You" (Decca 30803, January 1959), at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano / producer) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
November 10, 1958 : Yet another session by THE CHAMPS, their last one in 1958. "Beatnik" becomes the A-side of their next single (Challenge 59035, December, c/w "Gone Train" from a session on September 12). "The Rattler" ends up on the B-side of "Night Train" (yet to record) on Challenge 59049 in June 1959. "The Torch" from this session remains unissued. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Dale Norris (guitar); Van Norman (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (tenor sax) ; Dean Beard (piano) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Recording Studios in Hollywood.
November 10, 1958 : During his first recording session, BEN HEWITT lays down six tracks, four of which are released on two singles : "You Break Me Up"/"I Ain't Givin' Up Nothin'"(Mercury 71413, February 1959) and "Whirlwind Blues"/"The Queen In the Kingdom Of My Heart" (Mercury 71612, April 1960). The other two tracks, "Bundle Of Love" and "I Wanna Do Every- thing For You" first see the light on a Bear Family LP, "They Would Call Me Elvis" (BFX 15150) in 1985. Ray Ethier plays guitar and the vocal chorus is supplied by Fred Parris and the Satins ; more personnel details unknown. Produced by Clyde Otis at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
November 10, 1958 : In Los Angeles, THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES record their next single, "I'll Be Seeing You"/"Just For You" (Ebb 153, January 1959). Lead vocal by Earl Nelson. Produced by Lee Rupe and J.J. Jones.
November 10, 1958 : JOHNNY HORTON also records his next single on this day : "When It's Springtime In Alaska"/"Whispering Pines" (Columbia 41308, December 8), at Bradley Film & Recording Studio in Nashville. Accompaniment by : Harold Bradley (guitar / banjo) ; Grady Martin, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 10, 1958 : THE ROBINS do their second and last session for the Imperial subsidiary Knight Records. "A Little Bird Told Me"/"It's Never Too Late" is issued on Knight 2008 in the last week of November, while "Talk, Talk, Talk" and "Sufferin'" are consigned to the vaults. Location : Los Angeles, unknown studio. The Robins are : Bobby Sheen (lead vocal), Ty Terrell (tenor), Billy Richards (baritone) and Roy Richards (bass).
November 11, 1958 : BILL JUSTIS and his orchestra record four tracks at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "Bop Train"/"String Of Pearls" is issued at the end of November (Phillips International 3535). "Begin the Beguine" is first issued in 2006 on an album of mp3 tracks called "Bill Justis Selected Hits" (Charly). "My Dance" has not been released until now. Personnel : Bill Justis (tenor sax / arranger) ; Vernon Drane (sax) ; Jackie Thomas (trombone) ; Richard Mateller (trumpet) ; Sidney Manker (guitar) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Keith Vann (drums).
November 11 and 13, 1958 : Two four-track sessions by HANK BALLARD and his Midnighters at the King Studio in Cincinnati. The most famous of the eight songs is undoubtedly the original version of "The Twist", but at the time it was only thought of as a B-side, with "Teardrops On Your Letter" as the top side (King 5171, January 1959). Also released as singles are "Kansas City" (King 5195, March 1959) and "Cute Little Ways"/ "House With No Windows" (King 5245, August 1959). The remaining tracks, "I'll Pray For You", "So Good To Be Home" and "Everybody Does Wrong Some Time" end up on the LP "The One And Only Hank Ballard And His Midnighters" (King LP 674) in 1960. Backing by : Cal Green (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Ray Felder (tenor sax on November 11) ; George DeHart (drums). Produced by Henry Glover and Syd Nathan.
November 11, 12, 14 and 16, 1958 : Four days of sessions for FARON YOUNG at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Twelve of the fifteen tracks recorded are assembled on the LP "Talk About Hits!" (Capitol T 1245, October 1959) : "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes", "I'll Go On Alone", "Almost", "Mom And Dad's Waltz", " I Don't Hurt Anymore", "Chattanooga Shoe Shine Boy", "Hey Good Lookin'", "Bouquet Of Roses", "Slowly", "Tennessee Waltz", "Making Believe" and "Bimbo". On the 11th, Young cuts the single "A Long Time Ago"/"Last Night At A Party" (Capitol 4113, December). "Let Old Mother Nature Have Her Way", recorded on November 12, stays on the shelf until April 1966, when it is included on the LP "If You Ain't Lovin', You Ain't Livin'" (Capitol T 2536). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 12, 1958 : MARIE ADAMS records her new single, "A Fool In Love"/ "What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For" (Capitol 4108, end of November) with Johnny Otis and his orchestra. Produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
November 12, 1958 : BILLY 'CRASH' CRADDOCK's second recording session yields three tracks : "(For the Last Time) Am I To Be the One"/"I Miss You So Much" (Columbia 41316, December 29) and "Blabbermouth" (Columbia 41367, March 1959, c/w "Sweetie Pie" from his first session on June 6). Personnel : Billy Craddock (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Doug Kirkham (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 12, 1958 : SONNY CURTIS records two tracks at the Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. The masters of “Talk About My Baby” and “Red Headed Stranger” will be purchased by Coral in January 1960 and released on Coral 62207 in May 1960. Personnel : Sonny Curtis (vocals / guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Vi Petty (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Roses (vocal group).
November 13, 1958 : PLAS JOHNSON does a session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Robbins Nest Cha Cha"/"Plaz Jazz" is his next single (Capitol 4111), released in late November. "Downstairs" is also released as a 45 (Capitol 4251, July 1959). A fourth track, "Main Drag", remains unissued. Personnel : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Rene Hall, Irving Ashby (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Raymond Martinez (drums / percussion). Produced by Buck Stapleton.
November 13, 1958 : First of three November sessions for RICKY NELSON. Three of the four tracks get a place on Ricky's third LP ("Ricky Sings Again", Imperial LP 9061, December) : "Trying To Get To You", "Be True To Me" and "Old Enough To Love" (also issued as a 45 in April 1963, Imperial 5935). The fourth track, the controversial suicide song "Gloomy Sunday", does not see a release until 2000, on the 4-CD Capitol box-set "Legacy". Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed on December 1). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
November 14, 1958 : In London, England, CLIFF RICHARD records the A-sides of his next two singles, "Livin' Lovin' Doll" (Columbia DB 4249, January 23, 1959) and "Mean Streak" (Columbia DB 4290, May 1, 1959). The reverse of "Livin' Lovin' Doll", "Steady With You" is laid down on November 19. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio.
November 16, 1958 : FERLIN HUSKY records the single “Draggin’ the River”/ “Sea Sand” (Capitol 4186). It is overdubbed on March 13, 1959 and released in April 1959. A # 11 country hit. Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 17, 1958 : Three-track session for SONNY JAMES at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Dream Big"/"Yo-Yo" is released in January 1959 (Capitol 4127), while "Let's Make Up" stays in the vaults until the release of the 6-CD Bear Family box-set "Young Love, 1952-62" (BCD 16373) in May 2002. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Danny Gould (piano) ; Howard Heitmeyer (guitar) ; Ray Leatherwood (bass) ; Irving Kluger (drums). The next day, Sonny records three more tracks, all of which are originally unissued, but included on the Bear Family set in 2002 : "You Don't Hurt Me Anymore", "Love Me Like I Am" and "Sweet Thing". Marty Corb replaces Ray Leatherwood on bass.
November 17, 1958 is also the date of WARNER MACK's final session for Decca. "Yes, There's A Reason" is released on Decca 30841 in February 1959 (c/w "Too Bashful" from a session on July 9, 1958). "Anything For You" is shelved for 53 years, but is now available on the Bear Family CD "Baby Squeeze Me" (BCD 16525), released in 2011. "My Greatest Thrill" is unissued and lost. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Lenny Dee (organ) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Quartet (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 18, 1958 : JEAN SHEPARD is at Bradley Studio for a four-track session. "Have Heart, Will Love" becomes her next single (Capitol 4129, January 1959, c/w "I'll Take the Blame" from a session on May 16, 1958). "Jeopardy"/"Better Love Next Time" will follow in April 1959 (Capitol 4191). "Are You Certain" will end up on the LP "Heartaches And Tears" (Capitol T 1663) in January 1962. Personnel : Grady Martin (lead guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 18, 1958 : RAY PRICE is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to cut two songs for his new single. “That’s What It’s Like To Be Lonesome”/“Kissing Your Picture (Is So Cold)” is released on Columbia 41309 on December 10. A # 7 country hit. Personnel : Grady Martin, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Jack Evins (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Shorty Lavender, Dale Potter (fiddles) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 19, 1958 : THE TEDDY BEARS, currently in the Top 10 with "To Know Him Is To Love Him", do their first session for Imperial. "Oh Why"/ "I Don't Need You Anymore" comes out on Imperial 5562 in January 1959, "You Said Goodbye" follows in March 1959 (Imperial 5581). All three tracks also appear on the LP "The Teddy Bears Sing!" (Imperial LP 9067, January 1959). The Teddy Bears are : Annette Kleinbard, Phil Spector and Marshall Leib. Session personnel includes Red Callender (bass) and Earl Palmer (drums) ; more details unknown. Produced by Phil Spector at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
November 21, 1958 : THE CRICKETS record their first single without Buddy Holly : "Love's Made A Fool Of You"/"Someone Someone" (Brunswick 55124), at the Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico. Release date is February 27, 1959. Produced by Norman Petty. Personnel : Earl Sinks (lead vocal) ; Sonny Curtis (guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Vi Petty (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums).
November 21, 1958 : PAUL EVANS does his first and only session for the Atlantic / Atco label, in New York City. Two singles are the result : "At My Party"/"Beat Generation" (Atco 6138, February 1959) and "Long Gone"/ "Mickey, My Love" (Atco 6170, July 1960). Personnel unknown.
November 21, 1958 is also the date of CONWAY TWITTY's second MGM session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville, backed by the Nashville A-team. "When I'm Not With You" will become the B-side of "Hey Little Lucy" (MGM 12785) in March 1959. "Don't You Know" is included on Twitty's first LP, "Conway Twitty Sings" (MGM E 3744, March 1959). "Judge Of Hearts" and a first try at "The Story Of My Love" are unissued and lost. On November 25, Conway records three more songs, all co-written with Jack Nance : "The Story Of My Love" (this version is chosen for the new single, MGM 12748, January 1959), "My One And Only You" (for the first LP) and "Goin' Home" (for the second LP, "Saturday Night With Conway Twitty", MGM E 3786, September 1959). Personnel (probably) : Ray Edenton, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
November 23, 1958 : BILLY VAUGHN and his orchestra record their next single, "Blue Hawaii"/"Tico Tico" (Dot 15879, December). It will peak at # 37 on the Billboard charts. The 18-piece orchestra includes Justin Gordon (lead alto sax, double tracked), Barney Kessel (guitar), Joe Comfort (bass) and Milt Rogers (piano). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn, produced by Randy Wood at Master Recorders in Hollywood, California.
November 24, 1958 : LARRY WILLIAMS is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. It is not a very fruitful session. Two tracks remain in the vaults, "Be Sure" and "Mirror On the Wall", and a new attempt at "Bad Boy (Junior Behave Yourself)" is certainly no improvement on the earlier version, but is eventually released in 1974 on the album "The Unreleased Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2158). Personnel : Nat Perrilliat, Charles Fairley (tenor saxes) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Lloyd Whitley (piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jesse Fairman (bass) ; Charles Williams (drums).
November 24-25, 1958 : RICKY NELSON returns to Master Recorders for more recordings. On November 24 he waxes "Restless Kid" (penned by Johnny Cash) and "You Tear Me Up", both of which will be included on his forthcoming LP ("Ricky Sings Again", Imperial LP 9061, December). The third track of this day is "Never Be Anyone Else But You" (Imperial 5565, February 1959), a future # 6 hit. Two tracks are laid down on the 25th : "I Can't Help It" (for "Ricky Sings Again") and "Brand New Girl", first issued on the 4-CD set "Legacy" (Capitol CDP 5-29521) in 2000. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced and arranged by Jimmie Haskell.
November 25, 1958 : THE BROWNS are at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville to record their next single, "Beyond the Shadows"/"This Time I Would Know" (RCA 7427, December). They are rewarded with a # 11 country hit. Personnel : Jim Ed Brown, Maxine Brown, Bonnie Brown (vocals) ; Chet Atkins (electric guitar / producer) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Morris Palmer (drums).
November 25, 1958 : THE KALIN TWINS (Herbie and Harold) cut three tracks at the Pythian Temple in New York City. "It's Only the Beginning"/"Oh! My Goodness" is their next single (Decca 30807, January 1959), followed by "When I Look in the Mirror" in April 1959 (Decca 30868, c/w "Cool" from a session on August 6). Arranged and conducted by Jack Pleis.
November 25, 1958 : In New York City, PAT AND THE SATELLITES record their only single : "Jupiter-C"/"Oh! Oh! Darlin'" (Atco 6131, December). The A-side is an instrumental, which will peak at # 81 on the Billboard Hot 100, the B-side is completely different and has a vocal. Personnel : Pat Piccirillo, Otts Antonelli (guitars) ; King Curtis (sax) ; Clyde Dickerson (bass) ; Wayne Lipps (drums).
November 25, 1958 : RITCHIE VALENS records at least two songs at Gold Star studio in Hollywood. Both "Ooh My Head" and "In A Turkish Town" are included on Ritchie's first LP ("Ritchie Valens", Del-Fi DFLP 1201, March 1959). The latter also comes out as a single (Del-Fi 4114) in April 1959, two months after Ritchie's untimely death. "Ooh My Head" is released as a single in the UK in January 1962 (London HL 9494, B-side of "La Bamba"). Personnel : Ritchie Valens (vocals / guitar) ; Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Buddy Clark (standup bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums / bongos). Produced by Bob Keane.
November 26, 1958 : BILLY FURY makes his debut as a recording artist, at the Decca studio in London, under the watchful eye of musical director Harry Robinson. "Maybe Tomorrow" becomes the A-side of his first single (Decca F 11102, release date January 18, 1959). Also attempted is "Gonna Type A Letter", to which Billy will return on December 30 and that new, improved version ends up on the B-side. The single will also be issued in the USA (London 1857) in February 1959. Peak position in the UK : # 22.
November 28, 1958 : DEAN REED does his first session for Capitol, which results in three tracks. "Annabelle"/"The Search" is a December release (Capitol 4121). "Don't Let Her Go" is saved until June 1960 for release on Capitol 4384. Location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Personnel : Joe Maphis, Leon Silby (guitars) ; Dale Warren (bass) ; Billy Liebert (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga.
November 1958, unknown date : The instrumental group THE APPLEJACKS records a follow-up to their hit "Mexican Hat Rock" : "Rock-A-Conga"/ "Am I Blue" for release on Cameo 155 in December. The sax section is made up of Fred Nuzzullio (baritone sax), Buddy Savitt and George Young (tenor saxes). Arranged and conducted by Dave Appell. A # 38 Billboard pop hit. Location is probably Reco-Art Sound Recording in Philadelphia.
November 1958, unknown date : JOHNNY FULLER does his first session for Specialty, which results in the single “Haunted House”/“The Mighty Hand” (Specialty 655, December). The location is an unknown Hollywood studio. Produced by Sonny Bono.
November (or October) 1958, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS records at Sheldon Recording Studio in Chicago. "Take My Heart"/"Someday, One Day" will be his next single (Checker 913, January 1959). "Wild, Wild World" is a track for the LP "Oh! Suzy-Q" (Chess LP 1429, November), which also includes "Take My Heart". "Lulu" is first released on the LP "Dale Hawkins" (Chess ACRR 703) in 1976. Three tracks remain unissued : "Baby Please", "Cry Baby" and a first version of "Don't Break Your Promise To Me". Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Roy Buchanan, Kenny Paulsen (guitars) ; Dean Mathis (Fender bass) ; Marc Mathis (piano) ; Margaret Lewis (second voice on "Someday, One Day") ; Unknown (drums, sax on "Take My Heart"). Produced by Leonard Chess.
(Circa) November 1958, unknown date : SCREAMIN" JAY HAWKINS does a solitary session for the Red Top label in Philadelphia. "Armpit No. 6"/ "The Past" is issued on Red Top 126 in December, while "I'm So Glad" and "Wake Up And Live" remain unreleased. Producer and personnel unknown.
(Probably) November 1958, unknown date : PIANO RED does his only session for Chess, at their studio in Chicago. Eight tracks are recorded, but only "Get Up Mare"/"So Worried" is released at the time (Checker 911, December). "Boogie Re-Bop" is first released on the Various artists LP "Chess Golden Decade, Vol. 4" (Chess LP 6445 200, UK) in 1974 and "1-2-3" on a Dutch double-LP, "32 Rockers & Rollers" (Chess ELD-990) in 1978. The remaining four tracks appear eventually on Red's Bear Family 4-CD set "The Doctor's In!" (BCD 15685) in 1993 : "My Baby", "Rock and Roll Boogie", "Nighttime" and "Blues Blues". Personnel : Piano Red (Willie Perryman) (vocals / piano) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; more details unknown.
November 1958, unknown date : KIP TYLER AND THE FLIPS have their first session for Ebb Records, in Los Angeles. The result is the single "She's My Witch"/"Rumble Rock" (Ebb 154, January 1959). Personnel : Kip Tyler (vocals) ; Mike Deasy (guitar) ; Dave Shostal (bass) ; Bruce Johnston (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Sandy Nelson (drums).
(Probably) November 1958, unknown date : Drummer CHARLES WILLIAMS records two vocal tracks for the Chess label, in New Orleans. Both "Rhythmatic Rhythm" and "I Cried All the Way Home" stay in the vaults until 1978, when they are released on the Various artists LP "New Orleans Rock & Roll And R&B" (Rarin' LP 555). This is probably a bootleg LP, which was legally reissued in 1984 (Chess CH 9174). Personnel : Charles 'Hungry' Williams (vocals / drums) ; Edgar Blanchard (guitar) ; Roland Cook (bass) ; Robert Parker and James Rivers (saxes) ; Warren Myles (piano) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Michel Ruppli and Frank Frantik.
Dik
DECEMBER 1958
December 1, 1958 : JACKIE WILSON does a four-song session at the Pythian Temple (Decca Recording Studio) in New York City. “That’s Why (I Love You So)”/“Love Is All” is released on Brunswick 55121 in March 1959. A # 13 hit. “You Better Know It” is also issued as a 45 (Brunswick 55149, August 1959, c/w “Never Go Away” from a session on May 21, 1959) and will peak at # 37 in Billboard. “Each Time (I Love You More)” is a track for the LP “Lonely Teardrops” (Brunswick BL 54045, February 1959). Orchestra conducted by Dick Jacobs.
Tuesday, December 2, 1958 : WANDA JACKSON records the following four songs at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood : "Savin' My Love" (released in January 1959 as Capitol 4142), "You're the One For Me" (Capitol 4207, May 1959) and "Reaching"/"I'd Rather Have You" (Capitol 4286, October 1959). Personnel : Billy Strange, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Merrill Moore (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 2, 1958 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN also records four songs on this day (at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans), all of which will appear on the LP "Little Willie John In Action" (King LP 691, May 1960) : "The New Thing", "Do You Love Me" (also a single, King 5356, May 1960), "It Only Hurts A Little While" (also King 5870, April 1964) and "Write Me A Letter". Personnel : Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Grady Gaines, Clifford Burke (tenor saxes) ; Milton Hopkins (guitar) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Wilbert Lee Smith (piano / guitar) ; James Booker (piano) ; Emile Russell (drums).
December 2, 3, 1958 : LEFTY FRIZZELL re-records some of his old hits for a forthcoming LP ("The One And Only Lefty Frizzell", Columbia CL 1342, August 1959) : "If You've Got the Money, I've Got the Time", "I Love You A Thousand Ways", "Mom And Dad's Waltz", "I Want To Be With You Always", "Always Late (With Your Kisses)", "If You're Ever Lonely, Darling" and "My Bucket's Got A Hole In It". Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law, at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 3, 1958 : Sax man KING CURTIS cuts five tracks at the Atlantic studio in New York City. "Chili"/"Castle Rock" is picked for the next single (Atco 6135, January 1959). The other three tracks remain in the vaults : "King's Walk", "Jay Walk" (first version) and "Night Train". Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax / leader) ; poss. Noble 'Thin Man' Watts (second sax) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Al Casey (guitar) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Belton Evans (drums). Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun.
December 3, 1958 : THE SKYLINERS record their first single, "Since I Don't Have You"/"One Night, One Night" at Capitol Studios in New York, backed by no less than eighteen musicians, including a string section, quite an innovation for those times. The 45 is released on Calico 103, the day after Christmas and will peak at # 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Lead vocal by Jimmy Beaumont. Produced by Joe Rock.
December 3, 5, 8, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY (vocals / acoustic guitar) records the first of what has become known as the "Apartment tapes" at Apartment 4H, The Brevoort, 11 Fifth Avenue in New York City. On the 3rd he tapes "What To Do" and "That's What They Say", on the 5th "Peggy Sue Got Married" and on the 8th "That Makes It Tough". All four songs are released on the LP "The Buddy Holly Story, Vol. 2" (Coral CRL 57326) in March 1960 ; prior to that, "Peggy Sue Got Married" comes out as a single (Coral 62134) on July 20, 1959, after being overdubbed on June 30, 1959 by : Don Arnone (guitar) ; Sanford Bloch (bass) ; Andrew Ackers (piano) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus) ; Jack Hansen (overdub producer). The same personnel overdubs the other three tracks on January 1, 1960, at Coral Studio A in New York City.
December 4, 1958 : LLOYD PRICE, whose "Stagger Lee" is about to enter the charts, records the future single "Where Were You On Our Wedding Day"/ "Is It Really Love" (ABC-Paramount 9997, February 1959) and a remake of "Lawdy Miss Clawdy", which will be included on the LP "The Exciting Lloyd Price" (ABC-Paramount LP 277), also in February 1959. At the request of Dick Clark, Lloyd also records a new, "Bandstand-friendly" version of "Stagger Lee", with toned down lyrics. Personnel : Charles McClendon, Eddie Saunders (tenor saxes) ; Unidentified (baritone sax) ; Ted Curson (trumpet) ; Clarence Johnson (bass) ; John Patton (piano) ; Sticks Simpkins (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Costa at Bell Sound Studios in New York City.
December 4, 1958 : CHARLIE RICH records a second version of "Stay", which was previously attempted on May 13, 1958. This version is also rejected by Sam Phillips, but it is included on the 3-CD box "The Sun Years, 1958-1962" (Bear Family BCD 16152, 1998). Also recorded is an unissued instrumental version of "I've Lost My Heart To You". Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
December 4, 1958 : Last session by RUSTY AND DOUG before
their service in the US Army. Six tracks are laid down, which are used for
their next three singles. "Kaw-Liga"/"Never Love Again" is
released on Hickory 1095 in March 1959, followed by "Dancing
Shoes"/"I Like You (Like This)" in July 1959 (Hickory 1101).
Finally, "Oh Love"/"The Love I Want" comes out in November
1959, on Hickory 1110. Personnel : Doug Kershaw, Rusty Kershaw (vocals) ; Wiley
Barkdull (harmony vocal / piano on some tracks) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton,
Hank Garland (guitars) ; Lightnin'
Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose at Bradley
Studio in Nashville.
December 4, 1958 : WILEY BARKDULL also gets the chance to cut a single of his own at the Rusty and Doug session. "Keep-A Lovin' Me Baby" and "Lonesome Journey" are coupled for release on Hickory 1092 in January 1959. Lead vocal by Wiley Barkdull, background vocals by Rusty and Doug Kershaw, personnel and producer same as above.
December 5, 1958 : BOBBY DARIN is at the Atlantic studio in New York City to record his next single, "Plain Jane"/"While I'm Gone" (Atco 6133, first week of 1959). Two other songs, "Hush, Somebody's Calling My Name" and "I Ain't Sharin' Sharon" are saved for release in September 1960 on the LP "For Teenagers Only" (Atco SP 1001). A fifth song, "Didn't It Feel Good", remains incomplete but was included on the bootleg CD "Rare, Rockin' And Unreleased" (Ring of Stars 1001) in 1997. Personnel : Bobby Darin (vocals / piano) ; Billy Mure (guitar) ; Everett Barksdale (bass guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Jesse Powell (baritone sax) ; Belton Evans (drums). Arranged by Ray Ellis, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 6 (?), 1958 : THE DIAMONDS lay down three tracks at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. Their next single is "She Say (Oom Dooby Doom)"/"From the Bottom Of My Heart" (Mercury 71404, late December), a # 18 hit. "The Pencil Song" is released on Mercury 71633 in May 1960. The personnel on this session are Dave Somerville, Mike Douglas and new members making their debut, Evan Fisher (tenor) and John Felten (bassman) who replaced Ted Kowalski and Bill Reed respectively.
December 7, 1958 : DON GIBSON is at Nashville's RCA Victor studio for a four-track session. His new single is "Who Cares (For Me)"/"A Stranger To Me" (RCA 7437), released just before the end of the year. "As Much" will be included on the LP "That Gibson Boy" (RCA LPM 2038) in September 1959. "Love Will Find Out the Way" remains unissued until the release of the 4-CD set "Don Gibson 1949-1960 : The Singer, the Songwriter" (Bear Family BCD 15475) in 1991. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Rusty Kershaw, Jimmy Selph (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 8, 1958 : For the first and last time in his career, DUANE EDDY does a session in New York City, at Regent Recording Studio on 56th Street. He records the basic track of "Yep!" ; the sax of Plas Johnson and the rebel yells of the Sharps will be overdubbed on December 20, at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Yep!" is issued in March 1959 on Jamie 1122 (with an edited version of "Three-30 Blues" on the flip). In Europe, "Yep!" will be coupled with "Peter Gunn". Duane also records various early versions of "Dixie" on this day. Two of them are included on the Bear Family 5 CD-set of 1994 ("Twangin' From Phoenix To L.A.", BCD 15778). Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar) ; Ike Clanton (bass) ; Steve Douglas (sax) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Mike Bermani (drums) ; John Pacheco (percussion). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill.
December 8, 1958 : THE FOUR PREPS record the A-side of their next 45, "She Was Five And He Was Ten" (Capitol 4126, January 1959). "Memories, Memories" will become the B-side of the yet-to-record "I Ain't Never" (Capitol 4256) in September 1959. "The Word Got Around" remains unissued. The flip of Capitol 4126 is "The Riddle Of Love", recorded on December 17, along with the unissued "I Used To Be". Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga at the Capitol Tower in Los Angeles.
December 8, 1958 : JOE MAPHIS records the LP "Hi-Fi Holiday For Banjo" (Harmony HL 7180, 1959) at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, under the supervision of Don Law. Tracks : Oh Susannah ; Bye Bye Blues ; Little Liza Jane ; Over the Waves ; Barbara Polka ; The World Is Waiting For the Sun- rise ; Marching To Pretoria ; Camptown Races ; Missouri Waltz ; When You And I Were Young, Maggie ; Under the Double Eagle ; You Are My Sunshine.
December 9, 1958 : Second session for LITTLE WILLIE JOHN this month, this time in New York City. "No Regrets" is rush released as his new single (King 5170, c/w "I'll Carry Your Love Wherever I Go" from a session on September 21, 1956). "Made For Me" follows soon in February 1959 (King 5179, c/w "No More In Life", recorded on September 18, 1956). Personnel : Alfred Cobbs (trombone) ; Bellino Ramaglia, Skippy Williams (tenor saxes) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Emile Russell (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
Thursday, December 11, 1958 : JOHNNY BURNETTE has an evening session at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood, with an all-star cast : Eddie Cochran (guitar) ; Joe Maphis (guitar / banjo) ; 'Guybo' Smith (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Only Johnny's own "Me And the Bear" has survived and is released on Freedom 44011 on March 6, 1959, coupled with "Gumbo" from an August session. Three compositions by Jerry Capehart, who probably produced this session ("Remember", "Dutchman's Gold" and "The Table"), are unissued and lost.
December 11, 1958 : THE COASTERS cut their next single, "Charlie Brown" (Atco 6132, January 19, 1959, c/w "Three Cool Cats" from a session on March 17, 1958), in New York City. "Hey Sexy" remains in the vaults until the Rhino 2-CD set of 1992 ("50 Coastin' Classics") and can also be found on the mysterious "Charlie Brown" CD from 2001 (Mr. R&B CD-102), together with a longer alternate take of the song. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter, Will 'Dub' Jones (vocals) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Don Arnone, Adolph Jacobs (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Taft Jordan and Red Solomon (trumpets on "Hey Sexy") ; Eddie Bert (trombone on "Hey Sexy") ; Belton Evans (drums). Produced, as always, by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 11, 1958 : Meanwhile in Hollywood, THE FOUR DOTS do a session at Gold Star Studio. None of the five tracks is originally issued. "Fontella", "Bread Fred", "Once More" and "Hide & Go Seek" are first released on the Eddie Cochran LP "The Hollywood Sessions" (Rockstar RSR-LP 1009, UK) in January 1986. "If I Were Dying" is included on the UK album "The Many Styles Of Eddie Cochran" (Conifer CFRC 505) in November 1986. Personnel : Albert (Jerry) Stone and Jewel Akens (lead vocals) ; Eddie Cochran (guitar / guitar overdub) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; probably Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unidentified (piano, electric bass, background vocals).
December 11, 1958 : JIMMY McCRACKLIN is now contracted to Mercury. His first single for the label is "The Wobble"/"With Your Love" (Mercury 71412), released in February 1959. "Georgia Slop" will follow in October 1959 (Mercury 71516). "Hitched" is first released on the Bear Family CD "Jimmy McCracklin : The Mercury Recordings" (BCD 15558) in 1991. Produced by Clyde Otis at Bell Tone Studio in New York City.
December 12, 1958 : PAT BOONE does a New York session, at the Capitol studio. "With the Wind And the Rain In Your Hair"/"Good Rockin' Tonight" is rush released as his new single (Dot 15888, December 17). "Rock Boll Weevil" will end up on the B-side of "Twixt Twelve and Twenty" (from a later session) in May 1959 (Dot 15955). There's also a first attempt at "Brightest Wishing Star" (the "bollweevil" version, included on Pat's 12-CD Bear Family box), to which Boone will return in July 1959. Produced by Randy Wood. Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn.
December 12, 1958 : BRACEY EVERETT (aka Bobby Wall) records the single "The Lover's Curse"/"I Want Your Love" in New York City. It is released in February 1959 on Atlantic 2013. Personnel : Billy Mure (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis (saxophone) ; Sy Mann (piano) ; Belton 'Sticks' Evans (drums).
December 13, 1958 : A live performance by LONNIE DONEGAN
of "Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavour (On the Bedpost
Overnight)" at the New Theatre in Oxford is recorded by Pye Records and
released on Pye N 15181 in January 1959. It results in a # 3 UK hit. In
February 1959 the record is issued in the USA on Dot 15911 without any chart
impact. Then suddenly in the summer of 1961 it starts to sell and goes all the
way to # 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
December 14, 17, 1958 : BUDDY HOLLY continues to record "Apartment Tapes" on his Ampex tape machine. "Crying, Waiting, Hoping" is taped on the 14th, overdubbed on June 30, 1959, and first issued as the B-side of "Peggy Sue Got Married" on Coral 62134 on July 20, 1959. "Learning the Game" dates from December 17, is overdubbed on January 1, 1960 and first released on the LP "The Buddy Holly Story, Vol. 2" (Coral CRL 57326) in March 1960, followed by a single release in the UK on Coral Q 72411 (October 1960). For overdub personnel see entry for December 3, 5, 8.
December 16, 1958 : Busy days for HANK THOMPSON. On December 16 and 17 he records twelve songs for the LP "Songs For Rounders" (Capitol T 1246, August 1959). During the late hours of December 17 and the early hours of December 18, four further songs are laid down : "Total Strangers" (Capitol 4182, April 1959), "I Guess I'm Getting Over You" (Capitol 4269, September 1959), "What Made Her Change" (Capitol 4334, January 1960) and "Lost John" (Capitol 4649, October 1961). The session is continued on December 18 with "Cocoanut Grove"/"Tuxedo Junction" (Capitol 4138, February 1959), "Just One Step Away" (Capitol 4502, January 1961) and "Give the World A Smile" (Capitol 4605, July 1961). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / band leader) ; Merle Travis (guitar) ; Floyd White (steel guitar) ; Pete Burke (bass) ; Billy Armstrong, Bob White, Henry Boatman (fiddles) ; Dubert Dobson (trumpet) ; Joe Losciuto (piano) ; Gwin Nichols (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 16, 1958 : THE CRICKETS (without Buddy Holly) record "Love's Made A Fool You" at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis, NM. Coupled with "Someone, Someone" from a session on November 21, it is released as a single (Brunswick 55124) on February 27, 1959. Personnel : Earl Sinks (lead vocal) ; Sonny Curtis (guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Roses (vocal chorus). Produced by Norman Petty.
December 17, 1958 : CARL BELEW records four songs at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Am I That Easy To Forget”/“Such Is Life” (Decca 30842, March 1959) will give him his first chart entry (# 9 country). “I Know, But Tell Me Dear” will be coupled with “I Wish I’d Never” (recorded on June 2, 1959). This single is released in November 1959. Unissued from this session is “I’m Gonna Stay Awake Tonight”. Produced by Owen Bradley.
December 18, 1958 : LaVERN BAKER pays another visit to the Atlantic studio in New York City. "You're Teasing Me" will become the B-side of "I Waited Too Long" (yet to record) in March 1959 (Atlantic 2021). "He's A Real Gone Guy" is eventually included on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071, January 1963), while "Danny Boy" and "I Can't Go Through Life Alone" are consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Billy Mure, Everett Barksdale (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Belton Evans (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Arranged and directed by Phil Moore. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
December 18, 1958 : JAMES BROWN does a session in Hollywood, at Master Recorders. "I Want You So Bad" is his next single (Federal 12348, February 1959, c/w "There Must Be A Reason" from a session exactly three months earlier). "Got To Cry" and "It Was You" will be released back to back on Federal 12364 in October 1959. Brown (lead vocal) is accompanied by : Bobby Roach (guitar) ; Bernard Odum (bass) ; J.C. Davis (sax) ; Nat Kendrick (drums) ; The Famous Flames (background vocals). The Famous Flames are : Bill Hollings, J.W. Archer, Johnny Terry and Lewis Madison (who also plays piano on the session).
December 18, 1958 : ROY ORBISON records his second (and last) single for RCA : "Almost Eighteen"/"Jolie" (RCA 7447, January 1959). Unissued from this session is the instrumental "Happy Little Bluebird". Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
December 19, 22, and 24 : In New York City, BOBBY DARIN records his second LP, "That's All" (Atco 33-104, release date March 23, 1959), produced by Ahmet Ertegun, Jerry Wexler and Nesuhi Ertegun. Aimed at an adult audience, the set includes ten standards and two new songs : Woody Harris's "Was There A Call For Me" and Bobby's own "That's the Way Love Is". These two end up on the B-sides of the two singles taken from the album : "Mack the Knife" (Atco 6147, August 1959, nine weeks at # 1) and "Beyond the Sea" (Atco 6158, January 1960, peaks at # 6). Arranged and conducted by Richard Wess.
December 20, 1958 : Second December session for KING CURTIS, again at the Atlantic studio in New York City. Both "Train Song" and "Splankin'" stay in the vaults until 2000, when Ace Records in the UK releases them on the CD "Hot Sax, Cool Licks" (Ace CDCHD 757). Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax), with probably : Everett Barksdale, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Belton Evans (drums).
Monday, December 22, 1958 : HANK SNOW is at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville where he records material for two singles : "Doggone That Train"/ "Father Time And Mother Love" (RCA 7448, January 1959) and "Chasin' A Rainbow"/"I Heard My Heart Break Last Night" (RCA 7524, May 1959). Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Chubby Wise (fiddle) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 23, 1958 : BOBBY HELMS waxes his next single, "New River Train"/ "Miss Memory" (Decca 30831, January 1959), which will reach # 26 on the Billboard country charts. Location is Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (standup bass) ; Owen Bradley (piano / producer) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
December 29, 1958 : A Los Angeles session for THE PLATTERS (Tony Williams, David Lynch, Paul Robi, Zola Taylor and Herb Reed). All four songs will come out on singles : "Enchanted" (Mercury 71427, February 1959), "Love Of A Lifetime" (Mercury 71467, May 1959, B-side of "Remember When" from a session on September 25) and "Where?"/"Wish It Were Me" (Mercury 71502, August 1959). Produced by Buck Ram.
December 31, 1958 : In London, England, BILLY FURY records "Gonna Type A Letter" and together with "Maybe Tomorrow" (recorded on November 26), this will become his first single (Decca F 11102, January 18, 1959). Produced by Harry Robinson.
(Probably) December 1958, unknown date : EDDIE BO records his next single, "I Love To Rock And Roll"/"I'll Keep On Trying" (Ace 555, January 1959) at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Eddie Bo (vocals / piano) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Edgar Blanchard, Earl King (guitars) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums).
December 1958, unknown date : BO DIDDLEY does a five-track session at the Chess Studio in Chicago. "I'm Sorry"/"Oh Yea" is selected as his new single (Checker 914, January 1959). "Crackin' Up" will follow in May 1959 (Checker 924, c/w "The Great Grandfather" from a January session). "Don't Let It Go" ends up on the LP "Go Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 1436, July 1959). "Blues Blues" is first released on Bo's 12-CD box-set "The Chess Years, 1955-1973" (Charly CD RED BOX 8) in 1993. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Frank Kirkland (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group).
December 1958, unknown date : JERRY LEE LEWIS (vocals / piano) waxes his next single, "Lovin' Up A Storm"/"Big Blon' Baby" (Sun 317, February 15, 1959) at the Sun Studio in Memphis, backed by : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). "Sick And Tired", "Release Me" and "Just A Shanty In Old Shanty Town" were either laid down in December 1958 (but not at the same session) or in January 1959, with the same musicians. The first two will appear on the LP "Rockin' And Free" (Sun 6467029, UK) in 1974 and "Shanty Town" on Charly CR 300002 (LP "Jerry Lee Lewis And His Pumping Piano") in 1975. Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
December 1958, unknown date : TRINI LOPEZ has his first session for the King label, in Dallas, Texas. "Yes You Do"/"My Runaway Heart" is chosen for his first single on the label (King 5173, January 1959). This is followed by "Here Comes Sally" in April 1959 (King 5198, c/w "Love Me Tonight" from a later date). The fourth track from this session is "Don't Treat Me That Way", released on King 5418 in October 1960. Produced by Syd Nathan.
December 1958, unknown date : BROOK BENTON does his second session for Mercury. “Endlessly”/“So Close” will be released in March 1959 on Mercury 71443. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 12 and 38 respectively. “So Many Ways” will appear in September 1959 (Mercury 71512, c/w ”I Want You Forever”, recorded in June 1959). A # 6 hit. “How Many Times” will be used as the B-side of “This Time Of the Year” (also recorded in June 1959) in November 1959 (Mercury 71554). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis. Produced by Clyde Otis at the Mercury Sound Studio in New York City.
(Probably) December 1958, unknown date : First Sun session for CARL MANN, produced by Cecil Scaife and/or Jack Clement, at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. "Mona Lisa"/"Foolish One" is released with some delay on Phillips International 3539, on march 15, 1959. A # 25 hit. The third track from this session, "Look At That Moon", is first issued on the Various artists LP "Sun Rockabillys, Vol. 2 : Carryin' On" (Charly 6467027) in 1974. Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums).
(Circa) December 1958, unknown date : JOHNNY PRESTON makes his debut as a recording artist. The release of "Running Bear"/"My Heart Knows" is postponed until June 1959 (Mercury 71474), after J.P. Richardson's will has been probated. (Richardson, aka The Big Bopper, who died on February 3, 1959, wrote both sides.) Personnel : Hal Harris (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums) ; Bill Hall, George Jones, The Big Bopper (Indian chants). Produced by Bill Hall at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas.
(Probably) December 1958, unknown date : JACK SCOTT does a four-track session at Universal Sound Studio in Detroit. "Bella"/"I Never Felt Like This" is selected as his next single (Carlton 504, February 1959). "What Am I Living For" is released on Guaranteed 209 in May 1960 and "Go Wild Little Sadie" on Guaranteed 211 in August 1960. Personnel : Jack Scott (vocals / guitar) with Stan Getz and his Tom Cats : Dave Rohillier (lead guitar) ; Stan Getz (bass) ; Dominic Scafone (drums) ; The Chantones (vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Carlton.
December 1958, unknown date : CONWAY TWITTY does another MGM session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Make Me Know You're Mine" becomes the B-side of the previously recorded "The Story Of My Love" (MGM 12748, January 1959). "I Need You So" stays on the shelf until September 1960 for a single release on MGM 12943. "First Romance" gets a place on the LP "Conway Twitty Sings" (MGM E 3744, March 1959). A new try at "Judge Of Hearts" ends up on the LP "Saturday Night With Conway Twitty" (MGM E 3786, September 1959). Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums); The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
December 1958, unknown date : LINK WRAY and the Wraymen cut two tracks at the Edgewood Studio in Washington, D.C. : "Rawhide" and "Dixie Doodle". The masters are sold to Epic Records and released in January 1959 on Epic 9300, resulting in a # 23 hit. Personnel : Link Wray (guitar) ; Shorty Horton (bass) ; Vernon Wray (piano) ; Doug Wray (drums).
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Bill Daniels, Michel Ruppli and John Klompenhouwer.
JANUARY 1959
Friday, January 2, 1959 : THE CADILLACS record the following four songs in New York City : "Jay Walker" (their next single, Josie 857, February, c/w "Copy Cat" from a session on October 13, 1958), "Please Mr. Johnson"/ "Cool It Fool" (Josie 861, April) and "Your Heart Is So Blind", which is first released on a Collectables CD in 1993. "Jay Walker" and "Please Mr. Johnson" are both featured in the film "Go Johnny Go". The Cadillacs are : James Bailey, Earl "Speedo" Carroll, Bobby Phillips, Bobby Spencer and Earl Wade. Produced by Osie Johnson.
January 2, 1959 : LOUIS PRIMA and KEELY SMITH duet on "I've Got You Under My Skin"/"Don't Take Your Love From Me" (Capitol 4140, release date February 2). Backing by Sam Butera and the Witnesses. Butera takes the vocal on "Ol' Man River", which will appear on the LP "The Hits Of Louis and Keely" (Capitol T 1531) in February 1961.
January 4, 1959 : SAM COOKE records "Only Sixteen" at Rex Productions in Los Angeles. Release in May on Keen 2022, coupled with "Let's Go Steady Again", recorded on January 6. Will peak at # 28 pop and # 13 R&B. Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Clif White (guitar) ; Adolphus Asbrook (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Charles Blackwell (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
January 4, 1959 : BRENDA LEE covers the former Diamonds hit "The Stroll", but her version remains unissued until 1976 (LP "Little Miss Dynamite", MCA MCF 2729, UK). She also records two songs for her first LP, titled "Grandma, What Great Songs You Sang" (Decca DL 8873, August 3) : "Pretty Baby" and "Rock-a-Bye Your Baby With A Dixie Melody". The remaining ten songs for this album will be recorded on January 26. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (electric guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Gregory (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 5, 1959 : TOMMY SANDS is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood to cut his next single, "I Ain't Getting' Rid Of You"/"Is It Ever Gonna Happen" (Capitol 4160, March). Both sides are credited to Sands/Dewar/Lampert. Unissued from this session is "Lost Island". Sands is backed by the Sharks : Scotty Turner (lead guitar) ; Eddie Edwards (rhythm guitar) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Leon Bagwell (bass) ; Hal Blaine (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
January 6, 1959 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo do a four-track session in Hollywood. "Live It Up"/"Whispering Hope" is rush released as the new single (Imperial 5566). "Marshmallows, Popcorn & Soda Pop" will follow in April (Imperial 5574, c/w "Honey Dripper" from a later session in February). "Wandering" is consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
January 7, 1959 : Another one-track session for SAM COOKE, this time at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Everybody Likes To Cha Cha Cha" becomes his next single (Keen 2018, February). Peak positions in Billboard : # 2 R&B and # 31 pop. The flip is "Little Things You Do" ; it is unclear when this track was recorded. Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Clif White (guitar) ; Adolphus Asbrook (bass) ; Jack Costanzo (bongos) ; Mike Pacheco (conga) ; Charles Blackwell (drums). Produced by Bumps Blackwell.
January 7, 1959 : BILL HALEY and the Comets do another session at the Pythian Temple (Decca Studio) in New York City. The result is three album tracks : "ABC Rock", "The Dragon Rock" (both first issued on the LP "Bill Haley And His Comets", Vocalion VL 3696, in February 1963) and "The Cat Walk" (for the LP "Strictly Instrumental", Decca DL 8964, December 1959). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Pompilli (bass guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler. See also January 29.
January 7, 1959 : BOBBY HELMS is at Bradley Studio in Nashville, where he records the B-sides of two future singles : "You're No Longer Mine" (Decca 30928, June) and "I Want To Be With You" (Decca 31103, June 1960). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
January 7, 1959 : WARREN SMITH records his next single, "Sweet Sweet Girl"/"Goodbye Mr. Love" (Sun 314), for release on February 15. A third track, "Dear John", stays on the shelf until the appearance of the Bear Family CD "Classic Recordings 1956-1959" (BCD 15514) in 1992. Personnel : Warren Smith (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Riley, Sid Manker (guitars) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gerald Nelson Singers (overdubbed chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
January 8, 1959 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, PATSY CLINE records three tracks : "I'm Moving Along", "Love, Love Love Me Honey Do" (both released posthumously on an EP, Decca ED 2768, in February 1964) and "I'm Blue Again". The latter becomes the B-side of "Gotta Lot Of Rhythm In My Soul" (Decca 30929, July), recorded the next day. Also laid down on January 9 is "Yes, I Understand", her next single (Decca 30846, Feb.), coupled with "Cry Not For Me" from a December 1957 session. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums on January 8) ; Farris Coursey (drums on January 9) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
January 9, 1959 : The Shadows, then still called THE DRIFTERS, record their first (vocal) single, "Feelin' Fine"/"Don't Be A Fool (With Love)" (Columbia DB 4263, February 13), at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, England. In the USA, the record is released on Capitol 4220 in May, but is withdrawn after the American Drifters issued an injunction to prevent duplication of their name. Personnel : Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch (guitars) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
January 12, 1959 : BILLY THE KID waxes the original version of "Apron Strings" and its flip, "I Hardly Know Me", probably in New York City. Release on Kapp 261 at the end of January. The real name of Billy the Kid is still unknown.
January 12, 1959 : First
MGM session for MELVIN ENDSLEY. "I'll Get Even With You"/"Can I
Say Something" becomes his first singles for the label (MGM 12763,
February). Backing by : Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; The Jordanaires (vocal
chorus) ; more details unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in
Nashville.
January 12-13, 1959 : Two days of sessions for LLOYD PRICE at Bell Sound Studio in New York City, where he records eight tracks for the LP "The Exciting Lloyd Price" (ABC-Paramount 277, February) : "Mailman Blues", "A Foggy Day", "Just Because" and "Why" on the 12th and "What Do You Do To My Heart", "I Wish Your Picture Was You", "Oh Oh Oh" and "Talking About Love" on the 13th. Produced and conducted by Don Costa. (With thanks to Bill Daniels.)
Tuesday, January 13, 1959 : Three-track session by THE CHAMPS. "Moonlight Bay" will be used as the B-side of "Caramba" (from a later session) in April (Challenge 59043). "Wing Ding" and "Streamliner" are first released on the LP "Spotlight On The Champs And The Fabulous Cyclones" (Design DLP 159) in 1962. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Dale Norris (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
January 13, 1959 : BOBBY COMSTOCK and the Counts record a single in New York City for Herb Abramson's new Triumph label. "Jealous Fool"/"Zig Zag" is released in February on Triumph 602. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Henry Jones (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Danny Smalls (piano / arranger) ; Osie Johnson (drums) ; Unknown (background vocals). Produced by Herb Abramson. On June 7, 1963, the rhythm track of "Jealous Fool" was overdubbed by Jimmy Breedlove and issued on Diamond 144 in July 1963. Abramson said it was done because he had faith in the song and wanted to give it another chance to hit.
January 13, 1959 : FREDDIE NEIL waxes the single "Listen Kitten"/"Take Me Back Again" (Brunswick 55117, late January), in New York City. Label credit goes to "Freddie Neil And Friend". It is unknown who the second vocalist is.
January 14, 1959 : A four-track session for THE CRESTS in New York City. "Six Nights A Week"/"I Do" is chosen as the follow-up to their monster hit "Sixteen Candles" (Coed 509, February). "Flower Of Love" will follow in May (Coed 511, c/w "Molly Mae" from the "16 Candles" session in August 1958). Both singles will chart, peaking at # 28 and # 79 respectively. "Let Me Be the One" remains unissued until 1993, when it is included on the CD "The Best Of the Rest Of Johnny Maestro And the Crests" (Ace 322, UK).
January 14, 1959 is the recording date of the BUDDY KNOX single "I Think I'm Gonna Kill Myself"/"Just To Be With You". The release date is March 9 (Roulette 4140). Personnel : Buddy Knox (vocals / guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (lead guitar) ; George Atwood (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
January 15, 1959 : NEIL SEDAKA is at RCA Victor Studio A on 24th Street in New York City for a two-track session. The frantic "I Go Ape" becomes his new single (RCA 7473, February). "As Long As I Live" is included on Neil's first LP, simply called "Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2035, June) and is later used as the B-side of "Breakin' Up Is Hard To Do" (RCA 8046, June 1962). See also January 27. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; King Curtis (sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Plus a 4-piece male vocal chorus. Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced by Al Nevins. Neil himself insists that it is him playing the piano on this session.
January 16, 1959 : WYNN STEWART is contracted to Challenge at this time, where his singles are released on the Jackpot subsidiary (at least in 1958-59). The two tracks from this January session, "Rain, Rain" and "Never Out Of My Heart", are shelved by Challenge and do not see a release until 1988, on the Bear Family 2-LP "Wishful Thinking : The Challenge Years" (BFX 15261). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Studio, Hollywood.
January 17, 1959 : EDDIE COCHRAN records "I Remember" and seven takes of "Teenage Heaven". These two songs appear on his new single (Liberty 55177, rush released on January 22). It seems that the released single version of "Teenage Heaven" was recorded at a different session in January, with Mike Henderson on sax. Also recorded on the 17th are "My Way" and "Rock 'n' Roll Blues", which have to wait until April 1963 for a posthumous release on Liberty LIB 10088 (UK single). Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar / guitar overdub) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; 'Guybo' Smith (bass) ; Plas Johnson, Jackie Kelso (saxes) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Location is Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, California.
January 19, 1959 : ROY BROWN is back at King Records in Cincinnati, where he last recorded in 1955. The session results in two singles : "La-Dee-Dah-Dee"/"Melinda" (King 5178, February) and "Rinky Dinky Doo"/ "I Never Had It So Good" (King 5207, May). Personnel : Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; Osborne Whitfield (tenor sax / flute) ; Charles Crayson (guitar) ; Edwin Conley (bass) ; Jon Thomas (piano) ; Edison Gore (drums).
January 19, 1959 : DON GIBSON records four tracks for the LP "That Gibson Boy" (RCA LPM 2038, September) : "Almost", "Do You Think", "Foggy River" and "Midnight". Location is the RCA Victor studio in Nashville. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Jimmy Selph (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
January 19, 1959 : BILLY RILEY is in the Sun studio in Memphis to cut his next single. "Down By the Riverside"/"No Name Girl" is released on February 1 (Sun 313). "Swanee River Rock" stays in a tape box until 1977, when it is included on the Various artists LP "Sun - The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 9 : Rebel Rockabilly, Vol. 2" (Charly CR 30116, UK). Personnel : Billy Riley (vocals / guitar) ; Pat O'Neill (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Jack Clement and Bill Justis.
January 20, 1959 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, DON AND DEWEY record material for two singles. "Farmer John"/"Big Boy Pete" hits the market in February (Specialty 659). "Little Sally Walker"/"Kill Me" is released on the Specialty subsidiary Fidelity (# 3018) in March 1960. Personnel unknown. "Farmer John" had been previously attempted on October 21, 1957 ; this version was first issued on the "Jungle Hop" CD by Don (Harris) and Dewey (Terry) in 1991 (Specialty SPCD 7008 / Ace 358).
January 21, 1959 : Before embarking on a career of crime, JERRY McGILL cut one single for Sun : "I Wanna Make Sweet Love"/"Lovestruck" (Sun 326, August 11). Credit goes to "Jerry McGill and the Topcoats". Personnel : Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
January 22, 1959 : KIP TYLER and the Flips record their second and last single for Ebb Records : "Hali-Lou"/"Oh Linda" (Ebb 156, March), in Los Angeles. Personnel : Kip Tyler (vocals) ; Mike Deasy (guitar) ; Dave Shostal (bass) ; poss. Bruce Johnston (piano) ; Sandy Nelson (drums). Backing vocals by the band, overdubbed on January 30.
January 26, 1959 : During three 3-hour sessions BRENDA LEE records ten songs for her first LP, "Grandma What Great Songs You Sang!" (Decca DL 8873, August 3) : "St. Louis Blues", "Pennies From Heaven", "Baby Face", "Ballin' the Jack", "Side By Side", " A Good Man Is Hard To Find", "Just Because", "Back In Your Own Backyard", "Some Of These Days" (also used as the B-side of "Let's Jump the Broomstick", Decca 30885, April 27) and "Toot Toot Tootsie Goodbye". Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (electric guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; James Doster, Dutch Gordon, Beverly LeCroy, Gene Mullins (trombones) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 26, 1959 : DON TERRY records his only single, "Knee Shakin'"/ "She Giggles" for release on Lin 5018 in February. The flip features a female voice, Jean Walker. Don's real name is Don Alexander, the former bassist of the Strikes. Personnel : Hal Harris (guitar) ; Buck Henson (bass) ; Link Davis (sax) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Leonard at Gold Star Studio, Houston.
January 27, 1959 : JOHNNY
HORTON cuts his next single, the future number one "The Battle Of New
Orleans"/"All For the Love Of A Girl" (Columbia 41339, April 6).
In Canada the single is already released
in February. Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin
(guitar / arranger) ; Harold Bradley (guitar / banjo) ; Tommy Tomlinson
(guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at
Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 27, 1959 : In New York City, RUTH BROWN cuts four tracks for the LP "Late Date With Ruth Brown" (Atlantic LP 1308, August) : "You And the Night And the Music", "Let's Face the Music And Dance", "No One Ever Tells You" and "I"m Just A Lucky So And So". Arranged and conducted by Richard Wess. Released in Atlantic's Jazz Series.
January 27, 1959 : Second session for NEIL SEDAKA this month, again at RCA Victor Studio A in NYC. "Moon Of Gold" is chosen as the B-side of "I Go Ape" (see January 15) and released on RCA 7473 in February. The up-tempo "I Ain't Hurtin' No More" is a track for Neil's first LP (RCA LPM 2035, June). Personnel is the same as on January 15, except for the vocal chorus, which is made up of three women this time.
January 27-28, 1959 : JOHNNY OTIS and his orchestra spend two days at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. The single "You"/"My Dear" (Capitol 4156, February) is recorded on the 27th, along with "I Apologize" (unissued). Mel Williams is the vocalist on "My Dear". Two tracks are cut on the 28th : "Sunday Meeting" (unissued) and the instrumental "Cold Turkey", which is first released on the CD "Johnny Otis : The Capitol Years" (Capitol 7 92858 2) in 1990.
Thursday, January 29, 1959 : FATS DOMINO records "I'm Ready" at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, with : Herb Hardesty, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Fats himself plays piano, of course. "I'm Ready" is released in April on Imperial 5585 (coupled with "Margie" from a session on October 30, 1958). The undubbed version, without handclaps, was first issued on the Bear Family 8-CD box-set ("Out Of New Orleans") in 1993. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
January 29, 1959 : Second January session by BILL HALEY and his Comets. Four tracks are laid down : "I Got A Woman" (Decca 30844, February, B-side of "Charmaine" from a session on June 18, 1958), "A Fool Such As I"/"Where Did You Go Last Night" (Decca 30873, April) and "Be By Me" (first issued on the Bear Family 5-CD set "The Decca Years And More", BCD 15506, in 1990). Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on January 7.
January 29, 1959 : RAY PRICE cuts the original version of "Heartaches By the Number" (Columbia 41374, April). Three other tracks stay in the can for quite some time. "Beyond the Last Mile" is first issued in 1967 on the LP "Born To Lose" (Harmony HL 7440). "Punish Me Tomorrow" and "Wild And Wicked World" are saved from oblivion by Bear Family (10-CD box "Honky Tonk Years", BCD 15843, 1995). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Pete Wade (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Tommy Jackson, Shorty Lavender (fiddles) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Doug Kirkham (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 29, 1959 : SAMMY SALVO undertakes his last session for RCA, at their Nashville studio. The result is the single "Wolf Boy"/"My Perfect Love" (RCA 7516, April). His next stop is Imperial. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / leader / producer) ; Hank Garland, John D. Loudermilk (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
January 30, 1959 : JOE MAPHIS records at his usual studio in Hollywood, Radio Recorders. "Short Recess"/"Moonshot" is released on Columbia 41353 in April. A third track from this session, "Big Doll", is unissued and lost. Personnel : Joe Maphis (guitar / leader) ; Johnny Bond and Leon Silby (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Plas Johnson (sax, overdubbed) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Don Law.
January 30, 1959 : FREDDIE HART records four tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “The Wall”/“Davy Jones” is released on Columbia 41345 (March 2) and will become Hart’s first chart entry, peaking at # 24 on the country charts. “Farther Than My Eyes Can See” and “My Kind Of Love” were scheduled for release on Columbia 41439, but this single was withdrawn. “Farther Than ..” was issued as an LP track, though (Columbia CL 1792, May 1962). Personnel : Freddie Hart (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harris Martin (harmonica) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Doug Kirkham (drums). Produced by Don Law.
January 31, 1959 : HANK LOCKLIN waxes his new single, "Foreign Car"/ "When the Band Plays the Blues" (RCA 7472, February), at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. Personnel : Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; John D. Loudermilk (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
Between 1 and 22 January, 1959, BUDDY HOLLY tapes several songs at his apartment in New York City. "Wait 'Til the Sun Shines, Nellie" is the first to be released (Coral 62329, August 20, 1962, flip of "Reminiscing", overdubbed 1962). "Slippin' And Slidin'" (slow version) is included on the LP "Reminiscing" (Coral CRL 57426) in February 1963 (overdubbed 1962). "Dearest (Ummm, Oh Yeah)" is overdubbed on November 11, 1963, and first released on the LP "Showcase" (Coral CRL 57450, May 1964). "Smokey Joe's Cafe" and "Love Is Strange" are both overdubbed in 1968 and issued on the album "Giant" (Coral CRL 757504) in January 1969, which also includes a faster version of "Slippin' And Slidin'" (overdubbed August 22, 1968). All overdubs by the Fireballs : George Tomsco (guitar) ; Keith McCormack (rhythm guitar) ; Stan Lark (bass) ; Eric Budd or Doug Roberts (drums). Backing vocals possibly by Vi Petty, George Tomsco, Barbara Tomsco and Homer Tankersley. Overdubs produced by Norman Petty.
(Probably) January 1959, unknown date : JOE BENNETT and the Sparkletones are now contracted to the Paris label in New York City and record their first single for the label : "Bayou Rock"/"Beautiful One" (Paris 530, March). Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle.
January 1959, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS does a four-track session at Sheldon Recording Studios in Chicago. "Class Cutter (Yeah-Yeah)"/"Lonely Nights" is chosen as the new single (Checker 916, February). A # 52 hit. "Ain't That Lovin' You Baby" comes out on Checker 923 in April (c/w "My Dream" from a later session). "Boy Meets Girl" stays in the vaults until the release of the CD "Rock 'n' Roll Tornado" (Ace 693, UK) in 1998. Personnel : Roy Buchanan, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Unknown (sax) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Dean Mathis (harmony vocal on "Ain't That Lovin' You Baby") ; The Moonglows (background vocals on "Lonely Nights") ; Chuck Barksdale (bass vocal on "Class Cutter"). Produced by Leonard Chess.
January 1959, unknown date : Before going on the 'Winter Dance Party' tour, RITCHIE VALENS records three tracks during this month, the last studio recordings of his short life. All three, "Hurry Up", "Stay Beside Me" and "The Paddiwack Song" will be included on his second LP, "Ritchie" (Del-Fi DFLP 1206) in December 1959. Prior to that, "Stay Beside Me" is issued as a single (Del-Fi 4128) in October. "The Paddiwack Song" will also see a release on 45 rpm (Del-Fi 4133, February 1960). Ritchie Valens (vocals / guitar) is supported by : Irving Ashby (rhythm guitar) ; Rene Hall (Danelectro 6-string bass / arranger); Buddy Clark (standup bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Bob Keane at Gold Star studio in Hollywood.
January 1959, unknown date : THE FLEETWOODS record their first single, “Come Softly To Me”/“I Care So Much”, at the Joe Boles Studio in Seattle, Washington. The single was first released on Dolphin 1 in the last week of January. After legal action by John Dolphin’s widow, the name of the label was changed to Dolton and repressed on Dolton 1. In April the single was leased to Liberty and reissued on Liberty 55188. A # 1 hit. The Fleetwoods are : Gary Troxel, Gretchen Christopher and Barbara Ellis. Arranged by Bonnie Guitar, who also plays guitar. Produced by Bob Reisdorff (the label owner) and Bonnie Guitar.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1959
February 1, 1959 : CLIFF THOMAS does his last session for Sun. Five tracks are recorded, resulting in two singles. "I'm the Only One"/"Tidewind" is released on Phillips International 3538 on March 15. The single "To Tell the Truth"/"Silly Blues" is credited to Bobbie and the Boys, with Cliff's sister Barbara handling the lead vocals (Phillips International 3543, June 20). The fifth track, "The Last Goodnight", remains in a tape box until 1999, when it is included on the CD "Sun Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 3" (Charly CPCD 8353). Location : Sun Studio, Memphis. Personnel : Cliff Thomas (vocals / piano) ; Ed Thomas (piano, background vocals) ; Barbara Thomas (vocals) ; more details unknown.
February 2, 1959 : In New York City, NAPPY BROWN cuts the following four songs : "All Right Now" (Savoy 1562, March), "This Is My Confession"/"For Those Who Love" (Savoy 1569, May) and "So Deep" (Savoy 1575, October). Arranged and conducted by Teacho Wiltshire.
February 2 and 5, 1959 : After cutting four tracks on January 27, RUTH BROWN records eight more tracks for the album "Late Date With Ruth Brown" (Atlantic LP 1308, August). On the 2nd she lays down "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To", "Why Don't You Do Right", "I'm Beginning To See the Light" and "I Can Dream, Can't I?" and on February 5 "It Could Happen To You", "I Loves You Porgy", "Bewitched" and "We'll Be Together Again". Arranged and conducted by Richard Wess. Location : New York City.
February 4, 1959 : WEBB PIERCE records his new single, “A Thousand Miles Ago”/“What Goes On In My Heart” (Decca 30858, March). A # 6 country hit. Also laid down is “Waiting A Lifetime”, which is eventually issued in January 1964 (Decca 31582) and reaches # 25 on the country charts. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Thursday, February 5, 1959 : Only two days after the airplane accident, EDDIE COCHRAN records his tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper, at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, accompanied only by his own guitar and an unknown stand-up bass player. The title is of course "Three Stars". The first release in the UK was in 1966 (Liberty 10249, single) and in the USA in 1972, on the United Artists double LP "Legendary Masters Series, no. 4".
February 5, 1959 : JIM REEVES waxes his next single, "Home"/"If Heartache Is the Fashion" (RCA 7479, end of February). "Home" is a Roger Miller composition, soon to be recorded by Jerry Lee Lewis, whose version stays in the can until 1962. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, John D. Loudermilk (guitars) ; Billy Harlan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor studio.
February 6, 1959 : BOB GALLION's penultimate MGM session yields four tracks. Only "You Take the Table And I'll Take the Chairs" is released at the time (MGM 12777, April, c/w "Out Of A Honky Tonk" from a session on November 7, 1956). The other three tracks, "Don't Feel Lonesome", "This Should Go On Forever" and "You Don't Love Me" have to wait until 2000 for a release on the CD "Out Of A Honky Tonk" (Bear Family BCD 16439). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 6, 1959 : On this day, STONEWALL JACKSON records his biggest hit, “Waterloo”/“Smoke Along the Track” (Columbia 41393, May 4). A # 1 country hit (for five weeks), also # 4 pop. “Run” will be used as the B-side of “Mary Don’t You Weep” (recorded on July 21, 1959) and released on Columbia 41533 in November. “Ward Of Broken Hearts” will be included on the LP “The Dynamic Stonewall Jackson” (Columbia CL 1392) in October. Personnel : Grady Martin, Alvin Sutton (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law in Nashville.
February 9, 1959 :
CONNIE FRANCIS records her new single, "If I Didn't
Care"/"Toward the End Of the Day" (MGM 12769, February 16).
"If You Love Me Tonight" is an
EP track (MGM X 1662) later in the year. "No One To Cry To" stays in the vaults until 1987,
when Polydor issues the CD "Rock
Sides 1957-64" (831698-2). "I Really Don't Want To Know" is
not released at all. Arranged, conducted
and produced by Ray Ellis at Metropolitan Studio in New York City.
February 9, 10, 1959 : Even though suffering from laryngitis, CLIFF RICHARD records his first LP, "Cliff" (Columbia SX 1147, April), live in front of an invited audience of 200 to 300 fans, at Abbey Road Studios in London, England. There are sixteen tracks on the album (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliff_(album)), two of which are by Cliff's backing group, the Shadows (then known as the Drifters). Personnel : Cliff Richard (vocals) ; Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums) ; The Mike Sammes Singers (background vocals on "Danny" and "Donna"). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
February 10, 1959 : JEFF
BARRY (real name Joel Adelberg), an unknown
songwriter at this time, records the single, "Hip
Couple"/"It's Called Rock 'n'
Roll" (RCA 7477, late February) in New York City. Personnel : Jeff Barry
(vocals / piano) ; Ernest Calabria (guitar) ; Jack Lasberg (bass) ; King Curtis
(tenor sax) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Lee Shapiro and Charles
Grean.
February 10, 1959 :
FARON YOUNG is back at Bradley Studio in Nashville for another Capitol session.
"That's the Way It's Gotta Be"/"We're Talking It Over" is
chosen as the next single (Capitol 4164, March 16). "I Made A Fool Of
Myself" is first issued in February 1961, on the LP "Fan Club
Favorites / Hello Walls" (Capitol T 1528). Personnel (probably) : Hank
Garland, Grady Martin, Jack Shook (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (tic tac guitar) ;
Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ;
Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 11, 1959 : GLEN GLENN is at Western Recorders in Hollywood where he waxes four tracks. "Susie Green From Abilene"/"Goofin' Around" comes out on Dore 523 in June. "Wait Wait" and "Kitty Cat" stay in the can (at least in these versions). Backing by Ernie Freeman and his combo, including Ernie Freeman on piano and Plas Johnson on saxophone.
February 11, 1959 : Session guitarist ROLAND JANES cuts five tracks in his own right, all originally unissued. "Little Bitty Pretty Girl", "Hey, Good Lookin'" and "Rolando" are first released on the 12-LP set "Sun Records : The Rocking Years" (Sun/Charly BOX 106) in 1986. In 1990 Bear Family issues Roland's LP "Guitarville" (BFX 15340), which includes "Roland's Groove" and a second version of "Ronaldo". "Uncle Sam Rock" is a track on the Various artists CD "706 Union Instrumentals" (Charly CPCD 8302), from 1997. Location : the Sun studio in Memphis. Personnel : Roland Janes, Billy Riley (guitars) ; Eddie Cash (vocals on "Little Bitty Pretty Girl" and "Hey Good Lookin'") ; Pat O'Neill (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Jack Clement and Bill Justis.
February 11, 1959 : TONY CONN records the single "Run Rabbit Run"/"You Pretty Thing" (Decca 30865, April 6) in New York City. Issue 38 of the UK magazine Now Dig This (May 1986) contains an interview with Conn, where he claims that the single was recorded in January 1959, with King Curtis on tenor sax, Jerry Lee Lewis on piano, The Kalin Twins on back- ground vocals and J.P. Richardson (who died on February 3, 1959) as co-producer. Very unlikely, but included here for curiosity's sake. (With thanks to Jean-Marc Pezet.)
February 11, 1959 : JAMIE AND JANE (Gene Pitney and Ginny Arnell) record the single “Snuggle Up Baby”/“Strolling” (Decca 30862, March), at the Pythian Temple in New York City. Orchestra directed by Jack Pleis. Produced by Harry Meyerson.
February 12, 1959 : LaVERN BAKER records three songs in New York City : "For Love Of You", the later flipside of "Tiny Tim" (Atlantic 2041, October) and two tracks which will appear on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071, December 1962) : "Trying" and "Endless Love". Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Belton Evans (drums). Plus a string section and a 7-piece vocal backing group. Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 12, 1959 : THE PLATTERS have another session at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. Two tracks from a recent session (December 28, 1958) are overdubbed : "Enchanted" and "Wish It Were Me". Newly recorded are "The Sound And the Fury" (rush-released on Mercury 71427, coupled with "Enchanted") and "To Each His Own" (Mercury 71697, September 1960). Produced by Buck Ram.
February 12, 1959 : At Bradley Film & Recording Studio in Nashville, MARVIN RAINWATER records his next single, "Love Me Baby (Like There's No Tomorrow)"/"That's When I'll Stop Loving You" (MGM 12773, March). The pianist is Floyd Cramer, other session details unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
February 13, 1959 : Four-track session for THE VELOURS at Metropolitan Studios in New York City. "Tired Of Your Rock & Rollin'"/"Blue Velvet" is released on Cub 9029 in March. "I Hadn't Anyone Till You" and "Please Don't Kiss Me Goodbye" remain in the vaults. Backing by Sammy Lowe and his orchestra, with King Curtis on tenor sax. The Velours are : Keith Williams (lead vocal) ; Eugene Mountain ; Don Haywoode ; John Cheatdom ; Jerome Ramos ; Richard Pitts.
Tuesday, February 17, 1959 : CHUCK BERRY is back at the Chess studio in Chicago to record four tracks. "Almost Grown" becomes the B-side of his new 45, "Little Queenie" (recorded on October 21, 1958), released in March on Chess 1722. "Back In the USA" follows in June (Chess 1729, c/w the previously recorded "Memphis Tennessee"). The instrumental "Blue On Blue" is first issued in 1974 on the double LP "Chess Golden Decade, Vol. 3" (Chess 2CH-60028) and "Do You Love Me" on the LP "America's Hottest Wax" (Reelin' LP 001) in 1979. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Fred Below (drums) ; The Marquees and Etta James (background vocals).
February 17, 1959 : JOHNNY OTIS records two duets with MARCI LEE : "Telephone Baby"/"Castin' My Spell"(Capitol 4168, March). On his own Otis cuts "I'll Do the Same Thing For You", which will become the B-side of "Three Girls Named Molly" (from a later session) in May (Capitol 4226). Arranged by Johnny Otis, produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
February 18, 1959 : A real classic is committed to tape on this day : "What'd I Say" by RAY CHARLES. The long track (6:24) is released in two parts in June (Atlantic 2031) and will top the R&B charts (also # 6 pop). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / electric piano) ; Dave Newman (alto sax, tenor sax) ; Bennie Crawford (baritone sax) ; Unknown (trumpets) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Milt Turner (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal group). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
February 18, 1959 : 14-year-old RONNIE DIAMOND is flown in from Honolulu, Hawaii, for his second (and last) Imperial session. The harvest is two singles, "Life Begins At 4 O'Clock"/"Tell Me" (Imperial 5588, May) and "Pretty Please"/"When We Kiss" (Imperial 5605, September), plus two unissued tracks, "Like A Fool" and "I Love To Hold You". The location is Los Angeles, California, probably Master Recorders.
February 18, 1959 : GUY MITCHELL records two songs at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, with The Easy Riders. "Alias Jesse James" (from the film of the same name) is the B-side of his next single (Columbia 41359, March 16, c/w "Pride O'Dixie" from a session on November 25, 1958). "I'm Gonna Leave You Now" follows on May 11 (Columbia 41397, c/w "Loosen Up Lucy", recorded on September 26, 1958). Arranged by Frank De Vol.
February 18, 1959 : CONWAY TWITTY spends the afternoon at Bradley Studio in Nashville. His next single is "Hey Little Lucy" (MGM 12785, April, c/w "When I'm Not With You" from a session on November 21, 1958). The single after that is "Mona Lisa" (MGM 12804, June 18, c/w "Heavenly" from a later session). Also recorded are three tracks for Twitty's first LP ("Conway Twitty Sings", MGM E 3744, March) : "Hallelujah I Love Her So", "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "Sentimental Journey". Personnel : Al Bruno, Ray Edenton (guitars) : Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
February 19, 1959 : Last Atlantic session for THE BOBBETTES, in New York City. "Don't Say Goodnight"/"You're My Sweetheart" is selected for single release (Atlantic 2027, April). The other two tracks from this session are "I Shot Mr. Lee" and "Untrue Love", which are eventually released on Atlantic 2069 in July 1960, after the girls scored a hit with a re-recording of "I Shot Mr. Lee" for the Triple-X label. Personnel : George Barnes, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Reggie Obrecht (piano / arranger) ; Sticks Evans (drums). The Bobbettes are : Emma Pought (lead vocal), Laura Webb, Reather Dixon, Helen Gathers and Jannie Pought.
February 19, 1959 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo do a five-track session in Los Angeles, but only one track is released : "The Honey Dripper" (the old Joe Liggins hit). It is coupled with "Marshmallows, Popcorn And Soda Pop" (recorded on January 6) for release on Imperial 5574 in April. Unissued are : "Someone's Rockin' My Dreamboat", "Enchanted Meadow", "There's A Day Coming" and an unknown title.
February 19, 1959 : LITTLE ESTHER cuts the single "It's So Good"/"Do You Ever Think Of Me" (Savoy 1563, March), in New York City, with unknown musicians. A third track, "Papa Do", is eventually released in 1979, on the Various artists LP "Ladies Sing the Blues" (Savoy SJL 2233).
February 19, 1959 : DINAH WASHINGTON is at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City to record her next single, "What A Diff'rence A Day Makes"/ "Come On Home" (Mercury 71435, April, a # 8 pop hit), as well as the LP tracks "Time After Time" and "I Won't Cry Anymore". Arranged and conducted by Belford Hendricks, whose orchestra supplies the accompaniment, with Panama Francis on drums.
February 20, 1959 : BILLY GRAMMER records the follow-up to his big hit "Gotta Travel On" : "Bonaparte's Retreat"/"The Kissing Tree" (Monument 403, April). Bob Moore is listed as bassist, arranger and producer, Fred Foster as "executive producer". Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
February 21, 1959 :
JIMMY BOWEN does another session at Norman Petty's studio in Clovis, New
Mexico. Both "You Made Me Love You" and "Eenie Meenie Minie
Mo" stay in the can until the appearance of the 2-CD "The Complete
Roulette Recordings [Of] Buddy Knox and Jimmy Bowen" (Sequel NED CD 278)
in 1996. Personnel : Jimmy Bowen (vocals / guitar) ; with possibly Sonny Curtis
(lead guitar) ; George Atwood (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by
Norman Petty.
February 21, 1959 : Last session of RAY SMITH's first tenure at Sun. "Rockin' Bandit"/"Sail Away" is selected for single release (Sun 319, March 23), after overdubs (on "Rockin' Bandit") at an unknown date in March. "I'll Try" is first issued on Ray's CD "Rockin' Little Angel : The Sun Years, Plus" (Bear Family BCD 16936) in 2009. Personnel : Ray Smith (vocals) ; Stanley Walker (harmony vocals on "Sail Away") ; Brad Suggs, Billy Riley (guitars) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Location : Sun Studio, 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee.
February 22, 1959 : HOMER AND JETHRO spend the afternoon (14:00-17:30) at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Their next single is "Middle-Aged Teenager"/"Don't Sing Along (On Top Of Old Smoky)" (RCA 7493, March). Unissued from this session are "Country Music Blues" and "Rock-A-Bye Baby". Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocals / mandolin) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 23, 1959 : PERCY MAYFIELD is now contracted to Imperial Records in Hollywood. His first single for the label is "One Love"/"My Reward" (Imperial 5577), recorded on this day and released in April.
February 24, 1959 : In New York City, VARETTA DILLARD records her next single, "Scorched"/"Good Gravy Baby", for release on Triumph 608 in May. Produced by Herb Abramson. Personnel unknown.
February 25, 1959 : ERNIE BARTON is in the Sun Studio to record "Open the Door Richard" and "Shut Your Mouth". These titles were scheduled for release on Phillips International 3541, but nobody has ever seen a copy, though Barton has insisted that it was actually released. The version of "Open the Door Richard" that appears on many Billy Riley compilations may actually be the Barton version. Seven other tracks are recorded at this session, of which only "Wedding Bells" has been released, on the Various artists CD "Sun Hillbilly" (Charly CPCD 8181) in 1996. Personnel : Ernie Barton (vocals / producer) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass / second vocal on "Open the Door Richard") ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal on "Shut Your Mouth").
February 25, 1959 :
WILBERT HARRISON records the future number one "Kansas
City"/"Listen My Darling" (Fury 1023, March) in New York City.
"Kansas City", written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, was
originally recorded by Little Willie
Littlefield in 1952 as "K.C. Loving". Personnel : Wilbert Harrison
(vocals / piano) ; Jimmy Spruill (guitar) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; "Fat
Duck" (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus on
"Listen My Darling"). Produced by Bobby Robinson.
February 25, 1959 : LITTLE WALTER is at the Chess studio in Chicago and cuts four songs. "Crazy Mixed Up World"/"My Baby Is Sweeter" is his next single, released on Checker 919 in March. "Baby" and "Worried Life" are first released on the Canadian LP "Blue And Lonesome" (Le Roi Du Blues 33-2007) in 1970. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica ) ; Luther Tucker, Jimmy Lee Robinson (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; George Hunter (drums).
February 25, 1959 : CHARLIE RICH records the single "Rebound"/"Big Man" (Phillips International 3542, June 20) and a slow piano instrumental, "Sad News", which will be released in December 1960, coupled with another instrumental, "Red Man" (from a later session), on Sun 354, under the pseudonym Bobby Sheridan. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus on "Sad News"). Produced by Jack Clement at the Sun studio in Memphis.
February 25, 1959 : First Capitol session by ROSE MADDOX. “Gambler’s Love”/ “What Makes Me Hang Around” becomes her first single for the label (Capitol 4177), released on April 7. “Billy Cline” is saved until August 1960, when it is issued on Capitol 4432 (c/w “Shining Silver, Gleaming Gold”, recorded on January 25 1960). “Lies and Alibis” is first issued in 1993 on the box-set “Sing A Little Song Of Heartache” (Bear Family BCD 15743). Personnel : Cal Maddox (guitar / harmony vocals) ; John Lee Newman (guitar) ; Henry Ford Maddox (mandolin) ; Charles Shults (bass) ; Joe Billy Hodges (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
February 26, 1959 : TRINI LOPEZ does a four-track session at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Rock On"/"Since I Don't Have You" is released on King 5187 in March, "Love Me Tonight" on King 5198 in May and "It Hurts To Be In Love" on King 5344 in May 1960.
February 27, 1959 : CLYDE McPHATTER is about to leave Atlantic Records. His last session yields "Since You've Been Gone" (Atlantic 2028, May) and "You Went Back On Your Word" (Atlantic 2038, September). Both singles are coupled with left-over tracks from a session by Clyde and the Drifters on March 14, 1954 : "Try Try Baby" and "There You Go" respectively. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
Saturday, February 28, 1959 : BO DIDDLEY does another session at the Chess studio in Chicago. None of the five tracks is released as a single. "Come On Baby" appears on the LP "Have Guitar, Will Travel" (Checker LP 2974, January 1960). "Lazy Woman" and "Mama Mia" will both be included on the LP "Bo Diddley And Company" (February 1963) and "What Do You Know About Love" is first released in mid-1966 on "The Originator" (Checker LP 3001). The fifth song from this session, "Bucket", stays in the vaults until 1993, when Bo's 12-CD box-set "The Chess Years, 1955-1973" (Charly CD RED BOX 8) is issued. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Lady Bo (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Frank Kirkland (drums).
(Circa) February 1959, unknown date : SANFORD CLARK's second Jamie session results in the single "Bad Luck"/"My Jealousy" (Jamie 1120, March). The drummer is Bob Taylor, more details unknown. Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
Late February 1959, unknown date : LARRY DONN cuts the single "Honey Bun"/ "That's What I Call A Ball" at KLCN Radio in Blytheville, Arkansas. Released on Vaden 113 in March or April. Personnel : Larry Donn (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Benny Kuykendall, Tommy Holder, Bobby Brown (guitars) ; Scotty Kuykendall (electric bass) ; Roy 'Speck' Mullins (standup bass) ; Teddy Redell (piano) ; Johnny Welker (drums). Produced by Arlen Vaden.
February 1959, unknown
date : NARVEL FELTS records "Three Thousand Miles" at CKSL Radio
Station studio, London, Ontario, Canada. Release on Pink 701 in May, coupled
with "Cutie Baby" from a later session (produced by Ray Harris). Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocals /
guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (piano) ;
Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Narvel
Felts and the band.
February 1959, unknown date : JOHNNY AND THE HURRICANES record their first single, "Crossfire"/"Lazy", at a disused cinema in Detroit, produced by Harry Balk and Irving Micahnik. The (instrumental) single is first released on Twirl 1001 in March and then on Warwick 502 in April. Personnel : Johnny Paris (sax) ; Dave Yorko (guitar) ; Lionel Mattice (bass) ; Paul Tesluk (organ) ; Tony Kaye (drums).
February 1959, unknown date : TEDDY REDELL waxes his first single, "Knocking On the Back Side"/"Before It Began" (Vaden 110, March), at radio station KLCN in Blytheville, Arkansas. Personnel : Teddy Redell (vocals / piano) ; Fred Dale Douglas (guitar) ; Roy Molenick (upright bass) ; Unknown (drums). Produced by Arlen Vaden.
February 1959, unknown
date : The instrumental group THE WAILERS cuts its first record, "Tall
Cool One"/"Road Runner", in Lakewood, Washington, under the
supervision of Clark Galehouse. Released in April on Golden Crest 518. The single will chart twice : in 1959 (peak
position # 36) and in 1964 (peak position # 38). Personnel : Rich Dangel (lead
guitar) ; John Greek (rhythm guitar) ; Kent Morrill (piano) ; Mark Marush
(tenor sax) ; Mike Burk (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker, Bill Daniels and Frank Frantik.
Dik
MARCH 1959
Monday, March 2, 1959 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record their next single at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville : the double-sided hit "Take A Message To Mary"/"Poor Jenny" (Cadence 1364, mid-March). A third song, "Oh True Love", does not see a release on Cadence, but will be rerecorded in 1960 for the first Warner Bros LP. Personnel : Don and Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Chet Atkins, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
March 2-3, 1959 : Final Keen session for SAM COOKE. "Wonderful World" (recorded on March 2) is saved until April 14, 1960, for release on Keen 2112 (c/w "Along the Navajo Trail" from an earlier session). Four religious songs are recorded on March 3 : "That's Heaven To Me", "I Thank God", "Deep River" and "Steal Away". They are first released in May 1960 on the LP "I Thank God" (Keen 86103), which also features four tracks by the Gospel Harmonettes and four tracks by the Original Blind Boys. "Deep River" (Keen 2117) and "Steal Away" (Keen 2118) are subsequently issued as singles, later in 1960. Personnel : Cliff White (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums, except on "Wonderful World") ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Rene Hall at Sound Enterprises Studio in Hollywood.
March 3, 1959 : LEFTY FRIZZELL records his next single, "The Long Black Veil"/"Knock Again, True Love" (Columbia 41384, April). A # 6 country hit. "Sin Will Be the Chaser For Your Wine" and "One Has-Been To Another" stay in the vaults until the release of the 12-CD box-set "Life's Like Poetry" (Bear Family BCD 15550) in 1992. Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marijohn Wilkin (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 3, 1959 : DION AND THE BELMONTS record their new single, “A Teenager In Love”/“I’ve Cried Before” (Laurie 3027, late March). A # 5 hit. The location is New York City. Dion and the Belmonts are : Dion DiMucci (lead vocals), Angelo D’Aleo, Carlo Mastrangelo and Fred Milano.
March 3 and 5, 1959 : SONNY JAMES visits the
Capitol Tower in Hollywood where he cuts his next two singles : "Talk Of
the School"/"The Table" (Capitol 4178, April) and "Pure
Love"/"This Love Of Mine" (Capitol 4229, June). Personnel :
Sonny James (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Howard Heitmeyer (guitar) ; Marty Corb
(bass) ; Buck Stapleton (percussion) ; Roy Harte (drums) ; The Exciters (vocal
chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
March 4, 1959 : AL JONES is at Master Recorders in Hollywood to record the single "Loretta"/"I Was Too Late" (Imperial 5589, May). It is a split session with MERLE KILGORE who cuts "Ride Jesse Ride"/"Start All Over Again" (Imperial 5584, April). Personnel : Sonny Jones, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Ritchie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
March 4, 1959 : NEIL SEDAKA records "You
Gotta Learn Your Rhythm and Blues", which is released as his next single
(RCA 7530) in May, and "You Belong To Me", a track for his forthcoming
first LP, later used as the flip of "Next Door To An Angel" (RCA
8086) in September 1962. The B-side of "You Gotta Learn …",
"Crying My Heart Out For You", is recorded on March 11, along with
"Another Sleepless Night" for Neil's debut LP ("Neil Sedaka",
RCA LPM 2035, June). Personnel : Neil Sedaka (vocals / piano) ; Everett
Barksdale, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ;
Milt Hinton (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax / leader) ; Ernie Hayes (piano on March 4) ; Sticks Evans
(drums). Plus a seven-piece mixed vocal chorus. Produced by Al Nevins at RCA
Victor Studio A in New York City.
March 5, 1959 : BOBBY DARIN records the future # 2 hit "Dream Lover"/ "Bullmoose" (Atco 6140, April 6) at Atlantic's studio in New York City. The personnel on this session has been the subject of much speculation and correspondence, but the only thing we know for sure is that Neil Sedaka is the pianist on "Bullmoose" and Sticks Evans the drummer on both sides. Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 5, 1959 : Only six days after his last Atlantic session, CLYDE McPHATTER records his first MGM single : "I Told Myself A Lie"/"The Masquerade Is Over" (MGM 12780, April), at Metropolitan Studios in New York City. Arranged, conducted and produced by Ray Ellis.
March 6, 1959 : THE DRIFTERS have their first recording session in the new line-up (the former Five Crowns, minus James Clark). "There Goes My Baby"/"Oh My Love" (both sides with Ben E. King on lead vocal) becomes the new single (Atlantic 2025, May) and a big hit (# 1 R&B, # 2 pop). "Baltimore" and "Hey Senorita" (both with Charlie Thomas on lead, the former together with Elsbeary Hobbs) will end up on the B-sides of "This Magic Moment" (Atlantic 2050, February 1960) and "Lonely Winds" (Atlantic 2062, May 1960) respectively. Personnel : Ben E. King (Benjamin Nelson), Charlie Thomas, Elsbeary Hobbs, Dock Green (vocals) ; Reggie Kimber (guitar) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums, tympani) ; Plus a string section (four violins, one cello). Arranged by Stan Applebaum, except "Hey Senorita" arranged by Reggie Obrecht. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Coastal Studios in New York City.
March 7, 1959 : Yet another session for Atlantic Records. RUTH BROWN records two singles : "I Can't Hear A Word You Say"/"Jack O'Diamonds" (Atlantic 2026, May) and "I Don't Know"/"Papa Daddy" (Atlantic 2035, September). Personnel : King Curtis, Budd Johnson (tenor saxes) ; Jimmy Cleveland (trombone) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Unknown (background vocals). Arranged by Howard Biggs, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
March 8, 1959 : VERNON TAYLOR waxes five songs at the Sun Studio in Memphis : early versions of "Sweet And Easy To Love" and "Mystery Train" (first released on the 12-LP box "The Rocking Years", Sun Box 106, 1986), "Breeze" (unissued version), "This Kinda Love" (released as a French Sun single in 1976 and also on Sun LP 1031 by Charly) and an incomplete version of "What Would I Do Without You". Produced by Jack Clement.
March 9, 1959 : Sax man BOOTS RANDOLPH cuts a single with one vocal and one instrumental side, "Greenback Dollar"/"Blue Guitar" (RCA 7515, April). Like his previous two RCA singles, it is credited to Randy Randolph. Personnel : Boots Randolph (vocals / sax) ; James Rich (guitar / leader) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 9, 1959 : Two-song session for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. "Never Mind" will be issued as the B-side of "Mean Streak" (recorded on November 14, 1958) on May 1 (Columbia DB 4290). A first attempt at "Dynamite" will stay in the vaults until 2008, when it is included on the EMI CD "Cliff Richard : The Early Years". Produced by Norrie Paramor.
March 10, 1959 : THE "5" ROYALES record their next single, "Miracle Of Love"/"I Know It's Hard, But It's Fair" in Cincinnati, for almost immediate release on King 5191.
March 11, 1959 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, THURSTON HARRIS records material for two singles : "Runk Bunk"/"Bless Your Heart" (Aladdin 3452, late March) and "Paradise Hill"/"Slip Slop" (Aladdin 3456, May). Personnel and producer unknown.
March 11, 1959 : Final Aladdin session by
SHIRLEY AND LEE. The single "When Day Is Done"/"True Love Never
Dies" is released on Aladdin 3455 in
May. "So Tired" stays in the vaults until Bear Family releases
the 4-CD set "Shirley & Lee : The Sweethearts Of the Blues" (BCD
15960) in 1997. Location : Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
Thursday, March 12, 1959 : LaVERN BAKER lays
down "I Waited Too Long",
which is rush-released on Atlantic 2021 (c/w "You're Teasing
Me" from a session on December 18,
1958). The song's composer, Neil Sedaka, is
among the session men, not on piano this time, but on guitar. One
other title is recorded (title unknown,
unissued). Personnel : Mickey Baker, Wally Richardson, Neil Sedaka (guitars) ;
Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Howard Biggs (piano) ; Phil
Kraus (xylophone) ; Sticks Evans
(drums). Plus a 7-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced
by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
March 12, 1959 : HANK BALLARD, who usually records in Cincinnati, does a New York session, possibly at Bell Sound Studio. "I'll Keep You Happy" is the B-side of his new single (King 5195, late March, c/w "Kansas City" from a session on November 13, 1958). "Rain Down Tears" is also used as a B-side (for "Sugaree" from a later session, King 5215, June). "She's Got A Whole Lot Of Soul" stays on the shelf until June 1964, when it is released on King 5901. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth and Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Unidentified (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; George DeHart (drums).
March 12, 1959 : JOHNNY CASH records twelve songs between 3:00 pm and 11:00 pm. The single "I Got Stripes"/"Five Feet High And Rising" will appear on June 29 (Columbia 41427). "You Dreamer You" is used as the B-side of Johnny's new single, "Frankie's Man Johnny", recorded on August 8, 1958 (Columbia 41371, late March). The other nine songs are released on the LP "Songs Of Our Soil" (Columbia CL 1339, August) : "The Man On the Hill", "Hank And Joe And Me", "The Caretaker", "I Want To Go Home", "Clementine", "Old Apache Squaw", "Don't Step On Mother's Roses", "The Great Speckled Bird" and "My Grandfather's Clock". Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 12, 1959 : ERSEL HICKEY cuts his next two singles at Columbia Studio in New York City : "You Threw A Dart"/"Don't Be Afraid Of Love" (Epic 9309, April) and "People Gotta Talk"/"I Can't Love Another" (Epic 9320, June). A fifth track, "Shame On Me", is first released on the LP "The Rockin' Bluebird" (Back-Trac 18750) in 1985. Al Caiola plays guitar, other session players unknown. Arranged and conducted by Billy Mure, produced by Joe Sherman.
March 13, 16-19, 1959 : Five days of recording activity by DUANE EDDY, at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. "Quiniela", "Only Child" and "Fuzz" (all for his second LP, "Especially For You", Jamie LP 3006, May) are recorded on the 13th and overdubbed by Plas Johnson (sax) on March 24 in L.A. "Peter Gunn" follows on March 16 (in the UK this was lifted from the LP as a single, and after its success there, also in the US on Jamie 1168, in October 1960), and "Hard Times", "Trouble In Mind" and "Along the Navajo Trail" on March 17, all for the LP. Four further album tracks are laid down on March 18 : "Tuxedo Junction", "Lover", "Just Because" and "Along Came Linda". The last two will be overdubbed on March 24 and are used as B-sides in the 1960s : "Along Came Linda" in August 1961 (Jamie 1200, b/w "My Blue Heaven") and "Just Because" in May 1962 (Jamie 1224, b/w "Runaway Pony"). The undubbed versions of the singles "Forty Miles Of Bad Road"/"The Quiet Three" (Jamie 1126, June) and "Some Kind-a Earthquake"/"First Love, First Tears" (Jamie 1130, September) are also recorded during this week. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar) ; Corki Casey (guitar) ; Al Casey (guitar / banjo / piano) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass guitar) ; Jimmy Simmons (string bass) ; Steve Douglas (tenor sax) ; Mike Bermani (drums) ; Bob Taylor (drums) ; Dolph Dial Payer (bongos on March 18). Rebel yells by the Sharps and strings overdubbed later. Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood.
March 14, 1959 : Four-track session for THE CHAMPS at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Caramba" is the A-side of their next single (Challenge 59043, late March, c/w "Moonlight Bay" from a session two months earlier). "Rockin' Crickets" is first released on the CD "Wing Ding" (Ace 460, UK) in 1993. "I Like Girls" (a vocal track, the other three are instrumentals) and "Alouette" were included on a 5-volume mp3 set by the Champs called "Much More Tequila" in 2008. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Dale Norris (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
March 14, 1959 : CARL PERKINS is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records material for two singles. "Pointed Toe Shoes"/"Highway Of Love" comes out on Columbia 41379 in April, followed by "One Ticket To Loneliness"/"I Don't See Me In Your Eyes Anymore" (Columbia 41449) in August. Andy Goodrich is the sax player, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Don Law.
March 16, 1959 : At Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, DON GIBSON records two of his own songs, "Lonesome Old House"/"I Couldn't Care Less" for release on RCA 7505 in April. There's also a first attempt at "Don't Tell Me Your Troubles". This version is first released in 1982 on the LP "Rockin' Rollin' Gibson" (Bear Family BFX 15089). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Hank Garland, Ray Edenton, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus).
March 16, 1959 : Penultimate Savoy session for BIG MAYBELLE, in New York City. "A Good Man Is Hard To Find" is issued on Savoy 1572 in July (c/w "Pitiful" from a session on May 14, 1956). "I Ain't Got Nobody"/"Goin' Home Baby" is saved until February 1961 for release on Savoy 1595. A fourth track, "How It Lies", remains unissued.
March 18, 1959 : OTIS WILLIAMS and his Charms do a three-track session in Cincinnati, Ohio. "I Knew It All the Time"/"Tears Of Happiness" is an April release (DeLuxe 6185). "Funny What True Love Can Do" will appear in July (DeLuxe 6187, c/w an overdubbed 1957 recording, "Blues Stay Away From Me"). Earlier in the month (March 6), the group had recorded the 45 "Watchdog"/ "My Prayer Tonight" (DeLuxe 6183, mid-March). Line-up : Otis Williams (lead vocal) ; Rollie Willis (baritone) ; Lonnie Carter (tenor / baritone) ; Winfred Gerald (tenor) ; Matt Williams (bass).
March 20, 1959 : After the split-up of Mickey & Sylvia, Mickey Baker has found a new female singing partner in Kitty Noble. MICKEY & KITTY record the single "Ooh-Sha-La-La"/"The Kid Brother" on this day (Atlantic 2024, April), as well as the unissued track "Teen Talk". Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Kitty Noble (vocals) ; Everett Barksdale, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Location : New York City.
Sunday, March 22, 1959 : JERRY LEE LEWIS does a lengthy session at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. "I Could Never Be Ashamed Of You" becomes the flip of "Little Queenie" (from a later session) on Sun 330 (September 15). "Hillbilly Music" (aka "Hillbilly Fever" and "Country Music Is Here To Stay") will get a place on Jerry's second LP, "Jerry Lee's Greatest" (Sun LP 1265, December 1961). The instrumental "Near You" will appear on the UK album "Jerry Lee Lewis And His Pumping Piano" (Charly CR 300002) in 1975. Several versions of "My Blue Heaven" are recorded, but these stay in the can until the box-set age. Also, there are nine early attempts at "Let's Talk About Us". Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Arranged by Bill Justis, produced by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement.
March 23, 1959 : CONWAY TWITTY pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Heavenly" (MGM 12804, June 18) and "Halfway To Heaven" (MGM 12826, August 24) will serve as the B-sides for "Mona Lisa" and "Danny Boy" respectively. "Just Because" is a track for the LP "Lonely Blue Boy" (MGM SE 3818, February 1960) and "Cry Jane Cry" was originally unissued, until its appearance on Bear Family BFX 15174 in 1985 (8-LP set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years"). "Teasin'" comes probably from a session on March 18 and was released as MGM 12943 in September 1960. Personnel : Al Bruno, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (standup bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
March 24, 1959 : Two-song session for THE CRESTS in New York City. "The Angels Listened In" is issued on Coed 515 in July, c/w "I Thank the Moon" from a session on June 25, 1958. A # 22 pop hit. "Good Golly Miss Molly" is first included on the LP "The Crests Sing All Biggies" (Coed LPC 901, February 1960) and then released as a single (Coed 543) in December 1960. Lead vocal by Johnny Maestro.
March 24, 1959 : LARRY WILLIAMS's penultimate Specialty session yields the single "I Can't Stop Loving You"/"Steal A Little Kiss" (Specialty 665, April). Location is Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Personnel : Larry Williams (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; Harold Battiste (alto sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; William E. Green (tenor sax) ; Gerald Wilson (trumpet) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Earlier in the month (on March 11) Larry had recorded "Ting A Ling", which was first released on the LP "Here's Larry Williams" (Specialty SP 2109, October) and later as a single (Specialty 682, January 1960). "Ting A Ling" was overdubbed with a vocal chorus (The Blossoms) on August 5, 1959.
March 25, 1959 : LLOYD PRICE cuts his next single, "Personality"/"Have You Ever Had the Blues" (ABC-Paramount 10018, April) at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. A # 2 pop hit (# 1 R&B). Personnel : Lloyd Price (vocals) ; Bill Jones (guitar) ; Ted Curson (trumpet) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Produced by Don Costa.
March 25, 1959 : Final Specialty session for RODDY JACKSON. "Gloria"/ "Any Old Town" is selected for his next single (Specialty 666, May). "I Found A New Girl" is first released on the Various artists LP "Rock 'n' Roll Party, Vol. 7" (Ace CH 221, UK) in 1987. "Give A Little Love" remains unissued. Personnel : Roddy Jackson (vocals / piano) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Ted Brinson (bass) ; William E. Green (tenor sax) ; Jewell Grant (baritone sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Sonny Bono at Sounds Enterprises in Hollywood.
March 26, 1959 : DEE CLARK does his second session for the Abner label, in Chicago. "Just Keep It Up"/"Whispering Grass" is released on Abner 1026 in April and peaks at # 18 on the Billboard pop charts. "Hey Little Girl" follows in August (Abner 1029, c/w "If It Wasn't For Love" from a session on July 1, 1958) and does almost as well, peaking at # 20. Background vocals by the Anita Kerr Singers. Arranged and conducted by Riley Hampton, produced by Calvin Carter.
March 26, 1959 : In New York City (Atlantic Studios) THE COASTERS record the great double-sider "Along Came Jones"/"That Is Rock & Roll" (Atco 6141, April). The A-side will peak at # 9 on the Billboard pop charts. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Will 'Dub' Jones, Cornel Gunter (vocals) ; Mike Stoller (piano / temple blocks / arranger) ; Alan Hanlon, Tommy Mottola (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; George Barnes (banjo) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
March 26, 1959 is the recording date of the single "Party Kiss"/"The Creation Of Love" by JOHNNY FALLIN (Capitol 4216, May). Personnel not known. Produced by Ken Nelson in Nashville.
March 26, 1959 : JIMMY REED records his next single at an unknown Chicago studio : "Take Out Some Insurance Baby"/"You Know I Love You" (Vee Jay 314, April). "I'm Nervous" ends up on the LP "Found Love" (Vee-Jay LP 1022, July 1960). "You're Mine Little Girl" has never been issued. Personnel : Jimmy Reed (vocals / harmonica) ; William 'Lefty' Bates, Eddie Taylor (guitars) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
March 26, 1959 : KATIE WEBSTER records the single ”Open Arms”/“On the Sunny Side Of Love” (Rocko 503, May) at Jay Miller’s studio in Crowley, Louisiana. Personnel : Katie Webster (vocals / piano) ; Ben Singleton (guitar) ; Sherman Webster (bass) ; Lionel Prevost, Danny George (tenor saxes) ; Lightnin’ Mitchell (drums).
March 27, 1959 : JIMMY DONLEY does another session for Decca, which results in his next single, "The Shape You Left Me In"/"What Must I Do" (Decca 30887, April). The third track from this session, "Arleeta" remains in the vaults for more than 50 years, until Bear Family issues the CD "The Shape You Left Me In" (BCD 16534) in 2010. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marion Prof Carpenter (alto sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 31, 1959 : BOBBY JAY (real name Robert J. McCarty, Jr.) records the single "Sweet Little Stranger"/"So Lonely" (Imperial 5590, May) in Los Angeles. The A-side is a Dorsey Burnette composition, the B-side is Jay's own song. Unissued from this session are "Without Your Love" and "Tell Me Now". Backing by : James Burton (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
March 31, 1959 : BOBBY LOUIS waxes the single
"Love At First Sight"/ "Adult Western" (Capitol 4224, June)
in Nashville, under the supervision of Ken Nelson. More details unknown.
March 1959, unknown date : BENNY BARNES records a tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper, called "Gold Records In the Snow" (D 1052, April). Flip is "Happy Little Bluebird", recorded at the same session, at Gold Star Studio in Houston, Texas. Personnel : Hal Harris (lead guitar) ; Earl Aycock (rhythm guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Doc Lewis (piano) ; Bill Kimbrough (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily.
March 1959, unknown date : BRUCE CHANNEL cuts his first single, "Run Romance Run"/"Don't Leave Me" (Teenager TA-601, April), at Blue Bonnet Recording Studios in Fort Worth, Texas. Produced by Marvin Montgomery. After Channel's success with "Hey Baby" the single will be reissued in March 1962 on Manco 1035.
March 1959, unknown date : JOYCE GREEN records her only single, "Black Cadillac"/"Tomorrow" (Vaden 112, late March), at the studio of KLCN radio station in Blytheville, Arkansas. Personnel : Joyce Green (vocals/ rhythm guitar) ; Tommy Holder (guitar) ; Scotty Kuykendall (bass) ; Teddy Redell (piano) ; Harvey Farley (drums). Produced by Arlen Vaden.
March 1959, unknown date : Phil Spector records an instrumental single under the alias PHIL HARVEY. "Bumbershoot"/"Willy Boy" is released at the end of March on Imperial 5583. Personnel : Phil Spector (guitar) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; probably Jimmy Maddin (sax) ; more details unknown. Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood in Los Angeles.
March 1959, unknown date : FLOYD ROBINSON records his only hit (# 20 US, # 9 UK) at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio : "Makin' Love"/"My Girl" (RCA 7529, May). "I Love You" is first released on a Danish LP called "Floyd Robinson" in 1991 (Teenager 613). "Hey Get Me Out Of Here" from this session remains unreleased. Produced by Chet Atkins.
March 1959, unknown date : Guitarists SANTO AND JOHNNY (Farina) record the instrumentals "Sleepwalk" and "All Night Dinner" in New York City for the tiny Brooklyn label Trinity Records. The master is picked up by Canadian- American in May and released on Canadian-American 103 in June. The record will reach the # 1 position on the Billboard pop charts on September 21. Arranged by Hutch Davie, produced by Mort Garson.
With thanks to Peter Stoller, Bill Daniels, Roy Simonds, Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
APRIL 1959
April 1, 1959 : RONNIE AND ROY (Ronald J. Saunders and Roy Lee Lyons) record the single "Big Fat Sally"/"Here I Am" (Capitol 4192, mid-April) and two unissued tracks, "Get Up And Let's Dance" and "Why Break My Heart". "Big Fat Sally" is a "Bony Moronie" styled rocker, featuring Plas Johnson on tenor sax. Location : Capitol Tower, Hollywood.
April 1, 1959 : At RCA Victor Studio A in NYC NEIL SEDAKA records three tracks for his first LP, simply titled "Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2035, June) : "Stupid Cupid", "Fallin'" and "I Waited Too Long". Personnel : Neil Sedaka (vocals / piano) ; Everett Barksdale, Mundell Lowe (guitars) ; Carl Pruitt (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax / leader) ; Phil Bodner (sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Phil Kraus (percussion). Plus a 6-piece mixed vocal chorus. Produced by Al Nevins.
April 2, 1959 : JOHNNY FALLIN does his second Capitol session within a week. "Wild Streak" becomes the B-side of "If I Could Write A Love Song", recorded on March 26 (Capitol 4283, September). "Party Line" is first released on the CD "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 3" (Bear Family BCD 15624) in 1992. "Left Out" stays in the vaults for even longer : it is eventually included on the Various artists CD "The Drugstore's Rockin', Vol. 4" (Bear Family BCD 16678) in 2003. Backing by Johnny Carroll's band : Howard Reed (lead guitar) ; Johnny Carroll (rhythm guitar) ; Grady Owen (bass) ; Bill Hennen (piano) ; Royce McAffe (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 2, 1959 : Yet another Capitol session, by DEAN REED, his second one for the label. It results in the single "A Pair Of Scissors (And a Pot Of Glue)"/"I Kissed A Queen" (Capitol 4198, late April). Location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Personnel : Joe Maphis, Johnny Bond (guitars) ; Skeets McDonald (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
Sunday, April 5, 1959 : ALTON AND JIMMY record the single "No More Crying the Blues"/"Have Faith In My Love" at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, for release on Sun 323 on June 2. Musicians : Alton Lott (vocals / guitar) ; Jimmy Harrell (vocals) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
April 6, 1959 : Three-track session for JOHNNY BOND at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "The Long Tall Shadow" is issued on 20th Century Fox 156 in July (c/w "Gold Rush" from a later session). "Jealous Lead"/"A Kid Named Bill" has to wait until November 1960 for a release on 20th Century Fox 231. Producer and personnel unknown.
April 6, 1959 : The third MGM session by JIMMY NEWMAN results in the single “Lonely Girl”/“I’d Be Fool Enough” (MGM 12790, May). A # 30 country hit. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 7, 1959 : MARTY ROBBINS records an entire LP, "Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs" (Columbia CL 1349, July) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Tracks : "Big Iron", "Cool Water", "Billy the Kid", "A Hundred and Sixty Acres", "They're Hanging Me Tonight", "The Strawberry Roan", "El Paso", "In the Valley", "The Master's Call", "Running Gun", "The Little Green Valley" and "Utah Carol". "El Paso"/"Running Gun" is released as a single (Columbia 41511, # 1 pop and country) on October 26, followed by "Big Iron"/ "Saddle Tramp" (the latter song from a session on February 4, 1960) on Columbia 41589 on February 22, 1960. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Louis Dunn (drums) ; The Glaser Brothers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law
April 8, 1959 : THE
FIESTAS record the follow-up to their current hit, "So Fine".
"Our Anniversary"/"I'm Your Slave" is released in July on
Old Town 1069. "Come On And Love Me" is first released on the LP
"The Oh So Fine Fiestas" (Ace LP CH 173, UK) in 1986 and "Things
We Can't Forget" on Ace CDCHD 382 in 1993, an expanded CD release of the
1986 LP.
April 8, 1959 : In London, BILLY FURY records his second single, "Margo (Don't Go)"/"Don't Knock Upon My Door", for release on Decca F 11128 on May 15. Producer : Jack Good ; musical director : Harry Robinson.
April 8, 1959 : JERRY MASON is at the Capitol Studio in New York City where he records his first single, "Strange Feeling"/"Four Winds And Seven Seas" (Kapp 276, May). "Strange Feeling" is co-written by Paul Evans.
April 8-9, 1959 : Two days of sessions by JIMMY McCRACKLIN yield only two releasable tracks : "Let's Do It (The Chicken Scratch)" is chosen as the B-side of "Georgia Slop" (from a session on December 11, 1958) and released on Mercury 71516 in October. "(I'll Be Glad When You're Dead) You Rascal You" comes out in September 1960 on Mercury 71666 (c/w "No One To Love Me" from a 1958 session). All other titles are unissued and lost : "I Know", "Why You Want To", "You're the One", "When I Grow Too Old To Dream", "Straighten Up And Fly Right", "How Long" (an instrumental) and "Jimmy's Blues". Produced by Clyde Otis at Bell Tone Studio in New York City.
April 9-11, 1959 : BILL DOGGETT and his combo record the instrumental LP "On Tour" (King LP 667, November). Most of the tracks are also released as singles. Four songs are cut on April 9 : "Ocean Liner" (King 5204, rush-released), "Zee" (King 5281, October), "Hometown Shout" (King 5684, September 1962) and "The Eagle Speaks" (King-7 1611, a 33 rpm single). The next day the band waxes "Shoo", "The Madison" (King 5204, rush-released), "Backwards" and "Mr. Ballard" (King-7 1611). Finally on April 11, the album is rounded off with "Evening Dreams" (King 5310, December), "Raw Turkey" (King 5319, February 1960) and "Yocky Dock, Parts 1 & 2" (King 5256, September). Location is the King studio in Cincinnati. Personnel : Glenn Childress (trombone) ; Clifford Scott (alto sax) ; Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; Floyd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Bill Doggett (organ) ; Billy Butler (guitar) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Henry Parks (bass on April 11) ; Calvin Shields (drums).
April 10, 1959 : THE PLAY BOYS record the instrumental single "Crazy Daisy"/"Sweet Talk". First release on the tiny Zipp label (100 / 101) from Akron, Ohio, but soon picked up by Imperial (5586, May). "Sweet Talk" will soon be covered by Boots Randolph. It is possible that April 10 is not the recording date, but the day that Imperial bought the masters from Zipp. Personnel : Dick Maloyan (sax, flute) ; Gene Fiocca (piano) ; Newman Williams (bass) ; Tony Taormina (drums).
April 13, 1959 : DORSEY
BURNETTE records material for two singles, in Los Angeles, probably at Master
Recorders. "Lonely Train"/"Misery" is a June release (Imperial 5597). "Way In
the Middle Of the Night"/"Your Love" will follow in May 1960
(Imperial 5668). Personnel : James Burton (electric lead guitar) ; Eddie
Cochran (acoustic guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass guitar) ; Gene Garf (piano) ;
Richie Frost (drums) ; Unknown (banjo).
April 13, 1959 : First Roulette session of RONNIE HAWKINS. "Forty Days"/ "One Of These Days" is selected for the first Roulette single (4154, May). The two other tracks from this session ("Ruby Baby" and "Horace") get a place on the LP "Ronnie Hawkins" (Roulette R 25078, September). Personnel : Ronnie Hawkins (vocals) ; Jimmy Ray Paulman (lead guitar) ; Will 'Pop' Jones (piano) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; Unknown (chorus). Location : Bell Sound Studio, New York City. See also April 29.
April 13, 1959 :
MITCHELL TOROK is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record five songs.
"The P.T.A. Rock and Roll"/"Teenie Weenie Bikini" is his
new single (Decca 30901, May). The other three tracks, "You Drive
Buddy", "Here I Come Cruel World" and "Cryin' Honky Tonk
Blues" stay in the vaults until 1996, when Bear Family includes them on
the 4-CD box-set "Mexican Joe In the Caribbean" (BCD 15906). Personnel
: Mitchell Torok (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ;
The Jordanaires (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (bass, drums).
Tuesday, April 14, 1959 : Four-track session by GEORGE JONES at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Who Shot Sam"/"Into My Arms Again" is chosen as his next single (Mercury 71464, June). "Candy Hearts" will end up on the flip- side of "The Window Up Above" (from a later session) in October 1960. "Mr. Fool" is not released until November 1963 (Mercury 72200). Produced by Pappy Daily.
April 15, 1959 : CONNIE FRANCIS records three tracks during an evening session at Metropolitan Studio in New York City. "Lipstick On Your Collar"/ "Frankie" is released on April 27 (MGM 12793) ; both sides will go Top 10, peaking at # 5 and # 9 respectively. "You're Gonna Miss Me" will appear on August 17 (MGM 12824), coupled with "Plenty Good Lovin'" from a later session. Orchestra and chorus (18 musicians) are conducted by Ray Ellis, who also acts as producer. The fine guitar solo on "Lipstick On Your Collar" comes courtesy of Bucky Pizzarelli.
April 15, 1959 is also the recording date of ARNIE DERKSEN's single "She Wanna Rock"/"My Dancin' Shoes" (Decca 30906, May). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 16, 1959 : Second session for NEIL SEDAKA this month. "Going Home to Mary Lou" is first issued on the EP "Oh! Carol" (RCA EPA 4353) in January 1960, later as a single (RCA 47-9401, mid-1962) in Germany and Holland. "Without Your Love" is saved until March 1964 for release on the LP "Three Great Guys : Paul Anka, Sam Cooke and Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2720), after being overdubbed on February 5, 1964. Personnel : Neil Sedaka (vocals / piano) ; Everett Barksdale, Mickey Baker (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Frank Heyward Henry, Warren Luckey (saxes) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Milt Schlesinger (percussion). Plus a six-piece vocal chorus. Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced by Al Nevins at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
April 16, 1959 : The final Decca session of JUSTIN TUBB yields three tracks. The single "Buster's Gang"/"I Know You Do" is issued on Decca 30930 in June. "I Wish I Could Love That Much" stays in the can until Bear Family releases the 2-CD "Rock It Down To My House" (BCD 15761) in 1996. Personnel : Roger Miller (harmony vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Owen Bradley, produced by Paul Cohen at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 18, 1959 : At Abbey Road Studios in London, JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates record their first single, "Please Don't Touch"/"Growl" (HMV POP 615), for release on May 8. Personnel : Johnny Kidd (vocals / guitar) ; Alan Caddy (lead guitar) ; Tony Doherty (rhythm guitar) ; Johnny Gordon (bass) ; Ken McKay (drums) ; Tom Brown (backing vocals).
April 20, 1959 : WYNN
STEWART pays another visit to Gold Star Studios in Hollywood to record his next
single, "Open Up My Heart"/"Above And Beyond (The Call Of
Love)". Release on Jackpot 48019 on May 22. Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals
/ guitar) ; Cecil Bays (guitar) ; Carl
West (steel guitar) ; Bud Dooley (bass) ; Shirley Ash (piano) ; Anthony Amico
(drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
April 21, 1959 : ROSCO GORDON has his first session for the Vee-Jay label, in Chicago. He rerecords his 1952 hit "No More Doggin'", which is coupled with "A Fool In Love" (Vee-Jay 316, June). "Goin' Home (Tomorrow)", the old Fats Domino hit, is also released as a single (Vee-Jay 332, November), on the B-side of "Just A Little Bit" (from a later session). Personnel : Lefty Bates, Classie Ballou (guitars) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Earl Washington (piano) ; Al Duncan (drums).
April 23, 1959 : MICKEY
BAKER starts work on the instrumental LP "The Wildest Guitar" (Atlantic LP 8035,
November). Four songs are laid down on
this day : "Third Man Theme", "Baia", "Chloe" and
"Milk Train". The first two
tracks are also released on a single (Atlantic 2042, October), credited to Mickey "Guitar" Baker.
Location : New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Everett Barksdale
(bass guitar) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ;
Herman Foster (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums).
April 23, 1959 : EDDIE COCHRAN records two songs at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood : "Weekend" and "Think Of Me". Neither song will be released during his lifetime. "Weekend" is first released in the UK on London HLG 9362 (June 1961) and then (December 1961) on Liberty 55389 in the USA. "Think Of Me" will be used as the B-side of "Never" (Liberty 10049, UK) in October 1962. Personnel on "Weekend" : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Guybo Smith or Dave Shriver (electric bass) ; Gene Riggs (drums) ; Unidentified (chorus and hand clapping). Personnel on "Think Of Me" unknown.
April 23, 1959 : Final RCA session for ROY ORBISON. Both "Paper Boy" and "The Bug" are rejected, but they will be re-recorded for Monument in June. The RCA versions were later released by Bear Family, first on a 6-track vinyl EP (BFE 15019, circa 1978). Personnel : Roy Orbison (vocals) ; Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
April 23, 1959 : MARV JOHNSON records his new single, “I’m Coming Home”/ “River of Tears” (United Artists 175, May 20), at Fine Recording Studios in New York City. A # 23 R&B hit, also # 82 pop. Personnel : Marv Johnson (vocals / piano) ; Unknown (bass, tambourine, flute) ; The Rayner Voices (Robert Bateman, Brian Holland, Raynoma Liles Gordy, Sonny Sanders), vocal chorus. Arranged and produced by Berry Gordy.
Friday, April 24, 1959 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS records four tracks for the LP "Have Tenor Sax, Will Blow" (Atco LP 33-113, November) : "Peter Gunn", "Lil Brother", "Cuban Twilight" and "Linda". Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Al Casey, Joe Puma (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano, organ) ; Belton 'Sticks' Evans (drums). Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun in New York City.
April 27, 1959 : One-track session for EDDY ARNOLD, resulting in the hit single "Tennessee Stud" (# 5 country, # 48 pop). The reverse, "What's the Good (Of All This Love)" was recorded on April 24. Released on RCA 47-7542 at the end of May. Personnel : Chet Atkins, John D. Loudermilk, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Doug Kirkham (percussion). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 27, 1959 : For
their next single, BILL HALEY and the Comets couple an instrumental
("Shaky") with a vocal number ("Caldonia"). Released on
Decca 30926 in June. Location : The Pythian Temple, New York City. Personnel :
Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy
Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Pompilli (bass guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (baritone
sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt
Gabler.
April 28, 1959 : CLIFF RICHARD records three tracks for the EP (and the film) "Serious Charge" (Columbia SEG 7895, May) : "Living Doll", "Mad About You" and "No Turning Back". (The fourth track on the EP is an instrumental by the Drifters / Shadows, called "Chinchilla".) "Living Doll" is subsequently released as a single on July 10 (Columbia DB 4306), c/w "Apron Strings" from a later session on May 25, 1959. It will become the biggest UK hit of 1959, topping the charts for six weeks, and is also released in the USA, on ABC-Paramount 10042, in August. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
April 29, 1959 : LITTLE ANTHONY and the Imperials record their new single, "A Prayer And A Juke Box"/"River Path" (End 1047, May), in New York City. A minor hit (# 81 pop). Produced by Richard Barrett.
April 29, 1959 : RONNIE HAWKINS cuts eight tracks for his first LP, simply titled "Ronnie Hawkins" (Roulette R 25078, September) : "Whatcha Gonna Do", "Wild Little Willy", "Oh Sugar", "Odessa", "My Gal Is Red Hot", "Dizzy Miss Lizzie", "Mary Lou" and "Need Your Lovin'". The last two songs will also be released as a single (Roulette 4177) in August. Backing by : Jimmy Ray Paulman (lead guitar) ; Will 'Pop' Jones (piano) ; Sam Taylor (tenor sax) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; Unknown (chorus). As on April 13, the location is Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
April 29, 1959 : BILLY HARLAN records two tracks for RCA
that will stay in the vaults for decades. “Teen Jean Jive” is first released on
the CD “The Drugstore’s Rockin’, Vol. 1 (Bear Family BCD 16339) in 2002
and “This Lonely Man” on “The Drugstore’s Rockin’, Vol. 2” (Bear Family BCD
16607, also 2002). Personnel : Billy Harlan (vocals / guitar) ; Don and Phil
Everly (guitar on “Teen Jean Jive”) ; Chet Atkins (guitar on “This Lonely
Man”) ; Jimmy Day (bass) ; Hargus ‘Pig’ Robbins (piano) ; Jackie Moffet
(drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 30, 1959 : At the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, THE FOUR PREPS cut their new single, "Big Surprise"/"Try My Arms" (Capitol 4218, May). The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Don Clarke and Glen Larson. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore.
April 30, 1959 : Second Mercury session by BEN HEWITT. "Patricia June"/ "For Quite A While" becomes his next single (Mercury 71472, June). "You Got Me Shook" and "My Search" are first released on the Bear Family LP "They Would Call Me Elvis" (BFX 15150) in 1985. Ray Ethier plays guitar, other personnel details unknown. Produced by Clyde Otis in New York City.
April 30, 1959 : Ben Hewitt's guitarist, RAY ETHIER, gets a chance to record an instrumental single of his own, when there is some time left at the end of the Hewitt session. "Slave Girl"/"President's Walk" is released on Mercury 71518 in October.
April 30, 1959 : First RCA session for THE ISLEY BROTHERS, at RCA Studio B in NYC. "I'm Gonna Knock On Your Door" and "Turn To Me" (RCA 47-7537, May) are coupled for their first single on the label. "Not One Minute More" stays in the vaults until the release of the Bear Family CD "Shout!" in 1988 (BCD 15425). Personnel : Al Chernet, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Rufus Smith (bass) ; Lou Stein (piano) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Plus 7-piece string section. Arranged by Hugo Peretti, produced by Hugo & Luigi.
April 30, 1959 : BILL JUSTIS and his orchestra have their their last session for Sun / Phillips International, at the Pepper-Tanner studio in Memphis. Four tracks are laid down : "Flea Circus"/"Cloud Nine" (Phillips International 3544, July), "Country Rock" and "Little Sioux" (both still unissued). Personnel : Bill Justis, Vernon Drane (saxes) ; Roland Janes, Sid Manker (guitars) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Billy Riley (unknown instrument).
April 1959, unknown date : JACKIE DeSHANNON cuts a single at the King Studio in Cincinnati : "Trouble"/"Lies". It is first released on the PJ label (PJ 101, June), co-owned by Pat (Nelson, Rusty York's manager) and Jackie (DeShannon), then picked up for national distribution by the Dot label (15980, August). There is a third release on Sand 330 in October 1960. In all three cases label credit goes to 'Jackie Shannon'.
April 1959, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS lay down their next single, "Sneaky Alligator"/"Holding Your Hand" (Mercury 71468, June), in New York City. Unissued from this session is "Never Ending Love". The Diamonds are : Dave Somerville, John Felton, Mike Douglas and Evan Fisher. The sax player on "Sneaky Alligator" is probably King Curtis. Produced by Nat Goodman.
April 1959, unknown date : BO DIDDLEY cuts three tracks for the LP "Have Guitar, Will Travel" (Checker LP 2974, January 1960) : the instrumental "Mumblin' Guitar", "I Love You So" and "Nursery Rhyme (Puttentang)". Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Peggy Jones (Lady Bo) (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Unknown (tambourine) ; Frank Kirkland (drums). Location : Chess studio, Chicago.
(Probably) April 1959, unknown date : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, WERLY FAIRBURN records three tracks for his own Milestone label. "Doggone That Moon"/"Black Widow Spider Woman" is released on Milestone 2001 in June, credited to "Jack Hammer and the Pacers". "Doggone That Moon" is reissued in August 1962 (Milestone 2013), coupled with the third track from this session, "You Are My Sunshine", and this time credited to Werly Fairburn.
(Probably) April 1959, unknown date : JEFF DANIELS records the single “Switch Blade Sam”/“You’re Still On My Mind” (Big Howdy 777, May 25) at the Singing River Studio in Biloxi, Mississippi. Personnel : Jeff Daniels (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Pee Wee Maddux (lead guitar / producer). More details unknown.
April 1959, unknown date : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) records his next single, "Unseeing Eye"/"Let Your Conscience Be Your Guide" (Checker 927, June) at the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson II (vocals / harmonica) ; Luther Tucker, Robert Lockwood, Jr. (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Odie Payne (drums).
April 1959, unknown date : RUSTY YORK records his only hit, "Sugaree", and its flip, the instrumental "Red Rooster", at the King Studio in Cincinnati. The single is first rush-released on PJ 100, then on Note 10021 and finally on Chess 1730 (June). Personnel : Rusty York (vocals / lead guitar) ; Bill Lanham (bass) ; John Bower (piano) ; Jimmy Risch (saxophone) ; Jim Lundy (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, Steve Walker and Roy Simonds.
MAY 1959
Friday, May 1, 1959 : MELVIN ENDSLEY's second MGM session results in the single "Oh Yeah Baby"/"Let Me Sing the Blues" (MGM 12806, June). Personnel unknown but Floyd Cramer is clearly recognizable as the pianist. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 1, 1959 is the recording date of the DICK GLASSER single “Heartaches Over You”/“Gone Is My Love” (Columbia 41418, June 15). Glasser is also known as Dick Lory. Probably produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 4, 1959 : Another session by THE CHAMPS, as usual at the Gold Star Recording Studio in Hollywood. "Night Train" is their next single, to be released in June on Challenge 59049 (c/w "The Rattler" from a session on November 10, 1958). "Lowdown" is first issued in 1962 on the LP "Spotlight On the Champs And the Fabulous Cyclones" (Design DLP 159). "Without You" and a new version of "Mau Mau Stomp" remain unissued. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Dale Norris (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
May 5, 1959 : WAYNE WALKER records three tracks, all of
which will be released on a single with the catalogue number Brunswick 55133.
"You've Got Me (Where I Wanna
Be)" is first coupled with "What Kind of 'God' Do You Think You
Are" (late May), but this latter tune is soon replaced by "Little Ole
You" from the same session. Location : Bradley Studio, Nashville,
Tennessee.
May 6, 1959 : RAY CHARLES cuts six tracks with the Ralph Burns Orchestra in New York City. All six will be released after Ray has left Atlantic for ABC-Paramount. "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying" (Atlantic 2047, December) will become the B-side of "Let the Good Times Roll" (from a later session), "Just For A Thrill" (Atlantic 2055, March 1960) is coupled with "Heartbreaker" from 1953. "Come Rain Or Come Shine"/"Tell Me You'll Wait For Me" (Atlantic 2084) is released in November 1960 and "Am I Blue" (Atlantic 2106) in May 1961. "You Won't Let Me Go" is the only of the six tracks that is not released as a single and ends up on the LP "The Genius Of Ray Charles (Atlantic LP 1312, October), along with the other five tracks. Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / organ) ; Allen Hanlon (guitar) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Bob Brookmeyer (trombone) ; Ted Sommer (drums) ; Unidentified (woodwinds, strings). Arranged and directed by Ralph Burns, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
May 6, 1959 : First Columbia session by HAWKSHAW HAWKINS. “Soldier’s Joy”/ “Big Red Benson” is selected as his first single on the label (41419, June). A # 15 country hit. “Put A Nickel In the Jukebox” is saved until June 1960 for release on Columbia 41714 (c/w “Your Conscience”, recorded on January 10, 1960). A fourth track, “Patanio”, is first released on the Bear Family box-set “Hawk” (BCD 15539) in 1991. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Hamilton Wilson (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 7, 1959 : ROY BROWN does his final session for King Records in Cincinnati. All four tracks will be released as singles. "Good Looking And Foxy Too" is coupled with "Hard Luck Blues" from 1950 (King 5218, July) and "School Bell Rock" with "Ain't Rockin' No More" from 1954 (King 5247, September). "Adorable One" and "I Ain't Got the Blues Today" end up back to back on King 5333 in April 1960.
May 7, 1959 : Saxophonist PLAS JOHNSON cuts his next single, "The Loop" (Capitol 4251, July, c/w "Downstairs" from a session on November 13, 1958). Also recorded are "My Old Flame" and "Memories Of You", which will find a place on the LP "This Must Be the Plas" (Capitol T 1281, November). Personnel : Plas Johnson (tenor sax, alto sax) ; Tony Rizzi (guitar) ; Morty Corb (bass) ; Paul Smith (piano) ; Alvin Stoller (drums). Location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
May 7, 1959 : MARTY ROBBINS arrives at Bradley Studio in Nashville to cut his new single, "Cap And Gown"/"Last Night About This Time", which is released on May 25 (Columbia 41408). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums) ; Farris Coursey (percussion). Produced by Don Law. See also May 25.
May 8, 1959 : JOHNNY BURNETTE is at Master Recorders in Hollywood for one of his best post-Coral sessions. "Sweet Baby Doll"/"I'll Never Love Again" is selected for single release (Freedom 44017, June 24). "Love Kept-A Rollin'" sees its first release in 1980 on the Various artists LP "Let's Have A Party : The Rockabilly Influence" (Capitol CGB 1008, UK) and the equally excellent "That's All I Care" on the Johnny/Dorsey Burnette LP "We're Havin' A Party" (Rockstar RSR-LP 1017) in 1988. Personnel : Johnny Burnette (vocals / guitar) ; Rene Hall, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Jerry Capehart.
Monday, May 11, 1959 : JIMMY CRAIG waxes the single "Oh! Little Girl"/ "Walking In Darkness" at Norman Petty's Nor Va Jak studio in Clovis, New Mexico. The masters are sold to Imperial and released on Imperial 5592 at the end of May. George Tomsco of the Fireballs plays guitar, more details unknown. It is possible that May 11 is not the recording date, but the day that Imperial acquired the tapes. Produced by Norman Petty.
May 11, 1959 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, RICKY NELSON records his new single, "Just A Little Too Much"/"Sweeter Than You" (Imperial 5595, June). Both sides were previously attempted on April 27. A third track, "I've Been Thinking", stays in the vaults until the appearance of the 4-CD set "Legacy" (Capitol CDP 5-29521) in 2000. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed on May 19). Produced by Jimmie Haskell.
May 12-13, 1959 : JOHNNY HORTON records four tracks for his album "The Spectacular Johnny Horton" (Columbia CL 1362, June) : "Cherokee Boogie", "The Golden Rocket", "Lost Highway" (also released as a single in 1965, Columbia 43143) and "Sam Magee" (also released on Columbia 43719 in 1966). The next day, May 13, three more songs for the LP are laid down : "Joe's Been A-Gittin' There", "The First Train Headin' South" and "Got the Bull By the Horns". Also recorded is a new version of "The Battle Of New Orleans", with lyrics that were supposed to be more acceptable for British ears, substituting "blooming rebels" for "bloody British" (Philips PB 932, UK). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (guitar / banjo) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 12, 1959 : Three-track session by CLYDE McPHATTER. "Twice As Nice"/ "Where Did I Make My Mistake" is issued on MGM 12816 at the end of June. "Bless You" also gets a single release, on MGM 12843 (November), as the B-side of "Let's Try Again" (from a later session). Orchestra and chorus conducted by Ray Ellis (17 musicians). Produced by Clyde Otis at Metropolitan Studios in New York City.
May 12, 1959 : MARVIN RAINWATER is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his new single, "Half-Breed"/"A Song Of Love" (MGM 12803, June). Personnel unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
May 13, 1959 : KENNY LORAN records four tracks at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood, issued on two singles : "I Chickened Out"/"Stop Me" (Capitol 4230, June) and "Magic Star"/"Mama's Little Baby (Loves To Rock 'n' Roll)" (Capitol 4276, September). Personnel includes Scotty Turner on guitar and Hal Blaine on drums ; more details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 14, 1959 : LaVERN BAKER visits New York's Atlantic studio to record three tracks. "So High, So Low"/"If You Love Me" is selected for the next single (Atlantic 2033, July) and "Tiny Tim" will become the subsequent single (Atlantic 2041, October). Personnel : Budd Johnson (sax) ; Unknown (trumpets, piano, organ) ; Mickey Baker, Bill Suyker (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Chuck Sagle, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
May 14, 1959 : The final Warner Bros session of JOHNNY CARROLL and his band results in the single "Rag Mop"/"Little Otis" (Warner Bros 5084, July). Label credit goes to THE SPINNERS. Personnel : Johnny Carroll (vocals / guitar) ; Howard Reed (lead guitar) ; Grady Owen (bass) ; Bill Hennen (piano) ; Royce McAffe (drums). Produced by Grady Martin at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 15, 1959 : WEBB PIERCE records what will turn out to be his biggest pop success (# 24, also # 2 country) : "I Ain't Never" (Decca 30923, June). The reverse, "Shanghied", is recorded on May 19. The May 15 session also yields the track "I Think Of You", which will be included on the album "Walking the Streets" (Decca DL 4079) in October 1960. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 18, 1959 : First of three New York sessions by THE CRICKETS at Bell Sound Studio, produced by Jack Hansen. On this day they record "I Fought the Law" and "A Sweet Love". Both are first released on the LP "In Style With the Crickets (Coral CRL 57320, release date December 5, 1960). They will also be issued as a single in September 1961 on Coral Q 72440 (UK only). Personnel : Earl Sinks (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (lead guitar) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). See also May 20 and 27.
May 18, 1959 is the date of RAY SHARPE's first session for the Jamie label. The future # 46 hit "Linda Lu" is originally coupled with "Red Sails In the Sunset" (Jamie 1128, June), later with "Monkey's Uncle", also from this session (same catalogue number). The fourth track, "Kewpie Doll" is released on Jamie 1164 in August 1960 (c/w "Give'n Up" from a later session). "Red Sails In the Sunset" is overdubbed with the sax of Plas Johnson on May 29, at Goldstar studio in Hollywood. Personnel : Ray Sharpe (vocals / guitar) ; Don Cole, Buddy Long, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Alvin Simmons (acoustic bass) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
May 18, 1959 : THE IMPALAS record the follow-up to their big hit "Sorry I Ran All the Way Home". "Oh What A Fool"/"Sandy Went Away" is released on Cub 9033 in June and will get no higher than # 86 on the Billboard charts. "Woodchuck Song" and "The Loves We Share" are tracks for the group's first LP, also titled "Sorry (I Ran All the Way Home)" (Cub 8003, August). Orchestra (10 musicians) conducted by Leroy Holmes. Location : Metropolitan Studios in New York City.
May 19, 1959 : Sax player KING CURTIS does another session in New York City. "Heavenly Blues" and "Restless Guitar" are released on Atco 6152 in October. "Chains" and "The Honeydripper" (not the same version as Atco 6143) are first released in 2000 on the CD "Hot Sax, Cool Licks" (Ace CDCHD 757). Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Al Caiola, George Barnes (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Ruth Berman (harp) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Bobby Rosengarden (percussion). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
May 19-21, 1959 : BOBBY DARIN records eight tracks (plus four unissued numbers) for this third LP, "This Is Darin", aimed at an adult audience. Released in January 1960 on Atco 33-115. Arrangements by Richard Wess and Buddy Bregman, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Nesuhi Ertegun in Los Angeles.
May 20 and 27, 1959 : THE CRICKETS continue their New York sessions. On May 20 they record "Time Will Tell" and "When You Ask About Love" and on May 27 "Deborah" and "Why Did You Leave?". In September Brunswick issues the single "Deborah"/"When You Ask About Love" (55153). "Time Will Tell" is first released on the LP "In Style With the Crickets" (Coral CRL 57320, December 1960) and "Why Did You Leave?" on the LP "Complete Crickets" (Charly CR 30226, UK) in 1984. Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on May 18.
Wednesday, May 20, 1959 : Three-track session for FERLIN
HUSKY at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
"Morgan Poisoned the Water Hole"/"I Fell Out Of Love With Love" is credited to Husky's alter
ego SIMON CRUM (Capitol 4252, July). "Black Sheep" appears under his
own name (Capitol 4278, September, c/w "I'll Always Return" from a
session on November 20, 1958). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 20, 1959 : One-track session for JOHNNY OTIS and his band. "Three Girls Named Molly (Doing the Hully Gully)" is released on Capitol 4226 in June, coupled with "I'll Do the Same Thing For You" from a session on February 17, 1959. Produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
May 20, 1959 : FARON YOUNG records his next single, "Country Girl"/ "I Hear You Talking" (Capitol 4233, June) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The single will top the country charts for four weeks. A third track, "A Lifetime Isn't Long Enough", is first released on the LP "Faron Young Sings the Best Of Faron Young" (Capitol T 1450) in November 1960. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Donny Young (harmony vocal). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 20-21, 1959 : CHUCK MILLER records the LP "Now Hear This! Songs Of the Fighting 40s" (Imperial LP 9072, June). Four songs are laid down on May 20 : "Swinging On A Star", "How Many Hearts Have You Broken", "Shoo Shoo Baby" and "Saturday Night Fish Fry". The other eight tracks date from the next day : "Heart And Soul", "Personality", "G.I. Jive", "Five Minutes More", "Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me", "For Sentimental Reasons", "Lazy River" and "Lili Marlene". Location and producer not known.
May 21, 1959 : THE FANTASTICS are a five-man vocal group who record for RCA Victor. The rocker "Millionaire Hobo" is coupled with the doo-wop song "There Goes My Love" for release on RCA 7572 in August). "This Is My Wedding Day" comes out on RCA 7664 in December. A fourth track, "Drumbeat", is eventually issued as a single in 1990 (Park Avenue 2). Personnel : William 'Sonny' Forrest, Sammy Strain, Billy Sutton, Fred Warner, Wilber Lawrence (vocals) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Allen Hanlon, George Barnes (guitars) ; Jack Lesberg (bass) ; Hutch Davie (piano) ; Joe Marshall, Bunny Shawker (drums). Produced by Charles Grean in New York City.
May 21, 1959 : MOON MULLICAN does a session for Decca at
Bradley Studio in Nashville, resulting in the single "Cush-Cush
Ky-Yay"/"The Writing On the Wall" (Decca 30962, August). A third
track, "The Wedding Of the Bugs", is first released on the LP
"Sweet Rockin' Music" (Charly CR 30231, UK) in 1984. Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals /
piano) ; Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore
(bass) ; Unknown (banjo) ; Buddy Harman
(drums). Plus a 4-piece male chorus. Produced by Owen Bradley.
May 21, 1959 : CARL SMITH records the single “Ten Thousand Drums”/“The Tall, Tall Gentleman” (Columbia 41417, June). A # 5 country hit. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 22, 1959 : TOMMY SANDS does another session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Sinner Man"/"Darlin', Bring Me Your Love" is issued in June on Capitol 4231. "That's the Way I Am" follows in August (Capitol 4259, c/w "I'll Be Seeing You" from a session on December 7, 1958). Unissued from this session is "Tender Love And Care". Orchestra arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle. Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 22, 1959 : TITUS TURNER records material for two singles during a New York session for the King label : "Tarzan"/"Fall Guy" (King 5213, June) and "Bonnie Baby"/"Miss Rubberneck Jones" (King 5243, September). King Curtis plays tenor sax, more personnel details not known.
May 24, 1959 is the recording date of the DERRELL FELTS single "It's A Great Big Day"/"Lookie Lookie Lookie" (Okeh 7118, June). Features Vi Petty on piano and the Crickets as backing group. Produced by Norman Petty at his studio in Clovis, New Mexico.
May 25, 1959 : LLOYD PRICE records his next single,
"I'm Gonna Get Married"/"Three Little Pigs" (ABC-Paramount
10032, July), another big hit for him (# 3). A third track, "That's
Love", remains in the vaults until it is included on the LP "Lloyd
Price Greatest Hits" in 1982, on the Curb label. Personnel includes : Bill
Jones (guitar) ; Ted Curson (trumpet) ; more details unknown. Produced by Don
Costa at Bell Sound Studios in New York City.
May 25, 1959 : Second MARTY ROBBINS session of this month, this time in New York City (Columbia Studio). Songs recorded : "She Was Young And She Was Pretty", "Cap And Gown" (new version) and "Love Can't Wait". All three remain unissued until the appearance of the Bear Family CD "Ruby Ann" (BCD 15569) in 1991. Personnel : Al Casamenti, Bucky Pizzarelli, Don Arnone, Barry Galbraith (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Jimmy Carroll, produced by Mitch Miller.
May 25, 1959 : One-track session for CLIFF RICHARD and the Drifters. "Apron Strings" will be used as the B-side of "Living Doll" (Columbia DB 4306, July 10). This version of "Apron Strings" (previously recorded live for Cliff's first LP) is marked in the EMI files as a "rehearsal take". Backing by the Drifters (the later Shadows) : Hank Marvin and Bruce Welch (guitars) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
May 25-26, 1959 : Two-day session for JERRY LEE LEWIS at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "Let's Talk About Us"/"The Ballad Of Billy Joe" becomes the new single (Sun 324), released on June 15. "Home" (from the pen of Roger Miller) will find a place a Jerry's second LP, "Jerry Lee's Greatest" (Sun LP 1265) in December 1961. "Night Train To Memphis" is first issued in 1970 on the album "A Taste Of Country" (Sun Inter- national LP 114). The other tracks - "I'm the Guilty One", "Sail Away" and "Am I To Be the One" - will not be released until 1982, on Jerry's 12-LP box-set "The Sun Years" (Sunbox 102). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes, Billy Riley (guitars) ; Leo Lodner (bass) ; Charlie Rich (possibly piano on some tracks / duet vocals on "Sail Away" and "Am I To Be the One") ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Bill Justis. See also May 28.
May 27, 1959 : Second session for CLYDE McPHATTER this month. He records four tracks for his first MGM LP, "Let's Start Over Again" (MGM E 3775), which is released in August : "Let's Start All Over Again", "How Deep Is the Ocean", "Stay As Sweet As You Are" and "Someone To Love". Orchestra (15 musicians) conducted by Ray Ellis. Produced by Clyde Otis.
Thursday, May 28, 1959 : JERRY LEE LEWIS covers Chuck Berry's "Little Queenie", for release on Sun 330 on September 15 (c/w "I Could Never Be Ashamed Of You" from a session on March 22, 1959). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Cliff Acred (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Bill Justis at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
May 29, 1959 : HANK BALLARD and his Midnighters are rushed into the King Studio in Cincinnati to cover Rusty York's "Sugaree" (King 5215, June, c/w "Rain Down Tears", recorded on March 12). The other four tracks end up on various LP's : "Move, Move, Move" and "I'm Crying Mercy, Mercy" on "The One and Only Hank Ballard And the Midnighters" (King LP 674, January 1960), "Young Lady" on "Mr. Rhythm and Blues (Finger Poppin' Time") (King LP 700, December 1960) and "Leave That Fat" on "The Twisting Fools" (King LP 781, April 1962). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher, Freddie Pride (background vocals) ; Billy Davis, John Faire (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Clarence Mack (bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; George DeHart (drums) ; Unidentified (female vocal group). Produced by Syd Nathan.
May 1959, unknown date : BOYD BENNETT is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records two singles : "Boogie Bear"/"A Boy Can Tell" (Mercury 71479, July) and "Naughty Rock and Roll"/"Lover's Night" (Mercury 71537, November).
May 1959, unknown date : At Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona, SANFORD CLARK records his next single, "Run Boy Run"/"New Kind Of Fool", to be released on Jamie 1129 in July. Backing by : Al Casey, Corky Casey (guitars) ; Buddy Wheeler (bass) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
May 1959, unknown date : BILLY EMERSON lays down his new single, "Holy Mackerel Baby"/"Believe Me" (Chess 1728, June) at the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Sonny Cohn (trumpet) ; Cliff Davis (tenor sax) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Sleepy Anderson (organ) ; Al Duncan (drums).
(Probably) May 1959, unknown date : LATTIE MOORE cuts his second and last single for Starday Records : "Too Hot To Handle"/"Just A Waitin'" (Starday 441, June), in Nashville. Except for Moore himself (vocals / rhythm guitar / whistling), no other musicians are identified.
May 1959, unknown date : HUEY "PIANO" SMITH and the Clowns cut their new single, "Would You Believe It (I Have A Cold)"/"Genevieve" (Ace 562). Release date is May 25. Personnel : Bobby Marchan (lead vocals) ; The Clowns (background and harmony vocals) ; Huey Smith (piano) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Johnny Vincent at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
With thanks to Steve Walker, Bill Daniels and Roy Simonds.
Dik
JUNE 1959
Monday, June 1, 1959 : THE BROWNS come to Nashville to record what they thought would be their last session (as they intended to break up the act). "The Three Bells" will become the first Nashville Sound recording to hit # 1 on the pop charts. The original recording was six minutes long ; with the help of producer Chet Atkins and Anita Kerr it is edited down to an acceptable three minutes. Also recorded on this day is the flip, John D. Loudermilk's "Heaven Fell Last Night" (RCA 47-7555, July) and two numbers, "Wake Up Jonah" and "Your Pretty Blue Eyes", that remain unissued until the appearance of the Bear Family 8-CD set "Three Bells" (BCD 15665) in 1992. Personnel : Jim Edward Brown, Bonnie Brown, Maxine Brown (vocals ) ; Ray Edenton, Chet Atkins, John D. Loudermilk (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio.
June 2, 1959 : CARL BELEW does a four-track session at
Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Cool Gator Shoes"/"No
Regrets" is chosen as his next 45 (Decca 30947, July). "I Wish I'd
Never" will follow in November (Decca 31012). "Folding Money"
(also recorded by Tommy Blake) is held back and sees its first release on the
Various artists CD "That'll Flat Git It, Vol. 9 : Rockabilly From the
Vaults Of Decca Records" (Bear Family BCD 15971) in 2001. Personnel : Hank
Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd
Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by
Owen Bradley.
June 2, 1959 : In New York City, THE CRICKETS record two more songs that will be included on their LP "In Style With the Crickets" : "Just This Once" and "Ting A Ling". The release date of the album is December 5, 1960 (Coral CRL 57320). Personnel : Earl Sinks (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (lead guitar) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Jack Hansen.
June 2, 1959 : KING CURTIS records "The Honeydripper, Parts 1 & 2" (Atco 6143, mid-June) in New York City. This is an edited version of the original master (59C-3488) recorded on May 19, 1959, with overdubs by King Curtis (tenor sax), Budd Johnson (baritone sax), Phil Kraus (percussion) and an unknown vocal group. Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun.
June 3, 1959 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN cuts his next two singles, "Leave My Kitten Alone"/"Let Nobody Love You" (King 5219, July) and "Let Them Talk"/"Right There" (King 5274, October), in New York City. Personnel : Bellino Ramaglia, Skippy Williams (tenor saxes) ; Pinky Williams (baritone sax) ; Alfred Cobbs (trombone) ; Enie Hayes (piano) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Emile Russell (drums) ; Unknown (bass, violins, vocal group).
June 3, 1959 : First Monument session by ROY ORBISON. "With the Bug"/ "Paper Boy" (Monument 409, September) is his debut single for the label ; both songs were previously tried at RCA. A third track, "Double Date", is first released on the LP "Rare Roy Orbison, Vol. 2" (CBS AK 45054) in 1989. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass / leader) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph, Dutch McMillin (saxes) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Producer : Bob Moore, executive producer Fred Foster.
June 4, 1959 : MICKEY BAKER records four more songs for his forthcoming instrumental LP "The Wildest Guitar" (Atlantic LP 8035, November) : "Old Devil Moon", "Night And Day", "Midnight, Midnight" and "Whistle Stop". Unissued from this session is "Stardust". Location : New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Everett Barksdale (bass guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums). See also June 25.
June 4, 1959 : In Memphis (706 Union Avenue), BILLY RILEY records his next single, "Got the Water Boiling"/"One More Time" (Sun 322, July 2), plus "Betty And Dupree" and "Let's Talk About Us". The latter two tracks are first issued in 1974, on Various artists LP's, respectively "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 5 : Rebel Rockabilly" (Charly CR 30105, UK) and "Sun : The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 8 : Sun Rocks" (Charly CR 30115, UK). Personnel : Billy Riley (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Brad Suggs (bass) ; Martin Willis (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Jack Clement and Bill Justis.
June 4, 1959 : THE MONOTONES also record their next single on this day, "Tell It To the Judge"/"Fools Will Be Fools" (Argo 5339), for almost immediate release. A third song from this session, "What Would You Do If There Wasn't Any Rock and Roll" is inexplicably held back until 1986, when it appears on the LP "The Best Of the Monotones" (Murray Hill LP 000180).
June 4-5, 1959 : LaVERN BAKER records twelve tracks for the LP "Precious Memories : LaVern Baker Sings Gospel" (Atlantic LP 8036, November), in New York City. None of the tracks is released as a single. Personnel : Bill Suyker (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; The Alex Bradford Singers (vocal group). Arranged and directed by Reggie Obrecht, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
June 5, 1959 : ALTON AND JIMMY have their second session for Sun. None of the four tracks is issued at the time, but "I Just Don't Know", "Why Do I Love You" and "What's the Use" are eventually included on the CD "Sun Rock n Roll, Vol. 2" (Charly CPCD 8318) in 1997. "The Longest Walk" has never been located and is probably lost. Personnel : Alton Lott, Jimmy Harrell (vocals / guitars) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Bill Justis (sax) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Location : Sun Studio, Memphis.
June 5, 1959 : JOHNNY AND DORSEY BURNETTE record five
tracks at Gold Star Recording Studio in
Hollywood. Two incomplete versions of "Waitin' At the Station" have survived ; they
were first released in 1994 on the CD
"Johnny & Dorsey : The Burnette Brothers" (Rockstar RSRCD
005). The other four tracks -
"Wampus Cat", "A Long Vacation", "Hey Little
Girl" and "Juarez" - are
unissued and the tapes are lost.
June 5-6, 1959 : First of four Hollywood sessions this month by RICKY NELSON. With one exception, all songs from the June sessions will appear on his fourth LP, "Songs By Ricky" (Imperial LP 9082, August). At this session he records "So Long", "One Minute To One" (also issued on single, Imperial 66017, in February 1964) and "I've Been Thinkin'" (version 2). Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders, Hollywood. See also June 9-12 and June 15-16.
June 8, 1959 : THE CLOVERS do their first session for United Artists Records, in New York City. "Love Potion # 9"/"Stay Awhile" is selected for single release at the end of July (United Artists 180, a # 23 hit). "Lovey" is an adaptation of the unreleased Coasters track "Hey Sexy" and will become the follow-up single (United Artists 209) in February 1960. The fourth track, "Noni Cosi", is sung in Italian and included on the first UA LP by the Clovers ("Love Potion No. 9", UAL-3099, 1960). Personnel : Buddy Bailey, Billy Mitchell, Matthew McQuater, Harold Lucas, Harold Winley (vocals) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano) ; Unknown (guitar, bass, drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
June 8, 1959 : JAMIE AND JANE (Gene Pitney and Ginny Arnell) team up for their second Decca single : "Classical Rock and Roll"/"Faithful Our Love" (Decca 30934, July). Personnel : Don Arnone, Al Casamenti, Gordon Sullivan (guitars) ; Sandy Block (bass) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Al Klink (sax) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Harry Meyerson at the Pythian Temple in New York City.
June 8-9, 1959 : ROSE MADDOX
records eight tracks during a two-day session at the Capitol Tower in
Hollywood. Four tracks will be released on two singles : “My Little
Baby”/“Custer’s Last Stand” (Capitol 4241, July 7) and “I’m Happy Every
Day I Live”/”I Lost Today” (Capitol 4296, October 10). The other four tracks -
“Live And Let Live”, “Philadelphia Lawyer”, “Tramp On the Street” and
“Gathering Flowers For the Master’s Bouquet” - are all released on the LP “The
One Rose” (Capitol T 1312) in January 1960. Personnel : Cal Maddox (guitar /
harmony vocals) ; John Lee Newman, Jack Schults (guitars) ; Henry Ford Maddox
(mandolin) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Henry Alvin Shropshire (drums). Produced
by Ken Nelson.
June 9-12, 1959 : RICKY NELSON continues to record material for his fourth album. A session in the late hours of June 9 and the early hours of June 10 results in "That's All" (also a later single, Imperial 5910, February 1963) and "It Had To Be You" (unissued / lost). An evening session on June 11 extends into the morning hours of June 12 and yields three tracks : "Blood From A Stone", "You're So Fine" and "You'll Never Know What You're Missing". Personnel and studio are the same as on June 5-6.
June 10-11, 1959 : After recording four tracks on May 27, CLYDE McPHATTER cuts the remaining eight tracks for his LP "Let's Start Over Again" (MGM E 3775, August) during this two-day session. The songs from June 10 are "I Need You So", "Trust In Me", "The Glory Of Love" (also released as a single, MGM 12988, February 1961) and "Don't Take Your Love From Me". On June 11 Clyde waxes "There Will Never Be Another You", "I'll Never Be Free", "Don't Cry Baby" and "Everybody Needs Somebody". Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis, produced by Clyde Otis in New York City.
June 11, 1959 : JIMMY NEWMAN cuts his next single, “Grin And Bear It”/ “The Ballad Of Baby Doe” (MGM 12812, July). A # 9 country hit. Personnel unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
June 12, 1959 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records seven tracks for his first RCA LP, "Hello Blues" (RCA LPM 2151, January 1960) : "Midnight", "Blues Stay Away From Me", "Forever", "Have I Stayed Away Too Long", "Trouble In Mind", "Tricky" and "I'll Never Be Free". Personnel : Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph, Dutch McMillin (saxes) ; Carl Calvin (trumpet) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 15, 1959 : BOB LUMAN is now signed to Warner Bros Records. On this day he records the single "Class Of '59"/"My Baby Walks All Over Me" (WB 5081, July). Both songs were previously attempted on June 4, along with "Loretta" (first issued on Bear Family BFX 15037 in 1980). Also laid down on the 15th are "You're Like A Stranger In My Arms" and "Boom Boom Yippi Yi Ya", which are first issued on Bear Family in 1980 (LP's "The Rocker", BFX 15037, and "More Of That Rocker", BFX 15039, respectively). Personnel : Bob Luman (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Roy Buchanan (guitar) ; Joe Osborn (Fender bass) ; Dean Manuel (piano) ; Mel Rogers (drums). Produced by Karl Engemann at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
June 15, 1959 : THE IMPALAS record four more tracks for their first LP, "The Impalas" (Cub CX 5003, August) : "Cupid", "She Belongs To Me", "(You Want) Too Much Too Soon" and "Mommy-O". Arranged and conducted by Leroy Holmes in New York City.
June 15, 1959 : BAKER KNIGHT is at Gold Star Recording Studio in Hollywood to record his next single : "Just Relax"/"Takin' A Chance" (Coral 62132, July). Eddie Cochran plays guitar on "Just Relax", more details unknown.
June 15, 1959 : HANK SNOW is at the RCA Victor studio in Nashville for a three-track session. "The Last Ride" is chosen for his next single (RCA 47-7586, August, c/w "The Party Of the Second Part" from a session on October 30, 1957). A # 3 country hit. "The Change Of the Tide" and "Patanio, the Pride Of the Plains" are first issued on the 12-CD box-set "The Singing Ranger, Vol. 3 : 1958-1968" (Bear Family BCD 15502) in 1992. Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Ray Edenton (guitar) ; Melvin Gentry (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Chubby Wise, Buddy Spicher (fiddles) ; Marvin Hughes (piano).
June 15, 1959 : DON GIBSON records a second version of “Don’t Tell Me Your Troubles”, previously attempted on March 16. This version gets the green light for single release (RCA 47-7566, July) and is coupled with “Heartbreak Avenue” from the same session. A # 5 country hit, also # 85 pop. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Jimmie Riddle (harmonica) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 15-16, 1959 : Another late night session by RICKY NELSON. All three tracks are included on the album "Songs By Ricky" (Imperial LP 9082), to be released in August : "Don't Leave Me", "A Long Vacation" (also issued as a single, Imperial 5958, May 1963, with overdubs) and "Half Breed". Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Johnny Burnette (rhythm guitar) ; Dorsey Burnette (rhythm guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
June 17, 1959 : JIMMY JONES records the single "Handy Man"/"The Search Is Over" in New York City (Regent Sound studio). Publisher Moe Gale sells the masters to MGM in August. The release date is September 7 (Cub 9049), but the disc does not enter the Billboard charts until the last week of 1959 and will peak at # 2 in February 1960. The whistling on "Handy Man" comes courtesy of Otis Blackwell, who co-wrote the song with Jimmy (or rather, reworked Jimmy's original song from 1955). Produced and arranged by Leroy Kirkland and Bob Mersey.
Thursday, June 18, 1959 : In New Orleans, FATS DOMINO records three tracks. "I Want To Walk You Home" becomes the new single in July (Imperial 5606), coupled with the previously (June 1958) recorded "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday". "When I Was Young" and "Easter Parade" get their first release in January 1961, on the LP "I Miss You So" (Imperial LP 9138). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Herb Hardesty, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Walter 'Papoose' Nelson (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (double bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
June 18, 1959 : JOE TURNER returns to Atlantic's NYC studio to record four tracks. "Got You On My Mind"/"Careless Love" becomes the new single (Atlantic 2034, August). "My Reason For Living" is released exactly one year later, on Atlantic 2072. "Whatcha Gonna Do" remains unissued. Personnel : Bill Suyker (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; King Curtis, Leon Cohen (saxes) ; Marlowe Morris (piano / organ) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Plus a five-piece vocal chorus (two men, three women). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
June 18, 1959 : MICKEY AND KITTY record their second single for Atlantic, “First Love”/“St. Louis Blues” (Atlantic 2036, August), in New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Kitty Noble (vocals) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Emile Russell (drums).
June 19, 1959 : BILL HALEY and his Comets pay another
visit to the Pythian Temple (Decca studio) in New York City. "Ooh! Look-A
There Ain't She Pretty" is released
on August 12 (Decca 30956), as the B-side of the instrumental "Joey's
Song" (recorded on June 3, 1958). "(Thanks For the) Summer
Souvenir" remains in the can until
the release of the Bear Family 5-LP set "Rockin' Rollin' Haley" (BFX 15068) in 1981.
Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ;
Al Pompilli (bass) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Rudy Pompilli (sax) ; Ralph Jones
(drums). Produced by Milt Gabler.
June 20, 1959 : THE ATMOSPHERES are a six-piece instrumental group from Highland Park, Texas. On this day they record four tracks at CRC Studio (Commercial Recording Corporation) in Dallas. "The Fickle Chicken" is paired with "Kabalo" for release on Lin 5023 in September. The other two tracks are not originally issued in the USA, but Lin's owner, Joe Leonard, leases "Telegraph" and "Caravan" to London Records for release in the United Kingdom (HLW 9091, April 1960) and Belgium (9.5.160). Personnel : Clark Brown Jr., Bill Kramer (guitars) ; Ben Hill (bass / vibraphone) ; Ken Waldrop (piano / organ / bass) ; Jack Allday (drums) ; Steve Voekel (bongos).
June 22, 1959 : THE CADILLACS record their next two singles in New York City : "Romeo"/"Always My Darling" (Josie 866, July) and "Bad Dan McGoon"/ "Dumbell" (Josie 870, September). At this time the group consists of James Bailey, Bobby Phillips, Bobby Spencer and Earl Wade.
June 22, 1959 : One-track session for the instrumental group THE CHAMPS at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Double Eagle Rock" is released in the fourth week of August on Challenge 59053. The reverse is "Sky High", from a session on February 24, 1958, and previously released on their first LP, "Go Champs Go". Arranged by Dave Burgess, produced by Joe Johnson.
June 23, 1959 : At Gold Star Studios in Hollywood, EDDIE COCHRAN cuts his next single, the classic "Somethin' Else", coupled with "Boll Weevil Song", for release on Liberty 55203 in the third week of July. Peak positions : # 58 in the USA, # 22 in the UK. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar / electric bass overdub) ; Dave Shriver (electric bass on "Boll Weeevil Song") ; Dick D'Agostin (piano on "Boll Weevil Song") ; possibly Jim Stivers (piano on "Somethin' Else") ; Earl Palmer (drums on "Somethin' Else") ; Gene Riggio (drums on "Boll Weevil Song"). Arranged and produced by Eddie Cochran and Jerry Capehart.
June 23, 1959 : RAY CHARLES records six tracks with Quincy Jones and his orchestra (21 musicians), for the LP "The Genius Of Ray Charles" (Atlantic LP 1312, October). An edited version of "Let the Good Times Roll" is also released as a single (Atlantic 2047, December, c/w "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying" from a session on May 6, 1959). On June 26 Ray holds his final session for Atlantic, with his own orchestra and the Raelettes. This results in the single "I'm Movin' On"/"I Believe To My Soul" (Atlantic 2043, October). Location is New York City on both days.
June 24-25, 1959 : Two evening sessions by SONNY JAMES yield four tracks. "Who's Next In Line"/"Red Mud" is released on Capitol 4268 in September. "I'll Always Come Back To You" and "Yes I Know" stay in the vaults until Bear Family issues the 6-CD box "Young Love, 1952-62" (BCD 16373) in 2002. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar) ; Howard Heitmayer (guitar) ; Cliff Hills (bass on June 24) ; Marty Corb (bass on June 25) ; Mark McIntyre (piano on June 24) ; Danny Gould (piano on June 25) ; Roy Harte (drums on June 24) ; Jesse Sailes (drums on June 25). Plus strings. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
June 25, 1959 : In New York City, MICKEY BAKER cuts the final four tracks for his (instrumental) album "The Wildest Guitar" (Atlantic LP 8035), to be released in November : "Baker's Dozen", "Gloomy Sunday", "Lullaby Of the Leaves" and "Autumn Leaves". Personnel is the same as on June 4.
June 25, 1959 : CONNIE FRANCIS records five tracks for her LP "Connie Francis Sings Rock 'n' Roll Million Sellers" (MGM E 3794, November) : "I Almost Lost My Mind", "I'm Walkin'", "Just A Dream", "Heartbreak Hotel" and "I Hear You Knockin'". Produced by Ray Ellis, who conducts an orchestra of nine musicians. Location : Metropolitan Studio, 1697 Broadway, New York City.
Tuesday, June 30, 1959 : Pianist ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo hold another session in Hollywood. "A Summer Love"/"Always With You" is the new single (Imperial 5612, July). The A-side is actually a vocal number, sung by an unknown chorus. "Play Mr. Freeman" will be included on the LP "Raunchy" (Imperial LP 9148) in 1961, while "Chang A Lang" stays in the vaults.
June 30, 1959 : The second (and last) Decca session for ROGER MILLER yields the single "Jason Fleming"/"Sweet Ramona" (Decca 30953, August). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
June 30, 1959 : BUSTER BROWN
records six tracks in New York City, which will be released on three singles.
“Fannie Mae”/“Lost In A Dream” appears in November 1959 (Fire 1008). It will
reach # 1 on the R&B charts and # 38 on the pop charts. “John Henry”/“The
Madison (Shuffle)” is released on Fire 1020 in April 1960 and “Don’t Dog Your
Woman”/“Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby” on Fire 1023 in July 1960. Personnel
: Buster Brown (vocals / harmonica) ; Jimmy Spruill, Riff Ruffin (guitars) :
Unknown (bass, saxes, drums).
June 1959, unknown date : FRANKIE FORD is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record his new single, "Alimony"/"Can't Tell My Heart" (Ace 566). Release date is June 22. Backing by members of Cosimo Matassa's Studio Band.
June 1959, unknown date : MEL ROBBINS (aka Hargus 'Pig' Robbins) records four tracks in Nashville. "Save It"/"To Know You" is selected for release on Argo 5340 in July. The fantastic "Are You With Me" is first released on a compilation album ("Chess Rockabillies", UK Chess LP 9124213) in 1978. Still unissued is the fourth track, "Until". Personnel : Mel Robbins (vocals / piano) with unknown guitar, bass, drums.
June 1959, unknown dates : MUDDY WATERS cuts ten tracks
this month, at two different sessions, but with the same personnel. Issued as
singles are "Take the Bitter With the Sweet"/"She's Into
Something" (Chess 1733, July), "Recipe For Love" (Chess 1739,
October), "I Feel So Good"(Chess
1748, January 1960) and "Love Affair" (Chess 1758, June 1960).
The other five tracks - "Lonesome
Road Blues", "Mopper's Blues", "Southbound Train",
"Hey Hey" and "Just A Dream (On My Mind)" - end up on the
album "Muddy Waters Sings Big Bill" (Chess LP 1444, January 1960).
Personnel : Pat Hare (guitar) ; Andrew Stephenson (bass) ; James Cotton
(harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Francis Clay (drums).
June 1959, unknown date : BROOK BENTON does several sessions this month, mostly LP tracks. Five future singles are recorded at the same session : "With All My Heart" (Mercury 71478, August, c/w "Thank You Pretty Baby" from a different June session), "I Want You Forever" (Mercury 71512, October, B-side of "So Many Ways" from a later session), "This Time Of the Year"/"Nothing In the World" (Mercury 71554, December) and "The Same One" (Mercury 71652, August 1960, B-side of "Kiddio"). Two numbers from this session are rejected : "Hold My Hand" and "Someone To Believe In". Arranged and conducted by Belford Hendricks, produced by Clyde Otis at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City.
With thanks to Steve Walker, Bill Daniels and Roy Simonds.
Dik
JULY 1959
July 1, 1959 : JOHNNY HORTON does another session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Johnny Reb"/"Sal's Got A Sugar Lip" is selected as his next single (Columbia 41437, July 20). It must be added though that this version of "Sal's Got A Sugar Lip" was recorded on July 6 and that the more "rocking" version of July 1 was not released until 1981 on Bear Family BFX 15069 (LP "Rockin' Rollin' Horton"). Also recorded on this day is "Words", which will get a posthumous release on the B-side of the 1962 reissue of "Honky Tonk Man" (Columbia 42302). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (banjo) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Same personnel on July 6, plus Hank Garland on guitar. Produced by Don Law.
July 1, 1959 : BOOTS RANDOLPH cuts "Sweet Talk", previously recorded by the Play Boys on April 10. Release in October on RCA 47-7611 (c/w "Temptation" from a later session). It is a split session with CHET ATKINS, who records "Django's Castle" (RCA 47-7589, August), the flip of "Boo Boo Stick Beat" (see July 25). Personnel : Boots Randolph (sax) ; Hank Garland, James Rich (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal interjections). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor studio.
Friday, July 3, 1959 : PATSY CLINE records two songs that will not be issued during her lifetime : "Life's Railway To Heaven" and "Just A Closer Walk With Thee". First released in June 1963 on an untitled EP (Decca ED 2759). Backing by : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 3-5, 1959 : The instrumental group THE WAILERS records nine tracks during a three-day session. Four of the tracks are released as singles : "Wailin'"/"Shanghaied" (Golden Crest 532, December) and "Scratchin'"/ "Lucille" (Golden Crest 545, April 1960). "Beat Guitar", "Driftwood" "High Wall" and a new version of "Dirty Robber" (with a vocal by Kent Morrill) will appear on the LP "The Fabulous Wailers" (Golden Crest CR 3075, January 1960), which also includes "Wailin'" and "Shanghaied". The slow vocal number "Why Did It Happen To Me" is first released in 1998, on the CD "The Fabulous Wailers" (Ace CDCHD 675, UK). Personnel : Rich Dangel (lead guitar) ; John Greek (rhythm guitar) ; Kent Morrill (piano / vocals) ; Mark Marush (tenor sax) ; Mike Burke (drums). Produced by Clark Galehouse at Golden Crest Studio, Huntington Station, New York State.
July 6, 1959 : CONNIE FRANCIS records more tracks for her "Rock 'n' Roll Million Sellers" LP (MGM SE 3794, November) : "Tweedlee Dee", "Don't Be Cruel", "Sincerely", "It's Only Make Believe", "Ain't That A Shame", followed by "Silhouettes", "Hearts Of Stone", "Earth Angel" and "Bye Bye Love" on July 9. (The last three do not appear on the LP.) Also laid down on that day : the single "Plenty Good Lovin'" (MGM 12824), released on August 17 (peak position # 69, c/w "You're Gonna Miss Me" from a session on April 15, which peaked at # 34). Produced and arranged by Ray Ellis at Metropolitan Studio in New York City.
July 7, 1959 : At RCA Victor Studio in Nashville, THE EVERLY BROTHERS cut their new single, "('Til) I Kissed You"/"Oh What A Feeling", issued on Cadence 1369 at the end of July. Another big hit for them (# 4). Personnel : Don & Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Chet Atkins, Sonny Curtis (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
July 8, 1959 : Sax man KING CURTIS records the final five tracks for his LP "Have Tenor Sax, Will Blow" (Atco LP 33-113, November) : "The Groove", "The Shake", "Snake Eyes", "Jaywalk" and "Midnight Ramble". Personnel : King Curtis, Noble 'Thin Man' Watts (tenor saxes) ; Al Casey, Jimmy Spruill (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Herman Foster (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun in New York City.
July 8, 1959 : FLOYD CRAMER records four more tracks for his LP "Hello Blues" (RCA LPM 2151, January 1960) : "Yesterdays", "Re-enlistment Blues", "The Swingin' Shepherd Blues" and "The Lonesome Road". The twelfth track, "Stormy Weather", is laid down on July 21 (with John D. Loudermilk on guitar, Bob Moore on bass, Boots Randolph on sax and Buddy Harman on drums), during a split session with Chet Atkins. Personnel on July 8 : Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph, Dutch McMillin (saxes) ; Carl Calvin (trumpet) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 9, 1959 : After three sessions for the Liberty subsidiary Freedom, JOHNNY BURNETTE is moved to the parent label. "Settin' the Woods On Fire"/ "Kentucky Waltz", both sides recorded on this day, becomes his first 45 on Liberty (55222), released on November 10. Strings arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett in Hollywood, California.
July 9, 1959 : THE DRIFTERS record their next single, "Dance With Me"/ "True Love, True Love" (Atlantic 2040, September), at A & R Studios in New York City. Billy Davis plays guitar, other session players unknown. The Drifters are : Ben E. King (lead on "Dance With Me"), Johnny Williams (lead on "True Love, True Love"), Charlie Thomas, Dock Green and Elsbeary Hobbs. Arranged by Richard Wess, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
July 10, 1959 : Four-track session for TOMMY COLLINS at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Little June"/"A Hundred Years From Now" is selected as the next single (Capitol 4263, August). "You Belong In My Arms" is released in January 1960 (Capitol 4327, c/w "The Wreck Of the Old 97" from a later session). "My Last Chance With You" will end up on the flip of "Black Cat" (from a March 1960 session) in December 1960 (Capitol 4495). Personnel : Wesley Buchanan, Glen Wilds (guitars) ; Lewis Talley (rhythm guitar) ; Fuzzy Owen (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
July 10, 1959 : JIMMY EDWARDS does his first session for RCA, resulting in the single "Your Love Is A Good Love"/"A Favor For A Friend", issued in September on RCA 47-7597. Personnel : Jimmy Edwards (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, John D. Loudermilk (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio.
July 10-13, 1959 : Four days of recording activity by CONWAY TWITTY at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Seven of the tracks end up on the LP "Saturday Night With Conway Twitty" (MGM SE 3786, September) : "You Win Again", "Danny Boy" (also a single, MGM 12826, August), "Blueberry Hill", "She's Mine" (also on MGM 12911, June 1960), "Restless", "Beach Comber" and "Hey Miss Ruby" (also MGM 14408, May 1972). "Easy To Fall In Love" and "Heartbreak Hotel" are included on the LP "Lonely Blue Boy" (MGM SE 3818) in February 1960. "Lonely Kind Of Love", "Because You Love Me" and "Leonora My Love" are first released on the Bear Family 8-CD set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BCD 16112) in 1997. Personnel : Al Bruno, Ray Edenton, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
Monday, July 13, 1959 : Three-track session by THE CHAMPS at Gold Star studio in Hollywood. "Twenty Thousand Leagues" will be used as the B-side of "Too Much Tequila" (from a later session) in January 1960 (Challenge 59063). "Wildwood Flower" is first released on the Dutch CD "Tequila" (Woodford WMCD 5659) in 1992. "You Are My Sunshine" is a vocal number, probably sung by Dave Burgess, and first issued on the CD "Wing Ding" (Ace CDCHD 460, UK) in 1993. Arranged by Dave Burgess, produced by Joe Johnson.
July 13, 1959 : Second and last Imperial session for PERCY MAYFIELD. "My Heart Is A Prisoner"/"My Memories" is issued on Imperial 5620 in September. "Gone Astray" is first issued in 2005 on the Various artists LP "Down and Out : The Sad Soul Of the Black South" on the Trikont label. "Fading Love" stays in the vaults. Mayfield will rerecord this song for Tangerine in 1965. Recorded in Los Angeles, studio, personnel and producer unknown.
July 14, 1959 : THE "5" ROYALES are at the King Studio in Cincinnati to lay down their next two singles : "Tell Me You Care"/"Wonder Where Your Love Has Gone" (King 5237, August) and "My Sugar Sugar"/"It Hurts Inside" (King 5266, October).
July 14, 1959 : JOHNNY OTIS records his new single at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood : "Let the Sunshine In My Life"/"Baby Just You" (Capitol 4260, August). Strings are overdubbed on July 22. Unissued from this session are "The Magic Words" and "With You, With Me". Produced by Tom Morgan.
July 15, 1959 : One-track session by THE FOUR PREPS, who cover the Webb Pierce hit "I Ain't Never" (Capitol 4256, c/w "Memories, Memories" from a session on December 8, 1958). Release date is August 10, peak position on the Billboard Hot 100 # 79. The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Don Clarke and Glen Larson. Orchestra conducted by Morty Corb. Arranged by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
July 15, 1959 : Also in Hollywood (unknown studio), drummer SANDY NELSON records his first single, produced by himself and Art Laboe, owner of the Original Sound label. The result is "Teen Beat"/"Big Jump", issued in the second week of August (Original Sound 5). A # 4 hit. Personnel : Sandy Nelson (drums) ; Richie Podolor (guitar) ; Barney Kessel (overdubbed guitar on "Teen Beat") ; Connie 'Guybo' Smith (bass) ; Bruce Johnston (piano).
July 16, 1959 : At New York's Atlantic studio, THE COASTERS record the A-side of their next single, "Poison Ivy" (Atco 6146, August) and "What About Us", the subsequent single (Atco 6153, November). Both records will chart, peaking at # 7 and # 47 respectively. "I'm A Hog For You", from a session on December 11, 1958, is overdubbed on July 17 and becomes the B-side of "Poison Ivy" (will chart in its own right, # 38). Personnel : Mickey Baker, Sonny Forriest (guitars) ; George Barnes (Danelectro bass) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Alfred Dreares (drums) : Willie Rodriguez (bongos). Arranged by Mike Stoller, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. See also July 23.
July 17, 1959 : GRADY CHAPMAN, formerly of the Robins, records his second single for Imperial, "Let's Talk About Us"/"Come Away" (Imperial 5611, August). The A-side is a cover of the current Jerry Lee Lewis single. Location : Los Angeles.
July 17, 1959 : RONNIE SELF's first Decca session yields the single "Big Town"/"This Must Be the Place" (Decca 30958, August). Personnel : Hank Garland, Jack Pruett (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 18, 1959 : DION AND THE BELMONTS do another session for the Laurie label in New York City. “Where Or When”/“That’s My Desire” is released in December on Laurie 3044. A # 3 hit. The sax player is probably Jerome Richardson.
Tuesday, July 21, 1959 : At 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, BRAD SUGGS records the instrumental single "706 Union"/"Low Outside" (Phillips International 3545, September). The same crew cuts "King Of Fools" with singer Edwin Bruce. This track is first released on a French Sun single (Sun 609) in 1977 (c/w "Baby That's Good" from a session on January 26, 1958). Personnel : Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
July 21, 1959 : LITTLE WALTER cuts his next single, "Back Track"/ "Everything's Gonna Be Allright" (Checker 930, September) as well as "Mean Old Frisco", which is first released on Checker 1117 in August 1965. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Luther Tucker, Robert Lockwood (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Billie Stepney (drums). Location : Chess Studio, Chicago.
July 22, 1959 : BOBBY DARIN does a four-track session in Los Angeles. "Somebody To Love" and "I'll Be There" will be released as two sides of the same single in Europe (London HLK 9215 in the UK, October 1960), but in the USA they become the B-sides of "Artificial Flowers" (Atco 6179, September 1960) and "Bill Bailey" (Atco 6167, May 1960) respectively. "You Know How" is first released on the LP "For Teenagers Only" (Atco SP 1001) in September 1960, later also as a single (Atco 6236, September 1962, B-side of "Baby Face"). "Moment Of Love" is issued (together with "She's Tanfastic" from a February 1960 session) as a "special premium disc", presumably a premium for a suntan lotion. The track gets its first commercial release in 1991, on the CD "Splish Splash : The Best Of Bobby Darin, Vol. 1" (Atco 7 91794-2). Personnel : Bob Bain (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Bobby Short (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (strings). Arranged and co-produced by Jimmie Haskell, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
July 22, 1959 : Afternoon session for LEFTY FRIZZELL at Bradley Studio in Nashville. His next single is "Farther Than My Eyes Can See"/"Ballad Of the Blue and Grey" (Columbia 41455, August 24). "My Blues Will Pass" will be released on April 4, 1960 (Columbia 41635, c/w "She's Gone" from a session on September 12, 1958). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law.
July 22, 1959 : HOMER AND JETHRO record parodies of two current Top 10 hits (Battle of New Orleans and Waterloo). "The Battle of Kookamonga"/ "Waterloo" is released on RCA 47-7585 in August. It will become their first pop hit since 1953, peaking at # 14. Unissued from this session is "Fascination". Personnel : Henry 'Homer' Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Kenneth 'Jethro' Burns (vocals / mandolin) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 22, 1959 : RAY PETERSON records three tracks at Webster Hall in New York City. “My Blue Angel”/“Come And Get It” is his next single, issued on RCA 47-7578 in August. “Goodnight My Love (Pleasant Dreams)” will be coupled with “Till Then” (from a session on March 23, 1959) for release on RCA 47-7635 in October. A # 64 hit. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Bucky Pizzarelli, Arthur Ryerson (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Seldon Powell (sax) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums). Plus a string section and a mixed vocal chorus. Produced by Dick Peirce.
July 23, 1959 : Second session for THE COASTERS this month. "Run Red Run" ends up on the lower deck of "What About Us" in November (see July 16), but will peak at a higher position (# 36 pop, Atco 6153). Also recorded is the unissued "Guitaritious", probably an instrumental. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter, Will 'Dub' Jones (vocals) ; Al Caiola, Sonny Forriest (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Panama Francis (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
July 23, 1959 is also the date of YOUNG JESSIE's only session for the Capitol label. The result is one single, "The Wrong Door"/"Lulu Belle" (Capitol 4318, December) and one unissued track ("Naughty Little Millie"). Personnel : Gerald Wilson (trumpet) ; Otis Morrow (tenor sax / arranger) ; Unknown (baritone sax) ; Gaynel Hodge (piano) ; Curtis Counce (bass) ; Bobby Gross (drums) ; Bobby Sears (bongos). Produced by Buck Stapleton at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
July 23, 1959 : Three-track session by FREDDIE HART at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Chain Gang” and “Rock Bottom” are coupled for release as his next single (Columbia 41456, August 10). A # 17 country hit. “Mr. Fool” remains unissued until it is included on the CD “Juke Joint Boogie” (Bear Family BCD 16727) in 2004. Personnel : Freddie Hart (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Grady Martin. Produced by Don Law.
July 23-24, 1959 : Spread over two days, BOBBY HELMS records material for two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Hurry Baby”/“My Lucky Day” is released on Decca 30976 in October. “Sad Eyed Baby”/”You’re the One” is saved until March 1961 for release on Decca 31230. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
July 25, 1959 : CHET ATKINS records his biggest pop hit, "Boo Boo Stick Beat", at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. Released in August on RCA 47-7589. Peak position # 49. Three other tracks from this session are consigned to the vaults : "Tricky", "Peanut Vendor" (first version) and "El Cumbanchera". Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (percussion). The reverse of "Boo Boo Stick Beat", "Django's Castle" was recorded on July 1, with the same musicians, plus Hank Garland and James Rich on guitar.
July 25-26, 1959 : CLIFF RICHARD cuts four tracks in two days at EMI's Abbey Road studio. "Travellin' Light" is released as his next single, on October 2 (Columbia DB 4351, c/w "Dynamite", which will be recorded on September 6). It will become Cliff's second # 1 hit in the UK. An alternate version of "Dynamite" is recorded on July 25 and first released on a Dutch 10-inch LP in 1962 ("Time To Rock!"). The two songs from July 26 are "I Gotta Know" (to be recorded by Elvis Presley in April 1960) and "The Snake And the Bookworm". Both songs end up on the LP "Cliff Sings" in November (Columbia SX 1192). Backing by the Shadows. Produced by Norrie Paramor in London, England.
July 28, 1959 : THE BROTHERS FOUR record “Greenfields” (Columbia 41571, January 1960), which will peak at # 2 on the Billboard charts. The other side, ”Angelique-O”, is recorded on September 3. The location is the Columbia Recording Studio in New York City. The Brothers Four are : Bob Flick, Dick Foley, Mike Kirkland and John Payne.
July 29, 1959 : CHUCK BERRY records eight tracks at the Chess Studio in Chicago. Four of them will appear on two singles : "Childhood Sweetheart"/ "Broken Arrow" (Chess 1737, September) and "Too Pooped To Pop"/"Let It Rock" (Chess 1747, January 1960). The other four tracks will be issued on four different LP's : "Betty Jean", "County Line", "One O'Clock Jump" (instr.) and "I Just Want To Make Love To You". Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Johnny Johnson (piano) ; L.C. Davis (tenor sax on four tracks) ; Fred Belew (drums) ; The Ecuadors (vocal group). The latter group records the single "Let Me Sleep Woman"/"Say You'll Be Mine" (Argo 5353, November) on this day, with the same personnel.
July 29, 1959 : THE ISLEY BROTHERS record their second RCA single, the classic "Shout, Parts 1 & 2" (RCA 47-7588, August), at New York's RCA Studio. Personnel unknown. A # 47 pop hit. (No R&B chart action, strangely.) Produced by Hugo and Luigi.
Thursday, July 30, 1959 : Three-track session by JIMMY DONLEY at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Now I Know"/"I Can't Love You Like You Want Me To Do" is his next single (Decca 31005, November). "Give Me My Freedom" is first issued on an LP with the same title (Charly CR 30265, UK) in 1986. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Prof Carpenter (alto sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; (probably) The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
July 30, 1959 : Ex-Blue Cap TOMMY FACENDA records "High School USA" in New York City. This is a re-recording of an earlier version produced by Frank Guida in Norfolk, Virginia. On this new version gaps were left in the tape where the name of local high schools could be dropped in. 28 versions were mastered (Atlantic 51-78, September), one for each state in which the record was likely to be played. Flip is "Plea Of Love", from the same session. Personnel : Bill Suyker, Joe Galbraith (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums), Plus a 5-piece vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Reggie Obrecht.
July 31, 1959 : In Hollywood, WYNONA CARR holds her last recording session for Specialty, produced by Sonny Bono. Two singles are the result : "How Many Times?"/"Give Me Your Hand To Hold" (Specialty 678, September) and "Old Fashioned Love"/"Someday, Somewhere, Somehow" (Specialty 683, January 1960). All four songs are Wynona's own compositions.
July 31, 1959 : NEIL SEDAKA records his Top 10 hit "Oh Carol"/"One Way Ticket" (RCA 47-7595, September). Also laid down is "The Girl For Me", which gets a place on the EP "Oh Carol" (RCA EPA 4353) in January 1960. Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle, produced by Al Nevins at RCA Victor Studio A, 155 East 24th Street, New York City.
(Probably) July 1959 : THE CHORDETTES do a six-track session with sax player King Curtis. "No Wheels"/"A Girl's Work Is Never Done" is released in the first week of August (Cadence 1366). "Tall Paul", "Pink Shoelaces", "Charlie Brown" and "I Cried A Tear" come out on an EP (Cadence EP 115) in September. It is possible that there was more than one session involved. Personnel : Janet Ertel, Jackie Ertel, Carol Bushman, Lynn Evans, Margie Needham (vocals) ; Jeff Kron (spoken interjections on "No Wheels") ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Unknown (guitar, bass, drums). Produced by Archie Bleyer in New York City.
July 1959, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS do another session at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. "The 22nd Day" is used as the B-side of "Young In Years" (from an earlier session) in August (Mercury 71505). "Walking the Stroll" is the subsequent single (Mercury 71534, November). "My Foolish Heart" remains unissued. Personnel : Dave Somerville, John Felton, Mike Douglas, Evan Fisher (vocals) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Unknown (piano, guitar, bass, drums). Produced by Clyde Otis.
July 1959, unknown date : The final Chess session of BILLY 'THE KID' EMERSON results in the single "I'll Get You Too"/"Uh Huh, My Baby" (Chess 1740, September) and two unissued tracks, "A Mighty Love" and a new version of "When It Rains It Pours" (previously recorded for Sun, 1954). Personnel : Billy Emerson (vocals / piano) ; Guitar Red (Vincent Duling) (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Joe Jones (tenor sax) ; Phil Thomas (drums) ; The Dells (vocal group). Location : Chicago.
(Circa) July 1959, unknown date : Time for another DALE HAWKINS session. "Lifeguard Man"/"Our Turn" is chosen as the next single (Checker 929, rush- released). "Don't Break Your Promise To Me" ends up on the reverse of "Hot Dog" (from a later session) and is released on Checker 940 in December. Personnel : Dale Hawkins (vocals) ; Roy Buchanan, Kenny Paulsen (guitars) ; Unknown (piano, bass, drums, strings, vocal chorus). Produced by Leonard Chess at Sheldon Recording Studios in Chicago.
(Circa) July 1959, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY has only one session in 1959 and not a very fruitful one at that. "Never, Never" and "Oh Mickey" will be included on his LP "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (Argo LP 4009) in the summer of 1961. "Put My Mind At Ease" and "Through" stay in the vaults until this day. Produced by Paul Gayten in New Orleans.
July 1959, unknown date : HOWLIN' WOLF holds his only session of 1959. "I've Been Abused"/"Mr. Airplane Man" is selected for the next single (Chess 1735, August). "Howlin' For My Darling" will be released on Chess 1762 in August 1960 (c/w "Spoonful" from a later session). "My People's Gone" stays in the can until 1979, when it is included on the LP "Can't Put Me Out : Chicago 1956-1972" (Blues Ball LP 2002). Location : Chicago. Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals / harmonica) ; Hubert Sumlin, Abraham Smothers (guitars) ; Hosea Lee Kennard (piano) ; Abb Locke (tenor sax) ; S.P. Leary (drums).
July 1959, unknown date : First Chess session by LARRY WILLIAMS, probably in Chicago. "My Baby's Got Soul"/"Every Day I Wonder" is selected for his first single for the label (Chess 1736, August). "Baby Baby" is released in late November on Chess 1745 (c/w "Get Ready" from a later session) and "I Wanna Know" on Chess 1761 in July 1960. All four tracks are supposed to have been released on the mysterious 1961 album "Larry Williams!" (Chess LP 1457) that no one has ever seen.
With thanks to Steve Walker, the late Stuart Colman and Roy Simonds.
AUGUST 1959
Monday, August 3, 1959 : BILLY 'CRASH' CRADDOCK is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record three tracks. "Boom Boom Baby" and "Don't Destroy Me" are coupled for his next single (Columbia 41470, September). "Well Don't You Know" is first released in 1981 on a German longplayer ("Crash's Greatest Hits", Coronet KLLS 1666). "Boom Boom Baby" will be a number one in Australia. Personnel : Billy Craddock (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Andrew Goodrich (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 3-6, 1959 : Four days of recording activity by GENE VINCENT, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. All tracks appear on the LP "Crazy Times" (Capitol T 1342, March 1960), unless otherwise indicated. The harvest of the first day is "Pretty Pearly", "She She Little Sheila", "Accentuate the Positive" and "Darlene", followed on August 4 by "Why Don't You People Learn To Drive", "Crazy Times" and "Greenback Dollar". "Big Fat Saturday Night" and "Hot Dollar" are recorded on August 5, along with the single "Wild Cat"/"Right Here On Earth" (Capitol 4313, December). The final day produces "Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain", "Everybody's Got A Date But Me" and "Michiko From Tokyo". "She She Little Sheila" and "Hot Dollar" will be issued on a UK single (Capitol CL 15202) in May 1961. Personnel : Jerry Merritt (lead guitar) ; Whitey Pullen (guitar) ; John Lee Parker (bass) ; Jackie Kelso (tenor sax) ; Alexander Nelson (sax) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Sandy Nelson (drums) ; The Eligibles (vocal group). Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 5, 1959 : Elsewhere in the Capitol Tower, ELMER BERNSTEIN and his orchestra cut the LP "Staccato" for the TV series of the same name, during three sessions in August 1959 (Capitol T 1287, October). Two songs from the album, "Staccato's Theme" (recorded on August 5) and "The Jazz At Waldo's" (recorded on August 8) are released as a single in the UK (Capitol CL 15101, December), where "Staccato's Theme" becomes a surprise # 4 hit in early 1960.
August 5-6, 1959 : MARV
JOHNSON records the second biggest hit of his career : “You Got What It
Takes”/“Don’t Leave Me” (United Artists 185). Released on August 21. A # 10 pop
hit (# 2 R&B). Unissued from this session is “Way Over There”.
Personnel : Marv Johnson (vocals / piano) ; Unknown (bass, tambourine, flute) ;
The Rayner Voices (Robert Bateman, Brian Holland, Raynoma Liles Gordy,
Sonny Sanders), vocal chorus. Arranged and produced by Berry Gordy at Fine
Studios in New York City.
August 5-7, 1959 : TOMMY COLLINS in the morning, Gene Vincent in the afternoon. That's the busy schedule of producer Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower. During three days of sessions, Collins records the LP "Songs I Love To Sing" (Capitol T 1436, June 1960). Tracks : "I'll Keep On Loving You", "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You", "I Overlooked An Orchid", "I Wonder If You Feel the Way I Do", "The Last Letter", "It Makes No Difference Now", "Oklahoma Hills", "Broken Engagement", "Let's Live A Little", "I'm Here To Get My Baby Out Of Jail", "Sidewalks Of New York" and "The Great Speckled Bird". Also recorded is the single "The Wreck Of the Old 97" (Capitol 4327, January 1960). Personnel : Roy Nichols, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Lewis Talley (rhythm guitar) ; Fuzzy Owen (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).
August 6, 1959 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters cut material for two singles at the King Studio in Cincinnati : "I Could Love You"/"Never Knew" (King 5275, October) and "Look At Little Sister"/"I Said I Wouldn't Beg You" (King 5289, December). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocal) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis, John Faire (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; George DeHart or Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
August 6, 1959 : DEAN REED does another session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "I Ain't Got You"/"Our Summer Romance" is released in September on Capitol 4273. "No Wonder" follows in May 1960 (Capitol 4384, c/w "Don't Let Her Go" from a session on November 28, 1958). Personnel : Al Hendrickson, Bob Summers (guitars) ; Morty Corb (bass) ; Bobby Hammack (piano / arranger) ; Roy Harte (drums). Plus six violins and a vocal chorus. Produced by Fred Grimes.
August 6, 1959 : SAMMY SALVO has his only session for Imperial, probably in Los Angeles. Two singles are the result "Afraid"/"Marble Heart" (Imp. 5615, late August) and "Oh True Love"/"Don't Leave Me No More" (Imperial 5636, January 1960). "Oh True Love" is the Boudleaux Bryant tune that the Everly Brothers recorded for Cadence in March, but which stayed in the vaults for decades. They will re-record the song for Warner Bros in 1960.
August 6, 1959 : PAT BOONE records his next hit single, "Fools Hall Of Fame" (Dot 15982, late August, # 29). Flip is "Brightest Wishing Star", which was cut one week earlier (July 30). "This Girl Is Mine" and "I've Got A Dream On My Mind" were originally unissued, but later included on Pat's 12-CD Bear Family "Fifties" box-set (BCD 15884, 1997). Personnel : Barney Kessel, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Milton Adelstein (piano) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Plus unknown horns and vocal chorus. Arranged by Billy Vaughn, produced by Randy Wood at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
August 7, 1959 : In Chicago, JIMMY REED records the classic "Baby What You Want Me To Do" (Vee-Jay 333, December), as well as "Going By the River" (Vee-Jay 357), which will be used as the B-side of "Hush-Hush" in August 1960. "Hush-Hush" is recorded on August 25, along with "Where Can You Be" (Vee-Jay 347, May 1960) and the LP tracks "I Was (So) Wrong" and "Blue Blue Water". Personnel (at least for the August 25 session) : Jimmy Reed (vocals / guitar / harmonica) ; Phil Upchurch, Eddie Taylor (guitars) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
August 10, 1959 : DANNY VALENTINO cuts his first single, "Stampede"/ "(You Gotta Be A) Music Man" (MGM 12835, October), at Metropolitan Studios in New York City. Both sides are written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. Personnel: Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Bobby Crenshaw (bass) ; Hank Jones (piano) ; Jerome Richardson (sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis.
August 10-12, 1959 : Three days of sessions by CARL
DOBKINS JR result in the singles
"Lucky Devil" (Decca 31020, November, c/w "In My
Heart" from a session on June 9),
"Exclusively Yours"/"One Little Girl" (Decca 31088, April 1960) and "Lovelight"
(Decca 31182, December 1960, c/w "Take
Time Out" from an August 1960 session). Also recorded are the LP
tracks "Class Ring", "True
Love", "For Your Love", "I'm Sorry", "A Fool Such
As I" and "Raining In My
Heart" (all on Decca DL 8938, September). "That's All I Need To
Know" and "Sue" are first released on Bear Family BCD 15546 in
1991 (CD "My Heart Is An Open Book"). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank
Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ;
Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen
Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 11-13, 1959 : THE PLATTERS are at Universal Recording Studio in Chicago to record the LP "Reflections" (Mercury MG 20481, April 1960). Six tracks are also released as singles : "Harbor Lights"/"Sleepy Lagoon" (Mercury 71563, December) ; "Ebb Tide" (Mercury 71624, release date April 25, 1960) ; "Red Sails In the Sunset"/"Sad River" (Mercury 71656, July 3, 1960) and "Down the River Of Golden Dreams" (B-side of "To Each His Own", Mercury 71697, September 20, 1960). The remaining six tracks are : "Lazy River", "Moonlight On the Colorado", "On A Slow Boat To China", "Rainbow On the River", "Reflections In the Water" and "By the River Sainte Marie". "Harbor Lights" will give the group its last Top 10 hit (# 8).
August 12, 1959 : JOHNNY POWERS records his sole single for the Sun label, "With Your Love, With Your Kiss"/"Be Mine, Be Mine" (Sun 327, September 15) and at least three other tracks, including "Me And My Rhythm Guitar" and "Waitin' For You", which are held in the can until the release of the LP "Country Rock Sides" (Sun LP 1031, UK). This is a various artists album that came out in 1986. Personnel : Johnny Powers (vocals / guitar) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Stan Kesler at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
August 12, 1959 : Two-track session by LITTLE WALTER.
"Blue And Lonesome" is eventually released as a single (Checker
1117, 1965, c/w "Mean Old
Frisco" from a session on July 21, 1959). "One Of These
Mornings" stays in the vaults for even longer, until 1989, when it appears
on a French LP (Le Roi Du Blues LP 2012). Location is Chicago. Personnel :
Little Walter (vocals / harmonica) ; Fred Robinson, Luther Tucker (guitars) ;
Willie Dixon (bass) ; George Hunter (drums).
Thursday August 13, 1959 : An afternoon session for BRENDA LEE at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Sweet Nothin's"/"Weep No More My Baby" becomes her new single (Decca 30967, September 28) and her first big hit, peaking at # 4. The third track from this session, "(If I'm Dreaming) Just Let Me Dream", makes its first appearance on the LP "Brenda Lee" (Decca DL 4039), released on August 1, 1960. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (electric guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
August 13, 1959 : BIG MAYBELLE records her next two singles in New York City : "I Understand"/"Some Of These Days" (Savoy 1576, September) and "I Got It Bad"/"Until the Real Thing Comes Along" (Savoy 1583, February 1960). Personnel : Robert Banks (organ) ; Julius Held, Seymour Miroff, Felix Orlewitz, Paul Winter (violins) ; Unknown (piano, guitar, bass, drums). Arranged by Howard Biggs.
August 14, 1959 : JOHNNY CASH waxes "The Little Drummer Boy" for the Christmas season (Columbia 41481, October, c/w "I'll Remember You" from the same session). The other four tracks are assembled on an EP called "Johnny Cash Sings the Rebel" (Columbia B 2155) : "The Rebel - Johnny Yuma" (also released as a single in May 1961, Columbia 41995), "Remember the Alamo", "Lorena" and "Ballad Of Boot Hill" (a Carl Perkins composition). At the tail end of the session JOHNNY WESTERN records a cover version of Jack Clement's "Ten Years" (Columbia 41500, release date October 12). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Bob Johnson (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Fury Kazak (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 15, 1959 : A recording date for VERNON TAYLOR at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis. "Sweet And Easy To Love"/"Mystery Train" is rush-released as his new single (Sun 325). Personnel : Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
August 15, 1959 : On the same day there is another session at the Sun studio, but with completely different personnel. MACK SELF records "Willie Brown" (Phillips International 3548, September, coupled with "Mad At You" from a session on March 28, 1957) and "Lovin' Memories", which is first released by Charly in the UK on Sun LP 1031 (see the Johnny Powers entry) under the title "Love Love Memories". Personnel : Mack Self (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (lead guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Ace Cannon (tenor sax) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Ernie Barton.
August 18, 1959 : THE KALIN TWINS cut their next single, "The Meaning Of the Blues"/"Why Don't You Believe Me" (Decca 30977, October), as well as "True To You" (Decca 31111, June 1960). The flip-side of "True To You", "Blue Blue Town", is recorded in the night of 20/21 August, along with "Little Miss Blue" (first issued on the CD "When", Bear Family BCD 15597, 1992). Personnel : Herbert & Harold Kalin (vocals) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Gene Mullins (sax on August 18) ; Jack Gregory (sax on August 20) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced and arranged by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 19, 1959 : BILL DOGGETT and his combo cut four tunes that end up on four different singles : "Goofy Organ" (King 5281, October), "The Slush" (King 5364, July 1960), "Slidin'" (King 5419, November 1960) and "Buggle Nose" (King 5482, April 1961). Location : King Studio, Cincinnati. Personnel : Billy Butler (guitar) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Clifford Scott (alto sax) ; Ray Felder (tenor sax) ; Candy Johnson (baritone sax) ; Bill Doggett (organ) ; Calvin Shields (drums).
August 18-20, 1959 : Three consecutive days of recording by THE FIVE KEYS result in twelve tracks, assembled on the LP "The Five Keys" (King LP 688, February 1960). Nine tracks are also released on singles. "Ziggus"/"I Took Your Love For A Toy" is rush-released on King 5251 at the end of August. "Dream On"/"Dancing Senorita" follows in October (King 5273). "How Can I Forget You"/"I Burned Your Letter" is a January 1960 release (King 5302). "Rosetta"/"Gonna Be Too Late" comes out in March 1960 (King 5330) and "You Broke the Only Heart" in January 1961 (King 5446). The three remaining tracks are "I've Always Been A Dreamer", "Your Teeth And Your Tongue" and "When Paw Was Courting Maw". Location : King Studio, Cincinnati.
August 21, 1959 : Three-track session for THE FIESTAS in New York City. "Good News"/"That Was Me" is their next single (Old Town 1074, October). "Dollar Bill" is issued in June 1960 on Old Town 1080 (c/w "It Don't Make Sense" from a later session). The Fiestas are : Tommy Bullock (lead), Eddie Morris (tenor), Sam Ingalls (baritone) and Preston Lane (bass).
Monday, August 24, 1959 : Date of CARL MANN's second session for Sun, this time produced by Sam Phillips himself. "Pretend"/"Rockin' Love" is chosen for the next single (Phillips International 3546, September). "Too Young" is first released in 1977 on the UK LP "Carl Mann : The Sun Story, Vol. 6" (Sunnyvale 9330-906) and "Take These Chains From My Heart" in 1986 on the album "14 Unissued Sides" (Star Club 33-8022, Sweden). Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Location : Sun Studio, 706 Union Avenue, Memphis.
August 24, 1959 : GUY MITCHELL records the future # 1 pop hit "Heartaches By the Number" (originally waxed by Ray Price) and its flip, "Two". Rush- released on Columbia 41476 on August 31. "Notify the F.B.I." sees its first release on the CD "Heartaches By the Number" (Bear Family BCD 15454) in 1990. Backing by Joe Sherman and his orchestra and chorus. Produced by Mitch Miller at the Columbia Recording Studio in New York City.
August 25, 1959 : Cliff Richard's backing group, THE SHADOWS, record their first single under that name, after they had to drop the moniker The Drifters. It is a vocal number, called "Saturday Dance" (Columbia DB 4387, December). The reverse is "Lonesome Fella", from a later session (September 13). Issued in the US in February 1960 on ABC-Paramount 10073. The Shadows are : Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch (guitars) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
August 25, 1959 : EDDIE COCHRAN records three instrumentals at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Guybo" and "Eddie's Blues" are first released on the LP "My Way" (Liberty LBY 1205, UK) in 1964. "Eddie's Blues" will also be issued as a single (Liberty 10276, UK) in 1967. "Chicken Shot Blues" sees its first release on the LP "Words And Music" (Rockstar RSR LP 1005) in 1982. One vocal number is laid down : "Milk Cow Blues", first issued on the "My Way" LP. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar / guitar overdubs) ; Mike Deasy (rhythm guitar) ; Dave Shriver and 'Guybo' Smith (electric bass) ; Jim Stivers (piano) ; Gene Riggio (drums). The instrumental "Strollin' Guitar" is recorded on August 26 (probably with the same personnel) and issued on Silver 1001 in October, credited to The Kelly Four. See also August 29.
August 25-26, 1959 : Also present at Gold Star is JOHNNY BURNETTE. He records five tracks : "You're Cheatin' On Me", "Blue School Days", "Just Keep On Going", "Just A Memory" and an early version of "Ballad Of the One Eyed Jacks". They are first issued in 1999 on the Hydra CD "Rock And Roll Tonight" by Johnny and Dorsey Burnette (BCK 27110). Personnel : Johnny Burnette (vocals / guitar / producer) ; Dorsey Burnette (bass / duet vocal on "Blue School Days" / backing vocals) ; Eddie Cochran (acoustic guitar / overdubbed electric guitar on August 27) ; Unknown (drums).
August 26, 1959 : MARVIN RAINWATER records "The Valley Of the Moon" (MGM 12829, September) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The other side, "Young Girls", is laid down on August 28. "Columbus Stockade Blues" (recorded on the 26th) and "Midnight Bus" (recorded on the 28th), are both unissued / lost. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
August 27, 1959 : Three-track session for THE CHAMPS at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. None of the tracks was originally issued. "Stampede" and "Swanee River Blues" make their first appearance on the CD "Wing Ding!" (Ace CDCHD 460, UK) in 1993. "American Patrol" has been included on the fourth volume of an mp3-set called "Much More Tequila" in 2008. Personnel : Dave Burgess (rhythm guitar / arranger) ; Dale Norris (lead guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (tenor sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
August 27, 1959 : An overdub session takes place at United Recorders in Hollywood. PLAS JOHNSON overdubs his saxophone on the basic track of DUANE EDDY's "Some Kind-A Earthquake" (recorded on March 19). Release in September on Jamie 1130. The shortest record (1:17) to ever chart in the Billboard Top 40 (peak position # 37).
August 27, 1959 is also the recording date of the BUDDY COVELLE single "Lorraine"/"I'll Go On Loving You" (Coral 62181, March 1960). Location is New York City. Produced by Jaycee Hill. More details not known.
August 27, 1959 : And yet another session on this day, by those busy PLATTERS, this time in Los Angeles. The result is the non-charting single "My Secret"/"What Does It Matter" (Mercury 71538), for release in October. Produced by Buck Ram.
Friday, August 28, 1959 : BOBBY BARE records a sequel to "All American Boy", titled "I'm Hanging Up My Rifle" (Fraternity 861, November). Flip is "That's Where I Want To Be", with Jimmy Seals on sax. The third track from this session will remain unissued until 2001, when "Whatcha' Gonna Do Now" is included on the Various artists CD "All-American Rock 'n' Roll : The Fraternity Story, Vol. 2" (Ace 822). Location is Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
August 29 and 31 1959 : EDDIE COCHRAN is back at Gold Star Studio and records ten takes of both "Little Angel" and "My Love To Remember" (fifth version). "Little Angel" will be used as the B-side of "Hallelujah I Love Her So", which is cut two days later (Liberty 55217, November) and over- dubbed with strings on October 21. Take 10 of "My Love To Remember" is first issued on the French LP "The Legendary Eddie Cochran" (United Artists UAS 29163) in 1971. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Dave Shriver (electric bass) ; Mike Deasy, Mike Henderson (saxophones) ; Jim Stivers (piano) ; Gene Riggio (drums).
August 31, 1959 : Time for another RAY PRICE session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "The Same Old Me"/"Under Your Spell Again" is rush-released on September 7. Both sides are successful, peaking at # 1 and # 5 on the country charts. A third track, "Broken Hearts Will Haunt Your Soul", is kept in the vaults until Bear Family releases the 10-CD box-set "Honky Tonk Years" (BCD 15843) in 1995. Personnel : Ray Sanders (harmony vocals) ; Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Tommy Jackson, Shorty Lavender (fiddles) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Steve Bess (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 1959, unknown date : The first session of the newly formed BILL BLACK'S COMBO results in the single "Smokie, Parts 1 & 2" (Hi 2018), to be released on October 9. Part 2 turns out to be the hit side, peaking at # 1 R&B and # 17 pop. Personnel : Reggie Young (guitar) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Joe Louis Hall (piano) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jerry Arnold (drums). Produced by Ray Harris at the Hi studio in Memphis.
August 1959, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS do a four-track
session at the Mercury Sound Studio in
New York City. "Young In Years" is their next 45 (Mercury 71505, first week of
September, coupled with "The
Twenty-Second Day" from a July session). "Batman, Wolfman,
Frankenstein and Dracula" appears
on Mercury 71534 in November (c/w "Walking the Stroll" from the same session as
"The Twenty-Second Day"). "Tell the Truth" will also be released as a single
(Mercury 71586) in February 1960.
Unissued from this session is "Wild Female". Produced by Clyde
Otis.
(Probably) August 1959, unknown date : NARVEL FELTS does his third and last session for the Pink label out of Nashville. Two singles are issued : "Genavee"/"Honey Love" (Pink 702, October) and "Tony"/"Darling Sue" (Pink 706, April 1960). A fifth track, "Cindy Lou", is first issued on a White Label single (20152) in 1978, in Holland. Personnel : Narvel Felts (vocals / guitar) ; Leon Barnett (guitar) ; J.W. Grubbs (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (sax) ; Unidentified (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed). Produced by Jack Clement and Walt Maynard at Royal Studio in Memphis.
(Circa) August 1959 : DALE HAWKINS has his first recording date in New York City. Only "Hot Dog" is released at the time (Checker 940, December, c/w "Don't Break Your Promise To Me" from a July session). "Caldonia" is eventually released on the CD "Rock n Roll Tornado" (Ace 693) in 1998, although an alternate version came out in 1980 on a bootleg LP ("Goodnight Sweetheart", Matucci AG-3315), which also included "Cute Little Girls", from the same session. A fourth track, "Confidential", remains unissued until now (August 2012). Personnel (guitar, drums, piano, saxophones, female chorus) unknown. Produced by Jesse Stone.
(Circa) August 1959, unknown date : JACK SCOTT's final session for the Carlton label results in the single "There Comes A Time"/"Baby Marie" (Carlton 519, September). A minor hit (# 71). Backing probably by Stan Getz and his Tom Cats. Produced by Joe Carlton at Universal Sound Studio in Detroit.
August 1959, unknown date : GENE SIMMONS records at the Hi Studio in Memphis with his brother Carl. "You Love Me Too"/"Out Of This World" is leased to Chess, released on Argo 5345 in September and credited to "The Simmons". Personnel : Gene Simmons, Carl Simmons (vocals / guitars) ; Bobby Stewart (bass) ; more details unknown.
Early August 1959, unknown date : RAY SMITH does his first session for Judd Records at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Rockin' Little Angel"/"That's All Right" (Judd 1016) gets a rush release and will become Ray's most successful single (# 22), licensed to many overseas companies (Artone 24074 in Holland, for instance). Personnel : Ray Smith (vocals) ; Grady Martin, Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jud Phillips.
August 1959, unknown date : MUDDY WATERS cuts another session at the Chess studio in Chicago. All four tracks will be included on the LP "Muddy Waters Sings Big Bill" (Chess LP 1444, January 1960) : "Baby I Done Got Wise", "Tell Me Baby" (also a single, Chess 1739, October), "When I Get To Thinking" (also on Chess 1748, January 1960) and "Double Trouble". Personnel : Pat Hare (guitar) ; Andrew Stephenson (bass) ; James Cotton (harmonica) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Willie Smith (drums).
With thanks to Steve Walker, Henk Gorter and Roy Simonds.
Dik
SEPTEMBER 1959
September 1-4, 1959 : Four days of sessions by GEORGE JONES at Bradley Studio in Nashville result in fifteen finished tracks. Seven of these are released as singles : "Big Harlan Taylor"/"Money To Burn" (Mercury 71514, November 3), "Accidentally On Purpose"/"Sparkling Brown Eyes" (Mercury 71583, January 1960), "Your Old Standby" (Mercury 71636, June 1960), "Revenooer Man" (Mercury 72087, February 1963) and "The Last Town I Painted" (Mercury 72233, March 1964). The other eight tracks will be released on various Mercury LP's between 1961 and 1964 : "Someone Sweet To Love", "Everything Ain't Right", "Relief Is Just A Swallow Away", "Time Lock", "Talk To Me, Lonesome Heart", "Whatcha Gonna Do", "Vitamins L-O-V-E" and "The First One". Buddy Killen plays bass (at least on September 1 and 4), more details not known. Produced by Pappy Daily.
September 1, 1959 : STONEWALL JACKSON records the follow-up to his big hit “Waterloo” : “Igmoo (The Pride Of South Central High)”/“Uncle Sam and Big John Bull”, which is released on September 21, on Columbia 41488. A # 29 country hit. Personnel : Grady Martin, Junior Huskey (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer, Marijohn Wilkin (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 2, 1959 :
During the week that his "The Shape I'm In" will enter the Billboard
charts, JOHNNY RESTIVO records his second single, "I Like
Girls"/"Dear Someone" (RCA 47-7601, late September) and at least
three tracks for his forthcoming LP "Oh Johnny" (RCA LPM 2149,
December) : "The Thing", "Free" and "I Wanna Play
House With You". Personnel : Al Caiola, Al Casamenti (guitars) ; George
Roumanis (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; James Lyon (piano) ; Sticks Evans,
Bunny Shawker (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Produced by Charles
Grean and Lee Shapiro in New York City.
September 2, 1959 : DALE HAWKINS records one of his best singles, "Liza Jane"/"Back To School Blues", rush-released on Checker 934 in the second week of September. One other, unknown title is recorded during this session at WCAU radio station in Philadelphia. Personnel : Roy Buchanan, Kenny Paulsen (guitars) ; Jerry Hawkins (maracas) ; Ronnie Lewis (drums) ; probably Rose Lewis (female voice on "Back To School Blues") ; Unknown (bass, sax). Produced by Dale Hawkins.
Thursday, September 3, 1959 : BOBBY DARIN records in Hollywood, at United Recording Corporation. All four tracks will be included on the LP "This Is Darin" (Atco 33-115, January 1960) : "Clementine", "All Nite Long", "Guys And Dolls" and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love, Baby". "Clementine" is also released as a single (Atco 6161, March 1960, c/w "Tall Story" from a later session) and peaks at # 21 on the Billboard charts. Backing by 17 musicians. Arranged by Buddy Bregman. Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun and Ahmet Ertegun.
September 3, 1959 : GORDON TERRY does a four-track session at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood. "A Lotta Lotta Women"/"Lonely Road" is chosen as his next single (RCA 47-7632, November). "Lonely Road" will also be recorded by Bob Luman (see September 8). "Revenooer Man" and "That's the Story My Dad Told Me" stay in the can until the appearance of the Bear Family CD "Lotta Lotta Women" (BCD 15881) in 1995. Personnel : Alton Hendrickson (guitar) ; Morty Corb (bass) ; James Wilson (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums) ; Michael Kazak (percussion) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Neely Plumb.
September 5, 1959 : THE
WAILERS record more tracks for their album
"The Fabulous Wailers" (Golden Crest CR 3075, January 1960) :
"Gunnin' For Peter",
"Long Gone" and "Swing Shift". "Snake Pit" is
rejected for the LP and sees its first
release in 1998 on the CD "The Fabulous Wailers" (Ace CDCHD 675, UK). Personnel : Rich Dangel (lead guitar) ; John
Greek (rhythm guitar) ; Kent Morrill (piano) ; Mark Marush (tenor sax) ; Mike
Burke (drums). Produced by Clark Galehouse in Tacoma, Washington.
September 6-10, 1959 : Marathon session for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, England. He records fourteen tracks for his second LP, "Cliff Sings" (Columbia SX 1192, November) : "Blue Suede Shoes", "Here Comes Summer", "I'll String Along With You", "Embraceable You", "As Time Goes By", "The Touch Of Your Lips", "20 Flight Rock", "Pointed Toe Shoes", "Mean Woman Blues", "I'm Walkin'", "I Don't Know Why", "Little Things Mean A Lot", "Somewhere Along the Way"and "That's My Desire". Also the B-side of his next single, "Dynamite" (Columbia DB 4351, October 2) and two tracks for the "Expresso Bongo" EP (Columbia SEG 7971, January 1960) : "Love" and "A Voice In the Wilderness" (EP version). Backing by the Shadows (Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, Jet Harris, Tony Meehan) on eight tracks and by the Norrie Paramor orchestra on nine tracks. Produced by Norrie Paramor.
September 8, 1959 : Third Warner Bros session for BOB LUMAN, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Dreamy Doll"/"Buttercup" becomes his next single (Warner Bros 5105, October), while two other tracks are stored in a tape box for more than two decades. "Love Creator" is first released on the LP "More Of That Rocker" (Bear Family BFX 15039) in 1980 and "Lonely Road" on another Bear Family LP ("Still Rockin'", BFX 15140) in 1984. Personnel : Roy Buchanan, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Ken Baker (bass) ; Don Ralke (piano / arranger) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Karl Engemann.
September 9-10, 1959 : JOE TURNER records the LP "Big Joe Rides Again" (Atlantic 1332, August 1960), backed by jazz musicians. There are only ten tracks on this album, but they are all on the long side, with "Rebecca" (another variation on "Roll'em Boy" / "Jump For Joy") even running to 7:05. "I Got the World On A String" from this session remains unissued and is replaced on the LP by a leftover from March 1956, "Pennies From Heaven". The other nine tracks are : "Until the Real Thing Comes Along", "Nobody In Mind", "I Get the Blues When It Rains", "Rebecca", "Time After Time", "When I Was Young", "Switchin' In the Kitchen", "Here Comes Your Iceman" and "Don't You Make Me High". Arranged by Ernie Wilkins, produced by Nesuhi Ertegun in New York City. See also September 29.
September 11, 1959 : In Nashville (RCA Victor Studio), HANK LOCKLIN waxes his new single, "Blues In Advance"/"Seven Days (The Humming Song)", for release on RCA 47-7612 in October. A third track, "Second Fiddle", is held back until May 1963, when the LP "This Song Is Just For You" hits the market (RCA Camden CAS 765). Personnel : Grady Martin, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
September 11, 1959 : APRIL STEVENS is now contracted to Imperial Records. Her first single for the label is "Teach Me Tiger"/"That Warm Afternoon" (Imperial 5626, late September), recorded on this day in Los Angeles. It becomes her first chart entry since 1951, peaking at # 86. Arranged and conducted by Don Ralke.
September 12, 1959 : THE OMEGAS are a vocal group led by Earl Sinks (aka Earl Henry at that time). They record three tracks : "When You Touch Me"/"Froze" (Decca 31008, November) and "So How Come (No One Loves Me)" (Decca 31094, May 1960, c/w "Study Hall" from a March 1960 session). Boots Randolph plays the sax, more details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 13, 1959 : THE SHADOWS cut the vocal number "Lonesome Fella", which will be used as the B-side of "Saturday Dance" (recorded on August 25). Release in the UK on Columbia DB 4387 (December) and in the USA on ABC-Paramount 10073 (February 1960). Personnel : Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch (guitars / vocals) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
September 15, 1959 : LLOYD PRICE cuts his next 45, the double-sided hit "Come Into My Heart"/"Wont'Cha Come Home" (ABC-Paramount 10062, October). Now that Don Costa has defected to United Artists, production duties are taken over by Sid Feller, who also arranges both sides. Location is Bell Sound Studio on 54th Street in New York City.
September 15, 1959 is also the recording date of the WYNN STEWART single "Uncle Tom Got Caught" (Challenge 59061, October 30). One other track is recorded, "Wishful Thinking". However, an earlier version of that song (from a July session) is chosen as the other side of "Uncle Tom Got Caught" and this September version of "Wishful Thinking" is shelved until 1988 when Bear Family releases Stewart's complete Challenge recordings on a double-LP (BFD 15261). Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals / guitar) ; Alan Norris (guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Pete Ash (piano) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
September 15, 1959 : Guitarist LINK WRAY records material for the LP "Link Wray & the Raymen" (Epic LN-3661, early 1960) : "Slinky", "Hand Clapper", "Caroline" and "Studio Blues". The next day he waxes two further album tracks, "Rendezvous" and "Ramble". "Slinky"/"Rendezvous" is also issued as a single (Epic 9343) in December. Personnel : Link Wray (lead guitar) ; Vernon Wray (rhythm guitar) ; Shorty Horton (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; Doug Wray (drums). Location : Columbia Recording Studio, New York City.
September 16, 1959 : RONNIE HAWKINS does a demo session in New York City. All eight tracks were originally unissued, but have been included on the double CD "The Roulette Years" (Sequel NED CD 266, UK) in 1994 : "Cathy Jean", "Hayride" (first version), "Your Love Is What I Need", "Look For Me", "My Heart Cries", "Love It Up", "C-Riff Rock" (instr.) and "The Light In Your Window". Personnel : Ronnie Hawkins (vocals) ; Fred Carter Jr (lead guitar) ; Jimmy 'Luke' Paulman (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Levon Helm (drums).
September 17, 1959 : First of three instrumental recording dates by BILL HALEY and his Comets this month. Both "Puerto Rican Peddler" (Decca 31030, December) and "Music Music Music" (Decca 31080, April 1960) are released as singles. They are also included on the album "Strictly Instrumental" (Decca DL 8964, December 14). Personnel : Bill Haley (percussion) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Al Rappa (bass) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by Milt Gabler at the Pythian Temple in New York City. See also September 23-24.
Friday, September 18, 1959 : ROY ORBISON is at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio to record his second Monument single, "Uptown"/"Pretty One", for release on Monument 412 in November. Also laid down is "Raindrops", which will be included on Roy's first Monument LP, "Lonely And Blue" (Monument M 4002, December 1960). Personnel : Bob Moore (bass / producer) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (guitar, strings). Fred Foster is listed as executive producer.
September 20, 1959 : First recording session by THE VENTURES, at the Joe Boles Studio in Seattle, Washington. “The Real McCoy”/“Cookies and Coke” is a vocal single, released on Blue Horizon 100 (February 1960) in a limited edition of 500 copies. Personnel : Don Wilson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Bob Bogle (lead guitar) ; George Babbitt (drums).
(Circa) September 20, 1959 : After UK licensing troubles with the lyrics for "Danny Boy" (a.k.a. "Londonderry Air"), CONWAY TWITTY puts new lyrics to the song (which is in the public domain), calls it "Rosaleena" and overdubs his vocal to the "Danny Boy" backing track, which was recorded on July 10. "Rosaleena" is released in the UK (MGM 1047, November) and other European countries, but not in the USA.
September 21, 1959 : FARON YOUNG records the double-sided country hit "Riverboat"/"Face To the Wall" (Capitol 4291, October). "Riverboat" is also a minor pop hit (# 83). The third track from this session is "I'll Be Allright (In the Morning)", the later B-side of "Your Old Used To Be" (from a later session), issued on Capitol 4351 in March 1960. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Ben Keith, Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Donny Young (harmony vocal) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 23-24, 1959 : BILL HALEY and the Comets record six more tunes for the LP "Strictly Instrumental" (Decca DL 8964, released on December 14). "Skokiaan (South African Song)" and "Drowsy Waters" are waxed on the 23rd and "Two Shadows", "In A Little Spanish Town", "Mack the Knife" and Strictly Instrumental" (also a single, Decca 31080, April 1960) on the 24th. "Skokiaan" is issued as a single in December (Decca 31030) and will become Haley's last chart entry (# 70) before "Rock Around the Clock" re-enters the charts in 1974. Personnel, studio and producer are the same as on September 17.
September 24, 1959 : ROBIN LUKE does a four-track session at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Make Me A Dreamer"/"Walkin' In the Moonlight" is chosen as his new single (Dot 16001, October). "Hayride" and "Poor Me" are first released on the Bear Family CD "Susie Darlin'" (BCD 15547) in 1991. The vocal chorus comes courtesy of the Jack Halloran Singers, other personnel details unknown.
September 24, 1959 is the date of WILL MERCER's solitary session for Sun Records, according to Adam Komorowski, although Colin Escott and Martin Hawkins mention September 15 as the release date of the resulting single, "You're Just My Kind"/"Ballad Of St. Marks" (Sun 329). Personnel : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Brad Suggs (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Ernie Barton at the Sun studio in Memphis.
September 24, 1959 : THE BROWNS record a follow-up to
their number one hit “The Three Bells”. “Scarlet Ribbons”/“Blue Bells Ring” is
released on RCA 47-7614 in October and reaches # 13 on the pop charts and # 7
on the country charts. Personnel : Jim Edward Brown, Maxine Brown, Bonnie Brown
(vocals) ; Hank Garland, John D. Loudermilk (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ;
Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers
(vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in
Nashville.
September 25, 1959 : One-track session by EDDIE BUSH, Carl Mann's guitarist. "Hey Baby Doll" is held in the can until 1986, when it is included on the Various artists LP "Feel Like Rockin'" (Sun LP 1038, UK). Location is the Sun studio in Memphis. Personnel : Eddie Bush (vocals / guitar) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; possibly Carl Mann (piano).
September 25, 1959 :
TRINI LOPEZ is at the King studio in Cincinnati to record six tracks.
"Nobody Listens To Our Teenage Problems" is coupled with "Nobody
Loves Me" for release on King 5284 at the end of October. "Sweet
Thing" is the next single (King 5304, first week of 1960). "The Search
Goes On" is a May 1960 release (King 5344). "Then You Know (You've
Been In Love)" appears in November 1960 (King 5418). Finally, "Won't
You Be My Queen For A Day" is first released on the LP "More Of Trini
Lopez" (King LP 877) in late 1963 (after Trini's success with "If I
Had A Hammer") and then as a single in February 1964 (King 5849).
September 26, 1959 : FATS DOMINO records his next single, "Be My Guest"/"I've Been Around" (Imperial 5629, October), of course at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. As usual, it is a double- sided hit, with peak positions # 8 and # 33. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).
September 28, 1959 : JOHNNY HORTON cuts the first version of "Ole Slew Foot", which stays in the can until the release of the Bear Family CD "Rockin' Rollin' Johnny Horton" (BCD 15543) in 1990. The next day Horton records the single "Take Me Like I Am"/"I'm Ready If You're Willing" (the latter, originally recorded in 1956, in a new version). Release date is October 12 (Columbia 41502). Personnel on both days : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
September 29, 1959 : ERSEL HICKEY records one track during a split session with Mary Mazza and Chuck Sagle. "Love In Bloom" will be issued on Epic 9357 in January 1960, as the B-side "What Do You Want" (from a later session). Backing by 14 musicians, including Bill Suyker on guitar and Sticks Evans on drums. Arranged and produced by Chuck Sagle at Columbia Studio in New York City.
September 29, 1959 : In New York City, LITTLE ANTHONY and the Imperials lay down their new single, "Shimmy Shimmy Ko-Ko-Bop"/"I'm Still In Love With You" (End 1060, November). A fair-sized hit (# 24 pop, # 14 R&B). The group consists of : Anthony Gourdine (lead singer), Tracy Lord, Ernest Wright, Jr., Clarence Collins and Glouster Rogers.
September 29, 1959 : Another JOE TURNER session this month. Four tracks are recorded, released on two singles, "Honey Hush"/"Tomorrow Night" (Atlantic 2044, November, a # 53 pop hit) and "Chains Of Love"/"My Little Honeydripper" (Atlantic 2054, March 1960). "Honey Hush" and "Chains Of Love" are new versions of Joe's earlier Atlantic hits. Personnel : King Curtis, Al Sears (tenor saxes) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Taft Jordan (trumpet) ; Mickey Baker, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (keyboards) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Helen Way, Christine Spencer and Doryce Brown (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (strings). Arranged by Jesse Stone. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
September 30, 1959 : More recording activity in Atlantic's NYC studio, this time by RUTH BROWN. Two singles are the result : "Don't Deceive Me"/ "I Burned Your Letter" (Atlantic 2052, February 1960) and "What I Wouldn't Give"/"The Door Is Still Open To My Heart" (Atlantic 2064, June 1960). Personnel : Mickey Baker, Mundell Lowe, Carl Lynch (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Sol Gubin (vibraphone) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Plus a 6-piece vocal chorus, 8 violins, 2 violas and 2 violoncellos. Arranged by Reggie Obrecht, strings arranged and conducted by Richard Wess. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
September 30, 1959 : Drummer SANDY NELSON does his first session for the Imperial label, in Los Angeles. The result is the single "Drum Party"/"Big Noise From Winnetka" (Imperial 5630), issued in the third week of October. Arranged by Ernie Freeman.
September 30, 1959 : There is one other Imperial session on this day, by BOBBY CHARLES, who records four tracks. "Bye Bye Baby" and "Those Eyes" are selected for single release (Imperial 5642, December), while "Baby" and "Sweet Memories" are consigned to the vaults. Produced by Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans.
(Circa) September 1959, unknown date : BENNY BARNES records one of his finest singles, "Fastest Gun Alive"/"Beggar To A King", both sides written by the late J.P. Richardson. Released in December on Mercury 71552. The third track from this session, "I Got It Made", is first issued on the CD "Poor Man's Riches" (Bear Family BCD 16517) in 2007. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 1959, unknown
dates : BO DIDDLEY does at least two sessions this month. In early September he
records the 45 "Say Man, Back Again"/ "She's Alright"
(Checker 936, November), "The Story Of Bo Diddley", a.k.a. "My Story" (Checker 942,
January 1960) and the LP tracks "Run
Diddley Daddy" (Checker LP 2974) and "Limber" (Checker LP
2976). Six other tracks, all originally
unissued, were probably cut at the same
session : "Bo's Violin", "Darling Tell Me",
"Gonna Tell It Like It Is",
"Jungle", "Walking" and "To Each His Own".
Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Peggy Jones (Lady Bo) (guitar) ;
Willie Dixon (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Frank Kirkland (drums) ; Jerome
Green (maracas, second vocal on "Say Man, Back Again"). The A-side of
"The Story Of Bo Diddley", the classic "Road Runner",
was recorded at a session in late
September, with different personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Peggy
Jones (guitar) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Clifton James
(drums) ; Bobby Baskerville, Jerome Green, Peggy Jones (background vocals).
Both sessions were held at the Chess studio in Chicago.
(Probably) September 1959 : SANFORD CLARK pays another visit to Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona, to record his next single, "Son-Of-A-Gun"/ "I Can't Help It", for release in November on Jamie 1139. Al Casey plays guitar, further details unknown. Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood.
September 1959, unknown date : In New York City, ANN COLE records four tracks for the Sir label, a subsidiary of Baton Records. "That's Enough"/ "Nobody But Me" is released in the first week of October (Sir 272) and followed by "Brandnew House"/"A Love Of My Own" in June 1960. "Brandnew House" was (co-)written by Bobby Darin and included on his first LP. Backing by Sammy Lowe's orchestra, including Mickey Baker on guitar and King Curtis on tenor sax.
September 1959, unknown date : JAMES DARREN waxes the Bobby Darin song (then unreleased) "I Ain't Sharin' Sharon", also covered by Buddy Knox in May. Flip is "Love Among the Young" from the same session. Release on Colpix 128 in October. King Curtis plays the sax, more details unknown. Produced by Stu Phillips in New York City.
September 1959, unknown date : SAMMY MASTERS records his only hit, "Rockin' Red Wing"/"Lonely Weekend" for Terry Fell's Lode label out of Downey, CA. It is first leased to Warner Bros for release in October (Warner Bros 5102), then reissued on Lode 108 in January 1960. Personnel : Bob Williams (sax / arranger) ; Harold Hensley (fiddle) ; more details unknown. Probably produced by Terry Fell at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
September 1959, unknown date : HUEY 'PIANO' SMITH and the Clowns record their next single, "Tu-Ber-Cu-Lucas And the Sinus Blues"/"Dearest Darling", which is rush-released in the third week of September (Ace 571). Huey Smith plays piano and Charles 'Hungry' Williams drums, more details unknown. Location : Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
September 1959, unknown date : SAMMY TURNER cuts the follow-up to his big hit "Lavender Blue" : "Always"/"Symphony" (Big Top 3029, November). Also recorded are the singles "I'd Be A Fool Again" (B-side of "Paradise", Big Top 3032, January 1960) and "Fools Fall In Love" (Big Top 3049, July 1960). All four tracks will also appear on Turner's LP "Lavender Blue Moods" (Big Top 12-1301, January 1960). King Curtis is the saxophonist, more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City (probably A & R Studio).
September 1959, unknown
date : BILLY VAUGHN and his orchestra record four tracks for the EP
"Morgen" (Dot DEP 1089, rush-released) : "Morgen",
"Under the Double Eagle", "Jersey Bounce" and "Left
Out". "Morgen" is released as a single in many European
countries (including the UK, London HLD
8952, October) and will be a hit in Germany and Holland. Produced by Randy Wood
in Hollywood.
With thanks to Roy Simonds, Bill Daniels and Peter Stoller.
Dik
OCTOBER 1959
October 1, 1959 : JOHNNY HORTON pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records "They Shined Up Rudolph's Nose" (for the Xmas season) /"The Electrified Donkey" (Columbia 41522, November 9), as well as "The Same Old Tale the Crow Told Me", which is posthumously issued in September 1964 (Columbia 43143). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (tambourine). Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Don Law.
October 1, 1959 : One week after his last recording date, TRINI LOPEZ is back at the King Studio in Cincinnati for another six-track session. "Chain Of Love" appears on King 5304 in January 1960, followed two months later by "Jeanie Marie"/"Schemer" (King 5324). The three other tracks will not be released until late 1963 : "Don't Go"/"It Seems"(King 5820) and "The Club For Broken Hearts" (King 5824). Personnel : Trini Lopez (vocals / guitar) ; Fred Jordan (guitar) ; Edwin Conley (bass) ; Phillip Paul (drums).
October 2, 1959 : BOBBY LORD records material for two singles : "Too Many Miles (Down the Road)"/"Swamp Fox" (Columbia 41505, late October) and "Give Me A Woman"/"Where Did My Woman Go" (Columbia 41596, March 1960). Personnel : Bobby Lord (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 5, 1959 : Also at Bradley Studio, JOHNNY FERGUSON cuts his only chart entry, the John D. Loudermilk composition "Angela Jones" (MGM 12855, December). The flip is "Blue Serge And White Lace", also from this session. Peak position in Billboard : # 27. In the UK, "Angela Jones" will become a Top 10 hit for Michael Cox in the summer of 1960.
October 5, 1959 : KENNY LORAN is at the Capitol Tower in
Hollywood to record four tracks. "Top Man"/"Look Who's
Lonely" is selected for single release (Capitol 4305, November).
"Sugar 'n' A Kiss" and "One More Record Please" are first
released on the Various artists CD "The Drugstore's Rockin', Vol. 3"
(Bear Family BCD 16608) in 2003. Personnel : Roy Lanham, Scotty Turner (guitars)
; Leon Bagswell, Morty Corb (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Hal Blaine
(drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 6, 1959 : MELVIN ENDSLEY cuts his next single, "Ain't It Fine"/ "I Can't Go Anywhere" (MGM 12859), for release in December. The location is - again - Bradley Studio in Nashville. Hank Garland plays electric guitar, Millie Kirkham provides backing vocals, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
October 6, 1959 : First of two NAPPY BROWN sessions this month. "Give Me Your Love"/"Too Shy" is chosen as the new single (Savoy 1579, November). "Nobody Can Say" comes out in October 1960 on Savoy 1592 (c/w "The Hole I'm In" from a session later in the month). "I Need You" remains unissued. Location is probably New York City. See also October 28.
October 6, 1959 : The last Roulette session of JIMMY BOWEN results in the single “Oh Yeah! Oh Yeah! Mm Mm”/“(I Need) Your Loving Arms” (Roulette 4224, January 1960). “Dusk To Dawn” will see its first release on the 2-CD “The Complete Roulette Recordings - Buddy Knox, Jimmy Bowen and the Rhythm Orchids” (Sequel NEDCD-278) in 1996. The location is Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
October 7, 9, 13, 1959 : CHET ATKINS records ten tracks for the album "Teensville" (RCA LPM 2161, January 1960) plus three tracks ("High Noon", "Blue Rhapsody" and a first version of "'Til There Was You") that will remain unissued until they are included on the 7-CD box-set "Mr. Guitar : The Complete Recordings 1955-1960" (Bear Family BCD 16539) in 2004. The three songs above and "Take A Message To Mary" are laid down on the 7th. Six tracks will follow two days later : "Sleep Walk", "Night Train", "One Mint Julep" (also the B-side of "Teensville", RCA 47-7684), "Come Softly To Me", "White Silver Sands" and "Hot Toddy". On October 13, Chet cuts "Oh Lonesome Me", "Til There Was You" and the title song, "Teensville", which is released as a single in December (RCA 47-7684, a # 73 hit). Personnel (on all three days) : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Location : RCA Victor Studio, 1611 Hawkins Street, Nashville.
Thursday, October 8, 1959 : Also at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, DON GIBSON does a four-track session. "I'm Moving On"/"Big Hearted Me" is his new single (RCA 47-7629, last week of October). "Everybody But Me" will be included on the LP "Look Who's Blue" (RCA LPM 2184) in April 1960. "Maybe Tomorrow" (Don Everly's composition) is also used as an LP track ("Sweet Dreams", RCA LPM 2269, December 1960). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Jimmie Selph (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 8, 1959 : TRACY PENDARVIS is at the (old) Sun
Studio in Memphis, backed by the Swampers. Tracks recorded : "Is It
Me"/"Southbound Line"
(Sun 345, August 15, 1960), "Girl In My Hometown" (first
released on the CD "A Thousand Guitars", Buffalo Bop 55054, 1997,
Germany) and a new version of "Hypnotized", which is also first
issued on a Buffalo Bop album called "A Thousand Guitars", but this
is an LP from 1991 (LP 2078). Personnel : Tracy Pendarvis (vocals / guitar) ;
Johnny Gibson (guitar) ; Sid Manker (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Merrill
'Punk' Wilson (drums). Produced by Ernie Barton.
October 8, 1959 : JERRY WALLACE records his next single, “Little Coco Palm”/“Mission Bell Blues” (Challenge 59060, December), in Hollywood, possibly at Radio Recorders. A # 36 hit. Unissued from this session is “Barbados Way”.
October 9, 1959 : RICKY NELSON records two songs at Master Recorders in Hollywood. "Hey Pretty Baby" is included on the LP "More Songs By Ricky" (Imperial LP 9122, July 1960) after being overdubbed by a vocal chorus (The Jordanaires) on April 21, 1960. "How Long Is Forever" is unissued and lost. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; Johnny and Dorsey Burnette (rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Produced by Jimmie Haskell. See also October 22-23 and October 27.
October 11, 1959 : In New York City, THE CRESTS record their next single, "A Year Ago Tonight"/"Paper Crown" (Coed 521, November). It will peak at # 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Young Love" is first released on Rhino CD R2 70948 in 1990 (and on Ace CDCHD 297 in the UK). A first attempt at "Journey Of Love" remains unfinished. The Crests are : Johnny Maestro, Harold Torres, Talmadge Gough and J.T. Carter.
October 12, 1959 : CARL MANN cuts the single "Some Enchanted Evening"/ "I Can't Forget You" (Phillips International 3550, January 1960). Also "South Of the Border" (Phillips International 3555, May 1960, the later B-side of "I'm Coming Home"), "Today Is Christmas" (first issued as a single on Julep 1985 in 1985), "Kansas City" and a first attempt at "Mountain Dew" (the last two first released in 1977 on the LP "Legendary Sun Performers : Carl Mann" - Charly CR 30130). Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed at a later unknown date). Produced by Sam Phillips at the new Sun Studio, 639 Madison Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee. See also October 16.
October 12, 1959 : Carl Mann's guitarist, EDDIE BUSH, has a session of his own at the new Sun studio. "Baby I Don't Care"/"Vanished" will appear on Phillips International 3558 in June 1960. Eddie's version of "Walkin' And Thinkin'" is shelved for decades, until the release of Carl Mann's box-sets on Bear Family (BFX 15274, vinyl ; BCD 15713, CD). Personnel : Eddie Bush (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; Carl Mann (backing vocals / piano / acoustic guitar on some tracks). Produced by Sam Phillips.
(Probably) October 12, 1959 : Yet another Sun session on
this Monday. RAYBURN ANTHONY cuts the
single "Alice Blue Gown"/"St. Louis Blues", released on
October 25 (Sun 333). Personnel : Rayburn Anthony (vocals / guitar) ; Brad
Suggs, Eddie Bush (guitars) ; Carl Mann (piano) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Tony
Austin (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the new Sun studio.
October 12, 1959 : WEBB PIERCE records the follow-up to "I Ain't Never". It is another Mel Tillis composition in the same style, called "No Love Have I" (Decca 31021, November, c/w "Whirlpool Of Love" from a session on August 17). Peak positions # 4 country, # 54 pop. Also laid down are "(Doin' the) Lovers Leap" (Decca 31058, March 1960) and "Drifting Texas Sand" (Decca 31118, July 1960). Bob Moore plays bass, more details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 12, 1959 : One-track session for JOHNNY BURNETTE in Hollywood. "It's the After That Hurts" is consigned to the vaults until 1989 when it is included on the CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 7 92924 2). Produced by Snuff Garrett.
October 14, 1959 : Another one-track session in Hollywood (Gold Star Studio), this time by THE CHAMPS. "Too Much Tequila" will give them their first hit since September 1958 (# 30). Released in January 1960 on Challenge 59063, c/w "Twenty Thousand Leagues" from a session on July 13, 1959. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Johnny Meeks (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
October 14, 1959 : CHARLIE RICH records the single "Lonely Weekends"/ "Everything I Do Is Wrong", for release on Phillips International 3552 in January 1960. It will become Charlie's first hit, peaking at # 22. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (baritone sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed later). Produced by Sam Phillips at the (old) Sun Studio in Memphis.
October 14, 1959 : At Regent Studio in New York City, CONNIE FRANCIS records her next single, "Among My Souvenirs"/"God Bless America", for release on MGM 12841 on October 26. Also laid down, but unissued until the 1993 release of the 5-CD Bear Family box-set (BCD 15616) are two compositions by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman : "The Tiger And the Mouse" (re-recording) and "No One But You", as well as the Leiber-Stoller composition "(Happy Little) Snapdragon". Produced by Ray Ellis, who also conducts the orchestra and chorus.
October 14, 1959 : THE MEMPHIS BELLS (Shirley Sisk and Bettye Jean Hodges) record the instrumental single “The Midnite Whistle”/“Snow Job”, which is released on Phillips International 3547 at the end of October. Personnel : Bettye Jean Hodges (organ on “Midnite Whistle”) ; Shirley Sisk (organ on “Snow Job”) ; Roland Janes, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Billy Riley or Bill Black (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
October 14 and 22-24, 1959 : This month THE ISLEY
BROTHERS record ten tracks for their first LP, "Shout" (RCA LPM 2156,
December). On the 14th they cut "How Deep Is the Ocean" (also
released as a single, RCA 47-7718, March 1960) and "Respectable"
(different from the single version, which will be recorded on November 9).
These are followed by three tracks on October 22 : "That Lucky Old
Sun", "When the Saints Go Marching In" and
"Ring-a-Ling-a-Ling" and another three on the 23rd, "He's Got
the Whole World In His Hands", "Without A Song" and "Yes
Indeed". Finally, "Rock Around the Clock" and "St. Louis
Blues" are laid down on October 24. Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA
Studio A in New York City.
October 15, 1959 : During an afternoon session at Bradley Studio in Nashville, MARK DINNING records the future number one "Teen Angel"/ "Bye Now Baby" (MGM 12845, November 2). Instrumental accompaniment by six (unknown) musicians. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
October 15, 1959 : Another MGM session at Bradley Studio,
from 19:30 until 22:30. BOB GALLION cuts the single "Hey
Joe"/"Froggy Went-A
Courtin'", for release on MGM 12858 in December. Produced by Jim
Vienneau.
October 15, 1959 : The third and last Atlantic session by MICKEY AND KITTY results in the single "My Reverie"/"Buttercup" (Atlantic 2046, December). Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Kitty Noble (vocals) ; more details unknown. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
October 15, 1959 : At Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, JIM
REEVES records his biggest hit, "He'll Have To Go"/"In A Mansion
Stands My Love" (RCA 47-7643,
November). It will top the country charts for fourteen weeks and also reaches # 2 on the pop charts.
"After A While" is an EP track (RCA EPA 4357, March 1960) and
"Snowflake" will see a posthumous release in November 1965 (RCA
47-8719). A duet with Steve Moore (the nine-year old son of bass player Bob
Moore), "But You Love Me Daddy", is released in 1969 on RCA 1899 in
the UK, where it peaks at # 15. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank
Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes)
; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by
Chet Atkins.
October 16, 1959 : Four days after his previous session, CARL MANN does another one, this time at the old Sun Studio. "Wayward Wind" and "Ain't Got No Home" will be included on Carl's LP "Like Mann" (Phillips Inter- national LP 1960 - that's both the catalogue number and the release year!). "Crazy Fool" is first issued on the LP "The Sun Story, Vol. 6 : Carl Mann" (Spotlight SPO 131, Sweden) in 1977. Both "Blueberry Hill" and "I'll Always Love You Darling" stay in the vaults until 1993, when Bear Family releases the 4-CD set "Mona Lisa" (BCD 15713). Personnel is the same as on October 12. "Wayward Wind" is overdubbed with strings on October 2, 1960.
October 19, 1959 : Three-track session by CLYDE McPHATTER at Regent Sound Studio in New York City. "Let's Try Again" becomes his next single (MGM 12843, November, c/w "Bless You" from a session on May 12, 1959) and a moderate hit (# 48). "When the Right Time Comes Along" is used as the B-side of "Think Me A Kiss" (from a later session) in March 1960 (MGM 12877). "This Is Not Goodbye" is released on MGM 12949 in September 1960, after Clyde's switch to Mercury. Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis, produced by Clyde Otis.
Tuesday, October 20, 1959 : THE FLAMINGOS record six tracks in New York City. Five of them are released on a 45 : "I Was Such A Fool"/"Heavenly Angel" (End 1062, December), "Mio Amore"/"You, Me And the Sea" (End 1065, February 1960) and "Dream Girl" (End 1092, May 1961, B-side of the hit "Time Was"). "Crazy, Crazy, Crazy" ends up on the LP "Flamingo Favorites" (End LP 307) in June 1960. Also in June 1960, "Mio Amore" was reissued with a different flip ("At Night", End 1073) and peaked at # 74 in Billboard.
October 20, 1959 is also the recording date of the next SONNY JAMES single, "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know"/"'Til Tomorrow" (Capitol 4307, November). Also recorded is "Till the Last Leaf Shall Fall", which is first released in 2002 on the 6-CD set "Young Love, 1952-62" (Bear Family BCD 16373). Personnel : Hubbard Atwood, Tommy Tedesco (guitars) ; Marty Corb (bass) ; Pete Jolly (piano) ; Roy Harte (drums) ; The Jack Halloran Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a violin section. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 21 and 23, 1959 : Overdub sessions in Hollywood concerning two songs recorded by EDDIE COCHRAN in August. "Hallelujah I Love Her So" is overdubbed with strings by Snuff Garrett at Liberty Custom Recorders on October 21 and "Little Angel" is overdubbed with an unidentified vocal chorus at Gold Star Studio on the 23rd. The two sides are released as Eddie's new single (Liberty 55217) in the second week of November.
October 22-23, 1959 : At the Pye Studio in London, LONNIE DONEGAN cuts the LP "Lonnie Rides Again" (Pye NPL 18043, November). Tracks : "Fancy Talking Tinker", "Miss Otis Regrets", "Gloryland", "Jimmie Brown the Newsboy" (also a single, Pye N 15267, May 1960), "Mr. Froggy", "Take This Hammer", "The Gold Rush Is Over", "You Pass Me By", "Talking Guitar Blues", "John Hardy", "The House Of the Rising Sun" and "San Miguel" (released as Donegan's next single, Pye N 15237, late November, c/w "Talking Guitar Blues"). The album is also released in the USA under the title "Skiffle Folk Music" (Atlantic LP 8038) in September 1960. Also recorded on the 23rd is "The Golden Vanity", which will be used as the B-side of the future # 1 hit "My Old Man's A Dustman" (Pye N 15256) in March 1960.
October 22-23, 1959 : The next RICKY NELSON single is recorded on this day : "I Wanna Be Loved"/"Mighty Good" (Imperial 5614, November). Both sides will make the charts (peaking at # 20 and # 38 respectively) and were previously attempted on October 20, along with an unissued / lost version of "My One Desire". Personnel : James Burton (lead guitar) ; Billy Strange (guitar) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders, Hollywood.
October 23, 1959 : ERNIE K-DOE records his first single for the Minit label, "Make You Love Me"/"There's A Will, There's A Way" (Minit 604, late November). Another source mentions September 2, 1959 as the recording date. Personnel : Robert Parker, Walter Kimble, Lee Allen (saxes) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; Unknown (trumpet, bass, drums). Location : Cosimo Recording Studio, New Orleans.
October 25, 1959 : Another JOHNNY CASH session at Bradley Studio in Nashville results in the instrumental single "Bandana"/"Wabash Blues" (Columbia 41573, February 1960) and two songs sung in German, "Viel Zu Spät" (I Got Stripes) and "Wo Ist Zu Hause Mama" (Five Feet High And Rising). These last two are first released on a Bear Family LP (BFX 15016) in 1976. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Fury Kazak (drums). Produced by Don Law.
October 25-26, 1959 : BOOTS RANDOLPH records nine (instrumental) tracks for his first album, "Yakety Sax" (RCA LPM 2165, January 1960) : "Sleep", "The Battle Of New Orleans", "After You've Gone", "Sleep Walk", "Little Big Horn", "So Rare", "Teach Me Tonight", "Estrellita" and "The Happy Whistler", at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Boots Randolph (sax) ; Hank Garland, James Rich (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 26, 1959 : RONNIE HAWKINS is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City where he cuts eight tracks for the LP "Mr. Dynamo" (Roulette SR 25102, February 1960) : "Baby Jean", "Southern Love", "Someone Like You", "Hey Boba Lou", "Hayride" (also issued as a single, Roulette 4249, April 1960), "Love Me Like You Can", "You Cheated, You Lied" and "Dreams Do Come True". "Southern Love"/"Love Me Like You Can" is selected as the new single (Roulette 4209), issued in November. Personnel : Fred Carter, Jr. (lead guitar) ; Jimmy 'Luke' Paulman (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Unknown (organ, chorus) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; Ed Burks (percussion).
October 26, 1959 : KIP TYLER does his first and only
session for Imperial in Los Angeles. "Rocket 'Round the
Universe"/"The Goblin Trot" is released in March 1960 on
Imperial 5641, while "Sixteen" and "Snuggle Bunny" are
consigned to the vaults. The drummer is probably Sandy Nelson.
October 27, 1959 : Fourth RICKY NELSON session this month. Three tracks will appear on the LP "More Songs By Ricky" (Imperial LP 9122, July 1960) : "Again", "I'd Climb the Highest Mountain" and "Make Believe",while "Young Emotions" is released as a single (Imperial 5663, a # 12 hit) in April 1960 (c/w "Right By My Side" from a later session). Personnel : Billy Strange (guitar) ; Leroy Vinnegar (bass) ; Jimmy Rowles (piano) ; Frank Capp (drums). Strings are overdubbed on February 8, 1960. Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
October 27, 1959 : THE FOUR PREPS cut their next single, "Down By the Station" (Capitol 4312, November 23, c/w "Listen Honey" from a session on June 26, 1958). A # 13 hit. Also recorded is "Kaw-Liga", which will be issued in August 1960 on Capitol 4435 (c/w "The Sand And the Sea", waxed on December 30, 1958). Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 27, 1959 : Another Capitol session on this day, but this one on the East Coast (New York City). THE ROYAL TEENS record the single "The Moon's Not Meant For Lovers Anymore"/"Was It A Dream" (Capitol 4335, January 1960). Unissued from this session is "Daydream".
Wednesday, October 28, 1959 : CARL PERKINS does a
three-track session at Bradley Studio in
Nashville. "Too Much For A Man To Understand" will come out in April 1960 on Columbia 41651,
coupled with "L-O-V-E-V-I-L-L-E"
from a later session. "When the Moon Comes Over the Mountain' and
"The Drifter" are first released on the 5-CD set "The Classic
Carl Perkins" (Bear Family BCD 15494) in 1990. Personnel unknown. Produced
by Don Law.
October 28, 1959 : Second NAPPY BROWN session in October. "Down In the Alley"/"My Baby Knows" is released on Savoy 1582 in March 1960, credited to "Nappy Brown and the Gibraltars". "The Hole I'm In" (Savoy 1592, October 1960) becomes the B-side of "Nobody Can Say" (recorded on October 6). A fourth track, "Stirred Up", has never been released.
October 28-29, 1959 : Seven HANK WILLIAMS demos from the early 1950s are overdubbed at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "First Year Blues", "Rock My Cradle Once Again", "Rockin' Chair Money", "Tennessee Border" (all on the 28th), "It Just Don't Matter Now", "Swing Wide Your Gate Of Love" and "Cool Water" (on the 29th). Overdubs by five musicians, probably Harold Bradley (electric guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). All tracks are released on the LP "The Lonesome Sound Of Hank Williams" (MGM SE 3803) in January 1960.
October 30, 1959 : LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS records the John
D. Loudermilk song "Hey Ma! (Hide
the Daughter)", which is released on November 23 on Columbia 41529, coupled
with "Hot Tears" from the same session. A third track, "We Lived
It Up" is also released as a single (Columbia 41670, May 1960), c/w
"I'm Just Blue Enough" from a later session. Personnel : Harold
Bradley, Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Sonny Burnette (steel guitar) ;
Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The
Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in
Nashville.
October 31, 1959 : First Starday session for COWBOY COPAS. His first 45 for the label is "Mom And Dad's Affair"/"Black Cloud Risin'" (Starday 476, December), followed by "South Pacific Shore" (Starday 493) in March 1960. A fourth song, "Sixteen Fathoms", will be included on the LP "Opry Star Spotlight On Cowboy Copas" (Starday SLP-157) in December 1961. Produced by Tommy Hill at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
(Probably) October 1959, unknown date : GENE SIMMONS records the single "Goin' Back To Memphis"/"Bad Boy Willie" (Checker 948, March 1960) at the Hi Studio in Memphis. Personnel : Gene Simmons (vocals / guitar) ; Carl Simmons (guitar) ; Jessie Carter (bass) ; Ace Cannon (sax) ; Carl McVoy or Smokey Joe Baugh (piano) ; Jerry Arnold or Gene Chrisman (drums). Produced by Joe Cuoghi.
With thanks to Steve Walker and Bill Daniels. (And, as always, Bear Family and Michel Ruppli.)
Dik
NOVEMBER 1959
November 2, 1959 : THE CADILLACS do a four-track session in New York City. "Still You Left Me Baby" and "Dum Dee Dum Dum" will be included on the LP "Twisting With the Cadillacs" (Jubilee JGM 5009) in 1962. "Frankenstein" and "I Want To Be Loved" are first released on the box-set "For Collectors Only" (Murray Hill M 61285, 5 LP's) in 1983. The Cadillacs are : James Bailey, Bobby Phillips, Bobby Spencer and Earl Wade.
November 2, 1959 : In New York City, LINDA HOPKINS records her second and last single for Atco, "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing"/"Sentimental Fool" (Atco 6154, December). Unissued from this session is "Lips". Personnel : Don Arnone (guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Bobby Byrne, Urbie Green, Frank Rehak (trombones) ; Jerome Richardson (piano) ; Shep Shepherd (drums) ; Unknown (piano, strings).
November 2, 1959 : At EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, JOHNNY KIDD cuts his second single, "If You Were the Only Girl In the World"/"Feelin'" (HMV POP 674, December 4), as well as "Steady Date", which remains unreleased until the "Rarities" LP of 1983 (See For Miles CM 120). Backing by the Pirates (Alan Caddy, Brian Gregg, Clem Cattini), except on "If You Were …", where Kidd is backed by Ivor Raymonde's orchestra.
November 2, 1959 : BILLY WALKER records his next single,
"Changed My Mind"/ "Forever" (Columbia 41548, December 28).
"Farewell Party" from this session
remains unissued until the release of the 6-CD box-set "Cross the
Brazos At Waco" (Bear Family BCD
15657, 1992). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bobby Garrett
(steel guitar) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy
Harman(drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 3, 1959 : JOHNNY OTIS and his orchestra record two tracks at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Hey Baby Don't You Know" will be used as the B-side of "Mumblin' Mosie" (see November 10) at the end of the year (Capitol 4326). "I'm With You" is first released in 1990 on the CD "Johnny Otis : The Capitol Years" (Capitol CDP 7 92858 2). Produced by Tom Morgan.
November 3, 1959 : First Imperial session for JESSE LEE TURNER, at an unknown location. Two tracks are coupled for release on Imperial 5635, "Early In the Morning" and "Slippin' Around" (January 1960), while two other tracks, "Watcha Gonna Do Now" and "Boy Meets Girl" stay in the vaults.
November 4, 1959 : THE CRICKETS are at the Decca Studio
in Hollywood to record three tracks. "Great Balls Of Fire" and
"Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" will be included on the
LP "In Style With the Crickets" (Coral CRL 57320), released on
December 5, 1960. "Smooth Guy" is first issued in 1984 on the LP "Complete
Crickets" (Charly CR 30226, UK), as is "After It's Over",
recorded on November 12. Personnel : Earl Sinks (lead vocals) ; Sonny Curtis
(guitar) ; Joe Mauldin (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; The Johnny Mann Singers
(background vocals on "After It's Over"). Produced by Bud Dant and
the Crickets.
November 4, 1959 : First Atco session for the HOLLYWOOD FLAMES, in New York City. The result is the single "Every Day, Every Way"/"If I Thought You Needed Me" (Atco 6155, December). The lead singer on "Every Day.." is Earl Nelson, on the other side Eddie Williams (a recent addition to the group). Also recorded at this session is "This Love Of Mine", which has never been released.
November 5, 1959 : THE LOUVIN BROTHERS record material for two singles : "Nellie Moved To Town"/"The Stagger" (Capitol 4331, release date January 18, 1960) and "I See A Bridge"/"Just Suppose" (Capitol 4359, March 1960). Personnel : Charlie Louvin (vocals / guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocals) ; Ray Edenton, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 6, 1959 : SOLOMON BURKE does a five-track session for Artie Singer's Singular label in Philadelphia. "Doodle Dee Doo"/"It's All Right" is released on Singular 1314 in December and "This Little Ring"/"I'm Not Afraid" on Singular 1812 in May 1960 (also on Mala 420). The fifth track, the Little Richard-styled "Be-Bop Grandma", remains originally unissued. Having signed Burke in 1960, Atlantic Records purchases the Singular recordings and releases "Be-Bop Grandma" in August 1961 as the B-side of "Just Out Of Reach" (Atlantic 2114).
November 6, 1959 : BILLY "CRASH" CRADDOCK has another date at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "I Want That"/"Since She Turned Seventeen" is chosen as the new single (Columbia 41536, late November). "Little Ole You" and "(What Makes You) Treat Me Like You Do" stay in the can until 1992, when Bear Family releases the CD "Boom Boom Baby" (BCD 15610). Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 9, 1959 : THE ISLEY BROTHERS record the A-side of their new single, "Respectable" (RCA 47-7657, first week of December). The lower deck is "Without A Song", recorded on October 23. Also laid down is a second, unissued version of "How Deep Is the Ocean". Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
November 9-10, 1959 : SHEB WOOLEY is at United Recording
Corporation in Hollywood for two evening sessions. On the 9th he cuts his next
single, "Roughneck"/"It's Almost Time" (MGM 12853,
December), as well as "Free Again", which is first issued in 1997 on
the CD "Wild And Wooley, Big Unruly Me" (Bear Family BCD 16150). The
next day also yields three tracks : "My Only Treasure" (MGM 12882,
March 1960), "Till the End Of the World" (MGM 13013, May 1961) and
the LP track "Will I Ever See" (MGM SE 4026). The reverse of "My
Only Treasure", "Luke the Spook", is recorded on November 12, at
Radio Recorders, with slightly different personnel. Backing by : Joseph
Gibbons, Allan Reuss, Billy Strange (guitars) ;
Red Callender (bass) ; Irving Kluger (drums). Plus a violin section.
Arranged by Gus Levene, produced by Ray Ellis and Jesse Kaye.
November 10, 1959 : RICKY NELSON records songs for his gospel EP "Ricky Sings Spirituals" (Imperial IMP 165, January 1960) : "Glory Train" and "I Bowed My Head In Shame". The other two songs, "March With the Band Of the Lord" and "If You Believe It" are first attempted at a session on November 19-20 and finished on December 8. Personnel : Leroy Vinnegar (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
November 10, 1959 : Second session for JOHNNY OTIS this month. "Mumblin' Mosie" is the A-side of his next single, released in the last week of December (Capitol 4326). It is Otis's last chart entry (# 80 pop). "Voodoo Woman" and "Until We Meet Again (Bye Bye Baby)" are shelved until Capitol releases the CD "Johnny Otis : The Capitol Years" (CDP 7 92858 2) in 1990. "And the Tears Came Tumblin' Down" is still unissued. Produced by Tom Morgan at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
November 10-13, 1959 : Four days of session work for CONWAY TWITTY at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The harvest of the first day : "My Adobe Hacienda"*, "A-Huggin' and A-Kissin'"* and "Star Spangled Heaven" (B-side of the next single, MGM 12857), followed by "Lonely Blue Boy" (MGM 12857, December, a # 6 hit), "Can't We Go Steady"* and "Sorry"* on the 11th. "Blue Moon"* and "Eternal Tears"* are laid down on November 12 and "Foggy River" and "Platinum High School" on the 13th. The latter two will come out on the LP "The Conway Twitty Touch" in June 1961 (MGM SE 3943), the six tracks marked with * on the LP "Lonely Blue Boy" (MGM SE 3818) in February 1960. Personnel : Al Bruno (guitar) ; possibly Ray Edenton and Grady Martin (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
November 11, 1959 : FREDDIE HART does an afternoon session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "The Key's In the Mailbox"/"Starvation Days" is the resulting single (Columbia 41597), released in February 1960. A third track, "My Last Dime", is saved from oblivion by Bear Family in 2004 (included on the CD "Juke Joint Boogie", BCD 16727). Personnel : Freddie Hart (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 11, 1959 : GENE PITNEY cuts the single "Please Come Back Baby", which will become the first release under his own name (Festival 25002, February 1960). The reverse is "I'll Find You", recorded on October 27. The record will be reissued in October 1961. Produced by Herb Abramson in New York City.
November 11, 1959 : GENE
McDANIELS does his first session for Liberty, which results in the single
“In Times Like These”/“Once Before” (Liberty 55231, December 24). The
location is Los Angeles. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
November 12, 1959 : Johnny Kidd – see November 2, 1959
November 12, 1959 : DON AND DEWEY have a session at Sound Enterprises in Hollywood, produced by Harold Battiste. The tracks recorded are : "Pink Champagne" (first released on the LP "Don and Dewey", Specialty SP 2131, 1970), "My Love" (unissued) and the single "Jump Awhile" (Fidelity 3017, February 1960, c/w "H.B. Boogie" by H.B. Barnum). Personnel : Don Harris (vocals / electric violin) ; Dewey Terry (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Battiste (alto sax / producer) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Roy Lanham (guitar) ; Bill Pitman (bass) ; H.B. Barnum (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums).
November 12, 1959 : BAKER KNIGHT records his second and last single for Coral : "Pretty Little Girl"/"Tag Along Blues" (Coral 62160), for release in December. The location is the Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
(Probably) November 15, 1959 : BRUCE CHANNEL does his only session for King Records, in Fort Worth, Texas. All four tracks are released, on two singles : "Will I Ever Love Again"/"Slow Down Baby" (King 5294, December) and "Boy! This Stuff Kills Me"/"Now Or Never" (King 5331, March 1960). After Channel's success with "Hey Baby", King reissues the coupling "Now Or Never"/"Will I Ever Love Again" (King 5620, March 1962). Backing by Marvin Montgomery and his band.
November 16, 1959 : THE COLLINS KIDS spend the whole day at Bradley Studio for their first (and last) Nashville session. Selected as their next single is "The Lonesome Road"/"Another Man Done Gone" (Columbia 41541, December). The B-side features the vocals of Lorrie Collins only, which is also the case on the single "That's Your Affair"/"Blues In the Night" (Columbia 41673, May 1960). Larry also records a single of his own, "The Rebel - Johnny Yuma"/"Spur Of the Moment" (Columbia 41727, July 1960). The duet "There'll Be Some Changes Made" is first issued on the LP "The Collins Kids, Vol. 2" (Bear Family BFX 15108) in 1983. Personnel : Larry and Lorrie Collins (vocals / guitars) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
Tuesday, November 17, 1959 : SONNY ANDERSON cuts the single "Yes I'm Gonna Love You"/"Lonely Lonely Train" in Los Angeles. It is released on Imperial 5634 in December. Both sides are written by the Burnette brothers (Johnny and Dorsey).
November 17, 1959 : THE ROCKIN' STOCKINGS are an instrumental studio group led by Billy Riley, who record "Yuleville USA" and "Rockin' Old Lang Syne" for Riley's Mojo label, but the sides are taken over by Sun Records. Too late for Christmas 1959, but Sam Phillips had it out in plenty of time for Christmas 1960 (Sun 350, November 14, 1960). Also issued as Sun 1960. Personnel : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Wilson (organ) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
November 18, 1959 : MARTY ROBBINS lays down three tracks
at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "Sweet Cora", "Ain't Life A
Crying Shame" and "Silence And Tears". They are first released
in 1984 on the LP "The Marty Robbins Files, Vol. 5" (Bear Family BFX
15139) and later (1991) also on the CD "Rockin' Rollin' Robbins, Vol. 3 :
Ruby Ann" (Bear Family BCD 15669). In August 1962, Marty re-recorded
"Ain't Life A Crying Shame"
for his "Devil Woman" album. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals /
ukelele) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin
Hughes (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law.
November 18, 1959 : At Bell Sound Studio in NYC, THE ROCK-A-TEENS lay down the follow-up to "Woo-Hoo" : "Twangy"/"Doggone It Baby" (Roulette 4217, December), the A-side an instrumental, the B-side featuring the vocals of Vic Mizelle. Also recorded are "Lotta Boppin'" and one or two other tracks, for their first and only LP : "Woo-Hoo" (Roulette 25109, February 1960). Recordings for the LP will be completed on January 13, 1960.
November 19, 1959 : SKEETS McDONALD has his first session for Columbia, which results in two singles : "Cheek To Cheek With the Blues"/"Where You Go (I'll Follow)" (Columbia 41556, December) and "Everglades"/"Gotta Get You From That Crowd" (Columbia 41667, April 1960). Personnel : Skeets McDonald (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 19, 1959 : Three-track session for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. "Don't Be Mad At Me" will be used as the B-side of his next single, "A Voice In the Wilderness" (from a later session) and is released on Columbia DB 4398 in January 1960. ""Fall In Love With You"/ "Willie And the Hand Jive" is the subsequent single (Columbia DB 4431), in March 1960 (a # 2 hit in the UK). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
November 20, 1959 : One-track session for ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo. They cover "Big River", a Warwick single by the Buddy Brennan Quartet, based on a classical piece ("Waves of the Danube"). Freeman's version is released in the first week of December (Imperial 5633). The reverse is "Night Sounds", a leftover from a session on April 12, 1957, with Freeman on hammond organ. Location is Western Recorders in Los Angeles, California.
November 20, 1959 : MACK OWEN cuts his solitary single for Sun : "Walkin' And Talkin'"/"Somebody Just Like You" (Sun 336, January 1960). Personnel : Mack Owen (vocals / guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Larry Mohoberac (piano) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the (old) Sun Studio in Memphis.
November 20-21 and 23-24, 1959 : DUANE EDDY records material for his third album, "The Twang's the Thang" (Jamie LP 3009, December). The sessions kick off on November 20 with "Blueberry Hill", "You Are My Sunshine" and "Route # 1", followed the next day by "St. Louis Blues", "Rebel Walk" (also used as the B-side of "Because They're Young", Jamie 1156, April 1960) and "My Blue Heaven" (also issued as a single, Jamie 1200, August 1961). Not on the LP, but also recorded on the 21st are "Bonnie Came Back" and "Lost Island" (coupled for the next single, Jamie 1144, rush-released). Work continues on the 23rd, resulting in "The Last Minute Of Innocence", "Easy" and "Trambone" (also a later single, Jamie 1209, January 1962), plus the undubbed version of "The Secret Seven" (not on the album, ends up on the B-side of "Shazam!" [Jamie 1151] in March 1960, after being overdubbed on February 18, 1960). Finally, on November 24, Duane completes "The Battle" (also issued on Jamie 1209), "Night Train To Memphis" and "Tiger Love And Turnip Greens", as well as the raw version of "Kommotion" (not on the LP). Most of the tracks from these four days are overdubbed on December 1 and 3 by a vocal chorus, the Evelyn Freeman Singers (arranged by Ernie Freeman). Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Corki Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Al Casey (bass) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Overdub sessions at United Recorders in Hollywood.
November 25, 1959 : Bell Sound Studio in New York City is the location of JACK SCOTT's first Top Rank session. The result is the single "What In the World's Come Over You"/"Baby Baby" (Top Rank 2028, December), a # 5 hit. Also recorded is "Oh, Little One", which will appear as the B-side of "Burning Bridges" (from a later session) in March 1960 (Top Rank 2041). Backing vocals by the Chantones. Arranged by Bill Sanford, produced by Sonny Lester.
November 30, 1959 : In Hollywood, ROBIN LUKE covers Marty Wilde's UK hit "Bad Boy" for the US market. The lower deck, "School Bus Love Affair" (penned by Wynn Stewart), is also recorded at this session. The release date is December 14 (Dot 16040). Orchestra conducted by Milt Rogers.
November 1959, unknown date : DONNIE BROOKS cuts his third single for the Era label : "The Devil Ain't A Man"/"How Long" (Era 3014, February 3014), at an unknown Hollywood studio. He will hit paydirt with the next Era single, "Mission Bell". Produced by Herb Newman.
(Probably) November 1959, unknown date : SONNY BURGESS is at the old Sun Studio, 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, where he cuts his fifth and last single for the label, "Sadie's Back In Town"/"A Kiss Goodnight" (Phillips International 3551, January 1960). Also recorded is "Smoochin' Jill", which is first released in 1987 on the UK LP "Sonny Burgess, V'3" (Sun LP 1039). Personnel : Sonny Burgess (vocals / guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; J.C. Caughron (bass) ; Frankie Siddeth (electric bass) ; Ed Thomas (piano) ; Raymond Thompson (Woody Woodpecker noises) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
November 1959, unknown date : JACKIE DeSHANNON is now recording for the Edison International label in Hollywood. "So Warm (This Is How I Feel)"/ "A Young Girl's Prayer" is issued in December (Edison Int. F-415), but soon withdrawn and a tamer version of "So Warm" (from the same session, this time without a subtitle) is coupled with "I Wanna Go Home" for release in January 1960 (Edison Int. F-416). Arranged by Fred Smith & Cliff Goldsmith. Orchestra directed by Gene Garf.
November 1959, unknown date : HAROLD DORMAN records the original version of "Mountain Of Love" (his own composition) in Memphis, Tennessee. The flip, "To Be With You", comes from the same session. Release on Rita 1003 in December, A # 21 pop hit. Produced by Billy Riley and Roland Janes.
November 1959, unknown date : At Bell Sound Studio in New York, RONNIE HAWKINS lays down the remaining four tracks for the album "Mr. Dynamo" (Roulette SR 25102, February 1960) : "Lonely Hours", "Clara", "Honey Don't" and "Sick And Tired". "Lonely Hours"/"Clara" is also released as a single (Roulette 4228), simultaneously with the LP. Personnel : Fred Carter, Jr. (lead guitar) ; Jimmy Ray Paulman (rhythm guitar) ; Jimmy Evans (bass) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; Ed Burks (percussion) ; Unknown (organ, vocal chorus).
November 1959, unknown date : ELMORE JAMES undertakes a session in Chicago, under the supervision of Bobby Robinson. "The Sky Is Crying"/"Held My Baby Last Night" (Fire 1016, May 1960) and the instrumental "Bobby's Rock" (Fire 1011, March 1960) are released as singles. A new version of "Dust My Broom" and "Baby Please Set A Date" will end up as LP tracks. Personnel : Elmore James (vocals / guitar) ; J.T. Brown (saxophone) ; Johnny Jones (piano) ; Homesick James (John A. Williamson) (bass) ; Odie Payne (drums).
(Probably) November 1959, unknown date : BOB ORRISON
records the single "Sarah Lee"/"Florecita", for release on
Liberty 55237 in March 1960. Eddie Cochran plays guitar on "Sarah
Lee", more details unknown.
(Probably) November 1959, unknown date : TEDDY REDELL does a session for the Sun label in Memphis, Tennessee. None of the tracks is issued at the time. “Me And My Blues” is first released in 1977 on the Various Artists LP “Sun Sound Special : Tennessee Country” (Charly CR 30150, UK). “Stop” and “Tired Of Love” will eventually be included on the CD “Unissued Sun Masters” (Charly CPCD 8137) in 1995. Several other songs were recorded, which are unissued and lost. Personnel : Teddy Redell (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; J.C. Caughron (bass) ; Bobby Crafford (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
(Circa) November 1959, unknown date : JOHNNY TILLOTSON records his next two singles at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville : "Why Do I Love You So"/ "Never Let Me Go" (Cadence 1372, December) and "Earth Angel"/"Pledging My Love" (Cadence 1377, March 1960). Both are moderate chart hits. Produced by Archie Bleyer, who also conducts the orchestra.
With thanks to Bill Daniels and Tapio Vaisanen.
DECEMBER 1959
December 1, 1959 : STAN FREBERG records the two-sided single "The Old Payola Roll Blues" (Capitol 4329, first week of 1960). Side 1 is subtitled "Like the Beginning" and features Jesse White as Barney Schlock, the owner of Obscurity Records, and Freberg himself as Clyde Ankle, a teenage idol. On side 2 ("Like the End") Barney Schlock visits a deejay (Freberg) who refuses to play Ankle's record, in spite of several payola bribes. The disc spends only one week on the Billboard charts, at # 99. Backing by Billy May and his orchestra (with "The Toads" on side one). Overdubs on December 4. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 1-3, 1959 : During three days of sessions, THE BROWNS record 11 tracks for their LP "Town And Country" (RCA LPM 2174, March 1960) and the single "The Old Lamplighter"/"Teen-Ex" (RCA 47-7700, February 1960, a # 5 hit). The album tracks are : "My Adobe Hacienda", "Red Sails In the Sunset", "Streamlined Cannonball", "Cool Water", "The Enchanted Sea", "Billy McCoy", "The Old Lamplighter", "Am I That Easy To Forget", "That Little Boy Of Mine", "Scarlet Ribbons" (recorded on September 24, 1959), "Halfway To Heaven" and "True Love". Personnel : Jim Ed Brown, Maxine Brown, Bonnie Brown (vocals) ; John D. Loudermilk, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
December 2, 1959 : Four-track session for HANK BALLARD at the King Studio in Cincinnati, with his Midnighters, of course. "The Coffee Grind"/"Waiting" is selected as the next single (King 5312, January 1960). "I Love You, I Love You So-o-o" ends up on the B-side of the Top 10 hit "Finger Poppin' Time" (King 5341, from a later session). "Don't Go, I Love You" is included on the LP "Finger Poppin' Time" (King LP 700, August 1960), along with the other three tracks. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Emile Russell (drums) ; Unidentified (female vocal chorus). Produced by Syd Nathan.
December 2, 1959 : Last ABC session for THE PONI-TAILS. Two singles are the result : "Before We Say Goodnight"/"Come Be My Love" (ABC-Paramount 10077, January 1960) and "Oh, My, You"/"Who, When and Why" (ABC-Paramount 10114, May 1960). Location is New York City. The Poni-Tails are : Toni Cistone, Patti McCabe and LaVerne Novak.
December 3, 1959 : WILLIE DIXON cuts his first LP, "Willie's Blues", at Rudy Van Gelder's studio in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. Released on Prestige's Bluesville label (LP 1003) in March 1960. Tracks : "Nervous", "Good Understanding", "That's My Baby", "Slim's Thing" (instrumental), "That's All I Want Baby", "Don't You Tell Nobody", "Youth To You", "Sittin' And Cryin' the Blues", "Built For Comfort", "I Got A Razor", "Go Easy" (instrumental) and "Move Me". Personnel : Willie Dixon (vocals / bass) ; Wally Richardson (guitar) ; Harold Ashby (tenor sax) ; Memphis Slim (piano) ; Gus Johnson (drums). Supervised by Esmond Edwards.
December 3, 1959 : Final Mercury session for BEN HEWITT, in New York City. Six tracks are laid down, but only "My Search"/"I Want A New Girl Now" has been released (Mercury 71577, February 1960). The unissued songs are : "Teardrops From My Heart", "Because I Love You", "The Story Of Mandy Lee" and "My Little Sandra". Background vocals by the Cookies, more personnel details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Belford Hendricks. Produced by Clyde Otis.
December 4, 1959 : PAUL ANKA records his big hit "Puppy Love" (# 2) and its flip, "Adam And Eve" (# 90). Released on ABC-Paramount 10082 in February 1960. The third track from this session, "I'm Just A Fool Anyway", will be used as the B-side of "Tonight My Love, Tonight" (ABC- Paramount 10194) in February 1961. Don Costa has moved to United Artists and is succeeded in the producer's chair by Sid Feller, who also acts as arranger/conductor. The location is Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
December 4, 1959 : First of two December sessions by LaVERN BAKER. On this day she records three tracks : "Eternally" (first issued on the LP "Saved", Atlantic LP 8050, June 1961), "Must I Cry Again" (Atlantic 2137, February 1962) and "Half Of Your Love" (Atlantic 2186, April 1963). Personnel : Mundell Lowe, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Sticks Evans (drums). Other instruments plus 4-piece chorus overdubbed on December 18. Arranged and conducted by Richard Wess. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City. See also December 11.
December 6, 1959 : BENNY SPELLMAN makes his debut as a recording artist, at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans. The single "Ammerette"/"Life Is Too Short" is released in January 1960 on Minit 606. "Ammerette" will be reissued in 1963 on Minit 664, with a different flip-side ("Talk About Love", from a session on April 19, 1963). Produced by Allen Toussaint.
December 7-8, 1959 : AL TOUSAN (as Allen Toussaint was
credited then) is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record instrumentals for
the New York-based Seville label. Four singles will be released :
"Chico"/ "Sweetie Pie" (Seville 103, February 1960),
"Naomi"/"Back Home In Indiana" (Seville 110, December
1960), "Moo Moo"/"A Blue Mood" (Seville 113, July 1961) and
"Real Churchy"/"Twenty Years Later" (Seville 124,
February 1963). "Sweetie Pie"
and "Twenty Years Later" are the same song. The remaining six tracks
from this session ("Second Liner", "Up Right", "Cow
Cow Blues", "You Didn't Know, Did You", "Al's Theme",
"A Lazy Day") will first appear on the CD "The Complete Tousan
Sessions" (Bear Family BCD 15641) in 1992, after a three-year search for
the master tapes. Personnel : Allen Toussaint (piano, organ) ; Red Tyler
(baritone sax) ; Nat Perrilliat (tenor sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet) ; Justin
Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ;
Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Danny Kessler.
Tuesday, December 8, 1959 : LLOYD PRICE arrives at Bell Sound Studio in New York City to record his next two singles, "Lady Luck"/"Never Let Me Go" (ABC-Paramount 10075, January 1960) and "No If's - No And's"/"For Love" (ABC-Paramount 10102, April 1960). All four sides will chart, with "Lady Luck" peaking at # 14. Arranged and produced by Sid Feller.
December 9, 1959 : MARVIN RAINWATER is in Nashville, recording at his usual studio (Bradley Film & Recording Studio), with his usual producer (Jim Vienneau) and the usual backing musicians from the Nashville A-team. The two tracks recorded, "The Pale Faced Indian (Lament Of the Cherokee Nation)" and "Wayward Angel" will make up his next single (MGM 12865) in the last week of January 1960. "The Pale Faced Indian" will be revived by Paul Revere and the Raiders in 1971, under the title "Indian Reservation", a # 1 hit.
December 11, 1959 : Second LaVERN BAKER session this month. "Shake A Hand"/"Manana" is chosen as her next single (Atlantic 2048, January 1960). "Shadows Of Love" is the subsequent single (Atlantic 2059, April 1960, c/w "Wheel Of Fortune" from a later session). Personnel : Mundell Lowe, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Doc Severinson (trumpet) ; Phil Bodner, Romeo Penque (saxes) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Stephen Berrios (percussion) ; Jose Martinez (congas). Plus a six-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged by Richard Wess, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
December 11, 1959 : JOHNNY RIVERS does his second and last session for Cub Records, resulting in the single "The Customary Thing"/"Answer Me, My Love" (Cub 9058, January 1960). Reissued in July 1964 on MGM 13266. Location is Bradley Studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
December 11-12, 1959 : Less than a month after finishing
his third LP (which hasn't even been released yet), DUANE EDDY starts to record
material (old folk songs) for his fourth album, "Songs Of Our
Heritage" (Jamie LP 3011, May 1960). On the 11th, he records "In the
Pines", "John Henry", "Old Joe Clark" and "The
Prisoner's Song", followed by "Riddle Song", "Cripple
Creek" and "Mule Train" on the 12th. The LP Will be completed in
January 1960. Personnel : Duane Eddy (Spanish guitar, banjo) ; Corki Casey,
Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Al Casey (bass) ; Jim Horn (flute) ; Larry Knechtel
(vibes) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill at
Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
December 14, 1959 : Another Nashville session by JOHNNY CASH. "Second Honeymoon" is released in June 1960 (Columbia 41707), "Going To Memphis" in September 1960 (Columbia 41804) and "The Rebel - Johnny Yuma" in April 1961 (Columbia 41995, previously issued as an LP track). The fourth song from this session, "The Ballad Of the Harpweaver", was never issued in this version, but Cash would re-record it in 1963. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 15, 1959 : First EVERLY BROTHERS session outside of Nashville. At Bell Sound Studio in New York City they record their next single, "Let It Be Me"/"Since You Broke My Heart" (Cadence 1376, released at the end of December). According to one source, work on "Since You Broke My Heart" was started on December 13 in Nashville and finished in NYC two days later. Personnel : Howard Collins, Barry Galbraith (acoustic guitars) ; Mundell Lowe (electric guitar) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Hank Rowland (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Plus a string section conducted by Archie Bleyer. Also produced by Archie Bleyer.
December 15, 1959 : A busy day for BILL DOGGETT and his combo at the King studio in Cincinnati. Not only does he cover the Bill Black's Combo hit "Smokie, Part 2" (King 5310, late December, c/w "Evening Dreams" from an earlier session) and cut the two-part single "Night Train" (King 5878, October 1965), Doggett also manages to record an entire LP on this day, "For Reminiscent Lovers : Romantic Songs" (King LP 706, May 1960). Personnel : Bill Doggett (organ / leader) ; Clifford Scott, Ray Felder, Candy Johnson (tenor saxes) ; Billy Butler (guitar) ; David Horne (bass) ; Calvin Shields (drums).
December 15, 1959 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, JOHN D. LOUDERMILK records his signature song, "Tobacco Road", and its flip, "Midnight Bus". Release in January 1960 on Columbia 41562. Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
December 15-17, 1959 : Marathon session for HANK THOMPSON at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. He records twelve tracks for the LP "This Broken Heart Of Mine" (Capitol T 1469, November 1960) and seven songs that will appear on singles : "A Six Pack To Go" (Capitol 4334, January 1960), "She's Just A Whole Lot Like You"/"There My Future Goes" (Capitol 4386, June 1960), "Will We Start It All Over Again?"/"It's Got To Be A Habit" (Capitol 4454, September 1960), "Teach Me How To Lie" (Capitol 4556, April 1961) and "Too In Love" (Capitol 5008, July 1963). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / band leader) ; Merle Travis (guitar) ; Pee Wee Whitewing (steel guitar) ; Billy Stewart (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Billy Armstrong, Harold Hensley, Billy Wright (fiddles) ; Gwin 'Junior' Nichols (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Thursday, December 17, 1959 : During a split session with Roy Hamilton and Bobby Vinton, ERSEL HICKEY covers the UK Adam Faith hit "What Do You Want" for his next single (Epic 9357, January 1960, c/w "Love in Bloom" from a September 29 session). Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Bill Suyker (guitars) ; Dolores Dickens (bass) ; Hank Jones (piano) ; Bobby Donaldson (drums) ; Maurice Bialkin, Sidney Edwards (cellos). Plus a team of eleven violins. Produced by Chuck Sagle at Columbia Studio in New York City.
December 17, 1959 : First solo session for BEN E. KING. "Show Me the Way"/ "Brace Yourself" is selected as his first single without the Drifters (Atco 6166, April 1960). "I Promise Love" will be included on the LP "Don't Play That Song" (Atco 33-142) in May 1962. A fourth track, "Hearts Of Stone", remains unissued. Personnel : Al Caiola, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Stan Webb (sax) ; Urbie Green, Frank Rehak (trombones) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Shep Shepherd (drums) ; The Malcolm Dodds Singers (vocal chorus). Plus an unidentified string section. Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Jerry Wexler at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
December 17, 1959 : GEORGE MORGAN records the single “You’re the Only Good Thing (That’s Happened To Me)”/“Come Away From His Arms” (Columbia 41523, December 29). A # 4 country hit. Also recorded is “One Empty Chair”, which will be coupled with “It’s Best You Know” (from a session on May 4, 1960) for release on Columbia 41794 in September 1960. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Fred Shumate (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a violin section. Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 18, 1959 : FRANKIE MILLER records four tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville, released on two singles. First released is “The Money Side Of Life”/“Reunion (With Dinner On the Ground)” (Starday 481, February 1960), followed by “Baby Rocked Her Dolly”/“Rain Rain” (Starday 496) in May 1960. The latter single peaks at # 15 on the Billboard country charts. Personnel : Tommy Hill (guitar / producer) ; Grady Martin (guitar / banjo) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). With thanks to Bill Daniels, Frank Frantik and John Klompenhouwer.
December 20, 1959 : One-track session for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. "A Voice In the Wilderness" becomes the A-side of his next single (Columbia DB 4398, January 1960, a # 2 UK hit). The reverse is "Don't Be Mad At Me", recorded on November 19. US release on ABC-Paramount 10093 in March 1960. Produced by Norrie Paramor.
December 20 (or 29), 1959 : CARL SMITH waxes his next single, "Make the Water Wheel Roll"/"Past" (Columbia 41557, January 11, 1960). It will become his 42nd entry on the country charts, peaking at # 30. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Sammy Pruett (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 21, 1959 : Second Top Rank session for JACK SCOTT, at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. Only two tracks are recorded : the future # 3 hit "Burning Bridges", released in March 1960 (Top Rank 2041, c/w "Oh Little One" from the first session on November 25) and "My Heart Would Know", the first track to be laid down for the album "I Remember Hank Williams" (Top Rank International 319, April 1960). Vocal support comes from the Chantones. Arranged by Bill Sanford, produced by Sonny Lester.
December 22, 1959 : BOBBY HELMS's next single is "Someone Was Already There"/"To My Sorrow", recorded on this day. Released in February 1960 on Decca 31041. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 22, 1959 : GUY MITCHELL has the # 1 record in the country with "Heartaches By the Number". The follow-up is recorded on this day : "The Same Old Me"/"Build My Gallows High" (Columbia 41576, February 1, 1960). Peak position will be # 51. A third track, "Cry Hurtin' Heart" is also released as a single (Columbia 41653, April 18, 1960, c/w "Symphony Of Spring" from a session on March 5, 1958). Arranged and conducted by Joe Sherman. Produced by Mitch Miller at the Columbia Recording Studio, New York City.
December 23, 1959 : In Cincinnati, LITTLE WILLIE JOHN records material for his next two singles : "My Love Is Everything"/"Loving Care" (King 5318, February 1960) and "A Cottage For Sale"/"I'm Shaking" (King 5342, May 1960). ("I'm Shaking" will be revived by the Blasters in 1981.) Personnel : John Faire (guitar) ; Edwyn Conley (bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Philip Paul (drums) ; Unknown (sax, strings, vocal chorus). Produced by Henry Glover.
December 23, 1959 : BUCK OWENS also records his next two singles on this day, both Top 3 country hits : "Above And Beyond (the Call Of Love)"/ "Till These Dreams Come True" (Capitol 4337, February 1, 1960) and "Excuse Me (I Think I've Got A Heartache)" (Capitol 4412, August 1, 1960, c/w "I've Got A Right To Know" from a session on June 16, 1959). A fourth track, "Take Me Back Again", is included on Buck's first album, simply titled "Buck Owens" (Capitol T 1489, February 1961), as are the other three tracks from this session. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Rollie Weber (guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Al Williams (bass) ; George French, Jr. (piano) ; Don Rich (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 23, 1959 : Three-track session for THE DRIFTERS at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "This Magic Moment" is selected as their next 45 (Atlantic 2050, February 1960, c/w "Baltimore" from a session on March 6, 1959). "Lonely Winds" (Atlantic 2062, May 1960) is also coupled with a track from that March session ("Hey Senorita"). Unissued from this December session is "Temptation". Peak chart positions : # 16 for "This Magic Moment", # 54 for "Lonely Winds". The Drifters are : Ben E. King (lead baritone), Charlie Thomas (tenor), Dock Green (baritone) and Elsbeary Hobbs (bass). Billy Davis plays guitar, more details unknown. Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 26, 1959 : SANDY NELSON records three tracks for his first LP, "Sandy Nelson Plays Teen Beat" (Imperial LP 9105, March 1960) : "Boom Chicka Boom", "Party Time" and "The Wiggle". The latter two are coupled for release as a single (Imperial 5648, February 1960). Arranged by Ernie Freeman at an unknown studio in Hollywood.
December 28, 1959 is the recording date of the PERRY COMO hit "Delaware"/"I Know What God Is" (# 22 USA, # 3 UK). Release on RCA 47-7670 in January 1960. Vocal support comes from the Ray Charles Singers. Arranged and conducted by Mitchell Ayres. Produced by Charles Grean at Webster Hall, New York City.
Tuesday, December 29, 1959 : RAY CHARLES holds the first session for his new label, ABC-Paramount. "My Baby (I Love Her Yes I Do)"/"Who You Gonna Love" is selected as his debut single for ABC (10081, January 1960). "Them That Got" is saved until December 1960 for release on ABC-Paramount 10141 and will peak at # 58. Unissued from this session is "I Wanna Know". Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Marcus Belgrave, John Hunt (trumpets) ; Bennie Crawford (alto sax) ; Dave Newman (tenor sax) ; Leroy Cooper (baritone sax) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Milton Turner (drums) ; Margie Hendrix and the Raelettes (vocal chorus). Produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
December 29, 1959 : For a change, we switch to
Copenhagen, Denmark, where blues singer / pianist CHAMPION JACK DUPREE spends
the day to record 12 tracks for the LP "Champion Of the Blues"
(Atlantic LP 8056), which will be issued in November 1961. Track listing :
"I Had A Dream", "Roll Me Over, Roll Me Slow",
"Reminiscin' With Champion Jack", "That's All Right",
"Daybreak Stomp", "House Rent Party", "Snaps Drinking
Woman", "One Sweet Letter From You", "New Vicksburg
Blues", "When Things Go Wrong", "Johnson Street Boogie
Woogie", "Misery Blues". All tracks feature Dupree only, on
vocals and piano.
December 1959, unknown date : BROOK BENTON records the future # 24 hit "Fools Rush In". It is first released on the LP "Songs I Love To Sing" (Mercury MG 20602, September 1960), then as a single in October 1960 (Mercury 71722). The lower deck is "Someday You'll Want Me To Want You" from a session in June. Three other songs from this December session - "May I", "In A Dream" and "This Bitter Earth" - end up on various LP's. Arranged and conducted by Belford Hendricks. Produced by Clyde Otis at Fine Recording Studio in New York City.
December 1959, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE records his first single for the Era label in Los Angeles : "(There Was A) Tall Oak Tree"/"Juarez Town" (Era 3012, January 1960). It will give him his first hit (# 23). Produced by Herb Newman.
(Probably) December 1959, unknown date(s) : PAUL EVANS records the LP "Paul Evans Sings the Fabulous Teens" (Guaranteed LP 1000, January 1960) in New York City. Tracks : "I'm In Love Again", "Hambone Rock", "Over the Mountain, Across the Sea", "Tutti Frutti", "Butterfly", "Midnite Special", "Slippin' And Slidin'", "Honey Love", "I'm Walkin'", "Since I Met You Baby", "60 Minute Man" and "The Fool". "Midnite Special"/"Since I Met You Baby" is rush-released as a single (Guaranteed 205) and will peak at # 16 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Sam 'the Man' Taylor (tenor sax) ; more details unknown.
(Probably) December 1959, unknown date : JERRY LEE LEWIS is in the Sun studio (639 Madison Avenue) to record three tracks, all of which will stay in the can for quite some time. "Billy Boy" sees its first release on the album "Rural Route No. 1" (Hilltop JS 6120) in 1972. "My Bonnie" will be included on the Dutch LP "Jerry Lee Lewis Collectors Edition" (Sun NY-6) in 1975 and "The Wild Side Of Life" is first issued in 1979 on the LP "Rockin' Jerry Lee Lewis" (Mule 201). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Leo Lodner (bass) ; Ace Cannon or Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Charles Underwood.
Late December 1959, unknown date : During the Christmas holidays of 1959, LITTLE RICHARD reunites with his former bandmates, the Upsetters, and cuts his first secular recordings since October 1957. Six tracks are laid down at the Royal Theatre in Baltimore, three instrumentals and three Fats Domino numbers, all credited to THE UPSETTERS. The instrumental 45 "Let's Get A Thing Going"/"'Tater Machine" is released on Little Star 118 in mid-1962. "I'm In Love Again"/"Every Night About This Time" follows in December 1962 (Little Star 123) and "Valley Of Tears"/"Freedom Ride" in the spring of 1963 (Little Star 128). Personnel : Richard Penniman (vocals / piano) ; Milton Hopkins (guitar) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Grady Gaines, Clifford Burke (tenor saxophones) ; Rayfield Davers (baritone sax) ; Emile Russell (drums). Produced by H.B. Barnum.
January 3, 1960 : DON GIBSON records his next single, "Just One Time"/ "I May Never Get To Heaven" (RCA 47-7690, February) at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Peak chart positions : # 2 country, # 29 pop. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
Monday, January 4, 1960 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN is at the King studio in Cincinnati for a four-track session. "Night And Day" has never been issued and the other three tracks will stay on the shelf for some time : "Flamingo" is released in April 1961 (King 5503), "Autumn Leaves" in November 1961 (King 5577) and "So Lovely" in November 1963 (King 5818). Personnel unknown.
January 4, 1960 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates record their third single, a cover of Marv Johnson's "You Got What It Takes" coupled with "Longin' Lips" (HMV POP 698, January 22). A # 25 UK hit. Location : EMI's Abbey Road studio, London, England.
January 4, 1960 : CAROLE KING records "Oh,
Neil", an answer song to Neil
Sedaka's "Oh Carol". The reverse is "A Very Special
Boy", also cut during this session.
Released on Alpine 57 in the third week of January. Personnel : Everett
Barksdale, Mundell Lowe (guitars) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Neil Sedaka
(piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Joe
Venuto (percussion). Plus a 4-piece string section. Produced by Chuck Sagle at
Columbia Recording Studio, New York City.
January 4 & 6, 1960 : BOBBY RYDELL records his new single at the Reco-Art Sound Recording Studio in Philadelphia. “Wild One”/“Little Bitty Girl” is released in the third week of January (Cameo 171). Both sides will enter the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at # 2 and # 19 respectively. Arranged by Dave Appell. Produced by Kal Mann and Dave Appell.
January 5, 1960 : Saxophonist ACE CANNON records the
instrumental single "Big Shot"/"Rest" in Memphis. Release
on Fernwood 117 (March), credited to Johnny Cannon. "Big Shot" will
be re-released twice, first on Santo 506 in August 1962 and then on Fernwood 137
in 1964 (with a different flip side),
both times under the name Ace Cannon. Personnel : Ace Cannon (sax) ; Scotty
Moore (guitar / producer) ; Bill Black (bass) ; Carl McVoy (piano) ; Jerry
Arnold (drums).
January 5, 1960 : In Nashville (RCA Victor Studio), HANK LOCKLIN cuts his biggest hit, "Please Help Me I'm Falling"/"My Old Hometown" (RCA 47-7692, February). It will top the country charts for 14 weeks and peaks at # 8 on the pop charts. Personnel : Grady Martin, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
January 5, 1960 : Second and last Imperial session by JESSE LEE TURNER. The result is the single "I'm the Little Space Girl's Father"/"Valley Of Lost Soldiers" (Imperial 5649, February). Location is probably Los Angeles. More details unknown.
January 6, 1960 : RAYBURN ANTHONY is at the new Sun
Studio in Memphis to record the single "There's No
Tomorrow"/"Who's Gonna Shoe Your Pretty Little Feet" (Sun 339,
March 30). Personnel : Rayburn Anthony
(vocals / guitar) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; Carl Mann (piano) ; The Gene Lowery
Singers (vocal chorus). And probably : Brad
Suggs (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Tony Austin (drums). Produced by Charles
Underwood.
January 6, 1960 : First WANDA JACKSON session since
December 1958. Her next single is
"Please Call Today"/"My Destiny" (Capitol 4354,
March). "The Wrong Kind Of
Girl" is first issued in 1969 on the LP "Leave My Baby Alone"
(Hilltop JS 6074). Also recorded is a first attempt at "In the Middle Of A Heartache", later included
on the 4-CD set "Right Or Wrong"
(Bear Family BCD 15629, 1992). Personnel : Billy Strange (guitar) ;
Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ;
Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the
Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 7, 1960 : JOHNNY BURNETTE, still unknown outside a select group of rockabilly fans, records what will be his first chart entry, "Dreamin'", for release on Liberty 55258 on May 4 (c/w "Cincinnati Fireball" from a later date). A # 11 hit in the USA and # 5 in the UK. Also laid down by Johnny is "Kaw-Liga", which will be included on his first Liberty album, "Dreamin'" (Liberty LRP 3179, August). It is a split session with BOBBY VEE who cuts his second Liberty single, "What Do You Want" (the UK Adam Faith hit)/"My Love Loves Me" (Liberty 55234, March). Peaks at # 93 in Billboard. Personnel includes Howard Roberts (guitar) and Jerry Allison (drums) ; more details unknown. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett in Hollywood.
January 7, 1960 : BILL HALEY and his Comets do their first session for Warner Bros Records, at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "Candy Kisses"/ "Tamiami" (the B-side is an instrumental) is selected as their first 45 for the label (Warner Bros 5145, January 22). Also recorded is "Happy Homer", which is first issued on the 6-CD set "The Warner Brothers Years And More" (Bear Family BCD 16157) in 1999. (Same goes for "Hot To Trot", recorded on January 26.) Material for their first WB album, simply titled "Bill Haley And His Comets" (Warner Bros W 1378, April), is recorded on January 12, 13, 26 and 27. Titles: "Rock Around the Clock", "I Almost Lost My Mind", "Blue Suede Shoes", "Blueberry Hill", "My Special Angel", "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On", "Crazy Man, Crazy", "Kansas City", "Love Letters in the Sand", "I'm In Love Again", "Shake, Rattle And Roll" and "Stagger Lee". Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rappa (bass guitar) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by George Avakian.
January 7, 1960 : JOHNNY HORTON is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single, "Sink the Bismarck"/"The Same Old Tale the Crow Told Me" (Columbia 41568, released on January 18). A big hit for Horton (# 3 pop, # 6 country). An earlier version of "Sink the Bismarck" (from December 30, 1959) can be heard on the Bear Family box-set "Johnny Horton 1956-1960" (BCD 15470). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Tommy Tomlinson, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Grady Martin (guitar / banjo) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law.
January 8, 1960 : Unaware that this will be the last formal recording session of his life, EDDIE COCHRAN enters Gold Star Studio in Hollywood to record "Three Steps To Heaven"/"Cut Across Shorty" (Liberty 55242, released shortly before his death on April 17, 1960) and "Cherished Memories", which is first issued on London HLG 9362 in the UK in June 1961 (B-side of "Weekend", from a session on April 23, 1959). "Three Steps To Heaven" does not register in the US, but goes to # 1 on the UK charts. Personnel : Eddie Cochran (vocals / guitar) ; Sonny Curtis (guitar) ; Guybo Smith (electric bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Produced by Snuff Garrett.
January 9, 1960 : RAY SHARPE does another session at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. "Gonna Let It Go This Time"/"Bermuda" is selected as the next single (Jamie 1149, February). "For You My Love" will appear on Jamie 1155 in May (c/w "Red Sails In the Sunset", the original B-side of "Linda Lu" on Jamie 1128 in 1959). "Give'n Up" is the subsequent single (Jamie 1164, August, B-side of "Kewpie Doll" from a session on May 18, 1959). The backing track of "For You My Love" is overdubbed with a guitar solo in 1964 and released on Park Central 2714 under the title "Dallas", with a mysterious label credit for 'Easy Deal' Wilson, who plays piano on the other side, "There'll Come A Day", from another 1960 (?) session by Ray. Personnel : Ray Sharpe (vocals / guitar): Al Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Jimmie Troxel (drums). Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood.
January 10, 1960 : OTIS WILLIAMS and his Charms (Robbie Willis, Matt Williams and Winfred Gerald) are at the King Studio in Cincinnati to record their next two singles, "Chief Um (Take It Easy)"/"It's A Treat" (King 5323, late January) and "Silver Star"/"Rickety Rickshaw Man" (King 5332, April).
Tuesday, January 12, 1960 : STEVE LAWRENCE records the future # 7 hit "Footsteps"/"You Don't Know" (ABC-Paramount 10085, February) and the B-sides of two later singles, "Why, Why, Why" (ABC-Paramount 10113, May) and "Come Back, Silly Girl" (ABC-Paramount 10146, September). Arranged and conducted by Don Costa. Location : New York City.
January 12, 1960 : CHARLIE
WALKER is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records his new single, “Who
Will Buy the Wine”/“I Go Anywhere (To Forget You)”(Columbia 41633, April). A #
11 country hit. A third track, “Take Back Your Old Love Letters”, is eventually
released on the 5-CD set “Pick Me Up On Your Way Down” (Bear Family BCD
15852) in 1999. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan
(bass) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson,
Grover Lavender (fiddles) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
January 13, 1960 : THE CLOVERS record eight tracks on this day, all of which will appear on the LP "Love Potion Number 9" (United Artists UAL 3099, July) : "You Said", "So Good, So Good", "Easy Lovin'", "That's What's Worrying Me" (these four arranged by Jesse Stone), "I'm Confessin' That I Love You", "One Mint Julep" (a remake of their 1952 hit), "Too Young" and "The Sheik" (the last four arranged by Teddy Randazzo). "One Mint Julep" is also released as a single (United Artists 209, c/w "Lovey" from an earlier session), at the end of January. The same goes for "Easy Lovin'"/"I'm Confessin' That I Love You" (United Artists 227, May). King Curtis plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Don Costa in New York City.
January 13, 1960 : THE ROCK-A-TEENS complete their first LP ("Woo Hoo", Roulette SR 25109, March) at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. Exactly which tracks were recorded during the first session (November 18, 1959) and which during the January session is not quite clear, but at least "Janis Will Rock", "Offbeat" and "Story of a Woman" come from this 1960 session. Personnel : Vic Mizelle (vocals / guitar) ; Bobby 'Boo' Walke, Bill Cook (guitars) ; Eddie Robinson (sax) ; Paul Dixon (bass) ; Bill Smith (drums).
January 13, 1960 : MARV JOHNSON records “I Love the Way You Love” at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. It is rush-released five days later (United Artists 208) and will peak at # 9 pop (# 2 R&B). The other side is “Let Me Love You”, which was recorded on December 22, 1959. It is a split session with EDDIE HOLLAND who records “Magic Mirror”/“Will You Love Me” (United Artists 207, third week of January). Arranged and produced by Berry Gordy.
January 14, 1960 : JOHN BARRY records the single with which he will score his first chart entry (# 10, UK) : "Hit & Miss"/"Rockin' Already" (Columbia DB 4414, release date February 12). Credit on the A-side goes to "The John Barry Seven Plus Four". "Hit & Miss" will be the signature tune of the TV show "Juke Box Jury" for many years. Vic Flick is the lead guitarist and the string / pizzicato section consists of Sid Margo, Alec Firman, Bernard Monshin and Charlie Katz. "Rockin' Already" (John Barry's arrangement of "Wimoweh") features a vocal chorus, the Rita Williams Singers. Produced by Norman Newell at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
January 14, 1960 : Four-track session for THE CADILLACS in New York City. "Tell Me Today"/"It's Love" (Josie 876) is chosen as their next single (Josie 876, February). "Let Me Down Easy" will appear on the album "The Cadillacs Meet the Orioles" (Jubilee JGM 1117, June). "I'm In Love" is first released in 1983 on the 5-LP set "For Collectors Only: THE CADILLACS" (Murray Hill M61285). The Cadillacs are : Earl Carroll, Ronnie Bright, Kirk Davis and Roland Martinez.
January 14, 1960 : JESSIE HILL is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record the single "Ooh Poo Pah Doo, Parts 1 & 2" (Minit 607, February). Part 2 is the hit side, peaking at # 3 R&B and # 28 pop. Personnel : Jessie Hill (vocals / tambourine) ; Nat Perilliat, David Lastie (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Richard Payne (bass) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums).
January 14, 1960 : BILL JOHNSON does his only session for
Sun Records, resulting in the single "Bobaloo"/"Bad Times
Ahead" (Sun 340, March 30). "You Better Dig It" (previously
recorded for the Talos label in Augusta,
Georgia) is first released on the Charly CD "Sun Rock 'n' Roll,
Vol. 1" (CPCD 8277) in 1997.
"Where There's A Will" will eventually be included on an mp3 collection called "Rock
Classics : Science Fiction" (Charly)
in 2006. Backing by Johnson's own band : Bill Johnson (vocals / piano) ;
John Winfield (guitar) ; Hubert Perry
(bass) ; St. Clair Pinckney (tenor sax) ;
Albrister Cook (baritone sax) ; Sammie Jackson (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Charles
Underwood at the new Sun studio in Memphis.
January 15, 1960 : DUANE EDDY completes the recording of his fourth LP, "Songs Of Our Heritage" (Jamie LP 3011, June). The final four tracks of this 11-track album are "Scarlet Ribbons", "Streets Of Laredo", "Top of Old Smokey" and "The Wayfaring Stranger". Personnel : Duane Eddy (Spanish guitar) ; Al Casey (bass) : Jim Horn (flute) ; Unknown (harmonica). Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. The LP was mixed and mastered by Eddie Brackett at United Recorders in Hollywood on June 2, 1960.
January 15-16, 1960 : Another session by DON GIBSON this month. On the first day he records "Lonely Street", "On the Banks of the Old Ponchartrain", "Why Don't You Love Me", "If I Can Stay Away" and "Never Love Again". On January 16 he lays down "The Streets Of Laredo", "My Love For You", "My Hands Are Tied" and "It Only Hurts For A Little While". All tracks will be included on the LP "Look Who's Blue" (RCA LPM 2184, April). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton, Leon Button (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Douglas Kirkham (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). On January 16 Buddy Harman replaces Douglas Kirkham. Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor studio.
January 16, 1960 : Second RCA session for JIMMY EDWARDS. The harvest is the single "Rosie Lee"/"Live And Let Live" (RCA 47-7717, March). A third track, "Sorry I Lied" (previously recorded by Cliff Thomas) is consigned to the vaults, until it is saved by Bear Family and included on Jimmy's CD "Love Bug Crawl" (BCD 16621) in 2010. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Ed Thomas (piano / arranger) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; James Cason, Hugh Jarrett, Marijohn Wilkin, Richard Williams (vocal chorus). Produced by Jack Clement at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio.
January 18, 1960 : In New York City, THE CRESTS cut their next single, "Step By Step"/"Gee" (Coed 525, February, a # 14 hit). "Journey Of Love" is released in August on Coed 535 (c/w "If My Heart Could Write A Letter" from a later session) and peaks at # 81. Also recorded is "Say It Isn't So"/"The Great Physician" (Coed 527, March), which is credited to Johnny Masters, a pseudonym for Johnny Maestro, the lead singer of the group.
January 19, 1960 : THE DUBS are now contracted to ABC-Paramount and record their next two singles on this day : "Don't Laugh At Me"/"You'll Never Belong To Me" (ABC-Paramount 10100, April) and "For the First Time"/ "Ain't That So" (ABC-Paramount 10150, October). The Dubs are : Richard Blandon, Cordell Brown, Billy Carlisle, Jake Miller and Thomas Gardner. Orchestra directed by Sid Feller. Location : New York City.
Wednesday, January 20, 1960 : CLYDE McPHATTER does a five-track session at Olmstead Studios in New York City. "Think Me A Kiss" becomes the A-side of his next single (MGM 12877, March, c/w "When the Right Time Comes Along" from a session on October 19, 1959). A minor pop hit (# 66). "One Right After Another" is also coupled with a song from the October 1959 session ("This Is Not Goodbye") and released on MGM 12949 in September. "Take A Step" follows in February 1961 (MGM 12988, c/w "The Glory Of Love" from a session on June 10, 1959). "Whisper Softly" and "I Know That Feeling are used as tracks for the LP "Clyde McPhatter's Greatest Hits" (MGM SE 3866, August), which will also include the other three tracks from this session. Arranged and produced by Ray Ellis. Orchestra probably includes King Curtis on tenor sax.
January 21-25, 1960 : Marathon session for JERRY LEE LEWIS. Disguised as "The Hawk", he cuts an instrumental single, "In the Mood"/"I Get the Blues When It Rains" (Phillips International 3559, August). "Mexicali Rose" is first issued on the LP "Rockin' and Free" (Sun 6467 029) in 1974. Jerry's next single is "Old Black Joe"/"Baby Baby Bye Bye" (Sun 337, March, with an overdubbed vocal chorus, the Gene Lowery Singers). Also released as singles are "As Long As I Live" (Sun 367, September 1, 1961) and "Bonnie B." (Sun 371, November 21, 1961). Seven other tracks - "Hound Dog", "Keep Your Hands Off It" (aka "Birthday Cake"), "Don't Drop It", "The Great Speckled Bird", "You Can't Help It", "Your Cheatin' Heart" and a first attempt at "What'd I Say" - remain unissued for decades and will eventually appear on two LP's on the Zu-Zazz label (Z 2003, Z 2004, 1987-88) and/or on Charly Sunbox 109 ("Into the Sixties", 1989). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Location is the new Sun Studio at 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee. Produced by Sam Phillips.
January 22, 1960 is the recording date of the TOMMY FACENDA single "Bubba Ditty"/"I Don't Know" (Atlantic 2057, March). Location is New York City. Personnel : Mundell Lowe, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Bobby Byrne, Eddie Bert (trombones) ; Dick Hyman (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum.
January 22, 1960 : BOB LUMAN records at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood, but all four tracks from this session are unissued and lost : "You're My Top", "Come Completely To Me", "Blue Days" and "Lonely Road" (second version). Personnel : James Burton, Billy Byrd (guitars) ; James Kirkland (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Karl Engemann.
January 22, 1960 : In New York City, TEDDY RANDAZZO records four tracks, all of which will be released as singles : "The Way Of A Clown"/"Cherie" (ABC-Paramount 10088, February, a # 44 hit), "But You Broke My Heart" (ABC 10127, July) and "Broken Bell" (ABC 10228, June 1961). Arranged and conducted by Sid Feller.
January 24, 1960 : FARON YOUNG waxes his next single,
"Your Old Used To Be"/"I'll Be Allright (In the Morning)",
for release in March (Capitol 4351). A # 5 country hit. Also recorded is a
first (unissued) attempt at
"There's Not Any Like You Left", to which Faron will return in
June. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Darrell McCall (guitars) ; Bob
Moore (bass) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman
(drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 25, 1960 : Three-track session for HANK SNOW. "Rockin' Rollin' Ocean"/"Walkin' And Talkin'" is his next single (RCA 47-7702, February, a # 22 country hit). "The Change Of the Tide" is the subsequent single (RCA 47-7748, June, B-side of "Miller's Cave" from a later session). Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Carl Garvin (trumpet) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
January, 25 and 28, 1960 : First RCA sessions for SAM COOKE. "Chain Gang" is recorded on the 25th and released as his third RCA single in the last week of July (RCA 47-7783, c/w "I Fall In Love Everyday" from a later session). A # 2 hit, both pop and R&B. "Teenage Sonata" is first attempted on the 25th and finished on the 28th. This becomes Sam's debut single for the label (RCA 47-7701, February, a # 50 pop hit). The lower deck is "If You Were the Only Girl In the World", laid down on the 25th. Sam's second RCA single is "I Belong To Your Heart"/"You Understand Me" (RCA 47-7730, May), both sides recorded on the 28th. Personnel : Cliff White (guitar) ; Hank Jones (piano) ; Hugo Peretti (organ) ; more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Glenn Osser. Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
January 25 and 27, 1960 : CONNIE FRANCIS records a single for the European market : "Valentino"/"It Would Be Worth It" (MGM 1060, UK, March), as well as "Teddy", which is issued as the B-side of Mama" (MGM 12878, February), but still reaches # 17 on the Billboard charts on its own strength. Five other tracks are laid down - "No One", "My Dream", "Cashin' In", "Swinging Medley" and "I Think Of You" - all of which remain unissued until they are included on the 5-CD box-set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boys Are" (Bear Family BCD 15826) in 1996. Orchestra conducted by Gus Levene. Produced by Ray Ellis and Jesse Kaye at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
January 26, 1960 : THE KALIN TWINS are at the Pythian Temple in New York (Decca Studio) to record their next single, “Chicken Thief”/“Loneliness” (Decca 31064, March). A third track, “Bye Bye Blackbird”, stays in the vaults until it is rescued by Bear Family in 1992 (CD “When”, BCD 15597). Orchestra conducted by Jack Pleis.
January 27, 1960 : PATSY CLINE records material for her next two singles, "Lovesick Blues"/"How Can I Face Tomorrow" (Decca 31061, March 7) and "Crazy Dreams"/"There He Goes" (Decca 31128, August 1). Personnel : Harold Bradley (6-string electric bass) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar / fiddle) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 27, 1960 : THE MONOTONES record an answer record to their own "Book Of Love" : "Reading the Book Of Love" (Hull 735), which will come out in February, coupled with "Dream" from the same session. A third track, "Forever Yours", stays in the can until the release of the Collectables CD "Who Wrote the Book Of Love : The Hull Recordings, 1957-1962" (VCL 5427) in July 1992.
January 27, 1960 : JACK SCOTT is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City where he records eight tracks for the LP "I Remember Hank Williams" (Top Rank RM 319, April) : "I Can't Escape From You", "Cold Cold Heart", "You Win Again", "They'll Never Take Her Love From Me", "Crazy Heart", "Half As Much", "I'm Sorry For You My Friend" and "Take These Chains From My Heart". Three other tracks for the album were recorded earlier in the month : "I Could Never Be Ashamed Of You" and "Your Cheatin' Heart" on January 4 and "May You Never Be Alone" on the 21st. Vocal support by the Chantones. Produced by Sonny Lester and Bill Sanford.
January 27, 1960 : WEBB PIERCE covers Warner Mack’s ”Is It Wrong” during a session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. It is released on February 29 (Decca 31058), coupled with “(Doin’ the) Lover’s Leap” from a session on October 12, 1959. A # 11 country hit. Also recorded are “Truck Driver’s Blues” (Decca 31165, October) and the LP tracks “Gotta Travel On” and “I’m Tired”. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley.
January 27-28, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, JOHNNY PRESTON cuts nine tracks for his debut LP "Running Bear" (Mercury MG 20592, April) : "Hearts Of Stone", "The Twist", "You'll Never Walk Alone", "Pretend", "Danny Boy", "Dream" (all on the 27th) and "What Am I Living For", "Earth Angel", "Guardian Angel" on the 28th. Also recorded on January 27 is the single "Feel So Fine"/"I'm Starting To Go Steady" (Mercury 71651, June). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Kelso Herston (guitars) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Doug Kirkham (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Bill Hall.
January 29, 1960 : In Los Angeles, drummer SANDY NELSON records eight tracks for his first LP, “Sandy Nelson Plays Teen Beat” (Imperial LP 9105, March) : “Funny Face”, “Lost Dreams” (also a single, Imperial 5672), “Jivin’ Around, Parts 1 & 2”, “Rainy Day”, “In the Mood”, “I’m Walkin’” (also issued as a UK single, London HLP 9214), a new version of “Teen Beat” and “Alexes” (released as a single in April 1963, Imperial 5940). Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Eddie Ray.
Saturday, January 30, 1960 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON is at the Chess Studio in Chicago to record his new single, "The Goat"/"It's Sad To Be Alone" (Checker 943), which is rush-released. "I Never Do Wrong" sees its first appearance on the 2-LP set "This Is My Story" (Chess 2CH-50027) in 1972. "Cool Disposition" will eventually find a place on the LP "One Way Out" (Chess CHV 417) in 1975. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson II (Rice Miller) (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums). Produced by Leonard Chess.
(Circa) January 1960, unknown date : BENNY BARNES records his next two singles : "That-A Boy Willie"/"Token Of Love" (Mercury 71600, March) and "Pretty Little Girl"/"Message in the Wind" (Mercury 71637, June), at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
(Probably) January 1960 : BOYD BENNETT is in Nashville
(Bradley Studio) where he waxes his next two singles : "It's
Wonderful"/"Amo, Amas, Amat" (Mercury 71605, March) and "Seventeen"/"Sarasota"
(Mercury 71648, June). "Seventeen" is a remake of Bennett's big 1955
hit and has Al Henderson as the lead vocalist. Bennett himself is the singer on
the other three tracks. The vocal chorus comes courtesy of the Anita Kerr
Singers.
(Probably) January 1960 : CARL SIMMONS (Gene’s brother) records two instrumental tracks at the Hi Studio in Memphis. “Prowlin’”/“Boodoo” will come out on Dot 16076 in March. Credit goed to “Carl Simmons’ Orchestra”. Personnel : Carl Simmons (guitar) ; Bobby Stewart (bass) ; Carl McVoy (piano) ; poss. Ace Cannon (sax) ; Jerry Arnold (drums). Produced by Joe Cuoghi.
January 1960, unknown date : TEDDY REDELL records his best known single, "Judy"/"Can't You See" at KLCN radio station in Blytheville, Arkansas. First released on Vaden 116 in February, then picked up for national distribution by Atlantic and reissued on Atco 6162 in March. Personnel : Teddy Redell (vocals / piano) ; Fred Dale Douglas (guitar) ; Ray Molenick (bass) ; Kinky King (drums). Produced by Arlen Vaden.
With thanks to Bill Daniels, the late Roy Simonds and
Steve Walker.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1960
February 1-2, 5, 1960 : BOBBY DARIN is now living and recording in Los Angeles. On February 1 and 2 he records no less than sixteen songs, most of which were shelved until June 1964 (LP "Winners, Atco 33-167). "Won't You Come Home Bill Bailey" is released as a single in May (Atco 6167, c/w"I'll Be There" from a July 1959 session) and reaches # 19 in Billboard. After Darin had left Atlantic, the following tracks from this session were issued as singles : "I Found A New Baby" (Atco 6244, November 1962, # 90),"Swing Low Sweet Chariot" (Atco 6316, November 1964) and "Minnie the Moocher"/"Hard Hearted Hannah" (Atco 6334, April 1965). All very jazzy. More interesting is the session of February 5, which yields the instrumental single "Beachcomber"/"Autumn Blues" (Atco 6173, August, # 100), "Tall Story" (B-side of the hit "Clementine" from a September 1959 session, Atco 6161, March) and "She's Tanfastic". The latter was made available as a "special premium disc" (with Tanfastic suntan lotion) and was first commercially released on the CD "Splish Splash : The Best Of Bobby Darin, Vol. 1" (Atlantic 7 91794-2) in 1991.Arranged by Bobby Scott, except for "Beachcomber"/"Autumn Blues" (arr.by Shorty Rogers) and "Tall Story" and "She's Tanfastic" (arranged by Torrie Zito). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
February 3, 1960 : Last Sun session for BARBARA PITTMAN. "Handsome Man"/"The Eleventh Commandment" will be her last single for the label (Phillips International 3553, April). "Just One Day" is first issued on the LP "The Original Sun Sides" (Rockhouse LPM 8307, Holland) in 1983. "The Titles Will Tell" will be included on the 6-CD box-set "Memphis Belles : The Women Of Sun Records" (Bear Family BCD 16609, August 2002). "Lost My Only Love" from this session is unissued and probably lost. Personnel : Billy Riley, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ;Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed)."Handsome Man" produced by Charlie Rich (who wrote the song), the other titles produced by Charles Underwood at the new Sun studio in Memphis.
February 3, 1960 : LINK WRAY and the Wraymen are at the CBS Studios in New York City to record three tracks. Their next single is "Trail Of the Lonesome Pine"/"Golden Strings", the latter based on a Chopin etude. Release on Epic 9361 in the first week of March. The third track is an early attempt at "Mary Ann", which will be kept in the can until 2002,when Sundazed issues the 2-CD set "Slinky! The Epic Sessions, '58-'61" (Sundazed CD 11098). Link will return to this Ray Charles composition later in 1960.Personnel : Link Wray (lead guitar) ; Vernon Wray (rhythm guitar) ;Shorty Horton (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; Doug Wray (drums).Produced by Chuck Sagle.
February 3, 1960 : In Miami Beach, Florida, THE "5" ROYALES record their last two King singles, "I'm With You"/"Don't Give Me No More Than You Can Take" (King 5329, March) and "Why"/"Within My Heart" (King 5357,July).
And yet another session on February 3 : RAY PRICE cuts his next single, "One More Time"/"Who'll Be the First" (Columbia 41590, February 22).A # 2 country hit for eight weeks (kept from the top by Jim Reeves's "He'll Have To Go").Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Thomas Williams (guitars) ;Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Shorty Lavender, Tommy Jackson (fiddles) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Steve Bess (drums).Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 4, 1960 : THE ROCKIN' SAINTS cut their second and last single for Decca, "Cheat On Me Baby"/"Half And Half" (Decca 31144, September). Two other tracks remain unissued : "Over the Rainbow" and an unknown title. Location is probably New York City. Personnel : Frank Triolo (vocals / guitar) ; Bill Mohrhoff (bass) ;Billy Crandall (vocals / sax) ; Hayden 'Red' Brown (keyboards) ; Will Moyers (drums).
February 4, 1960 : RAY PETERSON records his next single,
"Answer Me, My Love"/"What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me
For" (RCA 47-7703,third week of February) and "I'm Tired", which
is first released in2006 on the CD "Tell Laura I Love Her" (Bear Family
BCD 15880).Produced by Hugo and Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
February 4-5, 1960 : MARTY ROBBINS starts recording at 23:00 and finishes at 2:00 in the morning. "Saddle Tramp" will be used as the B-side of the previously recorded "Big Iron" (Columbia 41589, release date February 22). "She Was Young And She Was Pretty" was previously attempted on May 25, 1959 (unissued until the release of Bear Family BCD 15569 in 1991) ; this new version will find a place on the album "More Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs" (Columbia CL 1481, July). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett, James Glaser (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan, Bob Moore (bass) ; Louis Dunn (drums).Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Friday, February 5, 1960 : NEIL SEDAKA does a three-track session at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. First recorded is "What Am I Gonna Do", which will get a place on the LP "Neil Sedaka Sings Little Devil and His Other Hits" (RCA LPM 2421, June 1961). "Run Samson Run" will be released as a 45 in July (RCA 47-7781, # 28). Selected as the new single is "Stairway To Heaven" (RCA 47-7709, first week of March, # 9).On February 8, Neil records the B-side of that 45, "Forty Winks Away", and three other future B-sides : "You Mean Everything To Me" (a double A-side with "Run Samson Run" really, # 17), "Walk With Me" (the flip of "King Of Clowns, RCA 47-8007, March 1962) and "I Must Be Dreaming", which becomes the lower deck of "Little Devil" in April 1961 (RCA 47-7874).Present on both days are session men Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Al Nevins.
February 5, 1960 : COWBOY COPAS arrives at the Starday
Studio in Madison, Tennessee, to record eight tracks for his first Starday LP,
titled "All Time Country Music Greats" (Starday SLP 118, May) :
"Alabam", "Pretty Diamonds", "I'm A Slave To
You", "I Can", The Wings Of the Great Speckled Bird", "Waltzing
With Sin", "Dreaming" and "The Purple Robe".
"Alabam"/"I Can" is released as a single (Starday 501,
June) and tops the country charts for 12 weeks (also # 63 pop). "I'm A
Slave To You" and "Dreaming" are duets with his daughter Cathy
Copas. Produced by Tommy Hill.
February 6, 1960 : GEORGE JONES cuts seven tracks between 14:00 and 17:00 hours. "Just Little Boy Blue"/"Out Of Control" hits the market in June (Mercury 71641). "You're Still On My Mind" will be released in August 1962 (Mercury 72010) and "Tarnished Angel" in March 1964 (Mercury 72233). "You Better Treat Your Man Right" is also issued as a single (Mercury 72362, November 1964). "Slave Lover" is included on the LP "The Novelty Side Of George Jones" (Mercury MG 20793) in April1963 and "Glad To Let Her Go" on "The Ballad Side Of George Jones"(Mercury MG 20836) in September 1963. Produced by Pappy Daily at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 8, 1960 : DANNY VALENTINO's second recording session results in the single "Biology"/"A Million Tears" (MGM 12881, March). It will chart for two weeks in Billboard, peaking at # 95. A third track, "My Love" remains unissued. The location is Olmstead Studio in New York City. Orchestra (15 musicians) conducted by Ray Ellis.
February 9, 1960 : JOHN LEE HOOKER cuts an entire LP on this day, "That's My Story" (Riverside LP 321, April). Tracks : "Come On And See About Me", "Democrat Man", "Gonna Use My Rod", "I Believe I'll Go Back Home", "I Need Some Money", "I Want To Talk About You", "I'm Wandering", "No More Doggin'", "One Of These Days", "That's My Story", "Wednesday Evenin'" and "You're Leavin' Me Baby". Released as a single are "I Need Some Money" and "No More Doggin'" (Riverside438, June).Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Sam Jones (bass) ;Louis Hayes (drums). Location is New York City.
February 9, 16 and 19, 1960 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record the LP"Bill Haley's Jukebox" (Warner Bros W 1391, August). "Bouquet Of Roses","This Is the Thanks I Get (For Loving You)" and "I Don't Hurt Anymore"are laid down on February 9. "Anytime", "Singing the Blues", "Detour"and "Cold Cold Heart" follow one week later. Finally, on the 19th, they cut "Afraid", "No Letter Today", "The Wild Side Of Life" and "There's A New Moon Over My Shoulder". The twelfth track on the album is "Candy Kisses", recorded on January 7. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Al Rappa (bass guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ;Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums). Produced by George Avakian at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
February 10, 1960 : Time for a new FATS DOMINO single. "Tell Me That You Love"/"Before I Grow Too Old" is released on Imperial 5660 in the last week of March. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; DaveBartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).Location : Cosimo Recording Studio, 523 Governor Nicholls Street, New Orleans, Louisiana.
February 11-12, 1960 : Imperial's other big star, RICKY NELSON, does a night session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. Two tracks are the result : "Here I Go Again" (LP track for "More Songs By Ricky", Imperial LP 9122, July) and "Do You Know What It Means (To Miss New Orleans)"(a track for the album "Rick Is 21", Imperial LP 9152, May 1961).Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Leroy Vinnegar (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Teddy Edwards(sax) ; John Rotella (clarinet) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Bob Gilman(percussion) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed on April 25).Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell. See also February 18.
February 12, 1960 : BRIAN HYLAND makes his debut as a recording artist, at an unknown studio in New York City. The single "Rosemary"/"Library Love Affair" is rush-released on Leader 801. "Cleo" will be included on Hyland's first LP, "The Bashful Blond" (Kapp KL 1202, July). One further, unknown title was recorded. Produced by Richard Wolfe.
February 15-17, 1960 : Three days of sessions by JOHNNY
CASH at Bradley Studio in Nashville. On the 15th he cuts six songs for the LP
"Ride This Train" (Columbia CL 1464, September) : "When Papa
Played the Dobro", "Boss Jack", "Lumberjack",
"Slow Rider", "Loading Coal" (also a single, Columbia41804,
September) and "Dorraine Of Ponchortrain". "Old Doc Brown"
(also for the LP) is laid down on the 16th, along with the single "Smiling
Bill McCall" (Columbia 41618, March) and "The Fable Of Willie
Brown" (first released on Bear Family BFX 15016 in 1978). Personnel :
Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Johnny Western(guitars) ;
Harold 'Shot' Jackson (guitar / dobro) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Gordon Terry
(fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).On the 17th, Cash
records an entire LP, "Now, There Was A Song!" (Columbia CL 1463,
December). From these twelve songs, two will also be released as singles :
"Seasons Of My Heart" (Columbia 41618, March) and "Honky Tonk Girl"
(Columbia 41707, June). Don Helms (steel guitar) replaces Harold Jackson on
this day. Produced by Don Law.
Thursday, February 18, 1960 : Final Cadence session for THE EVERLY BROTHERS. "When Will I Be Loved" is released in May on Cadence 1380(c/w "Be Bop A-Lula" from their first LP) and "Like Strangers" appears in October on Cadence 1388 (c/w "Brand new Heartache", also from their debut album). Peak positions in Billboard : "When Will I Be Loved" # 8,"Be Bop A-Lula" # 74, "Like Strangers" # 22.Personnel : Don and Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Chet Atkins, Hank Garland, Luther Brandon (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).Produced by Archie Bleyer at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
February 18, 1960 : Second session for RICKY NELSON this month. Only one track is recorded : "Right By My Side", which becomes the B-side of "Young Emotions" (from a session on October 27, 1959) in April (Imperial 5663). It is a double-sided hit, with "Right By My Side" peaking at # 59. Backing by : Alan Reuss (guitar) ; Leroy Vinnegar (bass) ; Teddy Edwards (sax) ; John Rotella (clarinet) ; Ray Johnson (piano ) ;Richie Frost (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus).Vocal arranger : Rene Hall. Produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
February 19, 1960 : BOBBY BARE is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record his voice over the previously recorded backing track of "Lynchin' Party". This version will be released on Fraternity 871 on October 12(c/w "No Letter From My Baby" from a later session). Bobby will record two more versions of "Lynchin' Party" later in 1960 and these will be issued by Bear Family in 1994 (box-set BCD 15663).
February 19, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, BILLY 'CRASH' CRADDOCK records his next single, "All I Want Is You"/"Letter Of Love" (Columbia 41619, March 14). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ;Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).Produced by Don Law.
February 20, 1960 : JAMES BROWN cuts his new single, "Think"/"You've Got the Power" (Federal 12370, March) at United Recorders in Hollywood. Both sides will chart, with "Think" peaking at # 7 R&B, # 33 pop and "You've Got the Power" (which features a female vocal by Bea Ford) at # 14 R&B and # 86 pop.
February 20, 1960 : BARRY DE VORZON cuts his version of "Rosemary"(also recorded by Larry Hall and Brian Hyland) and its flip, "Hey Little Darlin'" (Columbia 41612, first week of March). Location is Columbia Recording Studio in New York City. Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar / arranger) ; Al Casamenti, Bill Suyker, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Frank Carroll (bass) ; Panama Francis(drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
February 20-21, 1960 : CONWAY TWITTY pays another visit
to Bradley Studio in Nashville. "The Hurt In My Heart" is selected as
the B-side of his new single (MGM 12886, March). "Tell Me One More
Time" hits the market in August (MGM 12918). "Maybe Tomorrow We'll
Know" stays on the shelf until the release of the 8-LP Bear Family box-set
"The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BFX 15174) in 1986. On the 21st Twitty
records "What Am I Living For" (A-side of MGM 12886) and the LP
tracks "A Fallen Star" and "I'd Still Play the Fool" (MGM
SE 3943, "The Conway Twitty Touch", June 1961).Personnel : Al Bruno,
Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer
(piano) ; Jack Nance (drums).Produced by Jim Vienneau.
February 22, 1960 : One-track session for RONNIE HAWKINS at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "The Ballad Of Caryl Chessman" is the A-side of his next single (Roulette 4231, rush-released, c/w "The Tale Of Floyd Collins" from a session on May 26, 1959).Personnel : Fred Carter, Jr. (lead guitar) ; Unknown (banjo) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
(Probably) February 22, 1960 : CARL MANN records six tracks,
possibly split over two sessions. "I'm Bluer Than Anyone Can Be" and
"Baby I Don't Care" will be included on the album "Like
Mann" (Phillips Inter-national PLP 1960, June). "Ain't You Got No
Lovin' For Me", "Serenade Of the Bells", "Then I Turned And
Walked Slowly Away", and "Sentimental Journey" are first
released on the Swedish LP "14 Unissued Sides" in 1985 (Star Club
33-8022). Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; Robert
Oatswell (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and Charles
Underwood at the new Sun Studio in Memphis.
February 23, 1960 : After more than seven years with Capitol Records, SONNY JAMES is now contracted to the NRC label in Atlanta, Georgia. His first single for the company is "Jenny Lou"/"Passing Through" (NRC 050, March).Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar) ; Roy Lanham (guitar) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Jerry Adler (harmonica) ; Frank DeVito (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).Produced by Bill Lowery at Gold Star studio in Hollywood.
February 23, 1960 : RAY SMITH does his second session for Judd Records, at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result : "Put Your Arms Around Me Honey"/"Maria Elena" (Judd 1017, March) and "Makes Me Feel Good"/"One Wonderful Love" (Judd 1019, July).Personnel : Chet Atkins, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ;Floyd Cramer (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jud Phillips.
February 23, 1960 : THE FOUR PREPS record their next single, “Got A Girl”/ “Wait Till You Hear It From Me” (Capitol 4362, March). A # 24 hit. Also recorded is a first (unreleased) attempt at “Madeline”, to which the group will return on May 12. The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Glen Larson, Marvin Inabnett. Arranged by Lincoln Mayorga, who also plays piano. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
February 23-25, 1960 : A three-day session for THE PLATTERS at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood results in twelve tracks for the LP"Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries" (Mercury MG 20589, July). Contents :"Whispering Grass (Don't Tell the Trees)", "I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time" (also used as the B-side of "Ebb Tide", Mercury 71624,released on April 25), "Lullaby of the Leaves", "Jeannine", "Tumbling Tumbleweeds", "Trees" (also a single, Mercury 71791, February 1961),"Orchids in the Moonlight", "A Little White Gardenia", "Honeysuckle Rose", "Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries", "When You Wore A Tulip" and "Roses Of Picardy".
Wednesday, February 24, 1960 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo record their next 45, "Rockin' Red Wing"/"Dark Eyes" (Imperial 5656, March), in Los Angeles. The A-side features a vocal by an unknown singer and copies the Sammy Masters version almost note for note. "Dark Eyes" is an instrumental, based on the familiar Russian song "Ochi chyomye".
February 24, 1960 : WYNN STEWART is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record a duet single with Jan Howard, "Wrong Company"/"We'll Never Love Again" (Challenge 59071, March). A # 26 country hit. Personnel : Alan Norris (guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Shirley Ash (piano) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums).Produced by Joe Johnson.
February 26, 1960 : In New York City, LaVERN BAKER cuts three tracks that will appear on the LP "Saved" (Atlantic LP 8050) in June 1961 :"No Love So True", "Senor Big And Fine" and "Wheel Of Fortune". The latter is first released as a single (Atlantic 2059) in April 1960 (c/w "Shadows Of Love" from a session on December 11, 1959). A fourth track, "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes" is shelved until the release of the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071) in January 1963.Personnel : Al Caiola, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; George Duvivier(bass) ; James Buffington (French horn) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Ted Sommer (drums). Plus a 5-piece mixed vocal chorus and strings. Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum, produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
February 26, 1960 : A productive session for THE COASTERS at the Atlantic studio in New York City. "Besame Mucho, Parts 1 & 2" becomes the new single (Atco 6163, March, a # 70 hit). "Wake Me Shake Me" is the subsequent 45 (Atco 6168, June, will peak at # 51 in Billboard). "The Snake and the Bookworm" ends up on the B-side of "Shoppin' For Clothes" (from a later session) in September (Atco 6178) and "Keep On Rolling" on the reverse of "Little Egypt" (from an even later session) in April 1961 (Atco 6192). "Lady Like" is held in the can until March 1965 (Atco 6341, c/w "Hongry" from a session on April 10, 1961).Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter, Will 'Dub' Jones(vocals) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Sonny Forriest (guitar) ;George Barnes (banjo) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Willie Rodriguez (bongos / cow bells).Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
February 29, 1960 : THE CRICKETS do another session at the Decca Studio in Los Angeles. "Baby My Heart"/"More Than I Can Say" is selected as the new single (Coral 62198, late April). Only the backing track of "Baby My Heart" is recorded on this day, the vocals are added at a later session in March. "So You're In Love" and a second version of "Smooth Guy" are first released on the LP "Complete Crickets" (Charly CR 30226, UK) in 1984. Personnel : Earl Sinks (lead vocals) ; Sonny Curtis (vocals / guitar) ; Joe B. Mauldin (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) : Jerry Allison (drums).Produced by Bud Dant and the Crickets.
February 1960, unknown date : BO DIDDLEY records nine tracks for the LP "Bo Diddley in the Spotlight" (Checker LP 2976, July), in his own studio in the basement of his house in Washington, D.C. The songs are : "Let Me In", "Signifying Blues", Live My Life", "Scuttle Bug", "Love Me", "Deed And Deed I Do", "Walkin' and Talkin'", "Travelin' West" and"Crawdad". The latter is selected for single release, coupled with "Walkin' and Talkin'" (Checker 951, May). Also recorded is "My White Horse", which remains in the vaults until the release of the 2-CD set "Ride On : The Chess Masters, Vol. 3, 1960-1961" (Hip-O-Select, 2009).Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Johnson (guitar) ;Willie Dixon (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Billy Downing (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group).
February 1960, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS do a three-track session at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City. "Slave Girl" is issued in May on Mercury 71633 (c/w "The Pencil Song" from a session in December 1958)."You Sure Changed Me" comes out in February 1961 (Mercury 71782, c/w "I Sho' Lawd Will" from a later session). "You're For Me" has never been released. The Diamonds are : John Felton, Evan Fisher, Dave Somerville and Mike Douglas.
February 1960, unknown date : MICKEY GILLEY waxes the single "Is It Wrong?"/"No Greater Love", for release on Potomac 901 in March. Location is Houston, Texas, probably ACA Studio. Personnel includes Kenny Rogers on bass guitar and Gerald Highburger on drums ; more details not known.
February 1960, unknown date : At Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona, LEE HAZLEWOOD records the basic tracks for the single "Words Mean Nothing"/"The Girl On Death Row" (Jamie 1158, July), with Duane Eddy on guitar and a few other members of Duane's band. Strings are overdubbed on February 18 at United Recorders in Hollywood. Strings arranged by Bob Thompson. Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill.
February 1960, unknown date : First ETTA JAMES session for her new label, Chess / Argo. "All I Could Do Was Cry"/"Girl Of My Dreams" (Argo 5359,March) will become her first pop hit (# 33). Also recorded is "Tough Mary", which is used as the B-side of "My Dearest Darling" (from a later session) in August (Argo 5368).Produced by Leonard Chess in Chicago.
February 1960, unknown date : The final RCA session by HOYT JOHNSON yields the single "Too Shy"/"Eca-La" (RCA 47-7731, April). Unissued from this date is "I Know One". Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
February 1960, unknown date : JOINER, ARKANSAS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BAND is the name given to a group of studio musicians who record the instrumental single “National City”/“Big Ben” (Liberty 55244, March 14) in Los Angeles. A # 53 hit. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, who plays the organ. Earl Palmer is the drummer on “Big Ben” ; not sure if he also plays on “National City”.
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Steve Walker and Henk Gorter.
Dik
MARCH 1960
March 1, 1960 : JACK SCOTT arrives at Bell Sound Studio in New York City where he records two tracks : "It's My Way Of Loving You" and "My King". Both will be issued on the LP "What in the World's Come Over You" (Top Rank RS-626, May). The same goes for "I'm Satisfied With You" and "Am I the One", recorded on March 11. Vocal backing by the Chantones, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Sonny Lester and Bill Sanford.
March 1, 1960 : JOHN LEE HOOKER begins his second term at the Vee-Jay label by recording an entire LP in one day ("Travelin'", Vee-Jay LP 1023, August). Tracks : "No Shoes", "I Wanna Walk", "Canal Street Blues", "Run On", "I'm A Stranger", "Whiskey and Wimmen", "Solid Sender", "Sunny Land", "Goin' To California", "I Can't Believe", "I'll Know Tonight" and "Dusty Road". "No Shoes"/"Solid Sender" is released as a single (Vee-Jay 349, May), as is "Dusty Road" (Vee-Jay 366, September, c/w "Tupelo" from a later session). Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Sylvester Hickman (bass) ; Jimmy Turner (drums). Location : Universal Studio, Chicago.
March 3, 1960 : JIMMY JONES records four tracks in New York City, all of which will be released as B-sides, except for "That's When I Cried". "My Precious Angel" is used as the reverse of "Good Timin'" (Cub 9067, see March 8). "That's When I Cried" is released in June on Cub 9072 (a # 83 hit) and "Itchin' For Love" on Cub 9076 in September. "For You" is a November release (Cub 9082). Orchestra (14 musicians) arranged and conducted by Bob Mersey. Produced by Otis Blackwell.
Monday, March 7, 1960 : At United Recording Corporation
in Hollywood, JOHNNY BURNETTE records "Don't Do It" and "Patrick
Henry", which will be rush-released nine days later as his second Liberty
single (55243). Personnel : Bobby Gibbons, Vito Mumolo, Allan Reuss (guitars) ;
Red Callender (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Frank Capp (drums).
Produced by Snuff Garrett.
March 7, 1960 : BILL HALEY and his Comets cut their next single, "Chick Safari"/"Hawk" (Warner Bros 5154), released on April 18. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Jack Lesberg (bass) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Ralph Jones (drums) ; Unknown (backing chorus). Produced by George Avakian at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
March 7, 1960 : CHARLIE RICH is at 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis, the new Sun studio. "Schooldays" becomes his next single, issued in May (c/w "Gonna Be Waitin'" from a session at an unknown date) on Phillips International 3560. Later in the year, "That's How Much I Love You" and "Come Back" get a place on the LP "Lonely Weekends" (Phillips International PLP 1970, August 23). "Unchained Melody" is first released on Sun LP 110 in 1969 and "I've Lost My Heart To You" on Charlie's LP "A Time For Tears" (Sun LP 123) in 1971. Finally, "Jeannie With the Light Brown Hair" stays in the can until the release of the LP "Sun's Golden Treasures" (Sun LP 134) in 1974. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus, overdubbed). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 7, 9-11, 1960 : Four days of session work for JOHNNY HORTON. "Ole Slew Foot"/"Miss Marcy" (Columbia 42063, July 1961), recorded on the 7th, will not be issued during Johnny's lifetime, nor will "Sleepy-Eyed John"/"They'll Never Take Her Love From Me" (Columbia 41963, March 1961, # 54 pop, # 9 country), recorded on March 7 and March 9 respectively. Also laid down on the 9th are "The Mansion You Stole" (the later B-side of "North To Alaska", Columbia 41782, August) and "The Sinking Of the Reuben James", a track for the album "Johnny Horton Makes History" (Columbia CL 1478, July). Further tracks for this latter LP are recorded on March 10 and 11 : "Jim Bridger", "The Battle Of Bull Run", "Snow-Shoe Thompson", "John Paul Jones", "Young Abe Lincoln", "O'Leary's Cow", "Johnny Freedom" and "Comanche (The Brave Horse)". These last two are coupled for release on a single (Columbia 41685, May 30, # 69 pop). Personnel : Johnny Horton (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar / banjo / arranger) ; Hank Garland, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (harmonica). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 8, 1960 : First Warner Bros session for THE EVERLY BROTHERS, at the RCA Studio in Nashville. The three tracks recorded on this day - "What Kind Of Girl Are You", "Sleepless Nights" and "Nashville Blues" - will appear on the LP "It's Everly Time" (Warner Bros WS 1381, May). Personnel : Don Everly, Phil Everly (vocals / guitars / producers) ; (Probably) Hank Garland, Chet Atkins, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). See also March 17-18, 22 and 24.
March 8, 1960 : Second JIMMY JONES session within a week. "Good Timin'" is the A-side of his next single (Cub 9067, April 1st). A # 3 hit in the USA and # 1 in the UK. "A Wondrous Place" is a track for Jimmy's first LP, called "Good Timin'" (MGM E 3847, May). "Runnin' Home" from this session has never been released. Arranged by Bob Mersey. Produced by Otis Blackwell in New York City.
March 9, 1960 : First post-Sun session by WARREN SMITH. "I Don't Believe I'll Fall In Love Today"/"Cave In" is selected for single release on March 22 (Liberty 55248*). The Wayne Walker composition "After the Boy Gets the Girl" will see a release on the LP "The First Country Collection Of Warren Smith" (Liberty LRP 3199, July 1961). Personnel : Johnny Western (guitar / arranger) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Don Duffy (bass) ; Bobby Bruce, Harold Hensley (fiddles) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Muddy Berry (drums). Produced by Joe Allison at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. * Also released in the London HL 7000 export series as London HL 7101.
March 10, 1960 : First SMILEY LEWIS session since June 1958, resulting in two singles : "Oh! Red"/"I Want To Be With Her" (Imperial 5662, April) and "Ain't Goin' There No More"/"Last Night" (Imperial 5676, June). Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Clarence Hall, Warren Payne (tenor saxes) ; Meyer Kennedy (alto sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums). Location : Cosimo Recording Studios, New Orleans.
March 11, 1960 : DUANE EDDY is at United Recorders in Hollywood, with a 15-piece string section, arranged by Bob Thompson. The theme from the movie "Because They're Young" will be issued on Jamie 1156 in May (c/w "Rebel Walk" from a session on November 21, 1959). It will become Duane's biggest hit, peaking at # 4. "Theme For Moon Children" becomes the flip- side of "Kommotion" (also from a November 1959 session) in August (Jamie 1163). A third track, "Back Porch" (Parts 1 & 2 - without strings) stays on the shelf until the release of the Duane Eddy box-set "Twangin' From Phoenix To L.A." (Bear Family BCD 15778) in 1994. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / leader) ; Joe Gibbons, Al Hendrickson (rhythm guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; poss. Shelley Manne (drums). Plus strings. Produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill.
March 11, 1960 : In New York City, THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES record their next two 45s, "Ball and Chain"/"I Found A Boy" (Atco 6164, April) and "Devil Or Angel"/"Do You Ever Think Of Me" (Atco 6171, July). At this time the Hollywood Flames are : Earl Nelson, David Ford, Curtis Williams and Eddie Williams. The session also features an unidentified female voice.
March 11, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, MARVIN RAINWATER cuts his new single, "Hard Luck Blues"/"She's Gone", "with seven musicians" (Bear Family discography). Release in April on MGM 12891. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
March 12, 1960 : First post-Imperial session for BOBBY MITCHELL. "Well I Done Got Over It"/"Just Say You Love Me" is released in April on Sho-Biz 1005. Location is probably Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Mac Rebennack, Justin Adams (guitars) ; others unknown.
March 14, 1960 : JOHN BARRY and his orchestra record the single "Beat For Beatniks"/"Big Fella" (Columbia DB 4446). It will be released exactly one month later, on April 14. Peak position on the UK charts : # 40. Produced by Norman Newell at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
March 14, 1960 : CARL MANN records more songs for his LP
"Like Mann!" (Phillips International PLP 1960, June) : "Island
Of Love", "If I Ever Needed
You", "Walkin' And Thinkin'" and "I'm Coming Home"
(also issued as a single, Phillips International 3555, May 10, c/w "South
Of the Border" from a session on October 12, 1959). "It Really
Doesn't Matter Now" remains unreleased until the appearance of the Bear
Family 4-CD set "Mona Lisa"
(BCD 15713) in 1993. Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ;
Robert Oatsvall (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced
by Sam Phillips and Charles Underwood at the new Sun Studio in Memphis.
March 14-15, 1960 : JOHNNY PRESTON cuts the follow-up to his big hit "Running Bear" : "Cradle of Love"/"City of Tears" (Mercury 71598, rush- released). A # 7 hit in the USA, # 2 in the UK. Two other tracks, "Chief Heartbreak" and "Madre de Dios" end up on Johnny first LP, "Running Bear" (Mercury MG 20592, May). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer or Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus an unidentified string section. Produced by Bill Hall at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Tuesday, March 15, 1960 : Third and final Judd session by RAY SMITH. "Blonde Hair, Blue Eyes"/"You Don't Want Me" is released as a 45 (Judd 1021, October). "Rebound", "Baby Just Because", "Little Miss Blue", "Speak Low" and "I'll Be Coming Home" all get a place on the album "Travelin' With Ray" (Judd LP 701, November). Personnel : Chet Atkins, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jud Phillips at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 15, 17, 1960 : Two four-tracks sessions by NAPPY BROWN in New York City. "Baby Cry, Cry Baby" (recorded on the 15th) is coupled with "What's Come Over You" (recorded on the 17th) for release on Savoy 1587 in May. The subsequent single, "Baby I Got News For You"/"Apple Of My Eye" (Savoy 1588, July) is also recorded on the 15th, along with "Your Eyes And Your Mouth" (unissued). Three tracks from the March 17 session have also been shelved : "How Times Have Changed", "How I Need Your Love" and "Your Love". Personnel : Mickey Baker, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; King Curtis, Al Sears (tenor saxes) ; Earl Warren (alto sax) ; Robert Banks (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Arranged by Sammy Lowe.
March 15-17, 1960 : Three days of sessions for CLIFF RICHARD at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. "Nine Times Out Of Ten"/"Thinking Of Our Love" is released as a single in September (Columbia DB 4506, # 3). All the other tracks will appear on the LP "Me And My Shadows" (Columbia SX 1261, October) : "I Don't Know", "Evergreen Tree", "Left Out Again", "You're Just the One To Do It", "She's Gone", "Gee Whiz It's You" (also released as a single, Columbia DC 756, March 1961, # 4) and "I Love You So". Produced by Norrie Paramor. See also March 25.
March 16, 1960 : DON HINTON records his only single for
Sun / Phillips International. "Honey Bee"/"Jo Ann" is
released on May 10 (Phillips Inter- national 3556). Personnel : Roland Janes, Sid Manker
(guitars) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums)
; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ernie Barton and / or
Charles Underwood at the new Sun studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
March 16, 1960 : JEB STUART records the single “Sunny Side Of the Street”/ “Take A Chance” (Phillips International 3557, June) at the Sun Studio in Memphis. Personnel : Roland Janes (guitar) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Produced by Charles Underwood and/or Ernie Barton.
March 17, 1960 : Final Jamie session by SANFORD CLARK. "Go On Home"/ "Pledging My Love" is released in the last week of March (Jamie 1153). "The Girl On Death Row" is first issued on Clark's CD "Shades" (Bear Family BCD 15731) in 1993. Backing probably by Al Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars), Ike Clanton (bass) and Jimmy Troxel (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
March 17, 1960 : JEANNE BLACK records an answer record to Jim Reeves’s big hit “He’ll Have To Go”, called “He’ll Have To Stay” (Capitol 4368, release date March 28). A # 4 pop hit (# 6 country). The other side, ”Under Your Spell Again”, is a duet with her sister Janie Black (credited to Jeanne and Janie). A third track from this session, “Beautiful Lies”, will be used as an LP track. Orchestra conducted by Billy Liebert. The location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 17-18, 1960 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS continue their
sessions at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. The LP tracks "Carol
Jane" and "You Thrill Me"
are recorded on the 17th. The next day they record their new single, "Cathy's
Clown"/"Always It's You" (Warner Bros 5151, April, a number one
hit), a new version of "Oh, True Love" (previously recorded for Cadence, but unreleased until the 21st
century) and Fats Domino's "I Want You To Know". All tracks, except
"Cathy's Clown" and its flip, are released on the LP "It's
Everly Time" (Warner Bros WS 1381) in May. Personnel is probably the same
as on March 8.
March 17-18, 1960 : CARL SMITH cuts eleven tracks for the LP "The Carl Smith Touch" (Columbia CL 1532, November) : "I'm Not in Her Plans Anymore", "I Could Never Hurt You Like This", "Cut Across Shorty", "Empty Hours", "I'd Go Through It All Again", "The Little White House", "Here We Are Again", "Why Did You Come My Way", "I Won't Turn the Other Cheek Again", "Heart Of A Fool" and "What A Way To Live". The twelfth track is "Past", recorded on December 20, 1959. "Cut Across Shorty"/"Why Did You Come My Way" is released as a single in May (Columbia 41642, a # 28 country hit). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 20-21, 1960 : Fresh out of the US Army, ELVIS PRESLEY is rushed into RCA Studio B in Nashville to record "Make Me Know It" and "Soldier Boy", both for the LP "Elvis Is Back" (RCA LPM 2231, April 8). In most countries outside the USA, "Make Me Know It" will be released as the B-side of "It's Now Or Never".
On March 21, Elvis cuts his new single - with advance orders of over 1,000,000 - "Stuck On You"/"Fame and Fortune" (RCA 47-7740, rush-released on March 23). The A-side peaks at # 1, the B-side at # 17. Also recorded on this day are "A Mess of Blues" (the US B-side of "It's Now Or Never", RCA 47-7777, July 5) and "It Feels So Right" (for "Elvis Is Back"). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland ( guitar / bass) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes and Chet Atkins.
March 21, 1960 : Three-track session for drummer SANDY NELSON in Los Angeles. "Bouncy" is released as a single in August (Imperial 5672, c/w "Lost Dreams" from a session on January 29, 1960). "Cool Operator" (LP version) will be included on the album "He's A Drummer Boy!" (Imperial LP 9136, January 1961). On an alternate version of Imperial 5672, “Lost Dreams” was coupled with “Teen Tom Tom” (also from this March session).
March 21, 24, 1960 : In Cincinnati, THE FIVE KEYS record twelve tracks for the LP "Rhythm and Blues Hits - Past and Present" (King LP 692, July). Nine tracks will also be released as singles : "I Didn't Know"/"No Says My Heart" (King 5358, June), "Valley Of Love"/"Bimbo" (King 5398, Sept.), "That's What You're Doing To Me" (King 5446, January 1961), "Stop Your Crying"/"Do Something For Me" (King 5496, May 1961) and "I Can't Escape From You"/"I'll Never Stop Loving You" (King 5877, June 1964). The other three tracks are : "Girl You Better Stop It", "Wrapped Up In a Dream" and "Will You".
March 22, 1960 : THE OMEGAS do their second and last session for Decca, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Study Hall" is issued in May on Decca 31094 (c/w "So How Come" from a session on September 12, 1959). "Falling In Love"/"No One Will Ever Know" follows in September (Decca 31138). The Omegas are : Earl Sinks, Norro Wilson and Bill Fernez. Boots Randolph plays the sax, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley.
March 22, 1960 : THE VENTURES
record their first hit, “Walk Don’t Run”/ “Home” at the Joe Boles Studio in
Seattle, Washington. It is first released on Blue Horizon 101 (only 300 copies
pressed), then on Dolton 25 in June. A # 2 hit. Personnel : Bob Bogle,
Don Wilson (guitars) ; Nokie Edwards (bass) ; Skip Moore (drums).
March 22 and 24, 1960 : Yet another EVERLY BROTHERS session for WB this month. "Some Sweet Day" and "Just In Case" are laid down on the 22nd, followed by "That's What You Do To Me", "Memories Are Made Of This" and "So Sad" (also released as a single, Warner Bros 5163, in August, a # 7 hit) on March 24. All tracks will appear on the album "It's Everly Time" (Warner Bros WS 1381) in May. Personnel and studio are the same as on March 8.
March 23-24, 1960 : TOMMY COLLINS records six tracks in two days during his last session for Capitol. "Keep Dreaming"/"Summer's Almost Gone", both tracks recorded on the 24th, is an August release (Capitol 4421). "Black Cat" is released in December (Capitol 4495, c/w "My Last Chance With You" from a session on July 10, 1959), after being overdubbed with a vocal chorus on July 11. Three other tracks, "Juicy Fruit", "We Kissed Again With Tears" and "Don't Let Me Stand In His Footsteps" stay in the can until the release of the 5-CD set "Leonard" in 1992 (Bear Family BCD 15177). Personnel : Roy Nichols, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Lewis Talley (steel guitar / arranger) ; Fuzzy Owen (bass) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 24, 1960 : BILLY (the Kid) EMERSON does a session for Vee-Jay. When that label fails to release the four tracks, Emerson obtains the tapes and sells them to various labels. A new version of "When It Rains It Pours" is coupled with "I Never Get Enough" for release on Mad 1301 in 1962. "I Took It So Hard" will come out in 1964 on USA 777, also coupled with "When It Rains It Pours". "It Do Me So Good" is eventually released in 1967, on Tarpon 6606 (again c/w "When It Rains It Pours"). The vocals on both sides are re-recorded. Tarpon is Emerson's own label. Personnel : Billy Emerson (vocals / piano) ; John Neely, Little Bobby Neely (tenor saxes) ; McKinley Easton (baritone sax) ; "Chico" (electric guitar) ; Wilburn Green (bass) ; Jimmy Cottrell (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Riley Hampton at Universal Recording in Chicago.
March 25, 1960 : Three-track session for CARL PERKINS at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "L-O-V-E-V-I-L-L-E"/"Too Much For A Man To Understand" is his new single (Columbia 41651, April). "Just For You" will become the B-side of "Honey 'Cause I Love You" (recorded on November 6, 1958) in October (Columbia 41825). Personnel unknown, probably members of the Nashville A-Team. Produced by Don Law.
March 25, 1960 : MARTY ROBBINS also has a date at Bradley Studio on this day. His next single is "Is There Any Chance"/"I Told My Heart" (Columbia 41686, May 16). A # 31 pop hit. Also laid down is "Ride, Cowboy, Ride", which is coupled with "Five Brothers" (recorded on March 2) for release on Columbia 41771 on August 15. "Five Brothers" peaks at # 26 country and # 74 pop. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 25, 30, 1960 : CLIFF RICHARD continues to record material for his "Me And My Shadows" LP (see March 15-17). "Tell Me" is laid down on the 25th, along with the single "Please Don't Tease" (Columbia DB 4479, June, a # 1 hit in the UK). The following songs are recorded on March 30 : "I'm Gonna Get You", "I Cannot Find A True Love" (also released as the B-side of "Gee Whiz It's You" in March 1961), "Lamp Of Love" and "Where Is My Heart" (the B-side of "Please Don't Tease", not on the LP). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
Saturday, March 26, 1960 : At Nashville's RCA studio, ROY ORBISON records his breakthrough single, "Only the Lonely"/"Here Comes That Song Again", released in the first week of May on Monument 421. Peak positions : # 2 in the USA and # 1 in the UK. Also laid down is "Blue Avenue", which will be included on Roy's first LP, "Lonely And Blue" (Monument M 4002, December). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Joe Melson and the Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a 6-piece violin section. Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Bob Moore and Fred Foster.
March 27-28, 1960 : BRENDA LEE is back at Bradley Studio in Nashville. First recorded is the Jerry Reed composition "That's All You Gotta Do" (Decca 31093, May 30, # 6), followed by a first attempt at "I Want To Be Wanted" (unreleased until the Bear Family box-set of 1995). "Just A Little" ends up on the B-side of the second (# 1 hit) version of "I Want To Be Wanted" (Decca 31149, September 19). "Build A Big Fence" is saved for EP release (Decca ED 2702) until 1961. On the 28th, Brenda cuts six songs. Five of them will appear on her second LP, simply titled "Brenda Lee" (Decca DL 4039, August 1) : "Be My Love Again", "Wee Wee Willie", new versions of "Jambalaya" and "Dynamite" (previously recorded by Brenda in 1956-57) and the future number one hit "I'm Sorry". Decca had its reservations about "I'm Sorry" : too mature for a 15-year old. That's why it was initially released as the B-side of "That's All You Gotta Do". The sixth track, "Love And Learn" will appear on Brenda's third LP, "This Is Brenda" (Decca DL 4082, October 10). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (strings). Produced by Owen Bradley.
March 29, 1960 : JIMMY REED records three tracks for the LP "Found Love" (Vee-Jay LP 1022, August) : "Come Love", "Big Boss Man" and "Meet Me (In Your Hometown)". "Big Boss Man" is released as a single in March 1961 (Vee-Jay 380, c/w "I'm In Love With You" from a later session) and reaches # 13 on the R&B charts and # 78 on the pop charts. Personnel : Jimmy Reed (vocals / harmonica) ; Lefty Bates, Lee Baker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums). Produced by Al Smith at an unknown Chicago studio.
March 29-30, 1960 : RAY CHARLES waxes his first LP for ABC-Paramount, "The Genius Hits the Road" (ABC-Paramount LP 335, October). Tracks : "Alabamy Bound", "Georgia On My Mind", "Basin Street Blues", "Mississippi Mud", "Moonlight in Vermont", "New York's My Home", "California Here I Come", "Moon Over Miami", "Deep in the Heart of Texas", "Carry Me Back To Old Virginny", "Blue Hawaii" and "Chattanooga Choo Choo". "Georgia On My Mind"/"Carry Me Back To Old Virginny" is released as a single in August (ABC-Paramount 10135) and will hit the # 1 spot on the pop charts (# 3 R&B). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Marcus Belgrave, John Hunt (trumpets) ; Dave Newman (tenor sax) ; Bennie Crawford (baritone and alto sax) ; Leroy Cooper (baritone sax) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Milton Turner (drums). Plus 15 strings. Arranged and conducted by Ralph Burns, produced by Sid Feller at the Capitol Studio in New York City.
March 30, 1960 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS records two tracks for their new single, "Red Eye" and "The Little Matador", for release on Challenge 59076 on April 18. Personnel : Dave Burgess (guitar / arranger) ; Johnny Meeks (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star studio in Hollywood.
March 31, 1960 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters record one of their biggest hits (# 7 pop, # 2 R&B) : "Finger Poppin' Time" (King 5341, April, c/w "I Love You, I Love You So-o-o" from a session on December 2, 1959). Also laid down are three tracks for the LP "Spotlight on Hank Ballard" (King LP 740, February 1961) : "I Must Be Crazy", "I'm Thinking Of You" (also a single, King 5430, November 1960) and "These Young Girls" (also King 5884, February 1964). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (bass) ; Hank Moore, Otis Finch (tenor saxes) ; Mark Patterson (trumpet) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan at the King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio.
March 31, 1960 : GORDON TERRY does a session at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood. His new single is "Trouble On the Turnpike"/"Almost Alone" (RCA 47-7741, April). "You Remembered Me" is issued in September 1961 (RCA 47-7944, c/w "How My Baby Can Love" from a later session). "Fortune Of Love" is first released on the Bear Family CD "Lotta Lotta Women" (BCD 15881) in 1995. Personnel : Roy Lanham, Alan Norris (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Ronald Duffy (bass) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Muddy Berry (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Neely Plumb.
(Probably) March 1960, unknown date : ROY HALL's last recording session yields the single "One Monkey Can't Stop the Show"/"Flood Of Love" (Pierce 1918, May). Label credit goes to : Roy "The Hound". Hall is the vocalist / pianist, more details unknown. The short-lived Pierce label was jointly owned by Webb Pierce and Roy Hall. Location is probably Bradley Studio in Nashville.
(Probably) March 1960, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS records his next single, "Every Little Girl"/"Poor Little Rhode Island" (Checker 944, rush-released). The third from this session, "Convicted", stays in the can until the release of the "Rock 'n' Roll Tornado" CD (Ace 693, 1998). Personnel : Roy Buchanan, Kenny Paulsen (guitar) ; Georgie Young (horn section leader). More details unknown. Produced by Dale Hawkins at WCAU radio station in Philadelphia.
With thanks - as always - to Michel Ruppli, Bear Family, Frank Frantik (Praguefrank), Bill Daniels and Steve Walker. (And the Billboard archives for the release dates.)
Dik
APRIL 1960
April 1, 1960 : CLIFF RICHARD records three LP tracks at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. "You And I" and "Working After School" will be released on the LP "Me And My Shadows" (Columbia SX 1261) in October. "I Live For You" ends up on the album "Listen To Cliff" (Columbia SX 1320) in May 1961. Backing by the Shadows (Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, Jet Harris and Tony Meehan) and / or the Norrie Paramor orchestra. Produced by Norrie Paramor.
April 3, 1960 : Twelve HANK WILLIAMS demos from 1947-51 are over- dubbed this month and released on the LP "Wait For the Light To Shine" (MGM E 3850) in June. The first overdub session is held on April 3 (tracks : "Thy Burdens Are Greater Than Mine", "Ready To Go Home", "Jesus Is Calling", "Ready To Go Home", "Last Night I Dreamed Of Heaven" and "Are You Building A Temple In Heaven") and the second on April 20 ("Are You Walkin' and Talkin' With the Lord", "When the Book of Life Is Read","The Prodigal Son", "The Devil's Train", "The Battle Of Armageddon" and "Wait For the Light To Shine"). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 3-4, 1960 : Two full
days and nights of sessions for ELVIS
PRESLEY at RCA Studio B in Nashville. On April 3 he records
"Fever" and "Like A
Baby", both for the album "Elvis Is Back" (RCA LPM 2231, rush-
released on April 8) and the future # 1 hit "It's Now Or Never"
(RCA 47-7777, overdubbed on April 5 and
released on July 5). The next day these
are followed by "The Girl Of My Best Friend", "Dirty Dirty
Feeling", "Thrill Of Your
Love", "Such A Night", "The Girl Next Door Went-A
Walking", "I Will Be Home
Again" and "Reconsider Baby", all for "Elvis Is Back",
as well as the later single "Are
You Lonesome Tonight"/"I Gotta Know" (RCA 47-7810, November 1, another number one).
Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Hank Garland, Scotty Moore
(guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ;
D.J. Fontana, Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus) ; Charlie Hodge (second vocal on "I Will
Be Home Again"). Produced by Steve Sholes and Chet Atkins. See also April
27-28.
April 4-5, 1960 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, RICKY NELSON cuts three tracks for his LP "More Songs By Ricky" (Imperial LP 9122, July) : "When Your Lover Has Gone", "Baby Won't You Please Come Home" and "Time After Time". The latter will also be released as a single in August 1963 (Imperial 5985, c/w "There's Not A Minute" from a later session). Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / baritone sax on "When Your Lover ..") ; Allen Reuss (guitar) ; Leroy Vinegar (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; John Rotella, Teddy Edwards (saxes) ; Manuel Stevens (trumpet) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, overdubbed on April 21). Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ozzie Nelson and Jimmie Haskell. See also April 12-15.
April 5, 1960 : BILL
REEDER records a single for the Fernwood label in Memphis : "You're My
Baby"/"Where Were You Last Night" (Fernwood 121, late April).
The latter title will be re-recorded by Reeder in 1963 for the Voll Para label
from Paragould, Arkansas. Personnel : Scotty Moore (guitar / producer) ; Chuck
Honsa (bass) ; Gordon Reinhardt (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums).
April 5, 1960 : Third and final Capitol session by THE ROYAL TEENS. "With You"/"It's the Talk Of the Town" will be released on Capitol 4402 in July. Two other tracks, "So Alone" and "I've Cried Before", are first released on the CD "The Three Friends Meet the Royal Teens" (Three / Teen Records 101, UK, release year unknown, possibly a bootleg). Location is New York City.
Wednesday, April 6, 1960 : Final Roulette session for BUDDY KNOX, at Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. The result is the single "Storm Clouds"/"Long Lonely Nights" (Roulette 4262, June). Personnel : Buddy Knox (vocals / guitar) ; Norman Petty (organ / producer) ; probably The Fireballs : George Tomsco (lead guitar) ; Stan Lark (bass) ; Eric Budd (drums).
April 7, 1960 : Five-track session for CONNIE FRANCIS at Olmstead Studio in New York City. "Robot Man" is first issued in the UK on the B-side of her big hit "Mama" (MGM 1076, May). "Everybody's Somebody's Fool"/"Jealous Of You" is her new US single (MGM 12899, May) and her first American # 1. "The Millionaire" and a new version of "No Other One" remain unissued. Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Arnold Maxin.
April 8, 1960 : JIMMY JONES records three tracks for his first album, "Good Timin'" (MGM SE 3847, May) : "Where in the World", "I Just Go For You" and "Never Had It So Good". "I Just Go For You" is released as a single in July (Cub 9072, B-side of "That's When I Cried" from a session on March 3). Arranged and conducted by Bob Mersey in New York City.
April 12, 1960 : Faced
with the serious possibility of a jail sentence for CHUCK BERRY, Leonard Chess
holds a marathon session for his major artist, at the Chess Studio in Chicago.
The instrumental "Mad Lad" will appear as the B-side of "I Got
To Find My Baby" (from a session on 12 February, 1960) in July (Chess
1763). Both "Little Star" (Chess 1779, February 1961) and
"Diploma For Two" (Chess 1853, April 1963) will be released as the
B-side of "I'm Talking About You" (from a later date). All other
tracks from this session end up on various LP's (some with overdubbed audience noise on "Chuck
Berry On Stage", Chess LP 1480) :
"The Way It Was Before", "Away From You","Down
the Road Apiece", "Stop And Listen", "Confessin' the
Blues", "Sweet Sixteen", "Thirteen Question Method" (new version), "Still Got
the Blues", "Lucky So And So', "Crying Steel" and "Surfing Steel"
(same track as "Crying Steel", with overdubs). Personnel : Chuck
Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Matt Murphy (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Unknown (sax on some tracks) ; Ebby Hardy (drums).
April 12-15, 1960 : Two nightly sessions by RICKY NELSON. On April 12-13 he records a future single, "I'm Not Afraid"/"Yes Sir That's My Baby" (Imperial 5685, August 15, peak positions # 27 and # 34 resp.), along with "You Are My Sunshine", which stays in the vaults until the release of the "Legacy" 4-CD box-set in 2000 (Capitol CDP 29521). During the evening / night of April 14-15 Ricky records three more songs - all written by Baker Knight - for his "More Songs By Ricky" LP (see April 4-5) : "Ain't Nothin' But Love", "Proving My Love" and "I'm All Through With You". These three tracks are overdubbed with a chorus on April 25 : "I'm All Through With You" by the Blossoms and the other two songs by the Jordanaires. Personnel : Billy Strange (guitar) ; Allen Reuss (guitar on April 12-13) ; Leroy Vinegar (bass on April 12-13) ; Keith Mitchell (bass on April 14-15) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Plas Johnson, John Rotella (saxes) ; Bob Knight (trombone on April 14-15) ; Richie Frost (drums). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders, Hollywood.
April 12 and 19, 1960 : WEBB PIERCE records material for his album "Walking the Streets" (Decca DL 4079, October) : "You Make Love To Everyone", "Drinkin' My Blues Away", "With You It's the Money" and "Broken Engagement" (all on April 12), followed by "Let Me Be the First To Know" and "All I Need Is You" on April 19. The latter is also released in July as the B-side of "Drifting Texas Sand" (Decca 31118, recorded on October 12, 1959, a # 11 country hit). Unissued from the April 19 session is "Your Sweet, Sweet Lips". Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 13, 1960 : SAM COOKE does a three-track session at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. "I Fall In Love Every Day" will be used as the B-side of "Chain Gang" in July (RCA 47-7783). A first attempt at "Sad Mood" (to which Cooke will return in October) is eventually issued in 2000 on the 4 CD-set "The Man Who Invented Soul" (RCA 07863 67911-2). "Love Me" is released on the B-side of (the later version of) "Sad Mood" in November (RCA 47-7816). Personnel : Hank Jones (piano) ; Hugo Peretti (organ) ; more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Billy Mure. Produced by Hugo & Luigi.
Thursday, April 14, 1960 : Final Decca session of JIMMY DONLEY. "Our Love"/"My Baby's Gone" is released on Decca 31116 in June. Ronnie Self's composition "I've Been There" is first issued in 2010 on Jimmy's CD "The Shape You Left Me In" (Bear Family BCD 16534). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marion Prof Carpenter (alto sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus three violin players. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 14, 1960 : BILLY FURY records his first LP, "The Sound Of Fury" (Decca LF 1329, 10-inch, May). All ten songs are Billy's own compositions : "That's Love", "My Advice", "Phone Call", "You Don't Know", "Turn My Back On You", "Don't Say It's Over", "Since You've Been Gone", "It's You I Need", "Alright, Goodbye" and "Don't Leave Me This Way". "That's Love"/ "You Don't Know" is lifted from the LP for single release in May (Decca F 11237, a # 19 hit in the UK). Personnel : Joe Brown (electric guitar) ; Alan Weighell (electric bass) ; Bill Stark (upright bass) : Reg Guest (piano) ; Andy White (drums) ; The Four Jays (backing vocals). Produced by Jack Good at Decca Studio 3 in West Hampstead, London.
April 14, 1960 : ELMORE JAMES does his second session for Chess in Chicago. (The first was on January 17, 1953.) The single "I Can't Hold Out" (aka "Talk To Me Baby") / "The Sun Is Shining" is released on Chess 1756 in May. Two other tracks, "Stormy Monday Blues" and "Madison Blues" are held in the can until 1969, when they appear on an LP by Elmore James and John Brim called "Whose Muddy Shoes" (Chess LP 1537). Personnel : Elmore James (vocals / guitar) ; Homesick James (guitar) ; J.T. Brown (tenor sax) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Henry 'Sneaky Joe' Harris (drums).
April 14, 1960 : LLOYD PRICE is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City to record his next single, "Question"/"If I Look A Little Blue" (ABC- Paramount 10123, June, a # 19 pop hit). Unissued from this session is "I Love You". Personnel : Wallace Davenport, Mack Johnson, Art Hoyle (trumpets) ; Wade Marcus, Sam Hurt (trombones) ; Charles Reeves (alto sax) ; Harold Vick, Charles McClendon (tenor saxes) ; Marvin Warwick (baritone sax) ; Bill Jones (guitar) ; Charles Lindsay (bass) ; John Patton (piano) ; Ben Dixon (drums) ; The Ray Charles Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged, conducted and produced by Sid Feller.
April 14, 1960 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) cuts four tracks at the Chess Studio in Chicago. They will not see a release until after Sonny Boy's death. "Checkin' Up On My Baby" is first issued in January 1966 on the LP "The Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1503) and the other three recordings - "Open Road" (aka "Bummer Road"), "I Can't Do Without You" and "Santa Claus" - will finally appear in 1969 on the LP "Bummer Road" (Chess LP 1536). Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; Luther Tucker, Robert Lockwood Jr. (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums). Produced by Leonard and Phil Chess.
April 15, 1960 : PAUL ANKA cuts three songs in New York City, all released as singles. "My Hometown" is his next single (ABC-Paramount 10106, May, c/w "Something Happened" from a session on August 27, 1958). It peaks at # 8 in Billboard (the reverse at # 41). "I Love You In the Same Old Way" ends up on the B-side of "Hello Young Lovers" (recorded on April 18) in July (ABC-Paramount 10132, A-side # 23, B-side # 40). "Summer's Gone" is released in September (ABC-Paramount 10147, c/w "I'd Have To Share", recorded on November 4, 1957) and reaches # 11. Arranged, conducted and produced by Sid Feller.
April 16 (?), 1960 : Four-track session for GEORGE JONES at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Family Bible" is the A-side of his next single (Mercury 71636, c/w "Your Old Standby" from a session on September 2, 1959). "The Window Up Above" is released in September (Mercury 71700, c/w "Candy Hearts" recorded on April 14, 1959). A # 2 country hit. "I Wouldn't Know About That" will also be released as a single (Mercury 72362, November 1964, c/w "You Better Treat Your Man Right", cut on February 6, 1960). "With Half A Heart" will get a place on the album "Songs From the Heart" (Mercury MG 20694) in July 1962. Produced by Pappy Daily. See also April 21.
April 18, 1960 : CONWAY TWITTY is back at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The two tracks he records on this day, "Betty Lou" and "Knock Three Times" will remain unissued until the release of the Bear Family box- set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (first on vinyl, BFX 15174, then on CD, BCD 16112, 1997). Personnel : Al Bruno, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jack Nance (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
April 20, 1960 : Former Sun artist DICKEY LEE records a single at the Sun studio in Memphis. It will not be issued on Sun, though, but on the Dot label. “Life In A Teenage World”/“Why Don’t You Write Me” is released in May on Dot 16087. Personnel : Dickey Lee (vocals / guitar) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Vernon Drane (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
April 21, 1960 : GEORGE JONES records the LP "George Jones' Salutes To Hank Williams" (Mercury MG 20596, May). Tracks : "Cold Cold Heart", "Nobody's Lonesome For Me", "Hey Good Lookin'", "Howlin' At the Moon", "There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight", "Half As Much", "Jambalaya", "Why Don't You Love Me", "Honky Tonkin'", "I Can't Help It", "Settin' the Woods on Fire" and "Window Shopping". Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (bass) ; Jimmy Day (steel) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins or Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Pappy Daily at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 21, 1960 : The BOB WILLS band is now contracted to Liberty and records three singles (with lead vocals by Tommy Duncan) at a Hollywood studio : "Heart To Heart Talk"/"What's the Matter With the Mill" (Liberty 55260, May), "The Image Of Me"/"Goodbye Liza Jane" (Liberty 55264, August) and "After All"/"It May Be Too Late" (Liberty 55311, February 1961). Unissued from this session is "Dry Your Darlin' Eyes". The records are credited to Bob Wills with Tommy Duncan and the Texas Playboys. Personnel : Tommy Duncan (vocals) ; Bob Wills (vocal interjections) ; Leon Rausch (guitar) ; Gene Crownover (steel guitar) ; Luke Wills (bass) ; Jack Lloyd (clarinet) ; Joe Holley (fiddle) ; Wade Peeler (drums). Produced by Tommy Allsup.
Friday, April 22, 1960 : BILLY 'CRASH' CRADDOCK visits Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single, "One Last Kiss"/"Is It True Or Is It False?" (Columbia 41677, May). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; 4 violins. Produced by Don Law.
April 22, 1960 : DICK GLASSER’s last Columbia session yields two singles, “Jeannie’s Bikini”/“Leave Me Alone (And Let Me Cry)” (Columbia 41680, May 23) and “Time Can Change”/“Lover’s Dreamland” (Columbia 41762, August 1). Producer unknown. The location is Bradley Studio, Nashville.
April 23, 1960 : Four-track session for MUDDY WATERS in Chicago. The single "I'm Your Doctor"/"Read Way Back" is rush-released (Chess 1752). "Woman Wanted" is also released as a single (Chess 1774, December, flip of "Got My Mojo Working" from a later session). "Deep Down In My Heart" will see its first release on the LP "Rare And Unissued" (Chess CH 9180) in 1984. Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals only) ; Jimmy Rogers (guitar) ; Little Walter (harmonica) ; Andrew Stephenson (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Francis Clay (drums).
April 24, 1960 : RUSTY DRAPER covers both "Mule Skinner Blues" and "Please Help Me I'm Falling", which will be released back to back in the third week of May (Mercury 71634). "Please Help Me .." will peak at # 54. Unissued from this session is "I'll Walk the Earth". Backing by members of the Nashville A-Team. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 26, 1960 : First ABC-Paramount session by JAMIE COE. Two tracks are coupled for single release, "Goodbye My Love"/"There's Never Been A Night" (ABC-Paramount 10120, June), two other tracks - "My Little Baby" and "Smile, Cinderella, Smile" - are consigned to the vaults. Location is New York City, unknown studio.
April 26, 1960 : THE ISLEY BROTHERS do another session at RCA Studio A in New York City. The resulting single, "Open Up Your Heart"/"Gypsy Love Song" (RCA 47-7746) is released in the first week of June. Personnel : Al Chernet, Charles Macey (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Bob Burns (sax) ; Jimmie Crawford (drums). Produced by Hugo and Luigi.
April 27, 1960 : RAY CHARLES does a three-track session in New York City. "Sticks and Stones"/"Worried Life Blues" will be issued in May (ABC-Paramount 10118) and peaks at # 40 pop (# 2 R&B). "I Wonder" is used as the B-side of "Them That Got" (recorded on December 29, 1959, ABC-Paramount 10141, released December 1960). Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Martin Banks, John Hunt (trumpets) ; Hank Crawford (alto sax, baritone sax) ; Dave Newman (tenor sax) ; Leroy Cooper (baritone sax) ; Edgar Wills (bass) ; Milton Turner (drums) ; The Raelettes (vocal group). Produced by Sid Feller.
April 27-28, 1960 : At RCA's Hollywood studio, ELVIS PRESLEY records the soundtrack for the Paramount film "G.I. Blues". "Shoppin' Around", "Didja' Ever", "Doin' the Best I Can", "G.I. Blues", "Tonight Is So Right For Love", "What's She Really Like" and "Frankfort Special" are laid down on the 27th, and "Wooden Heart", "Big Boots", "Whistling Blues" (instr.), "Pocketful of Rainbows" and "Blue Suede Shoes" on the 28th. Release on October 1 (RCA LPM 2256). "Wooden Heart" will be released as a single in many countries, including the UK, where it will reach # 1 (RCA 1226). In the USA it is eventually issued as the B-side of "Blue Christmas" (RCA 447-0720) in November 1964. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Neal Matthews (guitars) ; Tiny Timbrell (mandolin / rhythm guitar) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Jimmie Haskell (accordeon) ; Hoyt Hawkins (tambourine) ; D.J. Fontana, Frank Bode (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Joseph Lilley and Hal Wallis.
April 28, 1960 : CHET ATKINS cuts the instrumental "Rainbow's End", which will be coupled with "Slinkey" (from a session on May 3, 1958), for release on RCA 47-7747 in the last week of May. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Doug Kirkham (percussion) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
April 28, 1960 : At United Corporation in Hollywood, JOHNNY BURNETTE records three tracks. "Cincinnati Fireball" will become the B-side of the previously recorded "Dreamin'" (Liberty 55258, May 4). "Finders Keepers" and "Lovesick Blues" will get a place on Johnny's first LP for Liberty, "Dreamin'" (LRP 3179, July 27). Personnel : Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Rene Hall, Bill Pitman, Bobby Gibbons (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus 2 violas and 6 violins. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
April 28, 1960 : LITTLE JIMMY DICKENS records eleven songs for an LP, to be released in September under the title "Big Songs By Little Jimmy Dickens" (Columbia CL 1545) : "Careless Darlin'", "Fireball Mail", "I Cried Again", "Tomorrow Never Comes", "John Henry", "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You", "Tomorrow's Just Another Day To Cry", "A Petal From A Faded Rose", "Singing Waterfall", "Pins And Needles" and "My Heart's Bouquet". The twelfth track, "We Could", was recorded on March 31, 1960. "Fireball Mail"/"John Henry" is released as a single (Columbia 41916) in December. Personnel : Little Jimmy Dickens (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Shorty Lavender (fiddle) ; Steve Bess (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 28, 1960 : RONNIE HAWKINS is at Bradley Studio in Nashville where he records eight tracks for the LP "The Folk Ballads of Ronnie Hawkins" (Roulette R 25120, September) : "Summertime", "I Gave My Love A Cherry", "John Henry", "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child", "Mister and Mississippi", "A Wayfaring Stranger", "Brave Man" and "Fare Thee Well". "Summertime"/"Mister and Mississippi" is issued as a single (Roulette 4267) in July. Personnel : Robbie Robertson, Fred Carter Jr. (guitars on the first four tracks mentioned above) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars on the other four tracks) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer, Stan Szelest (piano) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
April 28, 1960 : Second CONWAY TWITTY session this month, resulting in the A-sides of his next two singles : the # 35 hit "Is A Bluebird Blue" (MGM 12911, June, c/w "She's Mine" from a session on July 11, 1959) and "What A Dream" (MGM 12918, August, c/w "Tell Me One More Time", recorded on February 20, 1960). Personnel (add : strings), producer and studio are the same as on April 18.
April 29, 1960 : Long session by JOHN LEE HOOKER in New York City. Six tracks will end up on the LP "The Folk Lore Of John Lee Hooker" (Vee-Jay LP 1033, August 1961) : "I Like To See You Walk", "You're Looking Good Tonight", "Wednesday Evening Blues", "Five Long Years", "My First Wife Left Me" and "Take Me As I Am" (also a single, Vee-Jay 397, September 1961, c/w "Want Ad Blues" from a later session). "Sally Mae", "Moanin' Blues" and "You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone" are first released on the LP "Moanin' the Blues" (Charly LP 1029, UK) in 1981 and "Dirty Ground Hog" on the album "The Boogie Man" (Instant LP 5009, UK) in 1989. "She Loves My Best Friend" will eventually appear on the 6-CD box-set "The Vee-Jay Years" (Charly RED 6) in 1992. Three other titles remain unissued.
Saturday, April 30, 1960 : FATS DOMINO records a new single, "Walkin' To New Orleans"/"Don't Come Knockin'", for release on Imperial 5675 in June. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 6 (his last Top 10 hit) and # 21 respectively. Strings are overdubbed by members of the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra at an unknown date. Also recorded is "La La" (not the same song that Fats recorded in 1955 for the B-side of "Ain't That A Shame"), which is saved for the LP "Just Domino" (Imperial LP 9208, September 1962). Produced by Dave Barthomolew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
April 30, 1960 : RUTH BROWN records six songs for Atlantic Records in New York City, but they are all unreleased : "Knock Me A Kiss", "Trust In Me", "Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby", "I Sold My Heart To the Junkman", "Gee Baby, Ain't I Good To You" and "You Gotta Have A Heart". Some sources mention March 30 as the date of this session. Personnel : Danny Moore (trumpet) ; Bart Varsalona, Wayne Andre, Harry DiVito (trombones) ; Vernon Haynes (guitar) ; Averill Pollard (bass) ; Loumel Morgan (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums).
April 1960, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE cuts his new single, "Hey Little One"/"Big Rock Candy Mountain" (Era 3019, May, a # 48 hit). Produced by Joe Saraceno in Los Angeles.
April 1960, unknown date : THE FENDERMEN re-record "Mule Skinner Blues" (originally released on Cuca 1003 in January) for the Soma label, at Kay Bank Studio in Minneapolis, MN. Flip-side is the instrumental "Torture" (Soma 1137, late April). A # 5 hit. The Fendermen are : Phil Humphrey (lead vocal, Fender Telecaster) and Jim Sundquist (lead guitar, Fender Stratocaster). No other instrumentation is on the record. Produced by Amos Heilicher.
April 1960, unknown date :
DAVID MOORE cuts the single "Please Accept My Love"/"Crazy
Dream" (Lynn 501, May), produced by Lelan Rogers, who records an
instrumental single of his own, "Hold It, Parts 1 & 2" (Lynn 502,
June). Location is the ACA studio in Houston, Texas. Personnel : Mickey Gilley
(piano) ; Gerald Highburger (drums) ; more details unknown.
April 1960, unknown date : LARRY WILLIAMS does a four-track session in Los Angeles. "Like A Gentleman Oughta" is released in June on Chess 1761 (c/w "I Wanna Know" from a session in July 1959) and "Oh Baby" in August on Chess 1764 (c/w "I Hear My Baby" from a later session). "I Think I'm In Love" is a track for the mysterious 1961 LP "Larry Williams" (Chess LP 1457), which no one has ever seen. "I'm A Fool" has never been issued.
April 1960, unknown date : MARV JOHNSON records his next single, “Ain’t Gonna Be That Way”/“All the Love I’ve Got” (United Artists 226, May 2). Both sides will enter the Billboard pop charts, peaking at # 74 and # 63 respectively. Vocal group support is supplied by The Rayber Voices. Arranged and produced by Berry Gordy, Jr., at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
Acknowledgements : Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, Bear Family, Bill Daniels.
Dik
MAY 1960
May 2, 1960 : Two-track session by HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters at the King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio. "Broadway" stays on the shelf until January 1962, when it appears as the B-side of "Do You Know How To Twist" (from a later session) on King 5593. A new version of "Young Lady" is eventually released in 2009, on the 5-CD set "Nothing But Good, 1952- 1962" (Bear Family BCD 16795). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Norman Thrasher, Henry Booth (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Mark Patterson, Gene Redd (trumpets) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Charles 'Hungry' Williams (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
May 2, 1960 : RAY PETERSON records his biggest hit (# 7), "Tell Laura I Love Her"/"Wedding Day" (RCA 47-7745, third week of May) and "I'm Tired", which will be used as the B-side of "My Blue Angel" (recorded on July 22, 1959) in February 1961 (RCA 47-7845). Personnel : Al Chernet, Billy Mure, Charles Macey (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Andrew Ackers (piano) ; Bob Burns (sax) ; Bunny Shawker (drums). Plus a 4-piece male vocal chorus. Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
Tuesday, May 3, 1960 : GEORGE HAMILTON IV does another session for the ABC-Paramount label, resulting in the single "Loneliness Is All Around Me"/ "Before This Day Ends" (ABC-Paramount 10125, June). The location is Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; John D. Loudermilk (guitar / producer) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
May 4, 1960 : Six tracks are recorded by THE CRESTS in New York City : "Trouble In Paradise"/"Always You" (Coed 531, late May, a # 20 hit), "If My Heart Could Write A Letter" (Coed 535, August, B-side of the # 81 hit "Journey Of Love), "Isn't It Amazing" (Coed 537, October, # 100), "You Took the Joy Out Of Spring" and "Learning 'Bout Love". The latter two songs stay in the can until they appear on the CD "The Best Of the Rest Of Johnny Maestro and the Crests" (Ace CDCHD 322, UK) in 1991.
May 4, 1960 : HOMER AND JETHRO record parodies of "He'll Have To Go" and "Sink the Bismarck". These are released back to back on RCA 47-7744 in the third week of May. Personnel : Homer Haynes (vocals / guitar) ; Jethro Burns (vocals / mandolin) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 5, 1960 : THE FIVE SATINS do a session for the MGM subsidiary Cub, their only one for the label. "Your Memory"/"I Didn't Know" is released on Cub 9071 in June and "These Foolish Things"/"A Beggar With A Dream" on Cub 9077 in October. Two songs remain unissued : "Lover's Hill" and "I Never Had A Sweetheart". Location is New York City. Orchestra arranged and conducted by Leroy Kirkland or Bob Mersey.
May 5, 1960 : JIM REEVES records the A-sides of his next two singles at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "I Know One" is coupled with "I'm Gettin' Better" (recorded on March 31, 1960) for release on RCA 47-7756 at the end of June. Both sides will chart, "I Know One" reaching # 6 country and # 82 pop, "I'm Getting' Better" # 3 country and # 37 pop. "I Missed Me" will be paired with a new version of "Am I Losing You" (from a later session, on August 8), another double-sided hit (RCA 47-7800, October). "I Missed Me" peaks at # 3 country, # 44 pop, "Am I Losing You" at # 8 country and # 31 pop. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a string section. Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Chet Atkins.
May 6, 1960 : ELVIS PRESLEY continues to work on the soundtrack of the Paramount film "G.I. Blues", this time at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Several new versions are recorded of "Shoppin' Around", "Pocketful Of Rainbows", "Big Boots", "Tonight's All Right For Love" and "Frankfurt Special". The "G.I. Blues" LP will be released on October 1 (RCA LPM 2256). Personnel : Scotty Moore, Neal Matthews (guitars) ; Tiny Timbrell (rhythm guitar / mandolin) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Jimmie Haskell (accordion) ; Hoyt Hawkins (tambourine) ; D.J. Fontana, Bernie Mattinson (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Joseph Lilley and Hal Wallis.
May 6, 1960 : Final Capitol session by DEAN REED. The 45 "Hummingbird" /"Pistolero" is released in September (Capitol 4438). Also recorded is "I'll Be There" which is first issued on the CD "The Very Strange Story Of Dean Reed : The Red Elvis" (Bear Family BCD 16829) in November 2006. Personnel : Bobby Gibbons, Ray Pohlman (guitars) ; Morty Corb (bass) ; Justin Gordon (sax) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; Larry Bunker (drums) ; Milt Holland (percussion).
May 6, 1960 : BILLY WARD and the (reformed) Dominoes do a one-off session for the ABC-Paramount label in New York City. Two singles are the result : "The World Is Waiting For the Sunrise"/"You're Mine" (ABC- Paramount 10128, June) and "The Gypsy"/"You" (ABC 10156, October). The Dominoes are : Monroe Powell (lead vocals), Bruce Cloud, Milton Merle and Cliff Givens. Arranged by Billy Ward, who also plays piano.
May 7, 1960 : The final Epic session of ERSEL HICKEY yields the single "Stardust Brought Me You"/"Another Wasted Day" (Epic 9395, July). It is a split session with Joey Carter, who cuts the single "The Name Game"/ "What Else Is New" (Epic 9393). Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Bucky Pizzarelli, Warren Luckey, Elson Smith (guitars) ; Dolores Dickens (bass) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Joe Marshall, Jr. (drums). Arranged and produced by Chuck Sagle at Columbia Studio A in New York City.
Monday, May 9, 1960 : BOBBY BARE is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood for a three-track session. "Sweet Singin' Sam"/"More Than a Poor Boy Can Give" is his new single (Fraternity 867, June). Also recorded is a new version of "Lynching Party", which will eventually appear on the LP "500 Miles Away From Home" (RCA LPM 2835, December 1963).
May 10, 1960 : JOHNNY CASH does a rare non-Nashville session, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Nine takes of "The Girl In Saskatoon" are laid down, all of which can be found on CD 5 of the Bear Family box-set "The Man In Black, 1959-'62" (BCD 15562). The version of this song that was issued in December 1960 (Columbia 41920) was recorded in November 1960. The rest of this Hollywood session is devoted to one song by Cash and his pal Gordon Terry (an outrageous parody of "The Battle Of New Orleans", issued on the Bear Family Gordon Terry CD - BCD 15881 -, not on the JC box-set) and to recordings by two of Cash's relatives, his nephew Roy Cash Jr. and his then-brother-in-law Ray Liberto. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jr. (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Dick Stubbs (steel guitar) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Fury Kazak (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 10, 1960 : Four-song session by J.B. LENOIR in Chicago. ”Oh Baby”/“Do What I Say” is released on Vee-Jay 352 in July. Two other tracks, “What Can I Do” and “It’s the Thing”, remain unissued. Personnel : J.B. Lenoir (vocals / guitar) ; Joe Montgomery (bass) ; Alex Atkins, Ernest Cotton (tenor saxes) ; Jesse Fowler (drums).
May 11, 1960 : First Hickory session for MELVIN ENDSLEY, at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. He records four of his own compositions : "You Make It Sound So Easy"/"The Search" (Hickory 1123, June) and "For My Baby"/"Here I Am" (Hickory 1131, October). Session musicians include possibly Hank Garland and Harold Bradley on guitars and Jerry Byrd on bass. Produced by Wesley Rose.
May 11, 1960 : First session of the instrumental group THE PILTDOWN MEN, resulting in one single (Capitol 4414, August). "Brontosaurus Stomp" is the A-side in the USA and peaks at # 75. "McDonald's Cave" is the plug side in the UK, where it reaches # 14. Personnel : Scott Gordon, Jackie Kelso (tenor saxes) ; Bob Bain (guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (bass guitar) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger). Drums by an unnamed timpani player from the L.A. Philharmonic. Produced by Ed Cobb at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
May 11, 1960 : GENE VINCENT's first recording session in
the UK, at the EMI Studio, Abbey Road,
London. The two tracks recorded, "Pistol Packin' Mama" and
"Weeping Wilow" are released in the UK on Capitol CL 15136 in June (a
# 15 hit). In the US, "Pistol Packin' Mama" will be coupled with
"Anna Annabelle" (Capitol 4442, September), from a session on October
17, 1958. Personnel on "Pistol
Packin' Mama" : Colin Green (guitar) ; Vince Cooze (bass) ; Georgie Fame (piano) ; Ray McVay
(tenor sax) ; Red Reece (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor, whose orchestra
supplies the accompaniment on "Weeping Willow".
May 12, 1960 : VARETTA DILLARD does her first session for Cub Records, an MGM subsidiary. "Teaser"/"I Know I'm Good For You" is released on Cub 9073 in September. "Wondering Where You Are" and "Good To Me" stay in the vaults until they appear on "The Lovin' Bird : Complete Recordings 1958-61, Vol. 2" (Bear Family BCD 15432) in 1989. Location : Capitol Studios, New York City.
May 12, 1960 : THE FOUR PREPS record their next single, "Madelina"/ "Sentimental Kid" (Capitol 4400, July). They are : Bruce Belland, Marvin Inabnett, Glen Larson and Ed Cobb. The A-side was previously attempted at the "Got A Girl" session of February 23, 1960. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
May 12, 1960 : Three-track session by HANK SNOW at the RCA Victor studio in Nashville. "Miller's Cave" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (RCA 47-7748, June, c/w "Change of the Tide" from a session on January 25) and will reach # 9 on the country charts. "The Man Behind the Gun" is the subsequent single (RCA 47-7803, October, c/w "I'm Asking For A Friend" from a later session). "Southbound" will be included on the LP "Railroad Man" (RCA LPM 2705) in August 1963. Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Ray Edenton, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Farris Coursey (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
Friday, May 13, 1960 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates record the song that gives this list its name. Written in "six minutes or so" (Brian Gregg), the day before the session, "Shakin' All Over" is released on June 10 and hits the top of the UK charts on August 4. The reverse, "Yes Sir, That's My Baby", intended to be the A-side, was also recorded at this session, at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. Personnel : Johnny Kidd (vocals) ; Joe Moretti (lead guitar) ; Alan Caddy (guitar) ; Brian Gregg (bass) ; Clem Cattini (drums).
May 13, 1960 : SKEETER DAVIS
records an answer to Hank Locklin’s big hit “Please Help Me I’m Falling”. “(I
Can’t Help You) I’m Falling Too”/“No Never” is released on RCA 47-7767 in July
and peaks at # 2 on the country charts and # 39 on the pop charts. “Someone I’d
Like To Forget” will be used as the B-side of “My Last Date (With You)”, from a
session on October 10, 1960 (RCA 47-7825, December). A fourth track, “What
Would You Do”, remains in the vaults. Personnel : Hank Garland, Velma Smith
(guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums).
Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 17, 1960 : Drummer COZY COLE cuts four tracks in New York City. "Cozy's Corner"/"Red Ball" is selected for release on King 5363 in June, while "Little Eva" and "Fantasy" are consigned to the vaults.
May 17, 1960 : The vocal group THE TOP NOTES records material for two singles in New York City : "Wonderful Time"/"Walkin' With Love" (Atlantic 2066, June) and "Say Yes"/"Warm Your Heart" (Atlantic 2080, November). Group members include Derek Ray and Guy Howard.
May 18, 1960 : Saxophonist PLAS JOHNSON records four
tracks for the LP "Mood For the Blues" (Capitol T 1503, January 1961)
: "Since I Fell For You",
"Chloe", "Mood For the Blues" and "Tanya" (also
released as a single, Capitol 4436,
September, c/w "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying" from a later
session). Personnel : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Rene Hall, Bill Pitman
(guitars) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Ernie Freeman (organ) ; Red Callender (bass)
; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus a string
section, arranged by Gerald Wilson.
May 19, 1960 : The last DRIFTERS session with Ben E. King as their lead singer. "Save the Last Dance For Me"/"Nobody But Me" is released in August on Atlantic 2071. A number one hit, both pop and R&B. "I Count the Tears" follows in December (Atlantic 2087, c/w "Suddenly There's A Valley" from a session on April 28, 1958) and peaks at # 17 pop, # 6 R&B. "Sometimes I Wonder" is saved until June 1962 for release on Atlantic 2151 (coupled with "Jackpot" from an October 1961 session). Personnel : Ben E. King (lead baritone) ; Charlie Thomas (tenor) ; Dock Green (baritone) ; Elsbeary Hobbs (bass vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Unknown (other instruments). Arranged by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
May 19, 1960 : ROBIN LUKE is at United Recording Corporation Studios in Hollywood to cut his next single, "Well Oh, Well Oh (Don't You Know)"/ "Ever Lovin'" (Dot 16096, July), songs that were originally recorded by Dave Burgess and George Weston respectively. Unissued from this session is "Doll Like You".
May 23, 1960 : DON GIBSON does an evening session at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio where he records his new single, "Far Far Away"/"(I'd Be) A Legend In My Time" (RCA 47-7762, July). It will peak at # 11 on the country charts and # 72 on the pop charts. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Chet Atkins, Jimmie Selph (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
May 24, 1960 : Four-track session for BILL DOGGETT and his combo in Cincinnati. "Buttered Popcorn" is his next single (King 5364, July, c/w "The Slush" from a session on August 19, 1959). "The Doodle Twist" will be issued twice as a single, first on King 5482 in April 1961 (c/w "Bugle Nose", also recorded on August 19, 1959), then again on King 5599 (February 1962), c/w "Gene's Dream", also from this May session. The fourth track, "Two Up", is included on the LP "Back Again With More Bill Doggett" (King LP 723, November). Personnel : Clifford Scott, Ray Felder, Osborne Whitfield (tenor saxes) ; Floyd 'Candy' Johnson (baritone sax) ; Billy Butler (guitar) ; Bill Willis (bass) ; Bill Doggett (organ / arranger) ; Alvin Johnson (drums).
May 24, 1960 : FERLIN HUSKY cuts the second biggest hit of his career, "Wings Of A Dove"/"Next To Jimmy" (Capitol 4406, July). It will top the country charts for ten weeks and reaches # 12 on the pop charts. Husky's alter ego, SIMON CRUM, also records two tracks. "Country Music Fiddler" is an October release (Capitol 4464, c/w "I Feel Better All Over" from a session on November 4, 1954). "Goodbye Cruel World" will see its first release on the CD "Country Music Is Here To Stay : The Complete Simon Crum a.k.a Ferlin Husky On Capitol" (Collector's Choice CCM-295-2) in 2002. Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 24, 1960 : JACK SCOTT also does a four-track session on this day. "It Only Happened Yesterday"/"Cool Water" is selected as the next 45 (Top Rank 2055, June). "True Love Is Blind" is first released on the LP "Jack Scott, Vol. 2 : Greaseball" (Buffalo Bop LP 2050) in 1985. A first attempt at "Fancy Meeting You Again" stays on the shelf until the release of the Bear Family 5-CD box-set "The Classic Scott" (BCD 15534) in 1992. Arranged by Bill Sanford, produced by Sonny Lester at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
May 24, 1960 : WYNN STEWART does another session for the Challenge label. "Playboy"/"Heartaches For A Dime" is released in the first week of July on Challenge 59084. A third track, "Searching For Another You", ends up on the LP "Wynn Stewart" (Wrangler WR 1006) in 1962. Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals / guitar) ; Alan Norris, Lewis Talley (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; George French (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
May 24, 1960 : GENE McDANIELS records the single “Green Door”/“The Facts Of Life” (Liberty 55265, August), along with “Love Me Tender”, which is saved until 1962 for inclusion on the LP “Hit After Hit” (Liberty LRP 3258). Produced by Snuff Garrett in Los Angeles.
Wednesday, May 25, 1960 is the recording date of the
JOHNNY BOND single "Hot Rod
Lincoln"/"Five Minute Love Affair" (Republic 2005, June). Peak
position on the Billboard pop charts : 26. For the UK market, title and lyrics were changed to "Hot Rod
Jalopy" (London HLU 9189). Studio :
Radio Recorders in Hollywood. Produced by Joe Johnson.
May 25, 1960 : TOMMY SANDS cuts his next single, "The Old Oaken Bucket"/ "These Are the Things You Are" (Capitol 4405, July 18). A # 73 hit in the US, # 25 in the UK. Also recorded is "On And On", released on Capitol 4470 in December (c/w "Dr. Heartache" from a later session). "Nancy" has never been issued. Backing by Jimmie Haskell and his orchestra. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
May 26, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, LEFTY FRIZZELL records three songs : "What You Gonna Do, Leroy?"/"That's All I Can Remember" (Columbia 41751, July) and "So What! Let It Rain" (Columbia 42253, December 1961, c/w "I Feel Sorry For Me" from a session on February 7, 1961). Personnel : Lefty Frizzell (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law.
May 26, 1960 : RONNIE SELF's second session for Decca results in the single "I've Been There"/"So High" (Decca 31131, August). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
May 26, 1960 : THE SH-BOOMS (formerly The Chords) record a "Sh-Boom"- styled version of "Blue Moon" (almost a year before the Marcels), coupled with "Short Skirts" (Atlantic 2074, August). The third track from this session, "Make A Wish", has never been released. Personnel : Carl Feaster, Claude Feaster, Jimmy Keys, Floyd McRae, Bill Edwards (vocals) ; George Barnes, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Dick Hyman (piano) ; Joe Venuto (vibes) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; The Harry Lokofsky Strings. Arranged and directed by Reggie Obrecht in New York City.
May 27, 1960 : CHARLIE RICH records at 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis. Four of the seven songs from this session will appear on the album "Lonely Weekends" (Phillips International PLP 1970, August 23) : "C.C. Rider", "Juanita", "Apple Blossom Time" and "Break-Up". "It's Too Late" is used as the B-side of "Just A Little Bit Sweet" (from a later session) in September 1961 (Phillips International 3572). "My Heart Cries For You" gets its first release on the LP "A Time For Tears" (Sun LP 123) in 1971 and "Right Behind You Baby" on the LP "The Early Years" (Sun LP 132) in 1974. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus, probably the Gene Lowery Singers). Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 29, 1960 : Another session by JOHN BARRY and his orchestra at EMI's Abbey Road studio. The result is "Blueberry Hill"/"Never Let Go", their new single, released on June 24 (Columbia DB 4480). Both sides will chart in the UK, "Blueberry Hill" peaking at # 34 and the other side (a film theme) at # 49. Produced by Norman Newell.
May 1960, unknown date : ROD BERNARD records his next two singles, "Dance Fool Dance"/"Two Young Fools In Love" (Mercury 71654, June) and "Strange Kisses"/"Just A Memory" (Mercury 71689, September). Produced by Bill Hall in Nashville.
May 1960, unknown date : JOHNNY AND DORSEY BURNETTE
record "We're Having A Party"
in Los Angeles. It has a very limited release on the Open House label (no number) in June, a
single-sided disc probably only issued
to a few DJ's on the West Coast. First commercial release on the LP "We're Having A Party" (Rockstar
RS-LP 1017) in 1988. Personnel : Johnny Burnette (duet vocals / acoustic
guitar) ; Dorsey Burnette (duet vocals / percussion) ; Unknown (piano) ; Bud
Dain, Bob Harris, Sam Riddle (spoken parts / producers).
May 1960, unknown date : ETTA JAMES records two duets with Harvey Fuqua, "If I Can't Have You" and "My Heart Cries", released on Chess 1760 in July, and credited to Etta and Harvey (a # 6 R&B hit, # 52 pop). At the same session she cuts three solo recordings, "My Dearest Darling" (Argo 5368, August, # 5 R&B, # 34 pop), "I Just Want To Make Love To You", the later B-side of "At Last" (Argo 5380, December) and the LP track "Let Me Know" (album "Etta James", Argo LP 4013, released early 1962). Arranged and conducted by Riley Hampton. Produced by Leonard and Phil Chess at the Chess studio in Chicago.
May 1960, unknown date : THE PLATTERS record three tracks at Mercury Sound Studio in New York City : "Movin' In", "One Love" and "The Miracle". None of them was issued at the time, but all three tracks appear on the Bear Family 9-CD box-set "Four Platters And One Lovely Dish" (BCD 15741), released in 1994.
Acknowledgements : as always, Frank Frantik (Praguefrank), Michel Ruppli, Bear Family, Bill Daniels, Steve Walker. And Joel Whitburn for the chart positions.
Dik
JUNE 1960
June 1, 1960 : ERNIE BARTON does a session at the new Sun studio (639 Madison Avenue, Memphis), but all songs have remained unissued until now. They are : "Have You Ever Been Lonely", "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You", "Herd Of Turtles", "Hey Good Lookin'", "I Walk the Line", "I Was Born For You", "No Good Without You" and "No Letter Today". Personnel : Scotty Moore, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Larry Mohoberac (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). And three violin players. Probably recorded at the same session is a single by Ernie Barton's wife, Bobbie Jean Barton. "You Burned the Bridges"/"Cheaters Never Win" is released on Sun 342 on July 7, credited to Bobbie Jean.
Thursday, June 2, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, BILLY BROWN records his next single, "Lost Weekend"/"Just Out Of Reach" (Republic 2007, August). (The booklet accompanying Billy's Bear Family CD from 2012 gives April 9, 1960, as the recording date, which is also possible.) Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Troy Martin for Joe Johnson.
June 2, 1960 : PEE WEE CRAYTON records seven tracks at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. They stay in the vaults until they are released on side 2 of the LP "Pee Wee Crayton Memorial Album 1948-1960" (Ace LP 177, UK) in 1986. The titles are : "Money Is All We Need", "Mistreated So Bad", "All Or Nothing At All", "Twinky" (instr.), "Blue Night", "Mojo's Blues" and "Need Your Love So Bad". It is unclear for which company these tracks were recorded.
June 2, 1960 : Guitarist JOE MAPHIS records an instrumental single at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Water Baby Boogie"/"Black Sombrero" is released in July on Republic 2006. Personnel : Joe Maphis (guitar / leader) ; Johnny Bond (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Bill Wardle (piano) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
June 5, 1960 : JOHNNY CYMBAL makes his debut as a recording artist with the single "It'll Be Me"/"Always, Always" (MGM 12935, August). In the UK, the plug side is "Always, Always" (MGM 1106). Produced by Jim Vienneau in Nashville.
June 6, 1960 : THE CHAMPS record one of their vocal numbers, "Alley Cat" for release on Challenge 59086 in July (c/w the instrumental "Cocoanut Grove" from a later session). Al Casey makes a guest appearance and some sources mention him as the vocalist, but it is actually Dave Burgess, who has quit the touring group at this point, but still records with the group. Personnel (probably) : Dave Burgess (guitar / vocals) ; Al Casey (guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (tenor sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at an unknown Los Angeles studio.
June 6, 1960 : BRIAN HYLAND records the future number one hit "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini", released in the third week of June. During the first two months of release, the record is pressed on Leader 805, later on Kapp 342. The reverse, "Don't Dilly Dally Sally", was recorded on June 1. Also laid down on June 6 are "Poor Little Fool" and "I Don't Know Why", two tracks for Hyland's first LP, "The Bashful Blond" (Kapp KL 1202, August). Produced by Richard Wolfe in New York City.
June 6, 1960 : TEDDY RANDAZZO cuts four tracks in New
York City, which will be issued on four different singles : "Journey To
Love" (ABC-Par. 10131, July), "Happy Ending" (ABC-Paramount
10193, February 1961), "One More Chance" (ABC-Paramount 10247, August
1961) and "Echoes" (ABC-Par. 10377, November 1962). Produced by Sid
Feller.
June 7, 1960 : In New York City, LaVERN BAKER and BEN E. KING record two duets, "A Help-Each-Other Romance" and "How Often", which are released on Atlantic 2067 in July. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Al Caiola (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Reggie Obrecht (piano / arranger) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Doug Allan (marimba) ; Ted Sommer (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
June 7-8, 1960 : SONNY JAMES does his second session for the NRC label, probably at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Wonderin'"/"Gold in the Morning Sun" is his next single (NRC 056, July), followed by "Bimbo"/"I Wish This Night Would Never End" (NRC 061, November). A fifth track, "I'll Be There", will also be released as a single, but not until 1965 (Hilltop G-22, also coupled with "I Wish Tonight Would Never End"). Produced by Bill Lowery.
June 10, 1960 : FARON YOUNG is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single, "There's Not Any Like You Left"/"Is She All You Thought She'd Be" (Capitol 4410, late July). A # 21 country hit. The A-side was previously attempted on January 24, 1960. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Darrel McCall (rhythm guitar / harmony vocals) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibraphone) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Monday, June 13, 1960 : First Imperial session by HUEY 'PIANO' SMITH and the Clowns. "The Little Moron"/"I Need Someone To Love" is released on Imperial 5721 in February 1961. "I Didn't Do It" is first issued on the LP "The Imperial Sides, 1960-61" (Pathe Marconi 1546731, France) in 1983. "They Kept On Swinging" remains in the vaults. Personnel : Curley Moore, Gerri Hall (vocals) ; Huey Smith (piano / arranger) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; George French (bass) ; prob. James Rivers, Robert Parker (saxes) ; Robert French (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
June 13, 1960 : OTIS WILLIAMS and the Charms cover the Safaris' hit "Image Of A Girl" (King 5372, July). Flip is "Wait A Minute Baby", also from this session in Cincinnati. The Charms are : Otis Williams (lead vocals), Rollie Willis, Winfred Gerald and Matt Williams.
June 13, 1960 : At New York's Columbia Studio, LINK WRAY records "Mary Ann", "Ain't That Lovin' You Baby", "Walkin' With Link" and "New Studio Blues". The first two tracks (both vocal) will be used for a future single (Epic 9419, October), while the other recordings (both instrumental) will be kept in the can until 1992, when they see the light on the CD "Walkin' With Link" (Epic / Legacy EK 47904). In 2002, the US label Sundazed will release alternate versions of all four tracks on the 2-CD "Slinky - The Epic Sessions '58-'61" (SC 11098). Personnel : Link Wray (vocals / guitar) ; Shorty Horton (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; Doug Wray (drums).
June 13 and 15, 1960 : In New York City, THE COASTERS record the album "The Coasters One By One" (Atco 33-123, October). Carl Gardner, the initiator of the project, is allocated four songs : "Moonlight In Vermont", "Moonglow", "Satin Doll" and "Willow Weep For Me". Cornel Gunter leads on three songs : "Easy Living", Autumn Leaves" and "On the Sunny Side Of the Street". Same with Will 'Dub' Jones : "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To", "The Way You Look Tonight" and "But Beautiful". Billy Guy sings only two tracks on the LP, "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" and "Gee Baby Ain't I Good To You". Arranged by Stan Applebaum who also directs the orchestra. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
June 15, 1960 : GUY MITCHELL records with the Monty Kelly orchestra at Columbia Studio A in New York City. "My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You"/ "Silver Moon Upon the Golden Sands" is released on Columbia 41725 in the last week of June. It will become his last chart entry, peaking at # 45. Also laid down is "Sunshine Guitar", which will be coupled with "Ridin' Around in the Rain" (from a session on July 7, 1960) for release on Columbia 41853 at the end of October. Produced by Mitch Miller.
June 15-16, 1960 : BOBBY DARIN records the live LP "Darin At the Copa" at the Copacabana nightclub in New York City. Released in July on Atco 33-122. Will peak at # 9 on Billboard's album charts. Produced by Ahmet and Nesuhi Ertegun. On June 20, Darin records a cover of Edith Piaf's "Milord" (in French), which stays in the can until May 1964 (Atco 6297, c/w "Golden Earrings", recorded on May 25, 1961). A # 45 hit.
June 16, 1960 : In New York City, LITTLE ANTHONY and the Imperials cut their next single, "I'm Taking a Vacation From Love"/"Only Sympathy" for almost immediate release on End 1074. King Curtis is the saxophonist, more details unknown. The Imperials are : Anthony Gourdine, Tracey Lord, Ernest Wright, Clarence Collins and Nathaniel Rogers.
June 16-17, 1960 : Over two days, MARV JOHNSON records eleven tracks, enough to fill four singles, three of which will enter the pop charts. First issued is “(You’ve Got to) Move Two Mountains”/”I Need You” (United Artists 241, July 25). A # 20 hit. “Happy Days”/“Baby, Baby” follows on October 25 (United Artists 273, a # 58 hit). “Merry-Go-Round”/“Tell Me That You Love Me” is released on February 20, 1961 (United Artists 294, peaks at # 61). “Magic Mirror”/“With All That’s In Me” is saved until February 5, 1962 for release on United Artists 423. The remaining three songs, “When You’ve Lost Your Love”, “This Heart Of Mine” and “What A Need”, are included on the album “More Marv Johnson” (United Artists UAL 3118), released on July 28, 1960. Arranged by Berry Gordy and Bill Ramal at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
Friday, June 17, 1960 : THE SHADOWS record their first number one, the instrumental "Apache"/"Quatermasster's Stores" (Columbia DB 4484, July 15), at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London, England. US release in August on ABC-Paramount 10138. The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass guitar) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
June 17, 1960 : During a British tour, CHAMPION JACK DUPREE records an album in London, "Natural And Sinful Blues" (Atlantic LP 8045, early 1961). Tracks : "Seafood Blues", "Death Of Big Bill Broonzy", "Don't Leave Me Mary", "Rampart Street Special", "How Long Blues", "Bad Life", "Mother-In-Law Blues", "Slow Drag", "Dennis Rag", "Bad Luck Bound To Change". Three songs remain unissued : "Shaking Mother", "When Things Go Wrong" and "Jack Higgins Blues". An edited version of "Mother-In-Law Blues" is released as a single (Atlantic 2095) in March 1961 (c/w "Evil Woman", recorded on February 4, 1958). Personnel : Champion Jack Dupree (vocals / piano) ; Alexis Korner (guitar) ; Jack Fallon (bass).
June 17, CLYDE McPHATTER is at Fine Recording Studios in New York City for a session with Jimmy Oliver and his orchestra. "I Just Want To Love You"/"You're For Me" is released on Mercury 71692 in September. The third track from this session, "I Ain't Givin' Up Nothin' (If I Can't Have Something From You)" is coupled with "Ta Ta" (Mercury 71660, July), which is recorded on June 20 (a # 23 hit), along with "I Need A Love Like Yours" and "Who's Worried Now". These two tracks, as well as "Ta Ta", are included on the LP "Ta Ta" (Mercury MG 20597, October). Personnel : Everett Barksdale (guitar) ; Panama Francis (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Clyde Otis.
June 20, 1960 : DALE HAWKINS does a session at A&R Recording Studio in New York City. "Linda"/"Who" is selected for single release in October (Checker 962). "The Wind" stays in the vaults until Bear Family includes it as a bonus track on the "Dale Hawkins Rocks" CD (BCD 16826) in 2007. "Dogface" is unissued and probably lost. Roy Buchanan plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
June 20-23, 1960 : Former Blue Cap DICKIE HARRELL records the LP "Drums And More Drums" (Capitol T 1502, January 1961) at the Capitol Tower in Los Angeles. Three tracks are recorded on June 20 : "Chocolate on the Rocks", "Hong Kong Hop" and "Rub A-Tub-Tub", followed by five tracks on the 21st : "Thumper Stumper", "Drum Safari", "Exotic Bird", "Swingeroo" and "Rocket Racket". The harvest of June 22 is "Goon Bat" and "Rock Rock Cha-Cha". Finally on the 23rd, Harrell cuts "Rock A Little Faster" and "Drivin' Around the Block" (as well as one unissued track with "holiday" in the title). Some tracks are overdubbed on October 4. There is a second drummer, Roy Harte, more personnel details unknown. All tracks are instrumentals. Arranged by Don Ralke, Hank Levine and Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ken Nelson.
June 21, 1960 : Another ABC session by GEORGE HAMILTON IV, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "It's Just the Idea" sees a release as a single in November (ABC-Paramount 10167, c/w "A Walk On the Wild Side" from a session exactly one month later). "The Wrong Side Of the Tracks" will get a place on the LP "His Big Fifteen" (ABC-Paramount ABCS 461) in October 1963. Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (guitar / producer) ; Ray Edenton, Billy Byrd (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (drums) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
June 21, 1960 : Saxophonist PLAS JOHNSON records four more tracks for the album "Mood For the Blues" (Capitol T 1503, January 1961) : "One Mint Julep", "Fool That I Am", "Blues In My Heart" and "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying". The latter is also released as a single in September (Capitol 4436, c/w "Tanya", recorded on May 18). Four further tracks for the LP are laid down on June 27 : "How Long Has This Been Going On?", "I've Got A Right To Cry", "Please Send Me Someone To Love" and "I Wanna Be Loved". Personnel : Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Rene Hall, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Ernie Freeman (organ) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus a string section, arranged by Gerald Wilson. The location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
June 21, 1960 : Four-track session by JOHNNY PRESTON. "Charming Billy"/ "Up in the Air" is released as a single in September (Mercury 71691). No chart action in the US, but it will reach # 34 in the UK. Also recorded are two tracks for Johnny's second LP ("Come Rock With Me", Mercury MG 20609, January 1961) : "Please Believe Me" and "My Imagination". Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Kelso Herston (guitars) : Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus six violins. Arranged by Kelso Herston, produced by Bill Hall at Bradley Studio in Nashville, Tennessee.
June 22, 1960 : THE CADILLACS (now billed as Speedo and the Original Cadillacs) record two tunes in New York City, both originally unissued. "Louise" is first released on the Murray Hill LP box-set (M61285) in 1983, and "Rock 'n' Roll Is Here To Stay" (not the Danny and the Juniors song) on the Bear Family box-set ("The Complete Josie Sessions", BCD 15648) in 1992.
June 22, 1960 : HAWKSHAW HAWKINS records material for two singles, "My Story"/"You Know Me Much Too Well" (Columbia 41811, September) and "The Love I Have For You"/"No Love For Me" (Columbia 42002, April 1961). Personnel : Hawkshaw Hawkins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
June 23, 1960 : BOBBY FREEMAN does his first session for King Records, at their studio in Cincinnati (1540 Brewster Avenue). "(I Do the) Shimmy Shimmy"/"You Don't Understand Me" is released in July (King 5373) and peaks at # 37 (pop) in Billboard. The other two tracks from this session have to wait much longer for a release : "Be My Little Chick-A-Dee" comes out in late 1964 on King 5962 and "There's Gonna Be A Change" on King 5975 in early 1965. Arranged by Bill Massey, more details unknown.
June 24, 1960 : At EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London,
CLIFF RICHARD records three tunes for his forthcoming "Me And My
Shadows" LP (to be released in October, Columbia SX 1261) : "Choppin'
and Changin'", "I'm Willing To Learn" and "We Have It
Made". Produced by Norrie Paramor.
June 24, 1960 : Meanwhile, in another London studio, BILLY FURY cuts "I Got Someone", which is first released on the Various Artists double LP "They Called It Rock and Roll" (Decca DPA 3087/8) in March 1980. It is now available on several Billy Fury CD's.
June 24, 1960 is also the recording date of the BOBBY COMSTOCK single "Bony Maronie" (sic)/"Do That Little Thing" (Jubilee 5392, July). The sax player is probably King Curtis, other details unknown. Location is New York City.
June 25, 1960 : JOHN LEE HOOKER performs at the Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island. Three live recordings from this concert, "The Hobo" (a.k.a. "Hobo Blues"), "Maudie" and "Tupelo" (a.k.a. "Backwater Blues") will be released on the Various artists LP "The Newport Folk Festival, Vol. 1" (Vanguard LP 2087) in May 1961. "Tupelo" is also issued as a single (Vee-Jay 366) in September 1960, c/w "Dusty Road" from a session on March 1, 1960. John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) is accompanied by Bill Lee on string bass.
Sunday, June 26, 1960 : Third and final RCA session by JIMMY EDWARDS. "Silver Slippers"/"What Do You Want From Me?" becomes his last RCA single (RCA 47-7773, August). "Recipe Of Love" stays in the vaults until 2010, when Bear Family includes it on an 18-track CD by Jimmy ("Love Bug Crawl", BCD 16621). Personnel : Jimmy Edwards (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Kelso Herston (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Jack Clement at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 27, 1960 : ALVIN AND BILL record their only single, "Typing Jive"/ "How Long" (Fernwood 124, August), at the Fernwood studio in Memphis. Label credit goes to Alvin & Bill - The Invictors. Dave Travis mentions the following personnel in his liner notes for the "Fernwood Rockabillies" CD on Stompertime : Woodson Dixon (lead guitar) ; Bill Collins (bass) ; Frank Tolly (piano) ; Johnny Bernero (producer / drums). However, Alvin Holland was a guitar virtuoso and Bill Bennett a fine pianist and it seems unlikely that they didn't play on their own record.
June 27, 1960 : BOBBY CHARLES waxes his next two singles, at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans. "What A Party"/"I Just Want You" appears in July on Imperial 5681, followed in September by "Four Winds"/"Nothing Sweet As You" (Imperial 5691). Both the A-sides will be recorded by Fats Domino in 1961. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
June 28-29, 1960 : THE KALIN TWINS record eight songs during a two-day session at the Pythian Temple in New York City. All songs, except "True Love", will eventually appear on the LP "When" (Vocalion VL-3771) in January 1966 : "Canadian Sunset"*, "All I Have To Do Is Dream"*, "Vaya Con Dios", "I'll Never Be Free", "Cross Over the Bridge"*, "Crazy Arms" and "Tonight You Belong To Me"*. According to Bear Family, the tracks marked with * were first included on Decca DL 4063 in 1960, but this (Various artists?) LP was never released. "True Love" appears eventually on the CD "When" (Bear Family BCD 15597) in 1992. Orchestra conducted by Jack Pleis.
June 1960, unknown date : CHUBBY CHECKER records his version of Hank Ballard's 1958 recording "The Twist" (Parkway 811, July, c/w "Toot" from the same session). It will become the only record to top the Billboard pop charts during two separate chart runs, first in September 1960, then again in January 1962. Personnel : Dave Appell (guitar / arranger) ; Joe Macho (bass) ; Buddy Savitt (sax) ; Leroy Lovett (piano) ; Ellis Tollin (drums) ; The Dream Lovers (vocal chorus). Produced by Kal Mann at Reco-Art Sound Recording Studio in Philadelphia.
June 1960, unknown date : KING CURTIS cuts the single
"King Neptune's Guitar"/"Beatnik Hoedown", which is
released on ABC-Paramount 10133 in July. (Master numbers were assigned on July
7 in New York City.) These sides were
not recorded by ABC, but purchased from Aldon Music and produced by Al Nevins. The guitar player
is probably Bob Gallo.
June 1960, unknown date : HOWLIN" WOLF does another session at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Spoonful" is released on Chess 1762 in July, coupled with "Howlin' For My Darling" (from a session in July 1959). "Wang Dang Doodle" and "Back Door Man" are issued back to back on Chess 1777 in April 1961. Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals) ; Hubert Sumlin (guitar) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
June 1960, unknown date : In spite of a hoarse throat, JERRY LEE LEWIS records five songs at 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis. "John Henry"/"Hang Up My Rock and Roll Shoes" is selected as his next single (Sun 344), issued on August 1. "C.C. Rider" is first released on the LP "Rockin' Rhythm and Blues" (Sun LP 107) in 1969 and "When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again" on the album "Rockin' And Free" (Sun 6467029, UK) in 1974. A first attempt at "What'd I Say" is eventually released on Sun Box 102 (a UK 12-LP set) in 1982. Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Martin Willis or Ace Cannon (sax) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Charles Underwood.
June 1960, unknown date : JANIS MARTIN is back in the studio after an absence of almost two years. Two singles are the result : "Hard Times Ahead"/"Here Today And Gone Tomorrow" (Palette 5058, July) and "Teen Street"/"Cry Guitar" (Palette 5071, January 1961). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; more details unknown. Produced by Jeff Kluger at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
(Probably) June 1960, unknown date : TEDDY REDELL records his next 45, "Pipeliner"/"I Want To Hold You", at KLCN radio station in Blytheville, Arkansas. It is first released on Vaden 301 in mid-June, but soon picked up for national distribution by Hi Records and reissued on Hi 2024. Personnel : Teddy Redell (vocals / piano) ; Fred Dale Douglas (guitar) ; Ray Molenick (bass) ; Jimmy Lamberth (sax) ; Kinky King (drums). Produced by Arlen Vaden.
June 1960, unknown date : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) does a four-track session at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Lonesome Cabin" is coupled with "Temperature 110" for release on Checker 956 in July. "Peach Tree" will first appear on the LP "The Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1503) in January 1966 and "Somebody Help Me" on the album "More Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1509) in September 1966. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; Luther Tucker, Eddie King Milton (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
Acknowledgements : Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels, Bear Family, Peter Stoller.
Dik
JULY 1960
July 1, 1960 : AARON NEVILLE records his first single for the Minit label, "Over You"/"Every Day" (Minit 612, September). A # 21 R&B hit. It is a split session with BENNY SPELLMAN who cuts "I Didn't Know"/"Darling No Matter Where" (Minit 613, September). Produced by Allen Toussaint at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
July 1, 1960 : BILLY STORM does a four-track session for Atlantic, the first Phil Spector-produced session for that label. "In the Chapel in the Moonlight"/"Sure As You're Born" is released on Atlantic 2076 in October. "Honey Love" will follow in August 1961 (Atlantic 2112, c/w "A Kiss From Your Lips" from a later session). "Kissing You" remains in the vaults. Budd Johnson plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Phil Spector.
July 3, 1960 : MUDDY WATERS performs at the Newport Jazz Festival, Newport, Rhode Island. Nine live recordings are released on November 15, on the LP "Muddy Waters At Newport 1960" (Chess LP 1449) : "I Got My Brand On You", "Hoochie Coochie Man", "Please Don't Go", "Soon Forgotten", "Tiger In Your Tank", "Feel So Good", "Got My Mojo Working, Parts 1 and 2" and "Goodbye Newport Blues". "Got My Mojo Working, Part 2" is also released as a single (Chess 1774, December, c/w "Woman Wanted", recorded on April 23, 1960). Personnel : Muddy Waters (vocals / guitar) ; Pat Hare (guitar) ; Andrew Stevens (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano / vocals on "Goodbye Newport Blues") ; James Cotton (harmonica) ; Francis Clay (drums). Produced by Leonard Chess.
July 4, 1960 : THE NASHVILLE ALL STARS were also invited to play at the Newport Jazz Festival, but their appearance was cancelled due to an unruly crowd. The group documented their performance anyway. There are only seven tracks, but some are very long : "Relaxin'", "Nashville To Newport", "Opus De Funk", "'s Wonderful", "Round Midnight", "Frankie And Johnny" and "Riot-Chous". The LP is released under the title "After the Riot" on RCA LPM 2302 in December. (Reissued on CD by Bear Family, BCD 15447, in 1989.) Personnel : Chet Atkins, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Brenton Banks (piano / violin) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Gary Burton (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Steve Sholes.
July 5, 1960 : JOHNNY HORTON records a first attempt at
"North To Alaska" (at this stage still titled "Go North!").
He returns to the song on July 14, but both versions will remain on the shelf
until they are included on Horton's Bear Family box-set "Johnny Horton
1956-60" (BCD 15470) in 1991. The released version of "North To
Alaska" will be recorded on August 9. Personnel : Grady Martin, Billy
Byrd, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums on
July 5) ; Doug Kirkham (drums on July 14). Produced by Don Law at Bradley
Studio in Nashville.
July 6, 1960 : While touring in Texas, THE CHAMPS detour to Norman Petty's famed studio in Clovis, New Mexico, where they record the B-side of their next single, "Coconut Grove" (Challenge 59086, late July, c/w "Alley Cat" from a session exactly one month earlier), and "Suicide". The latter will be retitled "Panic Button" for release on the flip-side of "Cantina" (from a later session) in August 1961 (Challenge 9116). Personnel (probably) : Glen Campbell, Jerry Cole (guitars) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums).
July 8, 1960 : JOHNNY BOND records five tracks at Radio
Recorders in Hollywood, all of which will be released on the LP "That
Wild, Wicked But Wonderful West" (Starday SLP 147) in early 1962. The
songs are : "Carry Me Back To the Lone Prairie", "The
Pass", "Dusty Skies", "The Long Tall Shadow" and "Fool's Paradise".
July 8, 1960 : First of several July sessions by THE EVERLY BROTHERS, all held at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Three tracks are recorded on this day. On "Lucille", there are no less than eight guitar players, all playing one riff that sounds like one guitar. They are (probably) : Don Everly, Phil Everly, Chet Atkins, Hank Garland, Ray Edenton, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley and Jimmy Day. The track is released as a single (Warner Bros 5163) on August 15, coupled with the previously recorded "So Sad". Also laid down are are Jimmy Reed's "Baby What You Want Me To Do" and "A Change Of Heart" (written by Boudleaux and Felice Bryant), both for the LP "A Date With the Everly Brothers" (Warner Bros WS 1395, October). Produced by Wesley Rose. See also July 10/12/13 and July 27.
July 8, 1960 : In Cincinnati, Ohio, LITTLE WILLIE JOHN does a five-track session. "Sleep"/"There's A Difference" is chosen as his new single (King 5394, August). It will become his biggest pop hit, peaking at # 13 (also # 10 R&B). "Walk Slow" (King 5428, November, c/w "You Hurt Me" from a later session) will also chart (# 48 pop, # 21 R&B) and the same goes for "The Very Thought Of You"/"I'm Sorry" (King 5458, March 1961, # 61 pop). Personnel : Fred Jordan (guitar) ; William Willis (bass) ; Jimmy Palmer (piano) ; Philip Paul (drums). All tracks are overdubbed with violins on July 22 and with an unknown tenor sax player on July 29. Produced by Henry Glover.
July 10, 12 and 13, 1960 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS continue their Nashville sessions. The LP tracks "Made To Love" and "So How Come (No One Loves Me)", both for "A Date With the Everly Brothers" are recorded on the 10th, along with "The Silent Treatment", which stays in the vaults until September 1977, when it is included as the opening track of "The New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415). A first unissued version of "Stick With Me Baby" is attempted on July 12. Four tracks for "A Date With .." are cut on the 13th : "That's Just Too Much", "Donna, Donna", "Love Hurts" and "Sigh, Cry, Almost Die". Backing by members of the Nashville A-Team. Produced by Wesley Rose.
July 11, 1960 : JO-ANN CAMPBELL has her first session for ABC-Paramount, at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. "A Kookie Little Paradise"/"Bobby, Bobby, Bobby" (ABC-Paramount 10134, late July) will bring Jo-Ann her first chart entry, peaking at # 61. Carole King sings harmony vocals on "Bobby, Bobby, Bobby". "But Maybe This Year" will be used as the B-side of the subsequent 45, "Crazy Daisy" (from a later session, ABC-Paramount 10172, November). Unissued from this session is "Breaking Up With A Boy". Produced by Sid Feller.
July 11, 1960 : The first Nashville session by BOB LUMAN results in his only pop hit (# 7), "Let's Think About Living"/"You've Got Everything" (Warner Bros 5172, August). Backing by members of the Nashville A-Team and the Anita Kerr Singers. Produced by Wesley Rose.
July 11, 1960 : RAY PRICE records his next single, “I Wish I Could Fall In Love Today”/“I Can’t Run Away From Myself” (Columbia 41767, August 15). Both sides will enter the country charts, respectively peaking at # 5 and # 23. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Sammy Pruett, Johnny Paycheck (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Steve Bess (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 12, 1960 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records the biggest hit (# 2 pop) of his career, "Last Date"/"Sweetie Baby" (RCA 47-7775, August). Also recorded is Cramer's version of "Heart And Soul", which ends up as the closing track of the LP "Last Date" (RCA LPM 2350, November). Personnel : Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Grady Martin (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a string section. Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 12-13, 1960 : MARTY ROBBINS needs two afternoon sessions at Bradley Studio in Nashville to complete three tracks. "Don't Worry" is released on December 23 (Columbia 41922, c/w "Like All the Other Times" from a session on May 25). It will top the country charts for ten weeks and reaches # 3 on the pop charts. "Ballad of the Alamo"/"A Time And a Place for Everything" is the preceding single (Columbia 41809, September 19). A # 34 pop hit. Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
July 13, 1960 : KITTY WELLS records the future number one hit (country) “Heartbreak U.S.A.” (Decca 31246, May 1961). The other side, “There Must Be Another Way To Live”, also stems from this session and will chart in its own right (# 20 country). “The Other Cheek” is released on Decca 31192 in December (a # 19 hit). “Seasons Of My Heart” is used as an LP track. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
July 15, 1960 : Second Columbia session by SKEETS McDONALD, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result : "Make Room For the Blues"/ "This Old Heart" (Columbia 41773, September) and "You're Not Wicked, You're Just Weak"/"He'll Let You Live A Little" (Columbia 42001, April 1961). Personnel : Hank Garland, Donald Lytle, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Johnny Paycheck (harmony vocals). Produced by Don Law.
July 15, 1960 : WEBB PIERCE also records at Bradley Studio on this day. "Fallen Angel" is released as a single in October (Decca 31165, c/w "Truck Driver's Blues" from a session on January 27, 1960). "Pathways Of Teardrops" is included on the LP "Walking the Streets" (Decca DL 74079, October) and "I'm Fallin' In Love With You" on the album "Cross Country" (Decca DL 74294) in September 1962. Unissued from this session is a first attempt at "Sooner Or Later", which will be tried again in February 1962. Produced by Owen Bradley.
July 15, 18 and 26, 1960 : The LEIBER-STOLLER BIG BAND (18 musicians) records the LP "Yakety Yak". Five tracks are laid down on July 15 : "Hound Dog", "Loving You", "Jailhouse Rock", "Poison Ivy" and "Yakety Yak", two on July 18 ("Smokey Joe's Cafe" and "Charlie Brown") and five on July 26 : "Bazoom", "Don't", "Kansas City", "Black Denim Trousers And Motorcycle Boots" and "Searchin'" (the last one unissued). Released on Atlantic LP 8047 in April 1961. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
July 18, 1960 : FATS DOMINO is back at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record "My Girl Josephine", which is released in October on Imperial 5704 (c/w "Natural Born Lover" from a session on August 6). A # 14 pop hit (# 7 R&B) is the result. Fats did one other session in July (exact date unknown), which produced four tracks : "Three Nights A Week"/"Put Your Arms Around Me Honey" (Imperial 5687, August, # 15 pop, # 8 R&B), "Shu Rah" (Imperial 5734, March 1961, c/w "Fell In Love On Monday" from a session on December 28, 1960), which will reach # 32 on the pop charts, and "The Rising Sun", a track for the album "A Lot Of Dominoes" (Imperial LP 9127, October). This LP will also include the other four tracks from the July sessions. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Strings (overdubbed at a later, unknown date) by members of the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra.
July 19, 1960 : BILL STRENGTH (aka Texas Bill Strength) does a one-off session for Sun Records. "Senorita"/"Guess I'd Better Go" becomes his only single for the label (Sun 346, September 12). "Call Of the Wild" will be included on the Various Artists LP "Sun Sound Special : Tennessee Country" (Charly CR 30150) in 1979. Four other tracks - "Nothing Is Sweeter Than You", "No More Listening", "Timber Man" and "You Can't Hurt Me Anymore" - remain in the Sun vaults. Personnel : Bill Strength (vocals / guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Larry Mohoberac (piano) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Charles Underwood at the Sun studio in Memphis.
July 20, 1960 : After three singles with Kitty Noble,
Mickey Baker reunites with Sylvia Vanderpool for another MICKEY AND SYLVIA
session. "Mommy Out De Light"/"Sweeter As the Days Go By"
is their new single (RCA 47-7774, August). "What Could I Do" follows
in November (c/w "This Is My Story", recorded on September 26) and
"Love Lesson" in May 1961 (RCA 47-7877, c/w "Love Is the Only
Thing" from a session on February 14, 1961). Personnel : Mickey Baker,
Sylvia Vanderpool (vocals) ; Billy Bauer (guitar) ; Carl Lynch (bass) ; Joe
Marshall (drums) ; Strings. Arranged and conducted by Sammy Lowe in New York
City.
July 20, 1960 : Another Challenge session for WYNN STEWART, this time in Nashville (Bradley Studio). "I'd Rather Have America"/"If You See My Baby" will become his new single (Challenge 59095, October). "Big City" is saved until October 1963 for release on Challenge 59216 (c/w "One Way To Go" from a session on February 8, 1962). Produced by Joe Johnson.
July 20, 1960 : Guitarist BRAD SUGGS is at the new Sun Studio, 639 Madison Avenue, Memphis. Four tracks are laid down : "Sam's Tune", "My Gypsy", "Blue Mist" and "Polly-Ticking", all unissued. "Sam's Tune" and "My Gypsy" had previously been attempted on February 3, 1960, but Suggs was not satisfied with the results and re-recorded the tunes in July. Curiously though, it was the earlier versions that were selected for overdubbing (in August) and release on October 13 (Phillips International 3563). Personnel : Brad Suggs, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Larry Mohoberac (piano) ; Vernon Drane, Gordon Reinhardt (saxes) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). (The February session, which also produced the single "Cloudy"/"Partly Cloudy", had an entirely different line-up with Billy Riley, Charlie Rich, Martin Wills, R.W. Stevenson and Jimmy Van Eaton, along with Suggs himself.)
July 21, 1960 : Final MGM session by MARVIN RAINWATER,
not in Nashville this time, but in New
York City. His last single on MGM is "Yesterday's Kisses"/"You're Not Happy (MGM
12938, September). Unissued from this
session is "Someday". Musicians and producer unknown.
July 21, 1960 : JACK SCOTT records six religious tracks, five of which will be included on the LP "The Spirit Moves Me" (Top Rank RM 348, 1961) : "Little David Play Your Harp", "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot", "Just A Closer Walk With Thee", "Ezekiel Saw Dee Wheel" and "Joshua Fit the Battle Of Jericho". "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" is first released in 1984 on the LP "Jack Scott, Vol. 2" (Buffalo Bop BB 2050, Germany). Backing vocals by the Chantones. Produced by Sonny Lester and Bill Sanford at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
July 22, 1960 : DON GIBSON spends the whole day at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. Nine tracks are recorded (equally divided over morning, afternoon and evening), all for the LP "Sweet Dreams" (RCA LPM 2269, December). Titles : "Foolish Me", "My Tears Don't Show", "The Next Voice You Hear", "Hurtin' Inside", "Sweet Dreams", "Time Hurts (As Well As It Heals)", "What's the Reason I'm Not Pleasing You", "What About Me" and "The World Is Waiting For the Sunrise". The latter two songs are coupled for single release on RCA 47-7841 (February 1961). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Brenton Banks (organ) ; Troy Hatcher (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
July 23, 1960 : STAN FREBERG records "Comments For Our Time, Parts 1 & 2" (Capitol 4433, August) and "Zither Song, Parts 1 & 2" (unissued). Vocals by Stan Freberg and Daws Butler. Orchestra conducted by Billy May. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
July 25, 1960 : CONNIE FRANCIS arrives at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record "My Heart Has A Mind Of Its Own" (MGM 12923), which will become her second # 1 hit of 1960. She overdubs a second vocal on July 31, after which the disc is rush-released. One other track is recorded, "I've Got Reason To Worry", which is first released on the 5-CD Bear Family box-set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boys Are" (BCD 15826) in 1996. Personnel : Bobby Gibbons, Al Hendrickson, Bill Pittman (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Speedy West (steel guitar) ; Gerald Wiggins (piano) ; Skeets Herfurt, Ted Nash (saxes) ; Alvin Stoller (drums). Arranged by Joe Sherman. Produced by Arnold Maxim and Jesse Kaye.
July 26, 1960 : DONNIE BROOKS, who is currently in the Top Twenty with "Mission Bell" records three tracks at United Recorders in Hollywood. "Doll House"/"Round Robin" becomes the next single (Era 3028, September) and will peak at # 31 on the Billboard charts. "Memphis" is the A-side of the subsequent single (Era 3042, February 1961, c/w "That's Why" from a later session), which will reach # 90, his third and last chart entry. Produced by Herb Newman.
July 26-27, 1960 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters spend two days at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's Go" is chosen as the next single (King 5400, September, c/w "If You'd Forgive Me" from a later session). It will top the R&B charts for three weeks and also reaches # 6 on the pop charts. "Keep On Dancing" is also released as a 45 (King 5535), but not until August 1961 (on the B-side of "Nothing But Good", recorded on July 19, 1961). "Keep On Churning" is a different song, but with the same backing track as "Keep On Dancing". It remains in the vaults until the appearance of the Bear Family 5-CD set "Nothing But Good, 1952-1962" (BCD 16795) in 2009. "I'm Sick Of You" and "Goodbye So Long" end up on the album "Spotlight On Hank Ballard" (King LP 740, 1961). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth and Norman Thrasher (backing vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Gene Redd, Pat Patterson (trumpets) ; Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
July 27, 1960 : WADE CAGLE and the Escorts do a four-track session at the Sun Studio on Madison Avenue in Memphis. The instrumentals "Groovy Train" and "Highland Rock" are paired for release on Sun 360 on April 25, 1961. The two other tracks, "Forty Days" and "Owee Owee", are vocals, probably sung by Wade Cagle, and remain in the vaults until 1997, when they are included on the Various Artists CD "Sun Rock n Roll, Vol. 2" (Charly CPCD 8318). Personnel : Wade Cagle (guitar / poss. vocals) ; Chas Strasburg (bass) ; William Morninggold (piano) ; Ray McArthur (sax) ; Rocky Haye (drums). Produced by Charles Underwood.
July 27, 1960 : Final July session of THE EVERLY
BROTHERS. "Stick With Me Baby"
is first included on the LP "A Date With the Everly Brothers" in
October and then released as the B-side of "Temptation" (from a later
session) on May 12, 1961 (Warner Bros 5220). "Radio And TV" is saved
until late 1964, for inclusion on the album "Gone, Gone, Gone"
(Warner Bros WS 1585). Produced by
Wesley Rose at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 28, 1960 : Final RCA session by THE ISLEY BROTHERS, in New York City (RCA Studio A). "Tell Me Who"/"Say You Love Me Too" is a September release (RCA 47-7787). Personnel : Carl Lynch, Wallace Richardson (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Herman Stevens (organ) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Frank Henry (baritone sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a five-piece mixed chorus. Arranged by Sammy Lowe, produced by Hugo and Luigi.
July 29, 1960 : Three-track session by THE COASTERS at
the Atlantic Studio in New York City.
"Shoppin' For Clothes" is the A-side of their next single, released on Atco 6178 in
September. (A # 83 pop hit.)
"Thumbin' A Ride" will be used as the B-side of "Wait A Minute"
(from a session on December 4, 1957) in
January 1961 (Atco 6186). "Dog Face"
is still unissued. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter,
Will 'Dub' Jones (vocals) ; Sonny Forriest, Phil Spector (guitars) ; Wendell
Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis (sax) ;
Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Gary
Chester (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
July 1960, unknown date : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW cuts another single for the Imperial label : "Somebody New"/"I Cried" (Imperial 5702, October). Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet / producer) ; Meyer Kennedy (alto sax) ; Clarence Ford, Warren Payne (tenor saxes) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums). Location is Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
July 1960, unknown date : BO DIDDLEY records ten tracks at his own studio in Washington D.C. Six tracks end up on the LP "Bo Diddley Is A Gunslinger" (Checker LP 2977, December) : "Ride On Josephine", "No More Lovin'", "Doing the Craw-Daddy", "Whoa Mule (Shine)", "Cheyenne" and "Sixteen Tons". "Do What I Say" and "Working Man" are first released in 1988 (as bonus tracks on the CD reissue of the album) and "Googlia Moo" finally came out in 2004. "Diddley Bo" remains unissued. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Johnson (guitar) ; Jesse James Johnson (bass) ; Jerome Green (macaras) ; Billy Downing (drums) ; The Bo-ettes (vocal group). Some tracks were overdubbed in Chicago with Lafayette Leake (piano) and Willie Dixon (bass).
July 1960, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE does another session for Era Records, probably at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "The Ghost Of Billy Maloo"/"Red Roses" is released on Era 3025 in August. "The Wayward Wind" and "Noah's Ark" will be included on Dorsey's LP "Tall Oak Tree" (Era EL 102, September). Produced by Joe Saraceno.
(Probably) July 1960, unknown date : TRACY PENDARVIS records his last single for Sun, "Belle Of the Suwannee"/"Eternally", released on Sun 359 on April 25, 1961. A third track, "I Need Somebody", is first issued on Tracy's LP "A Thousand Guitars" (Buffalo Bop LP 2078) in 1991. Personnel : Tracy Pendarvis (vocals / guitar) ; Scotty Moore (guitar) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Larry Mohoberac (piano) ; Jerry Reeve Goodman (drums) ; The Gene Lowery Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Charles Underwood and/or Scotty Moore at the Sun Studio in Memphis.
July 1960, unknown date : TINY TOPSY does a solitary session for Chess in Chicago, which is also the last known recording session of her short life. "How You Changed"/"Working On Me Baby" is released on Argo 5383 in February 1961. The A-side is retitled "After Marriage Blues" for release in the UK on Pye International N 25104. A third track, "Fat Girl", has never been issued.
July 1960, unknown date : LARRY WILLIAMS travels to New Orleans for a Chess session. Two tracks are released as singles : "I Hear My Baby" (Chess 1764, August, c/w "Oh Baby" from a session in April 1960) and "Fresh Out Of Tears" (Chess 1805, October 1961, c/w "Lawdy Mama" from an unknown session), the latter while Larry was serving a jail sentence. "Heartbreaker" and "Be Kind" end up on the mysterious album "Larry Williams!" (Chess LP 1457) that no one has ever seen.
Acknowledgements : Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, John Klompenhouwer.
Dik
AUGUST 1960
August 1, 1960 : SONNY ANDERSON records his second and last single for Imperial, "Our Love Could Never Be"/"Fool". Release on Imperial 5689 in late August. Location is Los Angeles. Personnel and producer unknown.
August 3, 1960 : JOHNNY BOND records five more tracks for the LP "That Wild, Wicked But Wonderful West" (Starday SLP 147, early 1962) : "Empty Saddles", "The Bully", "At Dawn I Die", "Wanderers Of the Wasteland" and "The Deadwood Stage". The studio is Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
August 3, 1960 : During his first session for Imperial, FRANKIE FORD cuts a cover version of Joe Jones's "You Talk Too Much". The reverse, "If You've Got Troubles", comes from the same session (Imperial 5686, rush-released). Peak position is # 87 (pop). Backing by members of Cosimo Matassa's studio band. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
August 3, 1960 : KRIS JENSEN records material for two singles. "School Bus"/"Perfect Lover" hits the market in mid-August (Leader 808) and "Your Daddy Don't Like Me"/"Please Let Me Love You Tonight" in January 1961 (Leader 813). Though Leader is a New York label (subsidiary of Kapp Records), this was a Nashville session, probably produced by Wesley Rose.
August 3-4, 1960 : CARL MANN spends two days at the new Sun Studio on Madison Avenue in Memphis. "Born To Be Bad" is released as a single on March 11, 1961 (Phillips International 3564, B-side of the previously recorded "The Wayward Wind"), after being overdubbed with violins on October 2. "I Don't Care" is included on Carl's LP "Like Mann" (Phillips International PLP 1960, release date August 17). "I'm Walking the Dog", "Ubangi Stomp" and "Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes", all originally unissued, will appear on various European LP's between 1975 and 1977. "I Love You, I Adore You" and "Stop the World and Let Me Off" will see their first appearance in 1985, on the Swedish LP "14 Unissued Sides" (Jan/Star Club 33-8022). "Are You Teasing Me" stays in the can until the release of the 4-CD Carl Mann box-set "Mona Lisa" on Bear Family (BCD 15713) in 1993. Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Charles Underwood.
August 4, 1960 : WYNONIE HARRIS is back in the studio, after three years without a recording contract. A remake of "Bloodshot Eyes" is coupled with "Sweet Lucy Brown" for release on Roulette 4291 in October. "Spread the News" is first issued on the CD "Roulette Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 2" (Sequel NEM CD 670, UK) in 1994. Location is New York City.
August 5, 1960 : LLOYD PRICE does a five-track session in
New York City. "Just Call Me (And I'll Understand)"/"Who Coulda'
Told You" is his next single, released in the third week of August
(ABC-Paramount 10139). Peaks at # 79. "Rainbow Joe" will be included
on the LP "Cookin' With Lloyd
Price" (ABC-Paramount 382) in 1961. "Oh!! What A Memory"
and "Awake Me When the Party's
Over" remain unissued. Produced by Sid Feller, who also conducts the
14-piece orchestra.
August 6, 1960 : FATS DOMINO pays another visit to Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Natural Born Lover" will become the B-side of "My Girl Josephine" (recorded on July 18) in October (Imperial 5704) and charts in its own right (# 38). It is also released on the LP "A Lot Of Dominoes" (Imperial LP 9127, October), along with "Magic Isles", "It's the Talk of the Town" and "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (later released as a 45, Imperial 5937, March 1963). The fifth track from this session, "Am I Blue", is first released on the LP "Let the Four Winds Blow" (Imperial LP 9153) in June 1961. All tracks are later overdubbed with strings. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Herb Hardesty, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
August 8, 1960 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, ELVIS PRESLEY cuts four tracks intended for the soundtrack of the movie "Flaming Star" : "Black Star", "Britches", "A Cane and a High Starched Collar" (the only song actually used in the film) and "Summer Kisses, Winter Tears". The latter is overdubbed on August 11. The movie's title track will be laid down on October 7, 1960. All four songs will be released on different LP's in 1961, 1965, 1974 and 1979. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Tiny Timbrell (guitars) ; Meyer Rubin (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Jimmie Haskell (accordion) ; Bernie Mattinson (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Urban Thielmann.
August 8, 1960 : One-track session by JIM REEVES at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. ”Am I Losing You” is released on RCA 47-7800 in October (c/w “I Missed Me”, from a session on May 5, 1960). It will be overdubbed with strings on September 4. Peaks at # 31 pop and # 8 country. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar ) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
August 9, 1960 : COOKIE AND THE CUPCAKES undertake a session for the Mercury label, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. "Matilda Has Finally Come Back" is coupled with "Part Of Everything" for release on Mercury 71748 in December. Two other titles, "All Your Lovin' Baby" and "I Don't Have To Cry Anymore" remain in the vaults. Personnel (probably) : Huey Thierry (lead vocals) ; Marshall Laday (guitar) ; Joe 'Blue' Landry (bass) ; Shelton Dunaway (alto sax) ; Sidney Reynaud (tenor sax) ; Ernest Jacobs (piano) ; Sokol Richardson (drums).
August 9, 1960 : JOHNNY HORTON's last session before his untimely death is a one-song session. "North To Alaska" is rush-released on August 22 on Columbia 41782. It will top the country charts for five weeks (after his death) and reaches # 4 on the pop charts. The lower deck is "The Mansion You Stole", recorded on March 9, 1960. Personnel : Grady Martin, Jack Shook, Harold Bradley, Tommy Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Plainsmen (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 9-10, 1960 : JIMMY JONES cuts six tracks during a two-day session in New York City, but only "Ee-I Ee-I Oh!" will see a release (Cub 9076, September, c/w "Itchin' For Love", recorded on March 3, 1960). The unissued titles are : "New World's Record", "Magic Moment", "Cry For the Man", "Movin' On" (all recorded on the 9th) and "Upstairs". King Curtis plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Otis Blackwell.
August 10, 1960 : CLYDE McPHATTER is at the Fine Studio
in New York City to record no less than
eleven tracks. "One More Chance" will be his next 45 (Mercury 71740, November, c/w
"Before I Fall In Love Again" from
a session later in the month), while "You're Moving Me" is
saved for a later single (Mercury 71809,
April 1961, c/w "Whole Heap Of Love" from a session in 1961). The other nine tracks
will be included on his LP "Ta
Ta" (Mercury MG 20597, November), together with three tracks already recorded in June (see In the Can June 1960).
Titles : "How Many Times",
"Why Was I the One You Chose", "Everything's Gonna Be All
Right", "Let Me Shake the
Hand", "What's Love To Me", "For All You've Done",
"Not Me", "All About
Love" and "High School Social". Arranged and conducted by
Belford Hendricks, produced by Clyde Otis. See also August 29.
August 10, 1960 : ROGER MILLER records the single that will give him his first chart entry : “(In the Summertime) You Don’t Want My Love”/“Foot- prints in the Snow” (RCA 47-7776, September 12). A # 14 country hit. Personnel : Hank Garland, Ben Shaefele (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
August 10, 1960 : FREDDIE HART does a three-song session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. “Lying Again”/“Do My Heart A Favor” is released on Columbia 41805 in September. A # 27 country hit. “Some Do, Some Don’t, Some Will, Some Won’t” is saved until January 1962 for release on Columbia 42285 (c/w “Like You Are” from a session on July 31, 1961). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
August 11, 1960 : THE CRICKETS record their final single for the Decca group of labels : "Peggy Sue Got Married"/"Don't Cha Know" (Coral 62238, December 5). The lead singer on these tracks is David Box. Location : United Recorders, Hollywood.
August 11, 1960 : THE DANLEERS record four tracks in New York City. Two of them are coupled for single release : "I'll Always Believe In You"/"Little Lover" (Epic 9421, October). "I'll Be Forever Yours" and "The Light of Love" stay in the vaults until they are included on the Bear Family CD "One Summer Night" (BCD 15503) in 1994. Personnel : Jimmy Weston, Louis Williams, Douglas Ebron, Terry Wilson, Frank Clemens (vocals) ; Carl Lynch, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Doles Dickens (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 6-piece string section. Arranged and produced by Chuck Sagle.
August 12, 1960 : Four-track session by BOBBY VEE at United Recorders in Hollywood. "Rubber Ball" will be selected as the A-side of the next single (Liberty 55287, November 7, c/w "Everyday", recorded on August 9). A # 6 hit. "Poetry In Motion" and "Foolish Tears" are included on Bobby's second LP, simply titled "Bobby Vee" (Liberty LRP 3181, March 1961). A second version of "Wishing" (previously attempted in June) sits in the vaults until it sees the light of day on EMI's expanded edition of Vee's "I Remember Buddy Holly" CD (CDP 7-96057-2) in 1992 (incorrectly labelled as "Version 1"). Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett.
August 13, 1960 is the recording date of the BOBBY HELMS single "Lonely River Rhine"/"Guess We Thought the World Would End" (Decca 31148, first week of September). A # 16 country hit. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 13-14 and 17-22, 1960 : Busy days for BOBBY DARIN. On August 13, 14, 17 and 22 he records the LP "Two Of A Kind" with Johnny Mercer (Atco 33-126, February 1961), arranged by Billy May, whose orchestra provides the accompaniment. On August 18, Bobby lays down the A-sides of two forthcoming singles, "Artificial Flowers" (Atco 6179, September, c/w "Somebody To Love" from a session on July 22, 1959) and "Lazy River" (Atco 6188, January 1961, c/w "Oo-Ee Train" from a later session). Both 45s will chart, peaking at # 20 and # 14 respectively. This time the arranger is Richard Behrke. The next three days (Aug. 19-21) are spent on the Xmas LP "The 25th Day Of December" (Atco 33-125 October), arranged by Bobby Scott. From this album "Christmas Auld Lang Syne" and "Child Of God" are released as a single (Atco 6183, early December). Likewise "Ave Maria"/"O Come All Ye Faithful" in November 1961 (Atco 6211). All sessions produced by Ahmet Ertegun at United Recorders in Los Angeles.
August 14, 1960 : THE JOHN BARRY SEVEN cover the Ventures' hit "Walk Don't Run", for release on Columbia DB 4505 on September 2. A # 11 hit in the UK. The flip, "I'm Movin' On" is also recorded on this day and credited to "The John Barry Seven Plus Four". Arranged by John Barry, produced by Norman Newell at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, England.
August 16, 1960 : First of five (!) August dates by
BRENDA LEE, all at Bradley Studio in
Nashville. On this day she records the A-sides of her next two singles, "I Want To Be
Wanted" (Decca 31149, September,
Brenda's second # 1 hit) and "Emotions" (Decca 31149,
December, a # 7 hit). The third track
from this session is "Do I Worry (Yes I Do)", which will be included on the LP "All
the Way" (Decca DL 4176) in August
1961. Personnel (probably) : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ;
Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (strings).
Produced by Owen Bradley. See also August 18-19 and August 30-31.
August 16, 1960 : JOHNNY TILLOTSON records the A-sides of his next two singles at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. “Poetry In Motion” is released in September 1960 on Cadence 1384 and will peak at # 2 on the Billboard charts and # 1 in the UK. “Jimmy’s Girl” follows in December 1960 and reaches # 25 (Cadence 1391). Produced by Archie Bleyer. Personnel includes Boots Randolph on sax, more details unknown. An earlier version of “Poetry Of Motion” was recorded in New York on May 25, 1960, with King Curtis on sax ; it was first released in 2011 on Bear Family BCD 16815 (2-CD “The Outtakes”).
August 16-17, 1960 : More recording activity by HANK
BALLARD and the Midnighters at the King Studio in Cincinnati. The tracks from
the August 16 session are all released as singles : "If You'd Forgive
Me" (King 5400, September, B-side of "Let's Go, Let's Go, Let's
Go", recorded on July 26), "The Hoochie Coochi Coo" (King 5430,
November, c/w "I'm Thinking Of You" from a session on March 31) and
"When I Need You" (King 5677, August 1962, c/w "Dream
World", which will be cut on January 6, 1962). The three tracks of August
17 will all find a place on the album "Spotlight On Hank Ballard"
(King 740, February 1961) : "Mona Lisa", "Just One More
Chance" and "Summertime".
Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman
Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings
(electric bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Philip Paul
(drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
Wednesday, August 17, 1960 : Since Ahmet Ertegun is busy with Bobby Darin in Los Angeles, Jerry Wexler produces a LaVERN BAKER session by himself. "Bumble Bee"/"My Time Will Come" is selected for the next single (Atlantic 2077, October). "You Said" and "A Little Bird Told Me So" both end up on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071, December 1962). Location : Atlantic Studio, New York City. Personnel : Mickey Baker, Carl Lynch (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Al Sears (tenor sax) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax, flute) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; Shep Shepherd (drums). Plus a four-piece male chorus. Arranged and conducted by Jesse Stone.
August 17, 1960 : JAMIE COE records his second single for ABC-Paramount, "The Story Of Jesse James"/"Say You" (ABC 10149, October). Unissued from this session is "I'll Be Home In Time For Love". Arranged and produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
August 18-19, 1960 : BRENDA LEE continues her sessions at Bradley Studio. Four tracks are recorded on the 18th. "It's Never Too Late" will be used as the B-side of "You Can Depend On Me" (from a later session) in March 1961 (Decca 31231). The other three tracks, "No One", "Crazy Talk" and "The Big Chance" end up on three different LP's in 1961-65. Two tracks are laid down on the 19th : "I'm Learning About Love", the up- tempo B-side of "Emotions" (Decca 31195, December, a # 33 hit in its own right) and "Careless, That's All", which is consigned to the vaults until the appearance of the 4-CD Bear Family box-set "Little Miss Dynamite" (BCD 15772) in 1995. Personnel is probably the same as on August 16, plus : Boots Randolph (sax) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
August 23, 1960 : OTIS SPANN (vocals / piano) records enough material for two albums, "Otis Spann Is the Blues" (Candid CJM 9001, December) and "Walking the Blues" (Barnaby KZ 31290, 1972), Spann's first solo releases. Candid was a jazz label, owned by Nat Hentoff, who produced this session, at Fine Studio in New York City. The only other musician is Robert Lockwood, Jr. (guitar / occasional vocals), who is present on most, but not all of the tracks.
August 23, 1960 : JIMMY NEWMAN does his last session for MGM, resulting in the single “Wanting You With Me Tonight”/“Now That You’re Gone” (MGM 12945, September). A # 11 country hit. From 1961 until 1970 he will be contracted to Decca. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 23-24, 1960 : RAY CHARLES records the LP "Dedicated To You" in Los Angeles (ABC-Paramount 355, March 1961). Tracks : "Hard Hearted Hannah", "Nancy", "Margie", "Ruby", "Rosetta", "Stella By Starlight", "Cherry", "Josephine", "Candy", "Marie", "Diane" and "Sweet Georgia Brown". "Ruby"/ "Hard Hearted Hannah" is selected for single release (ABC-Paramount 10164, October). Both sides will chart, peaking at # 28 and # 55 respectively. Arranged by Marty Paich.
August 24, 1960 : Three-track session by SONNY TIL in New York City. "Shimmy Time"/"Night And Day" is released on Jubilee 5394 in November. "So Long" will see its first release in 1996 on the Various artists CD "Jubilee & Josie R&B Vocal Groups, Vol. 5" (Sequel NEMCD 758), which also includes the other two tracks from this session (credited to Sonny Til and the Orioles). Personnel includes King Curtis on tenor sax, more details unknown. Arranged by Reggie Obrecht, produced by Herb Abramson.
Thursday, August 25, 1960 : The instrumental group THE
CHAMPS records "Tough Train",
for release on Challenge 59097 in November. The track is overdubbed and remastered on October 4, the
recording date of the other side,
"The Face". The Challenge files make mention of a second
(unissued) track recorded on August 25 :
"Train To Nowhere, Part 2". However, "Tough Train" is a remake of "Train To
Nowhere", so it's questionable if this is
a different recording. Personnel includes Glen Campbell (guitar), Jimmy
Seals (sax), Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Studio
in Hollywood.
August 25, 1960 : DEL SHANNON has his first recording session, at Bell Sound Studio in New York City, Two ballads are recorded, "The Search" and "I'll Always Love You". Both are considered unsuitable for an A-side, but they will appear later on Del's first LP, "Runaway With Del Shannon" (Bigtop 1303, August 1961). Personnel : Bucky Pizzarelli (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Unidentified (piano, organ, strings). Arranged by Bill Ramal, produced by Harry Balk.
August 26, 1960 : FREDDY KING records six tracks at the
King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio. "You've Got To Love Her With A
Feeling"/"Have You Ever Loved A Woman" (Federal 12384, October,
# 93 pop) and "Hide Away"/"I Love the Woman" (Federal 12401, January 1961,
# 5 R&B, # 29 pop) are released on
two singles. "See See Baby" (Federal 12428, July 1961, # 21
R&B) and "You Know That You
Love Me" (a track for the LP "Freddy King Sings", King LP 762, September 1961) complete the session.
The instrumental "Hide Away" becomes Freddy's first release in the
UK, in May 1961 (Parlophone R 4777). Personnel : Freddy King (vocals / guitar)
; Fred Jordan (guitar) ; Bill Willis (bass) ; Gene Redd, Clifford Scott (saxes)
; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Philip Paul
(drums).
August 29, 1960 : At an unknown studio, in New York City or Nashville, CLYDE McPHATTER records "Before I Fall In Love Again" for his next single, to be released in November (Mercury 71740, c/w "One More Chance", recorded on August 10). Two other tracks, "I Wanna Be the Only One" and "I'll Stop Anything I'm Doing" will stay in the vaults for many years, until Richard Weize includes them on the Bear Family 9 LP box-set "Rhythm and Soul" (BFX 15271) in 1987. Produced by Clyde Otis. See also August 10.
August 30, 1960 : In New York City, RUTH BROWN records her new single, "Honey Boy"/"Taking Care Of Business", for release on Atlantic 2075 in October. "It Tears Me All To Pieces" has to wait until June 1961 for a release on Atlantic 2104. Personnel : Danny Moore, Taft Jordan (trumpets) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Budd Johnson (baritone sax) ; Carl Lynch (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Shep Shepherd (drums). Plus a 4-piece vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Howard Biggs. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler.
August 30-31, 1960 : BRENDA LEE is back at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Two tracks come out of the session on August 30 : "We Three (My Echo, My Shadow And Me)", which will appear on the LP "This Is Brenda" (Decca DL 4082, October), and "If I Didn't Care", unissued until 1995 (Bear Family box-set). The next day Brenda records four tracks, three of which will be released on the LP "This Is Brenda" : "When My Dreamboat Comes Home" (with a great sax solo by Boots Randolph), "Walkin' To New Orleans" and "Hallelujah I Love Him So". The fourth song, "I'm in the Mood For Love", is another album track, this time for the LP "Emotions" (Decca DL 4104, April 1961). Personnel and producer are the same as on August 18-19.
August 30-31, 1960 : THE PLATTERS record seven titles during a two-day session in Chicago. Only one song will be released as a single, "Immortal Love", which is chosen as the B-side of "Trees" (Mercury 71791) in March 1961. "Love Is Just Around the Corner" and "It's Love Love Love" end up on the LP "Song For the Lonely" (Mercury MG 20669, 1962) and the other four tracks ("Love, Your Magic Spell Is Everywhere", "Love Me Or Leave Me", "Advertise It" and "Who Wouldn't Love You") will not see a release until the appearance of the 9-CD Bear Family box-set ("Four Platters And One Lovely Dish", BCD 15741) in February 1994.
August 31, 1960 : One-track session by JESSIE HILL at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Scoop Scoobie Doobie" will be released in November (Minit 616, c/w "High Head Blues, recorded on September 13). Personnel : Jessie Hill (vocals / tambourine) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / arranger / producer). More details unknown.
August 31, 1960 : BOB LUMAN cuts three tracks for his
first LP, "Let's Think About Living" (Warner Bros WS 1396, November).
All three will also be released as a single, albeit spread over a full decade.
"Oh Lonesome Me" is Luman's next single (Warner Bros 5184, November,
c/w "Why Why, Bye Bye", recorded on September 1). "Throwin'
Kisses" will be issued on Hickory 1460 in May 1967 and "Meet Mr.
Mud" on Hickory 1564 in April 1970. Backing by members of the Nashville
A-Team and the Anita Kerr Singers. Produced by Wesley Rose in Nashville,
Tennessee.
August 31, 1960 : JOHNNY PRESTON cuts four tracks, all of which are unissued and lost : "They Had Love", "Pride Of Love", "Broken Hearts Anonymous" and "Cute Chick". Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer or Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Bill Hall at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 1960, unknown date : In New Orleans, CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY cuts the single "But I Do"/"Just My Baby And Me", to be released on Argo 5378 in December. It will become his biggest hit (# 4 pop, # 9 R&B). The third track from this session, "Live It Right", will come out on the LP "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (Argo 4009) in September 1961. Personnel : Roy Montrell, Justin Adams (guitars) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Nat Perrilliat (tenor sax) ; Dalton Rousseaux (trumpet) ; Big Boy Myles (trombone) ; Allen Toussaint (piano) ; John Boudreaux (drums). Produced by Paul Gayten.
August 1960, unknown date : First RCA session by BAKER KNIGHT, at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood. "I Can Tell"/"The Beginning Of the End" is his first single for the label, released in November (RCA 47-7814). Two other, unknown titles were recorded, probably unreleased.
August 1960, unknown date : First ABC-Paramount session for BARRY MANN, in New York City. Two singles are the result : "War Paint"/"Counting Tear- drops" (ABC 10143, September) and "The Millionaire"/"Happy Birthday, Broken Heart" (ABC 10180, February 1961). Produced by Al Nevins.
August 1960, unknown date : CARLA THOMAS records her first hit, "Gee Whiz (Look At His Eyes)"/"For You", in Memphis. First release on Satellite 104 in November, then on Atlantic 2086 in December. Peak positions : # 5 R&B, # 10 pop. Personnel : Gilbert Caples (tenor sax) ; Charles Crawford (baritone sax) ; The Vel-Tones (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (piano, bass, drums, strings). Produced by Jim Stewart. With thanks to Bill Daniels, Tony Watson and the late Roy Symonds.
SEPTEMBER 1960
September 1, 1960 : Last day of a three-day session by BRENDA LEE. Six LP tracks are recorded : "Pretend", "If I Didn't Care", "Teach Me Tonight" and "Blueberry Hill" (all for "This Is Brenda", Decca DL 4082, October 10), as well as "Swanee River Rock" and "If You Love Me" (to be issued on the "Emotions" LP, Decca DL 4104, April 3, 1961). Accompaniment by the usual suspects from the Nashville A-Team, and the Anita Kerr Singers. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 1, 1960 : In Nashville, BOB LUMAN continues his session of the day before. Four tracks are recorded for the LP "Let's Think About Living" (Warner Bros WS 1396, November) : "Every Time the World Goes 'Round", "Why Why Bye Bye", "You Win Again" and "Jealous Heart" (later released as a single, Hickory 1307, in April 1965). "Why Why Bye Bye" is selected as Bob's new single (Warner Bros 5184, late November, c/w "Oh Lonesome Me", recorded on August 31). Floyd Cramer is clearly recognizable as the pianist and the other session musicians are also recruited (as likely as not) from the Nashville A-Team. The Anita Kerr Singers provide the backup vocals. Produced by Wesley Rose. See also September 3.
September 1, 1960 : Like Bob Luman and Brenda Lee, JOHNNY PRESTON is recording in Nashville on August 31 and September 1, but of the eight songs recorded, only "Willy Walk" has survived (all the others are lost). It is released on Mercury 71803 in April 1961 (c/w "I Feel Good" from a session on February 23, 1961). Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer or Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; possibly one or two other unknown session players. Produced by Bill Hall at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 1, 1960 : JERRY KENNEDY records the single “Honky Tonk Man”/ “Just Because” at Bradley Studio in Nashville. It is released on Mercury 71707 in December, credited to JERRY GLENN.
Friday, September 2, 1960 : Final Mercury session by JIMMY McCRACKLIN, at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans. "The Bridge"/"What's That, Part 1" is issued on Mercury 71747 in December. "What's That, Part 2" and "Folsom Prison Blues" are first released on the CD "Jimmy McCracklin - The Mercury Recordings" (Bear Family BCD 15558) in 1992. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
September 2, 1960 : THE VENTURES record the follow-up to their big hit “Walk, Don’t Run” : “Perfidia”/“No Trespassing” (Dolton 28, October). An earlier attempt at “Perfidia” was recorded on August 8 (unissued). A # 15 hit. The Ventures are : Bob Bogle, Don Wilson, Nokie Edwards and Howie Johnson.
September 3, 1960 : BOB LUMAN records three more tracks for his "Let's Think About Living" LP : "Bad Bad Day" (also issued as a single, Hickory 1289, in December 1964), "I Love You So Much It Hurts" and "I Love You Because" (also on Hickory 1333 in September 1965). Personnel, location and producer are probably the same as on September 1.
(Circa) September 4, 1960 : Guitarist AL CAIOLA records the first of a long series of singles for United Artists. “The Magnificent Seven”/“The Lonely Rebel” is released on September 20 (United Artists 261) and peaks at # 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is a split session with NICK PERITO and his orchestra. They record the single “The Green Leaves Of Summer”/ “Jennifer” (United Artists 262, late September). Arranged and produced by Don Costa in New York City.
September 5, 1960 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates cut the
follow-up to their # 1 hit "Shakin' All Over" :
"Restless"/"Magic Of Love" (HMV POP 790, September
30), at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. A # 22 UK hit. Peronnel is the same
as on "Shakin' All Over" : Johnny Kidd (vocals) ; Joe Moretti (lead
guitar) ; Alan Caddy (guitar) ; Brian Gregg (bass) ; Clem Cattini (drums).
September 5, 1960 : Same day, same studio : THE SHADOWS
cut two tracks, "Back Home" (future B-side of "The Frightened
City" from a later session, Columbia DB 4637, April 1961) and
"Shotgun", a track for the EP "The Shadows" (Columbia SEG
8061, December). Produced by Norrie Paramor. See also September 13.
September 6, 1960 : CHET ATKINS records in Hollywood for a change (RCA Victor Studio). "Theme From The Dark At the Top Of the Stairs" is released in the last week of September (RCA 47-7796). The other side, "Hocus Pocus", is recorded on September 8, back in Nashville. Personnel (in Hollywood) : Chet Atkins (lead guitar) ; Al Hendrickson (rhythm guitar) ; Alfred Viola (mandolin) ; Joe Mondragon (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Larry Bunker (percussion) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Plus a horns and violins section. Produced by Neely Plumb and Dick Peirce.
September 6, 1960 : An afternoon session by ROSE MADDOX at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Kissin' My Pillow"/"I Want To Live Again" becomes her next single (Capitol 4487, December). Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 14 and # 15 respectively. "There's Better Times A-Comin'" is a track for the LP "A Big Bouquet Of Rose's" (Capitol T 1548, July 1961). "Dime A Dozen" is first released on the 4-CD box-set "Sing A Little Song Of Heartache" (Bear Family BCD 15743) in 1993. Personnel : Cal Maddox, Billy Strange, Roy Nichols, Les Taylor (guitars) ; Allen Williams (bass) ; Henry Ford Maddox (mandolin) ; Herbert Hensley (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 8, 1960 : Last Columbia session by BILLY
'CRASH' CRADDOCK and his first outside of Nashville. "Good Time Billy (Is
A Happiness Fool)"/ "Heavenly Love" will be released on Columbia
41822 on October 31. "Report Card Of Love" remains unissued until the
release of the Bear Family CD ("Boom Boom Baby", BCD 15610) in
1992. Personnel : Don Arnone, Wally Richardson (guitars) ; Frank Carroll
(bass) ; King Curtis (sax) ; D. Martin (piano) ; Bobby Rosengarten
(drums) ; Charles Cassey Group (background vocals). Produced by Tony Piano
at Columbia Studio in New York City.
September 8, 1960 : ERNIE FREEMAN records his own version of the movie theme "The Dark At the Top Of the Stairs" (see September 6), with his combo. The reverse, "Come On Home", stems from the same session (Imperial 5693, rush-released). A # 70 pop hit. Location : Los Angeles. See also September 29, 1960.
September 9, 1960 : Meanwhile, back in the UK, CLIFF RICHARD records "I Love You"/"D In Love" for his next single (Columbia DB 4547), which is released on November 25. Another # 1 hit for Cliff. The third track from this session, "Catch Me", will be used for the LP "21 Today" (Columbia SX 1368) in October 1961. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. See also September 20.
Monday, September 12, 1960 : DON GIBSON re-records his
first hit, "Sweet Dreams" (RCA 47-7805, November, # 6
country). The other side, "The Same Street", also comes
from this session. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland,
Velma Smith, Harold Harper (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer
(piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by
Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 12, 1960 : BOBBY LORD records at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Before I Lose My Mind"/"When the Snow Falls" is the resulting single (Columbia 41824, October). Two other tracks, "I'd Rather Be Blue" and "Why Should I Cry", stay on the shelf for half a century, until they are issued on Bobby's CD "Everybody's Rockin' But Me" (Bear Family BCD 16524) in 2011. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law. (Note : According to Bear Family's Richard Weize, the Don Gibson session took place from 14:00-17:00 and the Bobby Lord session from 15:00-18:00, which means that Cramer and Harman were at two studios at the same time!)
September 12, 1960 : JACK SCOTT is at Bell Sound Studio in NYC to record "Patsy" for his next single (Top Rank 2075, late September, c/w "Old Time Religion", drawn from his current LP "The Spirit Moves Me"). Also recorded is "Lonesome Mary", which will stay on the shelves for 30 years, until the CD release of "Jack Scott - Capitol Collector's Series" (Capitol CDP 7 93192 2) in 1990. Vocal backup is supplied by the Chantones, more details unknown. Produced by Sonny Lester and Bill Sanford.
September 12, 1960 : OTIS WILLIAMS and the Charms record "And Take My Love" (King 5421, November) and "Unchain My Heart" (saved until April 1964 for release on King 5880). Three days later they wax "So Can I" (King 5455, February 1961, c/w "Little Turtle Dove" from a session on January 8, 1961), "Just Forget About Me" (King 5497, May 1961, c/w "You Know How Much I Care", also from January 8, 1961) and "Wait", which is coupled with the above-mentioned "And Take My Love". Produced by Syd Nathan at the King Studio in Cincinnati, Ohio.
September 12-13, 1960 : HANK SNOW re-records some of his biggest hits for the LP "Hank Snow Souvenirs" (RCA LPM 2285, February 1961). Five tracks are laid down on the 12th : "I'm Movin' On", "The Golden Rocket", "My Mother", "I Don't Hurt Anymore" and "Conscience I'm Guilty". Two sessions (afternoon and evening) follow on the 13th : "Bluebird Island", "A Fool Such As I", "Marriage Vow", "With This Ring I Thee Wed", "These Hands", "The Rhumba Boogie" and "Music Makin' Mama From Memphis". Also recorded is the single "I'm Asking For A Friend" (RCA 47-7803, October) and "Dreamer's Island" (first released on the 12-CD box-set "The Singing Ranger, Vol. 3 (1958-1968)" (Bear Family BCD 15502) in 1992. Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass on Sept. 12) ; Joe Zinkan (bass on Sept. 13) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; William Ackerman (drums on Sept. 12) ; Buddy Harman (drums on Sept. 13) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio.
September 13, 1960 : One-track session by THE SHADOWS, the instrumental group from the UK. "F.B.I." will be released in February 1961 on Columbia DB 4580 (a # 6 hit in the UK). The lower deck, "Midnight", will be cut on October 26. US release on Atlantic 2111 (July 1961), coupled with "The Frightened City". The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
September 14, 1960 : Four-track session for JESSIE HILL at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans. "High Head Blues" is released in late September (Minit 616) as the B-side of "Scoop Scoobie Doobie" (recorded on August 31). "I Got Mine"/"Oh Me Oh My" is the subsequent single (Minit 622, February 1961). "Get In Touch" is first released on the LP "Y'All Ready Now?" (Charly CRB 1169, UK) in 1987. Personnel : Jessie Hill (vocals / tambourine) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / arranger / producer). More details unknown.
September 15, 1960 : NARVEL FELTS does a one-off session for MGM, but nothing is issued at the time. "Why Don't You Love Me", "Come Back Baby" and "Remember Me (I'm the One Who Loves You)" see their first release in 1986 on the LP "A Teen's Way" (Bear Family BFX 15242). Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Grady Martin (tic tac bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
September 15, 1960 : THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES do a four-track session in New York City. "Money Honey"/"My Heart's On Fire" is chosen for single release (Atco 6180, October). "I Need You Baby" and "Every Day" are consigned to the vaults. Personnel : David Ford, Curtis Williams, Eddie Williams, Ray Brewster (vocals) ; George Barnes (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Dick Vance, Taft Jordan (trumpets) ; King Curtis, Jerome Richardson (saxes) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Ted Sommer (drums).
September 15, 1960 : Another Minit sesson at Cosimo's Recording Studio. AARON NEVILLE records "Get Out Of My Life"/"Show Me the Way" (Minit 618, December) and "Don't Cry"/"Reality" (Minit 624, March 1961) for his next two singles. Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Alvin 'Red' Tyler (baritone sax) ; Nat Perrilliat (tenor sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet ) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums). (Michel Ruppli mentions October 25, 1960, as the date of this session, in his Aladdin / Imperial discography.)
September 15, 1960 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON is back at the Chess Studio in Chicago. "Too Close Together"/"Trust My Baby" becomes the new single in late October (Checker 963). "Down Child" is first released in 1965 on Checker 1134 (c/w "Bring It On Home" from a 1963 session) and "This Old Life" will eventually appear on the LP "Bummer Road" in 1969. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (Rice Miller) (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood, Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
September 15-17, 1960 : During a three-day session in Nashville (RCA Victor Studio), ROY ORBISON records eight tracks, seven of which will be included on Roy's first Monument LP, "Lonely And Blue" (M 4002, December) : "Bye Bye Love", "Cry", "Come Back To Me My Love", "(I'd Be) A Legend In My Time", "Twenty-two Days", "I'm Hurtin'" and "I Can't Stop Loving You". The last two were also released as a single (Monument 433, November, a # 27 hit). The eighth track, "Darkness", was first released in 1983 on a bonus EP (Monument XPS 178, UK) which accompanied the 2-LP set "The Roy Orbison Collection" (Monument MNT 10041). Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; Howard Carpenter (viola) & 5 violin players. Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Bob Moore. Executive producer : Fred Foster.
September 16, 1960 : Penultimate Mercury session by BOYD BENNETT, in Nashville, probably Bradley Studio. Two singles are the result : "Big Junior"/"Hershey Bar" (Mercury 71724, November) and "Coffee Break"/ "The Brain" (Mercury 71813, June 1961). Arranged and conducted by Cliff Parman.
September 17, 1960 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record "Walk Right Back" at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Released in January 1961 on Warner Bros 5199 (c/w "Ebony Eyes", from a future session, November 1). Peak position in Billboard : # 7. There is also a first attempt at "Temptation". This version will first appear as a bonus track on the CD "It's Everly Time / A Date With the Everly Brothers" (WB 9362 47869-2) in 2001. Produced by Wesley Rose.
September 19, 1960 : At United Recording Corporation in Hollywood, JOHNNY BURNETTE records the biggest hit of his career, "You're Sixteen"/ "I Beg Your Pardon" (Liberty 55285, October 5, # 8 USA, # 3 UK). The third track, "It's My Way", is first released in 1989 on the CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 7 92924 2, UK). Personnel : Bobby Gibbons, Vincent Terri, Alfred Viola (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Plus two violas and eight violin players. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
September 20, 1960 : The instrumental group THE PILTDOWN MEN cuts the B-side of their second single, "Bubbles in the Tar" (Capitol 4460, mid- October), an adaptation of "The Fat Man" by Fats Domino. Personnel : Scott Gordon, Jackie Kelso (saxes) ; Bob Bain (guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (six-string bass) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger). Plus an unnamed timpani player from the L.A. Philharmonic. The A-side, "Piltdown Rides Again" (based on Rossini's "William Tell Overture"), was probably recorded at an earlier session in September. For this track, the above-mentioned musicians are joined by a full horn section, which includes Conrad Gozzo and Mannie Klein on trumpets, alongside some French horn players from the L.A. Philharmonic. No chart action in the USA, but in the UK the disc peaks at # 14. Produced by Ed Cobb and Lincoln Mayorga at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
September 20, 27, 1960 : CLIFF RICHARD's second session
of this month yields a second version of "Now's the Time To Fall In
Love" (previously attempted in July), which will end up as the B-side of
"A Girl Like You" (to be recorded on January 28, 1961) in June 1961
(Columbia DB 4667) and "Michelle", which is eventually released in
2008 on Cliff's 8-CD box-set "And They Said It Wouldn't Last (My 50 Years
In Music)". On September 27, two more tracks are laid down :
"True Love Will Come To You" (for the "Listen To
Cliff" LP, Columbia SX 1320, April 1961) and "First Lesson In
Love" (unreleased version). Backing by the Shadows, under the usual
supervision of Norrie Paramor in London.
September 20-21, 1960 : THE HIGHWAYMEN record twelve tracks for their first LP, simply titled “The Highwaymen” (United Artists UAL 3125). Two tracks are rush-released as a single, “Michael” and “Santiano” (United Artists 258). It does nothing at first, but enters the Billboard Hot 100 on July 10, 1961, and eventually peaks at # 1 (for two weeks). Produced by Don Costa in New York City.
September 21, 1960 : DAMITA JO records an answer song to
"Save the Last Dance For Me", called "I'll Save the Last Dance
For You" (Mercury 71690, rush-released, c/w "Forgive" from an
earlier session). A # 22 hit. "I Didn't Know I Was Crying" (71929)
and "Joey" (71946) are also released as singles, but not until 1962.
"It's Too Soon To Know" appears on an EP (Mercury MEP 14235, France)
in late 1960. Orchestra arranged and conducted by Cliff Parman.
September 21, 1960 : In Cincinnati, AMOS MILBURN and CHARLES BROWN record one side each of a single for the Xmas season (King 5405, late November). Milburn's song is "Christmas Comes But Once A Year", while Brown's side is "Please Come Home For Christmas".
September 23, 1960 : In New York City (Decca Studio A) THE KALIN TWINS record the A-sides of their next two singles : "Zing, Went the Strings Of My Heart" (Decca 31169, October) and "Momma Poppa" (Decca 31220, February 1961, c/w "You Mean the World To Me" from a session on August 6, 1958). The B-side of "Zing …", "No Money Can Buy" is laid down on September 26. Orchestra conducted by Leroy Kirkland on "Zing …", by Bob Hersey on the other two tracks. Producer unknown.
September 26, 1960 : THE FOUR PREPS pay another visit to the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Their next single is "Balboa"/"I've Already Started In" (Capitol 4478, November). Also recorded is the B-side of the future # 96 hit "Calcutta" (to be recorded on December 27) : "Gone Are the Days" (Capitol 4508, January 1961), an adaptation of "Old Black Joe". Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore.
September 26, 1960 : MICKEY AND SYLVIA are in New York City to record "This Is My Story" for their next single (RCA 47-7811, November, c/w "What Would I Do", recorded on July 20, 1960). A second track, "Gonna Work Out Fine", is shelved until is it rescued by Bear Family in 1990 (included on the double CD "Love Is Strange", BCD 15438). Personnel : Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Sylvia Robinson (vocals / guitar) ; Carl Lynch, Charles Macey, Kenny Burrell (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus a 7-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged by Sammy Lowe. Produced by Hugo and Luigi.
September 27, 1960 : FARON YOUNG is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record his next single, "Forget the Past"/"A World So Full Of Love" (Capitol 4463, November). Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 20 and # 28 respectively. Personnel : Darrell McCall (harmony vocals) ; Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 27-30, 1960 : Four-day session for CONWAY TWITTY, probably at his usual studio in Nashville (Bradley). "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" (his new single, MGM 12962, October, a # 55 hit) and "My Heart Cries" (track for the LP "The Conway Twitty Touch", MGM SE 3943, June 1961) are recorded on the 27th, followed by "Sweet Georgia Brown", "That's Where My Lovin'Goes" (LP tracks) and "Don't You Dare Let Me Down" (MGM 12969, December) on the 28th. "The Flame" becomes the B-side of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and "C'est Si Bon" (a # 22 hit) the A-side of "Don't You Dare Let Me Down". Together with the unissued (until the Bear Family box-set) "Send Her To Me", these are laid down on the 29th. Finally on September 30, Conway records "Long Black Train" for the "Twitty Touch" LP (also released as a single in 1971, MGM 14274). Two other tracks from this day are unissued / lost : "Baby That's What It Takes" and "Have I Stayed Away Too Long". Personnel (probably) : Al Bruno, Ray Edenton, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax on the 28th) ; Jack Nance (drums). Plus a string section and vocal chorus. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
Wednesday, September 28, 1960 : LATTIE MOORE records what will become his biggest seller, "Drunk Again"/"Driving Nails" (King 5413, mid-October). A # 25 country hit. There is also a possibility that this is the day on which King bought the masters from Lattie. Location unknown.
September 28, 1960 : 13-year old TONY ROSSINI records his first Sun single, “I Gotta Know (Where I Stand)”/“Is It Too Late (To Say I’m Sorry)”. It will be released on November 14, on Sun 349. Three other songs from this session remain unissued : “More Than Anything”, “You Don’t Love Me” and “Be Mine”. Personnel : Roland Janes, Steve Cropper (guitars) ; Booker T., Jones (bass) ; Ace Cannon (sax) ; Al Jackson (drums) ; Unknown (piano, strings, vocal Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Scotty Moore at the Sun studio in Memphis.
September 29, 1960 : JOHNNY BOND cuts his next two
singles in Hollywood, probably at Radio Recorders. "X-15"/"The
Way A Star Is Born" is released in October (Republic 2008) and "Side
Car Cycle"/"Like Nothin' Man" in December (Republic 2010). An
earlier, unissued version of "X-15" was recorded on September
1. Joe Maphis plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Joe
Johnson.
September 29, 1960 : JAMES BROWN records seven songs in Los Angeles, mostly future B-sides. From now on his records will be released on King instead of Federal. The first King single is "And I Do Just What I Want" (King 5423, November, B-side of "The Bells", to which we will return next month). "I Don't Mind"/"Love Don't Love Nobody" is released in April 1961 (King 5466), "Baby You're Right" in July 1961 (King 5524), "Just You And My Darling" in August 1961 (King 5547) and "Come Over Here" in July 1962 (King 5657). "So Long" ends up on the LP "Think!" (King LP 683, December). Personnel : Bobby Roach (guitar) ; Al Clark (bass) ; Bobby Byrd (piano) ; J.C. Davis and St. Clair Pinkney (tenor saxes) ; Nat Kendricks (drums).
September 29, 1960 : SANDY NELSON records his second LP, "He's A Drummer Boy" (Imperial LP 9136, January 1961). Tracks : "Cool Operator", "Feet Beat", "Linda Lou", "Bullfrog", "Tough Beat", "Raunchy", "Jive Talk", "Jumpin' Jungles", "The Flip", "Big Noise From the Jungle", "Walkin' To Hartford" and "Tim Tam". Also released as a single are "Cool Operator"/ "Jive Talk" (Imperial 5708, November) and "Big Noise From the Jungle" (Imperial 5745, May 1961, c/w "Get With It" from a later session). Personnel : Sandy Nelson (drums / producer) ; Rene Hall (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Bruce Johnston (piano) ; Jackie Kelso (sax). Plus maybe one or two others. Location is Los Angeles.
September 29, 1960 : On this day ERNIE FREEMAN is also in Los Angeles, with his combo, to cut ten tracks for the LP "The Dark at the Top of the Stairs" (Imperial LP 9133, December) : "The Twist", "My Heart Has A Mind Of Its Own", "Night Theme", "Volare", "O Sole Mio (It's Now Or Never)", "Only the Lonely", "Walking To New Orleans", "Save the Last Dance For Me", "Devil Or Angel" and "Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini". The album's title song and its flip were recorded on September 8. "The Twist" is selected for single release (Imperial 5793, November 1961, c/w "Shine On Harvest Moon", recorded on October 31, 1961) and will spend one week at # 93 on the Billboard charts.
September 1960, unknown dates : ETTA JAMES has two sessions this month, both in Chicago. During the first one she records the single "Spoonful"/ "It's A Crying Shame" (with Harvey Fuqua, credited to Etta and Harvey, Chess 1771, November) and the LP tracks "Plum Nuts" (Argo LP 4011, "The Second Time Around", 1961) and "Nobody But You" (Argo LP 4013, "Etta James", 1962). Five tracks are laid down at the second session : "Anything To Say You're Mine" (Argo 5385, February 1961), "Seven Day Fool" (Argo 5402, October 1961), "In My Diary" and "I'll Dry My Tears" (both for Argo LP 4011) and "You Can Count On Me" (Argo LP 4013). Arranged by Riley Hampton, produced by Leonard Chess.
September 1960, unknown date : EDDIE NOACK records the single "Firewater Luke"/"I Slipped Out Of Heaven" (Mercury 71705, October) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Unknown (steel guitar) ; Curley Herndon (fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Roger Miller (harmony vocals on "Firewater Luke"). Produced by Shelby Singleton.
September (or October) 1960, unknown date : THE PLATTERS, now with Sonny Turner as their lead singer, cut four tracks at an unknown location. "It's Magic" will be issued as a single in November 1961 (Mercury 71921, c/w "Reaching For A Star" from a later session) and is their last chart entry on Mercury (# 91). "The Nearness Of You" and a new version of "You'll Never Know" are tracks for the 1961 LP "Song For the Lonely" (Mercury MG 20669), which also includes "It's Magic". "The Masquerade Is Over" is eventually released on the Bear Family box-set "Four Platters And One Lovely Dish" (BCD 15741) in 1994.
(Circa) September 1960, unknown dates : THE SHIRELLES cut eight tracks during this month, at two separate sessions. The harvest of the first session is : "Boys" (the B-side of their next single, Scepter 1211), "Johnny On My Mind", "Lower the Flame" and "Oh What A Waste Of Love" (all for the album "Tonight's the Night", Scepter LP 501, late 1960). Personnel : Shirley Owens, Micki Harris, Doris Kenner, Beverly Lee (vocals) ; Mickey Baker (guitar) ; Wally Richardson (bass guitar) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Carole King (percussion). The second session yields the # 1 hit "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" (Scepter 1211, November, early pressings under the title "Tomorrow") and three more tracks for the "Tonight's the Night" LP : "Unlucky", "You Don't Want My Love" and "Tonight At the Prom". Personnel this time : the same four girl vocalists, King Curtis (tenor sax on "Unlucky") ; Carole King (piano / timpani / strings arrangement on "Will You Love Me Tomorrow") ; Gary Chester (drums) : Unknown (guitar, bass, cello, 4 violins). Both sessions produced by Luther Dixon in New York City.
With thanks to Bill Daniels, the late Roy Simonds and the late Stuart Colman.
Dik
OCTOBER 1960
October 1, 1960 : SAM COOKE records the A-side of his next single, "Sad Mood" (RCA 47-7816, November, c/w ""Love Me" from a session on April 13, 1960). A # 29 pop hit (# 23 R&B). Also cut is "Tenderness", which sees its first release on the LP "Three Great Guys : Paul Anka, Sam Cooke And Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2720) in March 1964. And one other, unknown title. Arranged and conducted by Sammy Lowe, produced by Hugo and Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
October 1, 1960 : MEL TILLIS does another session for Columbia. His new single is "Walk On Boy"/"Say" (Columbia 41863, November). "If I Lost Your Love" is also released as a single (Columbia 42262, April 1961, c/w "Party Girl" from a session on March 13, 1961). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 4, 1960 : Only six days after his last session, JAMES BROWN is
back in Los Angeles to record another four tracks. "The Bells"
is chosen as the next single (King 5423, November, c/w "And I Do Just
What I Want" from the week before). "Hold It" and "The
Scratch" (two instrumentals) are released on King 5438 in January 1961.
"Tell Me What Cha Gonna Do" is held in the can until mid-1964 for
release on King 5922. Personnel : J.C. 'Billy' Davis, St. Clair Pinkney (tenor
saxes) ; Al Clark (baritone sax) ; Bobby Roach (guitar) ; Bernard Odum (bass) ;
Bobby Byrd (piano) ; Nat Kendricks (drums).
Tuesday, October 4, 1960 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS records "The Face" for their next single (Challenge 59097, November, c/w "Tough Train" from a session on August 25, 1960). Location is Hollywood, probably Gold Star Studio. Arranged by Dave Burgess, produced by Joe Johnson.
October 4, 1960 : JIM REEVES records his future hit “The Blizzard” at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville, along with four LP tracks. Coupled with “Danny Boy” from a later session (January 30, 1961) it will reach # 4 on the country charts and # 62 on the pop charts. Released in February 1961 on RCA 47-7855. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, John D. Loudermilk, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 4, 17, 1960 : RONNIE HAWKINS records the LP "Ronnie Hawkins Sings the Songs Of Hank Williams" (Roulette R 25137, December) during two days of sessions at Bradley Studio in Nashville. The tracks are: "Cold Cold Heart", "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry", "Hey Good Looking", "Jambalaya", "I Can't Help It", "Your Cheating Heart", "You Win Again", "Weary Blues From Waitin'", "Lonesome Whistle", "Nobody's Lonesome For Me", "Ramblin' Man" and "There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight". Two tracks are issued as a single : "Cold Cold Heart" and "Nobody's Lonesome For Me" (Roulette 4311, December). Personnel : Hank Garland (lead guitar) ; Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Owen Bradley (piano) ; Levon Helm (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Reisman.
October 5, 1960 : Another session by LITTLE ANTHONY and the Imperials.
"Limbo, Part 1"/"Limbo, Part 2" is rush-released on End
1080 and "Formula Of Love" also sees a release before the end of 1960
(End 1083). The flip of that single, "Dream", is recorded on October
26, along with the album tracks "If You Are But A Dream", "I
Couldn't Sleep A Wink Last Night" and "I've Got A Crush On You"
(End LP 311, "Shades Of the 40's", December). Produced by George
Goldner at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
October 5, 1960 : LLOYD PRICE cuts his next single, "You Better Know What You're Doing"/"That's Why the Tears Come And Go" (ABC-Paramount 10162, November, a # 90 hit). "Say I'm the One" is saved for a later single (ABC- Paramount 10197, March 1961, c/w "One Hundred Percent", from a session on February 9, 1961). "I'm A Stagger Lee Man" remains unissued. Arranged, conducted and produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
October 6, 1960 : JACKIE DeSHANNON is back at Liberty Records. Her new single is "Lonely Girl"/"Teach Me" (Liberty 55288, October 25). "Shed A Tear" and "I'm Gonna Search" have never been issued and are probably lost. Personnel : Bill Pitman, Howard Roberts, Irving Ashby (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Dick Glasser (unknown instrument) ; Frank Capp (percussion). Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recorders in Hollywood.
October 6-7, 1960 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates do a four-track session at the EMI Studio in London (Abbey Road). Covers of "Linda Lu" and "Let's Talk About Us" are released as a single (HMV POP 853) on March 24, 1961. The other two tracks, "Big Blon' Baby" and "Weep No More My Baby" (cut on October 7) will be included on the Various artists LP "Saturday Club" (Parlophone PMC 1130), which is released on December 2. Personnel : Johnny Kidd (vocals) ; Alan Caddy (guitar) ; Brian Gregg (bass) ; Clem Cattini (drums).
October 7, 1960 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, ELVIS PRESLEY records the title song of the movie "Flaming Star". It is first released on the EP "Elvis By Request" (RCA LPC 128) in April 1961, which peaks at # 14 on the Billboard Hot 100. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Tiny Timbrell (guitars) ; Meyer Rubin (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Jimmie Haskell (accordion) ; Bernie Mattinson (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Urban Thielmann. See also October 30-31.
October 7, 1960 : THE SHADOWS are at EMI's Abbey Road studio to record the follow-up to their # 1 hit "Apache". "Man Of Mystery"/"The Stranger" is released on November 4 (Columbia DB 4530) and will peak at # 5 on the UK charts. Also recorded is "Theme From Giant", which will come out on an EP called "The Shadows" (Columbia SEG 8061) in December. The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor. See also October 26.
October 10, 1960 : SKEETER
DAVIS records five answer songs at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. They
will be released on the LP “Here’s the Answer” (RCA LPM 2327, January 1962),
which contains both the original versions (by other RCA artists) and
Skeeter’s answers. Titles : “I Want To See You (Just One Time)”, “I Really Want
You To Know”, “He’ll Have To Stay”, “Tell Tommy Miss Him” and “My
Last Date (With You)”. The latter is selected for single release (RCA
47-7825, December, c/w “Someone I’d Like To Forget”, recorded on May 13,
1960) and reaches # 5 on the country charts and # 26 on the pop charts.
Personnel : Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd
Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
Plus a string section. Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 12, 1960 : The final United Artists session of THE CLOVERS yields four tracks that will make up their last two 45s on the label. "Burning Fire"/"Yes It's You" is released in November (United Artists 263) and "Have Gun (Will Travel)"/"The Honeydripper" in April 1961 (United Artists 307). The Clovers are : Buddy Bailey, Billy Mitchell, Matthew McQuater, Harold Lucas and Harold Winley. King Curtis plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Produced by Lou Krefetz and Jesse Stone in New York City.
Thursday, October 13, 1960 : FRANKIE FORD's second Imperial session results in two singles : "My Southern Belle"/"The Groom" (Imperial 5706, November) and "Let 'em Talk"/"What Happened To You" (Imperial 5776, September 1961). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Studio in New Orleans.
October 13, 1960 : At the new Sun studio in Memphis, backing tracks
are recorded for three songs by JERRY LEE LEWIS : "When I Get
Paid"/"Love Made A Fool Of Me" (issued on Sun 352 on November
14) and "No More Than I Get" (first released in October 1975 on the
LP "Rare Jerry Lee Lewis, Vol. 2", Charly CR 300 007, UK). Personnel
: Scotty Moore, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Larry Muhoberac
(piano) ; Fred Ford, Ronnie Capone, Robert Alexius (horns) ; Jimmy Van Eaton
(drums). Jerry is temporarily banned from playing piano on Union sessions. His
vocals are overdubbed at a later date in October. Produced by Scotty Moore
and/or Charles Underwood.
October 13, 1960 : BOOTS RANDOLPH records a vocal single, "Big Daddy"/ "Bongo Band", for release in January 1961 (RCA 47-7835). Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Boots Randolph (vocals / sax) ; James Rich, Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Unknown (banjo) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 13, 1960 : HANK LOCKLIN records a future single, “From Here To There To You”/“This Song Is Just For You” (RCA 47-7871, April 1961), as well as several LP tracks. A # 12 country hit in the US and a # 44 pop hit in the UK. Personnel : Hank Locklin, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
October 18, 1960 : Fresh out of the US Army, RUSTY AND DOUG have their first session since December 1958. "Louisiana Man"/"Make Me Realize" is selected as their next single (Hickory 1137, January 1961). "Diggy Liggy Lo" will be released in July 1961 (Hickory 1151, c/w a rerelease of "Hey Mae"). The fourth song, "(Our Own) Jole Blon" is used as an LP track (Rusty and Doug Sing Louisiana Man And Other Favorites, Hickory LPM 103, 1961), but is eventually released on a single, as the B-side of a reissue of "Louisiana Man" (Hickory 1575) in July 1970. Personnel : Doug Kershaw (vocals / fiddle) ; Rusty Kershaw (vocals) ; Hank Garland, Ray Edenton, Chet Atkins (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose at RCA Studio B in Nashville.
October 18, 1960 : Six-track session by CONNIE FRANCIS in New York City. Three future Top 10 hits are laid down : "Many Tears Ago" (MGM 12964, October, # 7), "Where the Boys Are" (MGM 12971, January 1961, # 4) and "Breakin' In A Brandnew Broken Heart" (MGM 12995, March 1961, # 7). "Happy New Year Baby" is first released on a Polydor LP ("The Rock Sides, 1957-1964") in 1987 and "On the Outside Looking In" on the 5-CD box-set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boys Are" (Bear Family BCD 15826) in 1995. Also recorded is a German-language version of "My Heart Has A Mind Of Its Own". Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum.
October 24, 1960 : PHIL PHILLIPS does a session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. His next single is "No One Else But You"/"I Love To Love You" (Mercury 71746, December). "Betray" is also released as a single (Mercury 71817, May 1961, c/w "Sweet Affection" from a later session). A fourth track, "Love Is Wonderful" remains unissued. Personnel (probably) : Phil Phillips (vocal / guitar) ; Jerry Kennedy (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Shelby Singleton.
October 24, 1960 : CHARLIE RICH is at 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis (the
new Sun studio) to record four tracks. "Red Man" is an instrumental,
released as Sun 354 on December 10, credited to 'Bobby Sheridan' and coupled
with another instrumental, "Sad News", from a February 1959
session. "Now Everybody Knows" is first issued on the LP "Those
Midnight Blues" (Hallmark SHM 861, UK) in 1974. "Lonely Hurt
Within" stays on the shelf until the release of the 3-CD set "Lonely
Weekends : The Sun Years 1958-1962" (Bear Family BCD 16152) in 1998. The
fourth song from this session, "One Thing You Should Know", is
eventually released in 2000 on the CD "Beyond Your Wildest
Dreams" (on the Dressed To Kill label!). Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals
/ piano) ; Sid Manker (guitar) ; Fred Ford (tenor sax) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass)
; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Charles
Underwood.
October 24, 1960 : NEIL SEDAKA records his next 45, "Calendar Girl"/ "The Same Old Fool" (RCA 47-7829, December) at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. A # 4 hit. Personnel : Al Caiola, Bucky Pizzarelli, Art Ryerson, Bill Suyker (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Jerome Richardson (sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Joe Venuto (percussion). Plus six violins. Arranged by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner. On October 10, 12 and 20, Neil recorded the 12 tracks for the album "Circulate" (RCA LPM 2317, 1961), aimed at an adult audience.
October 25, 1960 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN is in Cincinnati to record "You Hurt Me", the B-side of his next single (King 5428, November, c/w the # 21 R&B hit "Walk Slow", recorded on July 8, 1960). Willie shares the vocals with HANK BALLARD on "I Like To See My Baby", which is first released on the LP "Sure Things" (King LP 739) in March 1961 (and a few months later on the Hank Ballard LP "Let's Go Again", King LP 748). Personnel unknown. Produced by Syd Nathan.
October 25, 1960 : Guitarist ROY MONTRELL (from Fats Domino's band) records an instrumental single, "Mudd"/"The Montrell" (Minit 619, January 1961) in New Orleans. The B-side features a string section.
October 26, 1960 is the recording date of the VARETTA DILLARD single "Mercy Mister Percy"/"A Little Bitty Tear" (Cub 9083, December). "You Don't Know What You're Missing" stays on the shelf until it is released by Bear Family (CD "The Lovin' Bird : Complete Recordings 1958-1961, Vol. 1, BCD 15432) in 1989. King Curtis is the saxophonist, more details unknown. Produced by Otis Blackwell at Regent Sound Studios in New York City.
October 26, 1960 : At Master Recorders in Hollywood, RICKY NELSON records his next single, "You Are the Only One"/"Milkcow Blues", for release on Imperial 5707 in November. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 25 and # 79 respectively. Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Unidentified (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell.
October 26, 1960 : Second October session of the British instrumental group THE SHADOWS. Two tracks are laid down this time. "Midnight" will become the B-side of "FBI" (recorded on September 13) in February 1961 (Columbia DB 4580). "Gonzales" will be issued as a single in several European countries in 1961, but not in the UK, where it sees its first release on the EP "The Shadows, No. 3" (Columbia SEG 8166) in June 1962. Produced by Norrie Paramor in London.
October 26-28 and 30, 1960 : Busy times for WANDA JACKSON at Bradley Studio in Nashville. An entire LP is recorded, "There's A Party Goin' On" (Capitol T 1511, January 1961), as well as two singles. The album tracks are : "Kansas City", "Fallin'", "Sparkling Brown Eyes", "Hard Headed Woman" (all recorded on the 26th), "Bye Bye Baby", "It Doesn't Matter Anymore", "Lonely Weekends", Tweedle Dee" (all recorded on the 27th), "Tongue Tied", "There's A Party Goin' On", "Lost Weekend" and "Man We Had A Party" (all recorded on October 30). The two singles are cut on the 28th : "Riot In Cell Block # 9"/"Little Charm Bracelet" (Capitol 4520, February 1961) and "Right Or Wrong"/"Funnel Of Love" (Capitol 4553, April 10, 1961, a # 29 pop hit, also # 9 country). Personnel : Roy Clark (electric guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; more details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 27, 1960 : Historic session by BEN E. KING, his second solo session after leaving The Drifters. The single "Spanish Harlem"/"First Taste Of Love" is released in late November (Atco 6185) and reaches # 10 on the pop charts (# 15 R&B). "Stand By Me" follows in April 1961 (Atco 6194, c/w "On the Horizon" from a session on March 27, 1961) and is an even bigger hit (# 4 pop, # 1 R&B). Re-released in 1986, "Stand By Me" hits the Top 10 again (# 9 US, # 1 UK). "Young Boy Blues" ends up on the B-side of "Here Comes the Night" (also recorded on March 27, 1961) in September 1961 (Atco 6207). Personnel : Al Caiola, Charles McCracken (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Romeo Penque (reeds) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Phil Kraus (percussion) ; Elise Bretton, Lillian Clark, Myriam Workman (backing vocals) ; Unknown (strings). Arranged by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, with assistance from Phil Spector **. Location : Bell Sound Studios, New York City. [** Peter Stoller: According to Jerry and Mike, Phil Spector did not assist with this production, nor with any other L&S productions. When Phil attended L&S sessions, it was to observe and/or play guitar.]
October 27, 1960 : The last Imperial session by THE SPIDERS results
in the single "Tennessee Slim"/"You're the One"
(Imperial 5714, December). The B-side is a remake of their first Imperial
single from 1954. The Spiders are : Leonard 'Chick' Carbo, Issacher Gordon,
Bill Moore and Oliver Howard. Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Studio in
New Orleans.
October 27, 1960 : First Imperial session for EARL KING, also at Cosimo Studio. He records material for two singles. "Come On, Parts 1 & 2", will be released in December on Imperial 5713. "Love Me Now"/"The Things That I Used To Do" follows in March 1961. Personnel : Earl King (vocals / guitar) ; George Davis (bass) ; Leroy Derbigny (trumpet) ; Morris Bechamin, James Rivers (tenor saxes) ; Edward 'Kidd' Jordan (baritone sax) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
October 27, 1960 : Yet another Imperial session on this day, probably in Los Angeles, by pianist RAY JOHNSON. He records the vocal single "Miss Marty"/"Lost In the Night" (Imperial 5709, November). Label credit goes to "Ray Johnson And His Music".
October 30-31, 1960 : ELVIS PRESLEY is in RCA Studio B in Nashville to
record the gospel LP "His Hand In Mine" (RCA LPM 2328, rush-released
on November 10). Tracks : "His Hand In Mine", "I'm Gonna Walk
Dem Golden Stairs", "In My Father's House", "Milky
White Way", "Known Only To Him", "I Believe In the
Man In the Sky", "Joshua Fit the Battle", "He Knows
Just What I Need", "Swing Down Sweet Chariot", "Mansion
Over the Hilltop", "If We Never Meet Again", "Working
on the Building". Also recorded are the future hit singles
"Surrender" (RCA 47-7850, February 1961, # 1) and "Crying
In the Chapel" (RCA 447-0643, April 1965, # 3 USA, # 1 UK). Personnel :
Elvis Presley (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Bob
Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy
Harman, D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Millie Kirkham, The Jordanaires (background
vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes
Monday, October 31, 1960 is the recording date of the BUZZ CLIFFORD single "Baby Sittin' Boogie"/"Driftwood" (Columbia 41786, November). An international hit is the result, but it would remain Clifford's sole chart entry. Peak position in the USA : # 6. Produced by Tony Piano at Columbia Recording Studio, New York City.
October 31, 1960 : THE LOUVIN BROTHERS record their next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "I Love You Best Of All"/"Scared Of the Blues" is released in January 1961 on Capitol 4506 and "I Can't Keep You In Love With Me"/"Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow" in April 1961 on Capitol 4559. Personnel : Charlie Louvin (vocals / guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocals / mandolin) ; Jimmy Capps, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Hank Garland (bass guitar) ; Grandpa Jones (banjo) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Owen Bradley (vibraphone) ; Bill Ackerman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
October 31, 1960 : THE VIBRATIONS record six tracks in Chicago. Their new single is "The Watusi"/"Wallflower" (Checker 969, January 1961), a # 13 R&B hit (also # 25 pop). "I Had A Dream", "Time After Time" and "People Say" will be included on their LP "Watusi!" (Checker LP 2978, spring 1961), along with the two tracks from the single. "Everlasting Love" stays in the can until 2004, when the double CD "The Vibrations Out Of Sight!! The Checker Years" is released. Personnel : Jimmy Johnson, Carl Fisher, Dave Gowan, Don Bradley, Ricky Owens (vocals) ; Matt Murphy (guitar) ; Reggie Boyd (bass) ; Lafayette Leake (piano) ; Johnny Board (tenor sax) ; Phillip Thomas (drums).
October 31, 1960 : JERRY WALLACE is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record his next single, "There She Goes"/"Angel On My Shoulder" (Challenge 59098, November). A # 26 hit. "I Can See An Angel Walking" will be used as the B-side of "Life's A Holiday" (recorded on February 15, 1961) in April (Challenge 9107). Produced by Joe Johnson.
October 1960, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE records another single for the Era label, "This Hotel"/"The River And the Mountain" (Era 3033, November). Produced by Joe Saraceno at United Recording Corporation, Hollywood.
October 1960, unknown date : RAL DONNER cuts four tracks in Orlando, Florida. "The Girl Of My Best Friend"/"It's Been A Long Long Time" will be released on Gone 5102 in February 1961. It will give Ral his first chart entry, peaking at # 19. The other two tracks from this session, "Loneliness Of A Star" and "And Then" will appear in June 1963, on the small Tau label (# 105) from West Palm Beach, Florida. "And Then" was originally planned for release on Gone 5108 in 1961 (c/w "To Love"), but this single was withdrawn. Produced by Prewitt Rose and Jan Hutchins. Backing credit goes to "The Starfires".
October 1960, unknown date : ETTA JAMES does a four-track session in Chicago. Three of the four songs will be issued on three separate 45s : "At Last" (Argo 5380, December, # 2 R&B, # 47 pop), "Trust In Me" (Argo 5385, February 1961, # 4 R&B, # 30 pop) and "A Sunday Kind Of Love" (Argo 5393, May 1961, B-side of the # 6 R&B hit "Don't Cry Baby", recorded in March 1961). "Stormy Weather" is a track for the LP "At Last!" (Argo LP 4003, August 1961), which also contains the other three tracks from this session. Arranged and conducted by Riley Hampton, produced by Leonard and Phil Chess.
October 1960, unknown date : BUDDY KNOX records five tracks during his first session for Liberty, in Hollywood. "Lovey Dovey"/"I Got You" is his first single for the label, released on November 1 (Liberty 55290, a # 25 hit). "Ling-Ting-Tong"/"The Kisses" is the next single (Liberty 55305, January 31, 1961, peaks at # 65). "Three-Eyed Man" will be saved until September 1961, for release on Liberty 55366 (c/w "All By Myself" from a later session). Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett.
October 1960, unknown date : THE MIRACLES, 'featuring Bill
"Smokey" Robinson' (as the label says), record "Shop
Around"/"Who's Loving You" (Tamla 54034, October 15) in Detroit.
An earlier version of "Shop Around" was released in Detroit on
September 27, but producer Berry Gordy decided that the song needed to be
re-recorded in order to be more commercially viable outside of Detroit.
Peaking at # 1 R&B (for 8 weeks) and # 2 pop, this was Motown's first
million seller. The backing includes Marvin Gaye on drums and Berry Gordy on
piano.
October 1960, unknown date : RAY PETERSON does his first session for the new Dunes label. It results in the hit single "Corrine, Corrina"/"Be My Girl" (Dunes 2002, November, # 9 pop). Arranged and conducted by Bob Mersey, produced by Phil Spector at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. With thanks to Richard Weize, Bill Daniels, Roy Symonds and Michel Ruppli.
NOVEMBER 1960
November 1, 1960 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS are back in the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville to record four tracks. "Ebony Eyes" is released as a single on January 13, 1961 (Warner Bros 5199, c/w "Walk Right Back", recorded on September 17, 1960). A # 8 hit. "Temptation" will be released on May 12, 1961 (Warner Bros 5220, c/w "Stick With Me Baby" from a session on July 27, 1960). A # 1 hit in the UK, but only # 27 in the USA. "Lonely Island" sees its first release in January 1965, on the LP "Gone, Gone, Gone" (Warner Bros WB 1585). "Why Not" stays in the vaults until the release of the LP "The New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415, UK) in 1977. Produced by Wesley Rose.
November 1, 1960 : The instrumental group THE HOLLYWOOD VINES (aka The Rebels) records the single "When Johnny Comes Slidin' Home"/"Cruisin'" for release on Capitol 4511 in January 1961. Three tracks from this session remain unissued : "Twangy-Ten-Nine", "Cherie" and "Greensleeves". Produced by Nik Venet at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
Wednesday, November 2, 1960 :
At Bradley Studio in Nashville, JOHNNY CASH records "Five Minutes To
Live" and "The Losing Kind", both of which are first
issued on the LP "The Unissued Johnny Cash" (Bear Family BFX
15016) in 1978. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther
Perkins, Johnny Western (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; W.S. Holland
(drums). Produced by Don Law. See also November 26.
November 2, 1960 : H-BOMB FERGUSON does what will turn out to be his last recording session, for Federal in Baltimore. Two singles are the result : "Midnight Ramblin' Tonight"/"Boo Hoo (I'm Crying Boo Hoo Home)" (Federal 12399, January 1961) and "Mary, Little Mary"/"I'm So Lonely" (Federal 12411, April 1961). Also recorded are "The Mess Around" and "Lady Queen", which end up on the LP (along with the other four tracks) on the rare Various artists LP "A Little Rock and Roll For Everybody" (Audio-Lab LP 1567) in 1961.
November 4, 1960 : Four backing tracks are recorded by FATS DOMINO's band in New Orleans (Cosimo's Studio), but only "Just A Little While (To Stay Here)" will be overdubbed with Domino's vocal (at an unknown date). The track will be released on the LP "Let's Dance With Domino" (Imperial LP 9239) in May 1963. The other three unissued titles are : "Angel Child", "This Heart's On Fire" and "Love Don't Love Nobody". Personnel : Clarence Ford, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Unknown (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). See also November 14 and 18.
November 7, 1960 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER cuts five tracks for the LP "Last Date" (RCA LPM 2350, late November) : "Too Young", "Moments To Remember", "Mood Indigo", "I Need You Now" and "Tennessee Waltz". "Mood Indigo" will also be used as the B-side of the future hit "On the Rebound" (RCA 47-7840, January 1961, recorded on December 10, 1960). Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 7-8, 1960 : ELVIS PRESLEY records songs for the film "Wild In the Country" at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The title song becomes the B-side of "I Feel So Bad" (from a later session, RCA 47-7880, May 1961) and charts in its own right (# 26). "Lonely Man" is used as the B-side of "Surrender", recorded on October 30 (RCA 47-7850, February 7, 1961) and peaks at # 32 ("Surrender" # 1). "I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell" appears as the closing track of the LP "Something For Everybody" (RCA LPM 2370) in June 1961. "Forget Me Never" and "In My Way" are first released in 1965 on the LP "Elvis For Everyone" (RCA LPM 3450). Personnel : Elvis Presley (vocals / guitar) ; Scotty Moore and Tiny Trimbell (guitars) ; Meyer Rubin (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano); Jimmie Haskell (accordion on "Lonely Man") ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Urban Thielmann.
November 7-8, 1960 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, JOHNNY PRESTON records two singles, "(I Want A) Rock and Roll Guitar"/"A New Baby For Christmas" (Mercury 71728, rush-released) and "Leave My Kitten Alone"/ "Token Of Love" (Mercury 71761, January 1961, a # 73 hit). The latter two tracks will also appear on the LP "Come Rock With Me" (Mercury MG 20609, January 1961), along with "The Angels Gave You To Me", "Sitting Here Crying", "Do What You Did", "That's All I Want" and "Just Little Boy Blue", all from this two-day session. Originally unissued, but now available on Bear Family are "Chosen Few", "I Played Around With Love" and "Over and Over". Personnel : Hank Garland, Kelso Herston and Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Willie Ackerman (percussion) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Bill Hall.
November 8, 1960 : Guitarist CHET ATKINS records three songs associated with Elvis Presley. "Heartbreak Hotel" and "It's Now Or Never" will be released on the LP "Chet Atkins, The Guitar Genius" (Camden CAL 753) in July 1963. "Blue Moon Of Kentucky" sees its first appearance on the 7-CD box-set "Mr Guitar : 1955-1960" (Bear Family BCD 16539) in 2003. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
November 9, 1960 : JO-ANN CAMPBELL records her next single, "Crazy Daisy", for release in the last week of November (ABC-Paramount 10172, c/w "But Maybe This Year", from a session on July 11, 1960). Also laid down is a remake of Joe Turner's 1955 recording "Boogie Woogie Country Girl", but Jo-Ann's version stays in the vaults until it is included on the Various artists LP "Rockabilly Classics" (MCA LP 25088) in 1987. Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; more details not known. Produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
November 9, 1960 : In Chicago, DEE CLARK records his next single, "Your Friends"/"Because I Love You", for release on Vee-Jay 372 in January 1961. Peak positions in Billboard : # 34 pop, # 30 R&B. Produced by Calvin Carter.
November 10, 1960 : JACK SCOTT is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City to record "Is There Something On Your Mind" and "Found A Woman" for his next Top Rank single (TR 2093, December). As usual, the Chantones provide vocal support, more details unknown. Arranged by Bill Sanford, produced by Sonny Lester.
November 11, 1960 : THE JOHN BARRY SEVEN do another session at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. The result is the instrumental single "Black Stockings"/"Get Lost Jack Frost", which is released on December 2 (Columbia DB 4554). A # 27 hit in the UK. Arranged and composed by John Barry, produced by Norman Newell.
November 14, 1960 : LaVERN BAKER records two duets with JIMMY RICKS, "You're the Boss" and "I'll Never Be Free", which are released back to back in January 1961 (Atlantic 2090). A # 81 pop hit. Personnel : Chuck Wayne (guitar) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Seldon Powell, Phil Bodner (saxes) ; Jimmy Nottingham, Ernie Royal, Joe Wilder (trumpets) ; Urbie Green, Dick Hixson (trombones) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
November 14, 1960 : As on November 4, four backing tracks are laid down intended for FATS DOMINO, but only one track is actually overdubbed : "I Don't Want To Walk Without You" (Imperial LP 9239, LP "Let's Dance With Domino", May 1963). The other (unissued) tracks are : "New Orleans Shuffle", "I Never Knew What Hit Me" and "You Little Rascal". Personnel is the same as on November 4. Location is Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
November 14, 1960 : Another Imperial session on this day, by ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo, in Hollywood. "Hawaiian Eye"/"Heartbreak Hotel" is selected as the new single (Imperial 5716, December). Unissued from this session are "White Cliffs Of Dover" and one other untitled number.
Tuesday, November 15, 1960 : RONNIE SELF does his third session for Decca, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. None of the three tracks - "Ugly Stick", "Some Other World", "Go Go Cannibal" - was released at the time. Bear Family included them on Ronnie's CD "Bop-A-Lena" (BCD 15436) in 1990. Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
November 15, 1960 : In Los Angeles, THE VENTURES record the single “Ram- Bunk-Shush”/“Lonely Heart” (Dolton 32, December 29). A # 29 hit. Two days later, they cut three tracks for their second LP, “The Ventures” (Dolton BPS 2004, February 1961) : “The Shuck”, “Torquay” and “Wailin’”. Further tracks for this album will be recorded on November 30 and December 2.
November 16, 1960 : DAVE
BARTHOLOMEW cuts his next single, "Yeah Yeah"/ "People Are
Talkin'" (Imperial 5724, January 1961), at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (vocals / trumpet / producer) ; Clarence Hall,
Warren Payne (tenor saxes) ; Meyer Kennedy (alto sax) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ;
Frank Fields (bass) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums).
November 16, 1960 : BOBBY CHARLES's final Imperial session results in three tracks that have never been released : "Dog House", "Last Date" and "Little Rascal". Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
November 16, 1960 : RUTH BROWN is in New York City to record her new single, "Sure 'Nuff"/"Here He Comes" (Atlantic 2088, December). Still unissued from this session are "Wishful Thinking" and "Change Your Ways". Personnel : King Curtis, Budd Johnson, George Berg (tenor saxes) ; Danny Moore (trumpet) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Joe Venuto (vibraphone) ; Phil Spector (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Sticks Evans (percussion). Arranged by Howard Biggs and Abie Baker. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
November 16, 1960 : PATSY CLINE's first session under her new Decca contract results in one of her biggest hits : "I Fall To Pieces"/ "Lovin' In Vain" (Decca 31205, release date January 30, 1961). A # 1 country hit (also # 12 pop). Also recorded is "Shoes", first issued (posthumously) on the LP "That's How A Heartache Begins" (Decca DL 4586, November 1964) and also as a single (Decca 25694) in March 1966. Personnel : Hank Garland (electric guitar) ; Harold Bradley (6-string electric bass) ; Randy Hughes (acoustic guitar) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Doug Kirkham (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 17, 1960 : STAN FREBERG starts work on the comedy LP "Stan Freberg Presents the United States Of America, Vol. 1 : The Early Years" (Capitol W 1573, March 1961) with the track "The Discovery Of Electricity" (not on the original LP, first released on the 1989 CD version, Capitol 7 92061 2). "The Declaration Of Independence" follows on November 30. The latter features Stan Freberg as Benjamin Franklin, Coleen Collins as Sylvia, Byron Kane as Thomas Jefferson and Paul Frees as narrator. Overdubs on December 21. Music arranged and conducted by Billy May. Location is the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
November 17, 1960 : CLIFF RICHARD pays another visit to EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. All four tracks from this session will be released on the "Listen To Cliff" LP (Columbia SX 1320, April 1961) : "We Kiss In A Shadow", "Idle Gossip", "Blue Moon" and "Temptation". Produced by Norrie Paramor as usual.
November 17, 1960 : WARREN
SMITH is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to cut his new single, "Odds And
Ends (Bits And Pieces)"/"A Whole Lot of Nothin'" (Liberty 55302,
December 29). Also recorded is a first attempt at "Call Of the Wild",
later included on the CD of the same name (Bear Family BCD 15495, 1990).
Warren would return to the song in May 1961. Produced by Joe Allison.
November 18, 1960 : For the third time this months, backing tracks are recorded for FATS DOMINO. Only one of the four tracks is overdubbed with Domino's vocal, "When You're Smiling", which is eventually issued on the LP "Let's Dance With Domino" (Imperial LP 9239, May 1963). The unissued tracks are "Don't Get Around Much Anymore", "Sugar Blues" and "You Made Me Love You". Location : Cosimo's Studio, New Orleans. Personnel is the same as on November 4 (plus a female chorus).
November 18, 1960 : ROBIN LUKE is at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood to record four tracks. "All Because Of You"/"So Alone" is released as a single in December (Dot 16170). "It Had To Happen" and "Don't Cry, For You I Love" are first issued on the CD "Susie Darlin'" (Bear Family BCD 15547) in 1991. Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers, more details unknown.
November 20, 1960 : DUANE EDDY records his next single, "Pepe"/"Lost Friend", for release in December (Jamie 1175). A # 19 hit in the US and # 2 in the UK. The studio is Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / producer) ; Donnie Owens (guitar) ; David Campbell (bass) ; Jim Horn (sax, flute) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Rebel yells (on "Pepe"), chorus and strings (on "Lost Friend") are overdubbed on the next day, arranged by Larry Knechtel.
Monday, November 21, 1960 : THE PLATTERS have a productive session, completing nine tracks. However, only two of these were considered worthy of release at the time by Mercury Records. The other seven were first issued on the 9-CD Bear Family box-set "Four Platters and One Lovely Dish" (BCD 15741) in February 1994. The titles are : "I Love You Truly", "Love Is" (LP track for Mercury MG 20669, "Song For the Lonely", 1961), "Love Is the Sweetest Thing", "Love Is A Many Splendored Thing", "Don't Let Me Fall In Love", "True Lover" (B-side of the next single, "If I Didn't Care", Mercury 71749, December), "Rear View Mirror", "I Miss You So" and "I Just Got Rid Of A Heartache". Location unknown.
November 21-22, 1960 : CONWAY TWITTY records ten tracks for the LP "The Rock 'n' Roll Story" (MGM E 3907, March 1961), at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Blue Suede Shoes", "Great Balls Of Fire", "Jailhouse Rock", "Treat Me Nice" and "Handy Man" are laid down on the 21st, "The Girl Can't Help It", "Shake, Rattle and Roll", "Diana", "Splish Splash" and "Reelin' and Rockin'" on the 22nd. Personnel : Al Bruno, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Jack Nance (drums). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
November 22, 1960 : BOBBY VEE is at United Recording in Hollywood for a four-track session. "More Than I Can Say" will be released as a single in February 1961 (Liberty 55296, c/w "Stayin' In" from a later session). A # 61 hit (# 4 in the UK). The other three tracks, "Long Lonely Nights", "Angels In the Sky" and "Mister Sandman" will be included on the album "Bobby Vee" (Liberty LRP 3181) in March 1961. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett.
November 23, 1960 : CHARLIE RICH cuts four tracks at the new Sun studio in Memphis, all unissued : "Darlena", Love You With All My Heart", "Tomorrow Afternoon" and a first attempt at "Who Will the Next Fool Be". The tapes have not been found and are probably lost. Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Scotty Moore.
November 26, 1960 : Second November session for JOHNNY CASH, who cuts his next single, "The Girl In Saskatoon"/"Locomotive Man", for release on Columbia 41920 in December. No chart success this time. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Johnny Western (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
November 28-30, 1960 : Three days of sessions for JOHNNY BURNETTE, at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Little Boy Sad"/"Down To the River" is chosen for the next single (Liberty 55298, January 3, 1961). Peaks at # 17 in Billboard. "I Love My Baby" is a track for the album "Johnny Burnette" (Liberty LRP 3183, December 15). "That's the Way I Feel"is first released on the CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 792924, UK) in 1989. Four tracks for LRP 3183 follow on November 29 : "Singing the Blues", "Let's Think About Living", "It's Only Make Believe" and "Oh Lonesome Me". "Dream Lover" and "You're So Fine" from November 30 also end up on LRP 3183, but "Blue Blue Morning" and "Pledge Of Love" (the UK B-side of "Little Boy Sad") will appear on the LP "Johnny Burnette Sings" (LRP 3190, April 12, 1961). Personnel varies, but Bobby Gibbons (guitar), Red Callender (bass), Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) and Jerry Allison (drums) are present on all three days. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
(Probably) November 1960, unknown date : JOE BARRY records the single "I'm A Fool To Care"/"I Got A Feeling" at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. First released on Jin 144 in January 1961, then on Smash 1702 about two months later. A # 24 pop hit, also # 15 R&B. Personnel : Joe Barry (vocals / guitar) ; Cliff Fonseca (guitar) ; Leroy Martin (bass) ; Pat Curole (trumpet) ; Lloyd Toups, Don Stevens (tenor saxes) ; Lanny Boudreaux (piano) ; Sherril Rivet (drums). Produced by Huey Meaux.
November 1960, unknown date : SLIM HARPO records seven tracks at Jay Miller's studio in Crowley, Louisiana. "Rainin' In My Heart" will be released on Excello 2194 in January 1961 (c/w "Don't Start Cryin' Now" from a session in June 1960). A # 34 hit (# 17 R&B). Three tracks will be included on the LP "Slim Harpo Sings Rainin' In My Heart"(Excello 8003, August 1961) : "My Home Is A Prison" and the instrumentals "Moody Blues" and "Snoopin' Around". "Wild About My Baby" is first issued on the Various artists LP "Rockin' Fever : The Legendary Jay Miller Sessions, Vol. 15" (Flyright FLY 540, UK) in 1978. "That's Alright Baby" and "Lover's Confession" have to wait even longer for a release : on the CD "I'm A King Bee" (Ace CDCHD 510, UK) in 1993. Personnel : Slim Harpo (vocals / harmonica) ; Rudolph Richard, James Johnson (guitars) ; T.J. Kitchen (bass) ; Willie "Tomcat" Parker (tenor sax) ; Lazy Lester (harmonica) ; Sammy K. Brown (drums). Produced by J.D. Miller.
November 1960, unknown date(s) : MEMPHIS SLIM records the LP "Chicago Blues : Boogie Woogie And Blues Played And Sung By Memphis Slim" (Folk- ways FG 3536, early 1961). Tracks : "Boogie Woogie Piano Styles", "Alberta", "Scandinavian Boogie", "Between Midnight And Dawn", "46th Street Boogie (Fast Boogie)", "The Big Race", "Chicago Rent Party" and "Down South". Personnel : Memphis Slim (vocals / piano) ; Arbee Stidham (guitar) ; Armond 'Jump' Jackson (drums).
November 1960, unknown date : First Starday session for MOON MULLICAN, at Starday Sound Studio in Nashville. At least eight tracks are recorded (possibly during two separate sessions). Four tracks are released on two singles : "New Jole Blon"/"Farewell" (Starday 527, December) and "Ragged But Right"/"Bottom Of the Glass" (Starday 545, April 1961). "Sweeter Than the Flowers", "I'll Sail My Ship Alone", "Mona Lisa" and "Magnolia Rag" (instr.) will be included on the album "Moon Mullican Playin' And Singin' : The King of the Hillbilly Piano Players" (Starday SLP-135, 1961), along with the other four tracks. Personnel : Moon Mullican (vocals / piano) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (guitar, fiddle). Produced by Tommy Hill.
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Tony Watson, Jarle Jensen and Henk Gorter.
Dik
DECEMBER 1960
December 1, 1960 : After recording twelve songs on November 28-30, JOHNNY BURNETTE takes it easy on the fourth day and cuts only one song, "Crying in the Chapel", which will be included on the self-titled "Johnny Burnette" LP (Liberty LRP 3183, December 15). Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
December 2, 1960 : JIMMY JONES does a two-track session in New York City. "You Got It" will be used as the B-side of "I Told You So" (from an earlier session) in February 1961 (Cub 9085). "Do You Feel Like I Do" has never been released. Produced by Otis Blackwell.
December 3, 1960 : BUCK OWENS is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood where he cuts four songs. "Foolin' Around"/"High As the Mountain" becomes his next single (Capitol 4496, January 2, 1961). Both sides will make the country charts, peaking at # 2 and # 27 respectively. "Think It Over" will be included on the LP "Buck Owens Sings Harlan Howard" (Capitol T 1482) in August 1961 and "Nobody's Fool But Yours" on the album "You're For Me" (Capitol T 1777) in October 1962. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Al Williams (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Jelly Sanders (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 6, 1960 : LaVERN BAKER visits the Atlantic Studio in NYC to record her next single, "Saved"/"Don Juan" (Atlantic 2099, March 1961). It will peak at # 17 R&B and # 37 pop in Billboard. Unissued from this session is "Remember". Personnel : Dick Vance, Taft Jordan (trumpets) ; Al Sears (tenor sax) ; Rudy Powell (alto sax) ; Phil Spector (guitar) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Bert Keyes (piano) ; Lilton Mitchell (organ) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Sticks Evans (bass drum). Arranged by Howard Biggs, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 6, 1960 : SIMON CRUM (the alter ego of Ferlin Husky) records a parody of "Poetry In Motion", which he calls "Enormity In Motion" (Capitol 4499, January 1961). The lower deck, "Cuzz You're So Sweet", also comes from this session. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 7, 1960 : THE MAVRICKS (often misspelled as The Mavericks) record the single "Sugar Babe"/"Angel With A Heartache" (Capitol 4507, January 1961) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Gary Paxton is the lead singer, Nik Venet the producer. More details unknown.
December 7-8, 1960 : ERSEL HICKEY's first and only Kapp session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. On December 7 he records "Teardrops At Dawn" (his next single, Kapp 372, February 1961), "Lips Of Roses" (Kapp 406, June 1961) and "Magical Love" (originally unissued). On the next day these are followed by "I Guess You Could Call It Love" (B-side of Kapp 372), "What Have You Done To Me" (B-side of Kapp 406) and "A Mighty Square Love Affair" (unissued, but since 1993 available on Bear Family BCD 15676, just as "Magical Love"). Grady Martin plays guitar, Floyd Cramer piano, more details unknown.
December 8, 1960 : THE FOUR PREPS record the live LP "The Four Preps On Campus" (Capitol T 1566, June 1961), at North Hollywood High School in Los Angeles. Tracks : "Opening", "Heart And Soul", "More Money For You And Me Medley", "Young And Foolish", "Rock 'n' Roll", "Their Hearts Were Full Of Spring", "Swing Down Chariot", "He's Goin' Away", "Preps Hit Medley" and "In the Good Old Summertime". "More Money For You And Me" and "Swing Down Chariot" are released as a single (Capitol 4599) in July 1961. The A-side reaches # 17 on the Billboard charts, the LP # 8 on the album charts. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore. See also December 27.
December 8, 1960 : STAN FREBERG records more tracks for the LP "Stan Freberg Presents the United States Of America, Vol. 1" (Capitol W 1573, March 1961) : "Columbus Discovers America", "Take An Indian To Lunch" (aka "Pilgrim's Progress") and "The Sale Of Manhattan". Three further tracks are committed to tape on December 29 : "The Midnight Ride Of Paul Revere", "The Boston Tea Party" and "The Thanksgiving Story". Orchestra arranged and conducted by Billy May. Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 9, 1960 : Final Imperial session for SMILEY LEWIS, at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. "Tell Me Who"/"Stormy Monday Blues" is released in January 1961 on Imperial 5719. "These Bones" and "Goin' Down the Road" are first issued on the Bear Family 4-CD set "Shame, Shame, Shame" (BCD 15745) in 1993. Personnel : Clarence Hall, Warren Payne (tenor saxes) ; Meyer Kennedy (alto sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Lawrence Nelson (guitar) ; James Booker (piano) ; Oscar Moore (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus).
Saturday, December 10, 1960 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER, whose "Last Date" is at # 2 in the charts, records the follow-up, "On the Rebound", for release on RCA 47-7840 in January 1961 (c/w "Mood Indigo" from a session on 7th November, 1960). A # 4 hit. Also laid down are "I Can Just Imagine", the future B-side of "San Antonio Rose" (from a later session, RCA 47-7893, May 1961) and "Alma Mater", a track for the LP "On the Rebound" (RCA LPM 2359, March 1961). Personnel : Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
December 13, 1960 is the date of the first Atlantic
session by SOLOMON BURKE. "Keep the Magic Working"/"How Many
Times" is chosen for the first Atlantic single (2089, January 1961).
"Just Out Of Reach (Of My Two Open Arms)" is released in August 1961
(Atlantic 2114) and becomes Burke's first chart entry (# 7 R&B, # 24 pop).
The other side, the frantic "Be Bop Grandma", had already been
recorded on November 6, 1959, for Artie Singer's Singular label (purchased by
Atlantic). Personnel : George Barnes, Billy Bauer, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ;
Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ;
Bert Keyes (organ) ; Phil Kraus (vibraphone) ; Ted Sommer (drums). Plus
a 7-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged by Ray Ellis, produced by Jerry
Wexler in New York City.
December 13, 1960 : Jerry Lee's sisters FRANKIE JEAN LEWIS and LINDA GAIL LEWIS record two tracks at the Sun Studio in Memphis : "Good Golly Miss Molly" and "Love Made A Fool Of Me". The tracks have never been issued and the tapes are lost. Personnel : Roland Janes (lead guitar) ; Scotty Moore (rhythm guitar / producer) ; Jay W. Brown (bass) ; Stan Kesler (steel guitar) ; Jerry Lee Lewis (piano) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums).
December 13, 1960 : CHARLES BROWN's second session for
King results in the single "Baby Oh Baby"/"Angel Baby"
(King 5439, January 1961). The location is the King studio in Cincinnati,
Ohio.
December 13, 1960 : JIMMY REED does another session for Vee-Jay in Chicago. “Laughing At the Blues”/“Close Together” will be released on Vee-Jay 373 in January 1961. “I’m A Love You” is used as the B-side of “Big Boss Man” (from a session on March 29, 1960) and issued on Vee-Jay 380 in March 1961. ”You Know You’re Looking Good” ends up on the LP “Jimmy Reed … Now Appearing” (Vee-Jay LP-1025) in early 1961. Four other tracks are recorded, all unissued. Personnel : Jimmy Reed (vocals / harmonica ) ; Lefty Bates, Eddie Taylor (guitars) ; Earl Phillips (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). With thanks to Bill Daniels, Frank Frantik and John Klompenhouwer.
December 13-15, 1960 : During three evenings of sessions, HANK THOMPSON cuts the LP "An Old Love Affair" (Capitol T 1544, July 1961). Tracks : "I Dreamed Of An Old Love Affair", "It's My Fault", "Just An Old Faded Photograph", "Sing Me Something Sentimental", "I'll Be Around", "I've Convinced Everybody But Myself", "Paying Off the Interest With My Tears", "I'd Like To Tell You", "I Keep Meeting Girls Like You", "Just A Little While", "I Gotta Have My Baby Back"and "My Old Flame". Also recorded (on December 15) are the A-sides of two future country hits : "Oklahoma Hills" (Capitol 4556, April 1961, # 7) and "Hangover Tavern" (Capitol 4605, July 1961, # 12). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Billy Gray, Merle Travis (guitars) ; Bobby Garrett (steel guitar) ; Al Williams (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Billy Armstrong, Harold Hensley, Bob White (fiddles) ; Gwin Nichols (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 14, 1960 : The third session by THE PILTDOWN MEN results in the single "The Great Impostor"/"Goodnight Mrs Flintstone", released on Capitol 4501 in January 1961. No chart success in the US, but in the UK, "Goodnight Mrs Flintstone" (the A-side there) reaches # 18. Personnel is probably the same as on the first two sessions : Bob Bain (guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (six-string bass) ; Jackie Kelso, Scott Gordon (tenor saxes) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; And an unnamed timpani player from the L.A. Philharmonic. (Michel Ruppli mentions Earl Palmer as the probable drummer.) Produced by Ed Cobb and Lincoln Mayorga at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 14, 1960 : SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON (Rice Miller) has another session at the Chess studio in Chicago. "The Hunt"/"Stop Right Now" is selected as the next single (Checker 975, March 1961). "Too Young To Die" is first released on the LP "The Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1503, 1965) and "She's My Baby" on "More Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1509) in 1966. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (vocals / harmonica) ; Robert Lockwood Jr., Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass / second vocalist on "The Hunt") ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Odie Payne (drums).
December 15, 1960 : LLOYD PRICE records his next single, "Boo Hoo (I'm Gonna Cry)"/"I Made You Cry" (ABC-Paramount 10177, January 1961), in New York City (Bell Sound Studio). Two other songs remain unissued : "The New Lawdy Miss Clawdy" and "You, Oh! You". Arranged, conducted and produced by Sid Feller.
Monday, December 19, 1960 : In New York City, JOHNNY MAESTRO records the future # 33 hit "What A Surprise", for release on Coed 549 in April 1961 (c/w "The Warning Voice" from a session later in the month). Label credit reads "Johnny Maestro , The Voice Of the Crests". Together with the Crests he cuts "Let True Love Begin", which is first released in 1991 on the two CD-set "Johnny Maestro And the Crests - For Collectors Only" (Collectables CD COL-8812). See also December 29.
December 20, 1960 : Final Josie session by BOBBY FREEMAN, probably in NYC. At least four tracks are recorded. "Miss You So"/"Baby What Would You Do" (Josie 886) is released in February 1961, soon followed by "The Mess Around" (Josie 887, a # 89 hit). "She Said She Wants To Dance" recycles the melody and accompaniment of "Do You Want To Dance" and is released on Josie 889 in May 1961. (Based on Adam Komorowski's liner notes for Sequel NEM CD 621. The date seems unlikely, as Freeman was already contracted to King at this time.)
December 20, 1960 : The first Atlantic session of THE
ISLEY BROTHERS (in New York City) yields two singles : "Jeepers
Creepers"/"Teach Me How To Shimmy" (Atlantic 2092, January 1961)
and "Shine On Harvest Moon"/"Standing On the Dance Floor"
(Atlantic 2100, April 1961). Personnel : Ronald, Rudolph & O'Kelly
Isley (vocals) ; George Barnes, Phil Spector (guitars) ; Milt Hinton
(bass) ; Doc Severinsen (trumpet) ; Frank Rebak (trombone) ; Romeo Penque
(alto sax) ; Jimmy Forrest (tenor sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Gary
Chester (drums) ; Phil Kraus (vibraphone). Plus 11 strings. Arranged and
conducted by Ray Ellis, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 20-22, 1960 : HANK BALLARD and his Midnighters return to the King Studio in Cincinnati to record five tracks. "Let's Go Again (Where We Went Last Night)"/"Deep Blue Sea" becomes their next single (King 5459, February 1961, # 17 R&B, # 39 pop). "Where Is the Love" and "I'm So Crazy About You" end up on the LP "Let's Go Again" (King LP 748, mid-1961) and "You Ain't Nothing But Fine" on the LP "The Twisting Fools" (King LP 781) in February 1962. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Joe Swift (bass) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Pat Patterson (trumpet) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Joe Hardwick (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
December 22, 1960 : NAPPY BROWN records material for two singles in New York City : "Hoonie-Boonie"/"Coal Miner" (Savoy 1594, February 1961) and a new version of "Don't Be Angry", coupled with "Anytime Is the Right Time" (Savoy 1598, April 1961). Personnel : Sam Taylor, Phil Bodner (tenor saxes) ; George Berg (baritone sax) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; John Huston (piano) ; Ray Barretto (congas) ; Shep Shepherd (drums) ; Charles Manz (unknown instrument, probably guitar).
December 22, 1960 : BOBBY DARIN cuts two tracks in New York City. "Similau" (originally recorded by Peggy Lee in 1949) stays in the can until September 1964, when it is released - after being overdubbed on July 8, 1964 - on Atco 6316 as the B-side of "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" (from a session on February 2, 1960). Also laid down is a first unissued version of "Look For My True Love", to which Bobby will return the next month. Personnel : George Barnes, Billy Bauer, Joe Puma (guitars) ; Jack Lesberg (bass) ; John Potoker (organ) ; Gary Chester (drums). Arranged by Ray Ellis, produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
December 23, 1960 : BOBBY BARE is at Hollywood's United Recording Studio for a four-track session. "Book Of Love" (not the Monotones song) will be coupled with "Lorena" for his next single (Fraternity 878, March 1961). "Zig Zag Twist" ends up on the B-side of "Brooklyn Bridge" (from a later session) in December 1961 (Fraternity 890). "Can Can Ladies" will stay in the vaults until the Bear Family box-set "The All American Boy" is released in 1994 (BCD 15663). Personnel : Perry Botkin Jr (guitar) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Robert Florence (piano) ; Bill Pitman (trumpet) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus seven violin players. Produced by Bobby Bare and Barry De Vorzon.
December 27, 1960 : RAY CHARLES records the instrumental single "One Mint Julep"/"Let's Go", for release on Impulse 200 in February 1961. A # 8 pop hit (# 1 R&B). Also recorded is "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts Of Town", which will also be released as an Impulse single (202, May, # 84 pop). Impulse is a subsidiary of ABC-Paramount Records. The location is the Rudy Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Besides Ray himself, who plays organ, there are seventeen other session musicians. Arranged and directed by Quincy Jones.
December 27, 1960 : THE FOUR PREPS record a vocal version of the Lawrence Welk hit "Calcutta". Released on Capitol 4508 in January 1961, c/w "Gone Are the Days" from a session on September 26, 1960. A # 96 hit. The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Marvin Inabnett, Ed Cobb and Glen Larson. Arranged by Lincoln Mayorga, produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 27, 1960 : CONNIE FRANCIS does another session in New York City. The Sedaka-Greenfield composition "Baby Roo" is not originally issued in the USA, but in the UK it will appear as the B-side of "Where the Boys Are" (MGM 1121) in March 1961. The US B-side of "Where the Boys Are" is "No One" (MGM K 12971, January 1961), recorded on this day. Three other tracks remain unissued until the release of the Bear Family box-set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boy Are" (BCD 15826, 1996) : "Without Your Love", "One Tear Too Many" and "Auf Wiederseh'n". Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum. Producer unknown.
December 28, 1960 : One-track session by WYNONIE HARRIS for Roulette, in New York City. "Saturday Night" remains unreleased for decades, but will eventually be included on the CD "Roulette Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 2" (Sequel NEM CD 670, UK) in 1994.
December 28, 1960 : Elvis Presley's former girlfriend ANITA WOOD records "I'll Wait Forever"/"I Can't Show How I Feel" at the new Sun Studio in Memphis. Released on June 25, 1961 in the USA (Sun 361) and in August 1962 in the UK (London HLS 9585). Personnel : Anita Wood (double tracked vocals) ; Billy Riley (bass) ; Charlie Rich (piano / producer) ; Jimmy Van Eaton (drums). Plus five violin players.
December 29, 1960 : More recording activity by JOHNNY MAESTRO. "Model Girl"/ "We've Got To Tell Them" becomes his next single (Coed 545, January 1961) and the first hit under his own name (# 20). "The Warning Voice" will be used as the B-side of "What A Surprise" (see December 19) for Coed 549. "Keep Away From Carol" by Johnny's group The Crests, also from this session, is first released in 1991 on Collectables COL-8812 (2-CD set "Johnny Maestro And the Crests - For Collectors Only"). Location is New York City.
(Probably) December 1960, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS does a four-track session at A&R Recording Studio in New York City. "Grandma's House"/"I Want To Love You" is selected as his next single (Checker 970, February 1961). "Lovin' Bug" is first issued on the Various artists LP "Chess Rockabillies" (Phonogram 9124213, UK) in 1978 and "One Dozen Roses" on the CD "Rock 'n' Roll Tornado" (Ace CDCHD 693) in 1998. Personnel : Roy Buchanan (guitar) ; Dean Mathis (Fender bass) ; Mark Mathis (piano) ; more details unknown. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
December 1960, unknown date : LITTLE WALTER also does a four-track session for Chess. "I Don't Play"/"As Long As I Have You" is his new single (Checker 968, January 1961). "Just Your Fool" will appear in May 1962 on Checker 1013 (c/w "I Got To Find My Baby" from a 1954 session). "You Don't Know" is first released on the 4-CD set "The Chess Years, 1952-1963" in 1992. Location is the Chess studio in Chicago. Personnel : Little Walter (vocals / harmonica / leader) ; Freddie Robinson, Luther Tucker (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Frank Frantik and Michel Ruppli.
Dik
JANUARY 1961
January 2, 1961 : RAL DONNER, unaware of the success that the new year will bring him, records "I Didn't Figure On Him (To Come Back)", which will be released on Gone 5114 in September as the B-side of the # 39 hit "Please Don't Go" (from a later session). One other track is laid down, "Standing Here", but will be shelved until 1979, when it is included on the LP "You Don't Know What You've Got" (Pye NSPL 28269, UK). The location is Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
Wednesday, January 4, 1961 : One week after recording "Saturday Night", WYNONIE HARRIS is back at the Roulette studio in New York City. Two tracks are committed to tape, "Josephine" and "Did You Get the Message", but they will not see a release until 1994, on the Various artists CD "Roulette Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 2" (Sequel NEM CD 670, UK).
January 4, 1961 : JOHN LEE HOOKER has a session in Chicago for Vee-Jay Records. Of the six tracks recorded, "I'm Going Upstairs"/"I'm Mad Again" is chosen for his new single (Vee-Jay 379, February). "Want Ad Blues" is also released as a 45 (Vee-Jay 397, July, c/w "Take Me As I Am", recorded on April 29, 1960). "Hard Headed Woman" will be issued on the LP "The Folk Lore of John Lee Hooker" (Vee-Jay SR 1033) in June. "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" stays in the can until 1974 (LP "John Lee Hooker In Person", Dynasty LP 7301) and "I Left My Baby" will eventually appear in 1984 on a Charly album ("Solid Sender", Charly CRB 1081, UK). Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Lefty Bates (guitar) ; Jimmy Reed (harmonica) ; Quinn Wilson (bass) ; Earl Phillips (drums).
January 7, 1961 : FARON YOUNG cuts four tracks for the LP "Fan Club Favorites" (Capitol T 1528, February) : "Hello Walls", "Congratulations", "Big Shoes" and "Believing It Yourself". "Hello Walls"/"Congratulations" is also released as a single (Capitol 4533, March) and it becomes his biggest hit (# 1 country for nine weeks, # 12 pop). Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; probably Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (backup vocals) ; more details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 8, 1961 : In Cincinnati, OTIS WILLIAMS and his Charms record the A-sides of their next two singles : "Little Turtle Dove" (King 5455, February) and "You Know How Much I Care" (King 5497, May). The flip- sides, respectively "So Can I" and "Just Forget About Me", were cut on September 15, 1960. Personnel : Otis Williams (lead tenor) ; Rollie Willis, Matt Williams and Winfried Gerald (vocals) ; Henry Moore and J.C. Davis (tenor saxes) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Joe Swift (electric bass) ; Joe Hardwick (drums). Produced by Henry Glover.
January 8-9, 1961 : BRENDA LEE records ten songs in two days at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Only "You Can Depend On Me" will be released as a single (Decca 31231, March, a # 6 hit). Six tracks will appear on the LP "Emotions" (Decca DL 4104, April) : "Around the World", "Just Another Lie", "Georgia On My Mind", "When I Fall in Love", "Cry" and "Will You Love Me Tomorrow". "Fools Rush In" and "Someone To Love (The Prisoner's Song)" will be used for later albums and "Zing! Went the Strings Of My Heart" is first issued on the Bear Family 4-CD set "Little Miss Dynamite" (BCD 15772) in 1995. Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; 4 violin players. Produced by Owen Bradley.
January 8/9/10/11/12, 1961 : DUANE EDDY starts work on a new album, "Girls! Girls! Girls!", which will appear in July (Jamie JLP 3019). Four tracks are laid down on one or more of these five days : "Tuesday", "Sioux City Sue", "Sweet Cindy" and "Connie". Also recorded is a first attempt at "Dixie" (unissued and lost). Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / producer) ; Donnie Owens (guitar) ; David Campbell (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Location : Audio Recorders, Phoenix, Arizona.
January 10, 1961 : In between trials, CHUCK BERRY manages to record three songs in Chicago. "I'm Talking About You" becomes the new single in February (Chess 1779), coupled with "Little Star" from the marathon session in April 1960. "Route 66" and "Rip It Up" will appear as album tracks, on the LP "New Jukebox Hits" (Chess LP 1456) in the summer of 1961. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals / guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; Unknown (bass) ; Ebby Hardy (drums).
January 10, 1961 : HUEY 'PIANO' SMITH and the Clowns have their second session for Imperial. "Snag-A-Tooth Jeanie"/"Don't Knock It" is chosen for (belated) single release (Imperial 5789, September). Two other songs, "Able Mabel" and "The Hill Ain't Far" remain in the can until they are issued on the LP "The Imperial Sides, 1960-61" (Pathe Marconi 1546731, France) in 1983. Arranged by Huey Smith, produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
January 10-11, 1961 : First US session for GENE VINCENT since August 1959. On the 10th, Gene records "Crazy Beat", "I'm Gonna Catch Me A Rat", "It's Been Nice" and "That's the Trouble With Love", all of which will be shelved until March 1963 for the LP "The Crazy Beat Of Gene Vincent" (Capitol T 20543, UK). The next day, he lays down another four tracks. "If You Want My Lovin'"/"Mister Loneliness" is chosen as the new single (Capitol 4525, February). "Good Lovin'" and "Teardrops" also end up on the "Crazy Beat" album. Personnel : Allan Reuss, Scotty Turner (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Allen Reid Breneman (drums). Plus an unknown female chorus and a string section on January 11. Bill Pitman replaces Allan Reuss on guitar on that day. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell, produced by Klaus Engermann at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 11, 1961 : THE CHAMPS do a four-track session at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. "Hokey Pokey"/"Jumping Bean" is selected as their next single (Challenge 59103, March). "Sombrero" is the subsequent 45 (Challenge 9113, June, c/w "The Shoddy Shoddy", to be recorded on 24th March). "Third Man Theme" is first released on the CD "Tequila : The Very Best Of the Champs" (Music Club MCCD 283) in 1996. "Hokey Pokey" features vocals by the group, "Sombrero" has a few vocal interjections. Personnel (probably) : Jerry Cole, Glen Campbell or Dave Burgess (guitars) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
January 12, 1961 : CHRIS KENNER records his biggest hit, "I Like It Like That, Parts 1 & 2", in New Orleans. The record is first released on Valiant 3229 in March, then on Instant 3229 in May. It will reach # 2 on both the pop and the R&B charts. Personnel : Allen Toussaint (piano / organ / producer) ; Roy Montrell (guitar). More details unknown.
January 12, 1961 : Time for a new RAY PRICE single. "Heart Over Mind"/ "The Twenty-Fourth Hour" is released on February 9 (Columbia 41947). Both sides will make the country charts, peaking at # 5 and # 13 respectively. A third track from this session, "I'm Walkin' Slow (And Thinkin' 'Bout Her)", is shelved until the release of the Bear Family 10-CD set "Honky Tonk Years" (BCD 15843) in 1995. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Johnny Paycheck, Pete Wade (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Shorty Lavender, Tommy Jackson (fiddles) ; Steve Bess (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Friday, January 13, 1961 : The final session for the Aladdin label results in the last single to be released in the label : "One Scotch, One Bourbon, One Beer"/"Send Me Some Loving" by THURSTON HARRIS (Aladdin 3468, February). Harris cuts six other tracks, possibly divided over two sessions. "Cross My Heart" and "Fine Fine Frame" will eventually be released in 1986 on the LP "Little Bitty Pretty One" (EMI America SQ 17237). "Got You On My Mind" was scheduled for release on Imperial 5928 in 1963, but was withdrawn. Unissued from this session are "She's All Right", "Lovesick Boy" and "My Heart Stood Still". The location is Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California.
January 13, 1961 : CLYDE McPHATTER records his next single, "Tomorrow Is A-Comin'"/"I'll Love You Till the Cows Come Home", for release on Mercury 71783 in February. The third track from this session at Fine Recording Studio in New York City is "A Whole Heap Of Love", which will appear on Mercury 71809 in May (c/w "You're Movin' Me" from an earlier session). "What Went Wrong" is consigned to the vaults. Arranged and conducted by Belford Hendricks, produced by Clyde Otis.
January 13/14/15/16/17, 1961 : DUANE EDDY continues to record tracks for the "Girls! Girls! Girls!" LP : "Big Liza", "Mona Lisa", "Mary Ann", "Annette" and "Brenda" (medley of "I Want To Be Wanted"/"That's All You Gotta Do"/"I'm Sorry"). Personnel and location are the same as on the previous session(s). All tracks for the LP will be overdubbed in February with vocal choruses (The Anita Kerr Singers, Jordanaires) and some tracks also with strings, at Bradley Studio in Nashville).
January 14, 1961 : BILLY STORM records material for two singles in Los Angeles : "Dear One"/"When You Dance" (Atlantic 2098, March) and "A Kiss From Your Lips"/"I Have My Tears Out To Dry" (Atlantic 2112, July). Personnel includes Plas Johnson (tenor sax), Phil Spector (guitar / producer) and Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown.
January 16, 1961 : BOBBY DARIN is back in the studio for two songs. "Oo-Ee Train" becomes the B-side of "Lazy River" (recorded on August 18, 1960) and is rush-released on Atco 6188. "Look For My True Love" is also used as a B-side, for "Nature Boy" (to be recorded on March 26), released on Atco 6196 in May. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Tommy Tedesco, Phil Spector (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Al Porcino, John Anderson (trumpets) ; Plas Johnson, Johnny Rotella (saxes) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Larry Bunker (percussion) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus, strings). Produced by Ahmet Ertegun in Los Angeles.
January 16, 1961 : DALE HAWKINS cuts three tracks for Checker at A&R Recording Studios in New York City. "Should I" and a new version of "Someday, One Day" have never been issued. "Everglades" was eventually released on Dale's album "Daredevil" (Norton ED/CED 256) in 1997. Backing musicians and producer unknown.
January 16, 1961 : BUCK OWENS records two duets with ROSE MADDOX, "Mental Cruelty" and "Loose Talk", which are released back to back on Capitol 4550 on April 10. Both sides will make the country charts, peaking at # 8 and # 4 respectively. Owens also cuts two solo tracks, "We're the Talk of the Town" and a first attempt at "Under the Influence of Love", which are unissued and lost. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Rose Maddox (vocals) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Al Williams (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Don Rich (fiddle) ; Pee Wee Adams (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 18-20, 1961 : During
three days of sessions in New York City, LLOYD PRICE records the LP "Lloyd
Price Sings the Million Sellers" (ABC-Paramount 366, March). Tracks :
"Ain't That Just Like A Woman", "Will You Love Me
Tomorrow", "Save the Last Dance For Me", "Shop
Around", "At Last", "Corrine Corrina", "The
Hoochie Coochie Coo", "He Will Break Your Heart", "I Count
the Tears", "Spanish Harlem", "Once In A While" and
"C'est Si Bon". Orchestra arranged and directed by Gil Askey.
Produced by Sid Feller.
January 19, 1961 : LULA REED cuts six tracks in Cincinnati, released on three singles. "Puddentane"/"I Got A Notion" comes first (Federal 12416, April). "You Gotta Have That Green"/"Know What You're Doing" follows in July (Federal 12426). The third singles couples "What Makes You So Cold" with "Ain't No Cotton Pickin' Chicken (Gonna Break This Chicken Heart Of Mine)" (Federal 12440, October). Backing by Sonny Thompson and his band : Fred Jordan, Lawrence Frazier (guitars) ; Bill Willis (bass) ; Osborne Whitfield (tenor sax) ; Sonny Thompson (piano / arranger) ; Phillip Paul (drums).
January 20, 1961 : Another Era session by DORSEY BURNETTE. "Hard Rock Mine"/"(It's No) Sin" is chosen as his next single (Era 3041, February). "That's Me Without You" will be used as the B-side of "Great Shakin' Fever" (from a later session) in April (Era 3045). A fourth track, "The Rains Came Down", is first issued in 1962 on the LP "Rainin' In My Heart (Dot DLP 3456). Produced by Joe Saraceno at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
January 22, 1961 : AMOS MILBURN (vocals / piano) and CHARLES BROWN (vocals / organ) record another duet single : "I Wanna Go Back Home"/ "My Little Baby" (King 5464, March), in Cincinnati.
January 22, 1961 : TOMMY TUCKER (the "Hi Heel Sneakers" guy, not the Memphis artist) has his only session for Atco Records, in NYork City. "Rock & Roll Machine"/"My Girl (I Really Love Her So)" is issued on Atco 6208 in September and credited to Tee Tucker. Two other songs, "Wha Aha" and "When the Deal Goes Down" have never been issued. Personnel : Billy Butler (guitar) ; Paul 'Hucklebuck' Williams (bass) ; Hal Mitchell (trumpet) ; Buddy Bell (tenor sax) ; Unknown (piano, vocal chorus) ; Lee Ousley (drums).
Tuesday, January 24, 1961 : DEL SHANNON's second recording session results in his first and most famous release. "Runaway"/"Jody" is issued on Big Top 3067 in February and will hit the top spot of the Billboard Hot 100 on April 24, staying there for four weeks. Also a # 1 in the UK. It is a split session with Max Crook, who records the instrumental single "The Snake"/"The Wanderer" (Big Top 3068, February), credited to MAXIMILIAN. Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Max Crook (musitron / piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Handclaps on "The Snake" by Del Shannon's wife, Shirley Westover, and Max Crook's wife, Joann, plus one other, male clapper, literally dragged off the street for the session. Both singles produced by Harry Balk at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
January 24, 1961 : At Reco-Art Sound Recording Co. in Philadelphia, DANNY AND THE JUNIORS record "Pony Express" and "Daydreamer" for their next single (Swan 4068, February). A # 60 hit. Instrumental accompaniment is provided by the Frank Slay Orchestra. Produced by Frank Slay and Bob Crewe.
January 28, 1961 : CLIFF RICHARD does a four-track session at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. "Theme For A Dream"/"Mumblin' Mosie" is chosen as his new single (Columbia DB 4593, February 24). "A Girl Like You" is the subsequent single (Columbia DB 4667, June 16, c/w "Now's the Time To Fall In Love", recorded on September 20, 1960). Both 45s will reach # 3 on the UK charts. The fourth track, the Johnny Otis number "Tough Enough", will be included on the LP "21 Today" (Columbia SX 1368, October 14). Backing by the Shadows. Produced by Norrie Paramor.
January 30, 1961 : SAM COOKE records the A-side of his next single, "That's It, I Quit, I'm Moving On" (RCA 47-7853, February, # 31 pop, # 25 R&B) and "Farewell My Darling", the B-side of the subsequent 45, "Cupid" (to be recorded on April 14), issued on RCA 47-7883 in May. Two other songs were recorded during this month, possibly on the same day : "What Do You Say" (the reverse of "That's It, I Quit, I'm Moving On") and "Hold On" (first released in 2000 on the 4-CD set "The Man Who Invented Soul"). Orchestra conducted by Sammy Lowe on January 31 and by Ralph Burns on the other date. Production in both cases by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
January 30, 1961 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER cuts nine tracks for the LP "On the Rebound" (RCA LPM 2359, March) : "Wonderland By Night", "Two Of A Kind", "Danny Boy", "Tammy", "First Impression","Let It Be Me", "Faded Love", "Corrine Corrina" and "San Antonio Rose". The latter is also released as a single (RCA 47-7893, May, c/w "I Can Just Imagine" from a session on December 10, 1960) and reaches # 8 on both the pop and the country charts. Personnel : Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Hank Garland, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Howard Carpenter, Dorothy Walker, Lillian Hunt, Brenton Banks (violins) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Anita Kerr, produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
January 31, 1961 : First Nashville session by CONNIE FRANCIS, at Bradley Studio. "Someone Else's Boy" will appear in March, on the B-side of the # 7 hit "Breakin' In A Brandnew Broken Heart" (MGM 12995, recorded on October 18, 1960). One other track is recorded, "Let the Rest Of the World Go By", which is held in the can until it is included on the Bear Family 5-CD box-set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boys Are" (BCD 15826) in 1995. Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; and other, unknown members of the Nashville A-Team. Background vocals by Millie Kirkham and the Jordanaires. Arranged by Cliff Parman, produced by Jim Vienneau.
January 31, 1961 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates record two songs at EMI's Abbey Road studio : "More Of the Same" and "I Just Wanna Make Love To You", a full three years before the Rolling Stones popularized this Willie Dixon/Muddy Waters classic. Both masters were shelved until the release of the LP "Rarities" (See For Miles CM 120) in 1983.
(Circa) January 1961, unknown
date : First post-Roulette session by JIMMY BOWEN. "It's Against the
Law"/"Teenage Dreamworld" is released in March, on Capehart 5005
(a subsidiary of Crest Records in Hollywood). Produced by Jerry Capehart.
(Probably) January 1961, unknown date : BOBBY EDWARDS records his only major hit, "You're the Reason"/"I'm A Fool For Lovin' You". It comes out in February (Crest 1075), but doesn't chart until August (# 11 pop, also # 4 country). Edwards is backed by THE FOUR YOUNG MEN (Wayne Moore, Ernie Williams, Floyd 'Gib' Guilbeau, Darrell Cotton), who also record a single in their own right : "You Been Torturing Me"/"See Them Laugh" (Crest 1076, also February). Location is Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
(Probably) January 1961, unknown date : MIRRIAM JOHNSON (soon to be Duane Eddy's wife) records material for two singles : "The Lonesome Road"/"Young And Innocent" (Jamie 1181, February) and "I Cried Long Enough"/"Making Believe" (Jamie 1193, June). In the 1970s she would achieve success in the country field under the name Jessi Colter. Produced by Duane Eddy, who also plays guitar. Location is probably Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
January 1961, unknown date : Saxophonist RED PRYSOCK records the single "Charleston Twist"/"Bony Moronie" (Mercury 71786, February), along with two unissued tracks, "Whispering Grass" and "No Man's Land". Location is New York City.
With thanks to Mike Thompson, Jim Bartlett and Henk Gorter.
FEBRUARY 1961
Wednesday, February 1, 1961 : PAUL ANKA records his two biggest successes of 1961 : "Tonight My Love, Tonight" (ABC-Paramount 10194, late February, # 13) and "Dance On Little Girl" (ABC-Paramount 10220, May, # 10). The flip-sides of these hits, "I'm Just A Fool Anyway" and "I Talk To You (On the Telephone)", were both recorded in 1959. Arranged and conducted by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Sid Feller in Los Angeles.
February 1, 1961 : THE DRIFTERS record four tracks at Bell Sound Studio in New York City, which will be used as the A-sides of their next four singles : "Some Kind of Wonderful" (Atlantic 2096, March, # 32), "Please Stay" (Atlantic 2105, May, # 14), "Sweets For My Sweet" (Atlantic 2117, August, # 16) and "Room Full of Tears" (Atlantic 2127, November, # 72). The Drifters are : Rudy Lewis (lead tenor) ; Charles Thomas (tenor) ; Dock Green (baritone) ; Tommy Evans (bass). Personnel : George Barnes, Alan Hanlon (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Ed Shaughnessy, Gary Chester (drums) ; Bobby Rosengarden, Ray Kessler (percussion) ; Marcia Patterson, Marion Bye, Lois Winter (background vocals) ; Unknown (strings). Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
February 1, 1961 : The biggest pop hit of 1961 is recorded on this day (7 weeks at # 1) : "Tossin' and Turnin'" by BOBBY LEWIS (Beltone 1002, mid-February). The lower deck, "Oh Yes I Love You", is also laid down at this session. Location is New York City (unknown studio). Personnel : Ritchie Adams, Eric Gale (guitars) ; Bob Bushnell (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax mouthpiece) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; The Swanettes (vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Rene.
February 1, 1961 : SHEP AND
THE LIMELITES record their biggest hit, "Daddy's Home"/"This I
Know" (Hull 740), in New York City. Peak positions : # 2 pop, # 4 R&B.
Produced by Hull's A&R man William Miller, who co-wrote "Daddy's
Home" with James Sheppard (Shep).
February 1, 1961 : Yet another New York session on this day : TITUS TURNER cuts the single "Pony Train"/"Bla, Bla, Cha Cha Cha" (Jamie 1177, rush-released). Most pressings of this single are credited to THE CONDUCTOR, some to Titus Turner. Produced by Mort Garson, whose orchestra also supplies the backing, with the ubiquitous King Curtis on tenor sax.
February 3, 1961 : Three demos by DORSEY BURNETTE, recorded in Los Angeles in the autumn of 1959, are overdubbed with bass, piano, drums and an extra guitar. "Circle Rock"/"House With A Tin Roof Top" is first issued on Imperial 5756 in June, then again on Imperial 5987 in August 1963. "Water Boy" stays in the can until 1994, when the song is included on the CD "Johnny and Dorsey : The Burnette Brothers" (Rockstar RSRCD 005). Studio unknown, probably in Hollywood.
February 3, 1961 : ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo cut the instrumental 45 "Swamp Meeting"/"That's All", for release in the last week of February (Imperial 5732). Unissued from this session is "C.C. Rider, Parts 1 & 2". The location is Los Angeles.
February 4, 1961 : First Nashville session by GUY MITCHELL, at Bradley Studio. "Follow Me"/"Your Goodnight Kiss (Ain't What It Used To Be)" is his next single (Columbia 41970, March 6). A Top 10 hit in New Zealand. Four other tracks are consigned to the vaults ("Breakin' In A Broken Heart", "I'm Learnin'", "Slip Out of the Window", "I Can't Forget Your Love"). Personnel : Scotty Turner (guitar / arranger) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Mitch Miller or Don Law.
February 6/7/8/10, 1961 : DUANE EDDY records the final tracks for the "Girls! Girls! Girls!" LP (Jamie LP 3019, July) : "Patricia", "Tammy" and "Carol". Also laid down are the basic tracks for "Drivin' Home" (overdubbed in Nashville on February 22 and released on Jamie 1195 in July, a # 87 hit) and "Runaway Pony" (overdubbed in Hollywood on April 30, 1962, and issued on Jamie 1224 in May 1962). These two singles are coupled with LP tracks from 1959 ("My Blue Heaven" and "Just Because" respectively). Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / producer) ; Al Casey, Donnie Owens (guitars) ; David Campbell (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Location : Audio Recorders, Phoenix, Arizona.
February 7, 1961 : FRANKIE FORD is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record his next two singles : "Seventeen"/"Dog House" (Imperial 5735, March) and "Saturday Night Fish Fry"/"Love Don't Love Nobody" (Imperial 5749, May). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
February 7, 1961 : LEFTY FRIZZELL does his only session of 1961, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Heaven's Plan"/"Looking For You" is released on April 3rd (Columbia 41984) and "I Feel Sorry For Me" on December 15 (Columbia 42253, c/w "So What! Let It Rain", recorded on May 26, 1960). Personel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dale Potter (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus, poss. the Anita Kerr Singers). Produced by Don Law.
February 7, 1961 is the recording date of the # 3 hit by THE JIVE FIVE, "My True Story"/"When I Was Single" (Beltone 1006, April). The Jive Five are : Eugene Pitt (lead singer), Jerome Hanna and Billy Prophet (tenors), Richard Harris (baritone) and Norman Johnson (bass). Location : New York City, unknown studio.
February 8, 1961 : GEORGE
JONES cuts eight tracks on this day, all released as singles. "Tender
Years"/"The Battle Of Love" (Mercury 71804, April) will spend 7
weeks at the top of the country charts (also # 76 pop). "Did I Ever Tell
You" (# 15 country) and "Not Even Friends" are duets with
Margie Singleton, released back to back in August (Mercury 71856). "Aching
Breaking Heart"/"When My Heart Hurts No More" is the subsequent
single (Mercury 71910, January 1962, # 5 country). "Waltz of the
Angels" (another duet with Margie Singleton, # 11 country) is
released in May 1962 (Mercury 71955, c/w "Talk About Lovin'" from
a session in July 1961). "I Want To Be Where You're Gonna Be"
is saved until October 1962 for release on Mercury 72034 (c/w "When
Two Worlds Collide", also from the July 1961 session). Personnel :
Kelso Herston, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Hal Rugg (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore
(bass) ; Shorty Lavender (fiddle) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman
(drums). Produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 8, 1961 : HANK SNOW records material for two singles : ""Beggar To A King"/"Poor Little Jimmie" (RCA 47-7869, April, a # 5 country hit) and "The Restless One"/"I Know" (RCA 47-7933, September, # 11). Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Gene Martin, Howard White (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Chubby Wise (fiddle) ; Doug Kirkham (drums) ; The Glaser Brothers (backup vocals). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
Thursday, February 9, 1961 : JERRY LEE LEWIS is the first artist to record at Sam Phillips's new Nashville studio on 7th Avenue. The result is excellent. His new single is "What'd I Say"/"Livin' Lovin' Wreck", released on Sun 356 on February 27. A # 30 pop hit. "Cold Cold Heart" follows on May 26 (Sun 364, c/w "It Won't Happen With Me" (from a future session, June 12) and will peak at # 22 on the country charts. "I Forgot To Remember To Forget" is first issued in 1975, on the Charly LP "Rare Jerry Lee Lewis, Vol. 2" (CR 300 007, UK). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Hank Garland, Kelso Herston (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips.
February 9, 1961 : Also in Nashville (Bradley Studio), on the same day, MELVIN ENDSLEY has his second and final Hickory session. Two singles are the result : "I Wish I Knew"/"Every Time I See the Sun Go Down" (Hickory 1141, March) and "Started Out A-Walkin'"/"How Lonely Can You Get" (Hickory 1152, September). Personnel : Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Don Helms (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose.
February 9, 1961 : Meanwhile in New York City (Atlantic Studios), THE COASTERS record "Little Egypt" for their next single (Atco 6192, April, c/w "Keep On Rolling" from a session on February 26, 1960). A # 23 pop hit (# 16 R&B). "Girls, Girls, Girls" is a two-part single (Atco 6204, July). Part 2 reaches # 96 on the pop charts. "Wedding Days" has never been released. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter, Will 'Dub' Jones (vocals) ; Sonny Forriest and Alan Hanlon (guitars) ; George Barnes (banjo) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger / sped-up vocal at the end of "Little Egypt") ; Gary Chester and Bob Rosengarten (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
February 9, 1961 : Three-track session by LLOYD PRICE in New York City (Bell Sound Studio). "One Hundred Percent" is the A-side of his next single (ABC-Paramount 10197, March), coupled with "Say I'm the One", which was recorded on October 5, 1960. The other two tracks from this session, "Burning in My Heart" and "For You And Me", have never been issued. Arranged by O.B. Masingill, produced by Sid Feller.
February 9, 1961 : JACKIE DeSHANNON has a session at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Think About You" ends up as the B-side of "Heaven Is Being With You" (from a later session) in June (Liberty 55342). "Go On Your Way" and "Take Me Tonight" are first released on the LP "This Is Jackie DeShannon" (Imperial LP 9286) in August 1965, and "Try To Forget Him" on the album "You Won't Forget Me" (Imperial LP 9294) in late 1965. Personnel : Bill Pitman, Al Viola (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Milton Holland (vibes) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Dick Glasser (unknown instrument). Plus a string section. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
February 11, 1961 : CHARLIE RICH is the next Sun artist to record at the new Nashville studio. "Who Will the Next Fool Be"/"Caught in the Middle" is selected for the new single (Phillips International 3566), released on February 24. "Just A Little Bit Sweet" is the subsequent single, in September (Phillips International 3572, c/w "It's Too Late", recorded on May 27, 1960). A fourth track, "The Next Time", has never been released and is probably lost. Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Hank Garland, Kelso Herston (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (organ) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (sax, strings). Produced by Sam Phillips.
February 12, 1961 : Also in
Nashville, BOB LUMAN records his next 45, "The Great
Snowman"/"The Pig Latin Song" (Warner Bros 5204, March). Also
laid down is a first attempt at "Private Eye" (unissued / lost).
Luman will return to the song in June. Backing by members of the Nashville
A-team and the Anita Kerr Singers. Produced by Wesley Rose.
February 12, 1961 : Two-track session by BOB MOORE and his orchestra, at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "Hot Spot" will be used as the B-side of the international hit "Mexico" (to be recorded on June 19) (Monument 446, July). "Fireball Mail" is shelved until Bear Family releases the LP "Mexico" (BFX 15288) in 1989. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass / leader) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (organ / marimbas) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus six violin players. Produced by Fred Foster.
February 13, 1961 : GLEN GLENN
does a session for the Dore label at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood.
"I'll Never Stop Loving You" will be issued on Dore 717 in 1964,
credited to Glen Trout. "Wait Wait (One Year Longer)" and "The
Beginning of the End" will get their first release on the Various artists
LP "California Rockabillies" (Sunjay SJLP 582, Sweden) in 1989,
credited to Gary Lambert. Personnel : Gary Lambert (lead guitar) ; Bobby George
(rhythm guitar) ; Guybo Smith (bass) ; Unknown (sax, possibly Plas Johnson) ;
Joe O'Dell (drums) ; Jean Lambert, Glenda Smith, Joan Mosby (background
vocals).
February 14, 1961 : First RCA session for SONNY JAMES, at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. A vocal version of the Shadows hit "Apache" is coupled with "Magnetism" for release on RCA 47-7858 at the end of February. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Williams (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 15, 1961 : THE MARCELS cut seven songs at RCA Studios in New York City. "Blue Moon" and "Goodbye To Love" are rush-released as a single (Colpix 186, a # 1 hit in the US and UK) and together with four other tracks ("Peace Of Mind", "I'll Be Forever Loving You", "Most Of All" and "Sunday Kind Of Love") they will appear on the LP "Blue Moon" in July (Colpix LP 416). A future single from this session is "Loved Her the Whole Week Through" (Colpix 651, August 1962, c/w "Friendly Loans", recorded on July 23, 1962). The Marcels are : Cornelius Harp (lead) ; Richard Knauss (baritone) ; Ronald Mundy (first tenor) ; Fred Johnson (bass) ; Gene Bricker (second tenor). Produced by Stu Phillips.
February 15, 1961 : Guitarist AL CAIOLA records his biggest hit, “Bonanza”/ “Bounty Hunter” (United Artists 302, released on February 28). Credited to Al Caiola and his Orchestra, it will peak at # 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Don Costa in New York City.
February 16, 1961 : BUZZ
CLIFFORD records the follow-up to "Baby Sittin' Boogie", a song
called "Three Little Fishes" (Columbia 41979, March, c/w
"Simply Because" from a session on January 23, 1961). Also recorded
are "I'll Never Forget" and "The Awakening", which
will be coupled for the subsequent single (Columbia 42019, June).
Produced by Tony Piano at Columbia Recording Studio in New York City.
Saturday, February 18, 1961 : THE SHADOWS record the A-side of their next single, "The Frightened City" (Columbia DB 4637, May 5, a # 3 UK hit). Flip is "Back Home", recorded on September 5, 1960. One other track is laid down, "Blue Star", which will be included on their debut album, "The Shadows" (Columbia SX 1374, September). Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
February 22, 1961 : WEE WILLIE
WAYNE does a session in Los Angeles for Imperial. "I Got To Be
Careful"/"Woman I'm Tired" is released on Imperial 5737 in
March. A new version of "Tend To Your Business" will appear on
the Various artists LP "A World Of Blues, Vol. 1" in October
1962. (Wayne's earlier version was a # 2 R&B hit in 1951, on the
Sittin' In label). "All I'm Asking Of You" remains unissued.
Plas Johnson was on tenor and Earl Palmer on drums.
February 23, 1961 : JOHNNY PRESTON cuts the B-side of his next single, "I Feel Good" (Mercury 71803, April) ; the A-side is "Willy Walk" from a September 1960 session. "Four Letter Word" and "Lucky In Love" are first released on the CD "Johnny Preston : The Stereo Recordings" (Bear Family BCD 16234) in 1998. Personnel includes Ray Edenton (guitar), Bob Moore (bass) and Buddy Harman (drums), more details unknown. Produced by Bill Hall at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 23, 1961 : Another Mercury session at Bradley Studio on this day. EDDIE NOACK records the single "Shotgun House"/"Where Do You Go (When You Say Goodnight)", for release on Mercury 71805 in April. "Invisible Stripes" and "Same Old Mistakes" are first released on the 3-CD set "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (Bear Family BCD 17142) in 2012 (at least in the versions recorded at this session). Personnel : Eddie Noack (vocals / guitar) ; Johnny Mathis (harmony vocals) ; prob. Grady Martin (lead guitar) ; Unknown (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Curley Herndon (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Shelby Singleton.
February 23, 1961 : THE TOP NOTES record two singles in New York City : "Hearts Of Stone"/"The Basic Thing" (Atlantic 2097, March) and "Twist and Shout" (the original version!) c/w "Always Late (Why Lead Me On)" (Atlantic 2115, August). Personnel : Derek Martin, Howard Guyton (vocals) ; Bucky Pizzarelli and Alan Hanlon (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Phil Kraus (xylophone) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Gary Chester (percussion) ; Unknown (strings, female background vocals). Arranged by Teddy Randazzo, produced by Phil Spector.
February 23, 1961 : TIMI YURO makes her debut as a
recording artist with the single “Hurt”/“I Apologize” (Liberty 55343,
June 23). The A-side will reach # 4 on the Billboard charts. “I Apologize”
charts in its own right, peaking at # 72. Arranged and conducted by Belford
Hendricks in Los Angeles.
February 24, 1961 : JO-ANN CAMPBELL cuts her next single, "Motor Cycle Michael"/"Puka Puka Pants" (ABC-Paramount 10200, March). It will become her only UK chart entry (# 41). Also recorded is "Mama Don't Want No Twistin'"(ABC-Paramount 10258, October), which will be coupled with "Duane", to be recorded on April 27. Produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
February 24, 1961 : The backing tracks are recorded for two future JOHNNY CASH singles, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "Forty Shades Of Green" is released as the B-side of "The Rebel - Johnny Yuma" (recorded on August 14, 1959) in April (Columbia 41995). "The Big Battle" appears in February 1962 (Columbia 42301, c/w "When I've Learned", see February 27). A # 24 country hit. Cash's vocals are overdubbed on March 23, over the vocals of Johnny Western. Personnel : Johnny Western (vocals / guitar) : Billy Strange (guitar) ; Buddy Clark (bass) ; Hubert Anderson (vibes) ; Irving Kluyer (drums); possibly B.J. Baker Group (background vocals). Plus an 8-piece string section. Arranged by Billy Liebert, produced by Don Law and Frank Jones. See also February 27.
Monday, February 27, 1961 : Second King session by BOBBY FREEMAN, at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Fever" stays in the can until October 1964 when it is released on King 5953 (c/w "What Can I Do", recorded on March 2, 1961). "Come To Me" follows in February 1965 (King 5975, c/w "There's Gonna Be A Change" from a session on June 23, 1960). "Goodnight Sweetheart Goodnight" is eventually included on the Various artists CD "Hunky Dory : King Vocal Groups, Vol. 3" (Ace CDCHD 1048) in 2005. "Bony Moronie" gets its first release on Bobby's CD "Give My Heart A Break : The Complete King Recordings" (Ace CDCHD 1232) in 2009. Arranged by Bill Massey.
February 27, 1961 : ROY
ORBISON is back in Nashville (RCA Victor Studio) to record four tracks, all of
which will appear on his second Monument LP,
"Crying" (M 4007, January 1962) : "Running Scared",
"Love Hurts", "Let's Make
a Memory" and "Night Life". Prior to that, the first two titles
are released as a single in March 1961 (Monument 438). "Running
Scared" will become Roy's first # 1 hit. Accompaniment by "Bob
Moore's orchestra and chorus", according to the label. Producer : Bob
Moore ; executive producer Fred Foster.
February 27, 1961 : More backing tracks are recorded for material by JOHNNY CASH. "Tall Man" is issued as a 45 in September (Columbia 42147, B-side of the # 11 country hit "Tennessee Flat-Top Box" from a later session). "When I've Learned" becomes the flip of "The Big Battle" (see September 24). "He'll Understand And Say Well Done" and "God Must Have My Fortune Laid Away" are tracks for the LP "Hymns From the Heart" (Columbia CL 1722, June 1962). Also laid down is a second version of "Forty Shades Of Green", which stays in the vaults until Bear Family releases the 5 CD-set "Man In Black 2 : 1959-1962" in 1991 (BCD 15562). Again, Johnny Cash's vocals will be overdubbed (replacing Johnny Western's vocals) on March 23. Personnel : Johnny Western (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Jimmy Wilson (piano) ; Randolph Hansell (vibes) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; B.J. Baker Group (background vocals). Arranged by Billy Liebert, produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
February 27, 1961 : The vocal group THE WANDERERS records the Coasters- styled single "Sally Goodheart"/"For Your Love" (Cub 9089, March), in New York City. Unissued from this session is "Miss Fine". The sax player may be King Curtis. The Wanderers are : Ray Pollard, Frank Joyner, Sheppard Grant and Robert Yarborough.
February 28, 1961 : JOHNNY BURNETTE cuts his next single, "Big Big World"/ "Ballad of the One-Eyed Jacks" (Liberty 55318, March). Two other tracks, "Gimme Gimme Lovin'" and "You'll Learn To Cry" are held in the can until 1989, when they appear on the CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 792924, UK). Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
February 28, 1961 : JOE TURNER records in New Orleans, for the first time since 1953. "I Get the Blues", "You Busted My Bubble", "Good Loving" and "Lucille, Parts 1 & 2" have never been issued by Atlantic, for reasons unknown. Personnel not known.
February 1961, unknown date : ROD BERNARD cuts another single for Mercury, "Lonely Hearts Club"/"Who Knows?" (Mercury 71767, last week of February). Unissued from this session are "Little Mama" and "Have You Ever". Produced by Shelby Singleton in Nashville.
(Circa) February 1961, unknown date : JIMMY ELLEDGE records four tracks at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. The piano instrumental "Swanee River Rocket" is coupled with the vocal number "Send Me A Letter" for release on RCA 47-7910 in June. Two other songs are consigned to the vaults : "The Great Believer" and "I'd Have To Get A Little Better To Die". Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 1961, unknown date : CLARENCE "FROGMAN" HENRY cuts four tracks for his first LP, the title of which will be "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (Argo LP 4009, July) : "I Want To Be A Movie Star", "Steady Date", "Oh Why" and "Little Suzy". The last-named is also released as a single (Argo 5388, May) on the B-side of "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (from a later session). Personnel includes Allen Toussaint (piano / arranger) and Roy Montrell (guitar), more details unknown. Produced by Paul Gayten at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, Jarle Jensen, Tapio Väisänen and the late Roy Simonds.
Dik
MARCH 1961
March 1, 1961 : DUANE EDDY records his next single, "Theme From Dixie"/ "Gidget Goes Hawaiian" (Jamie 1183, a # 39 hit). Both sides are overdubbed with chorus and strings in the second week of March and then rush-released. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / producer) ; Al Casey (guitar / steel guitar / banjo) ; David Campbell (bass) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums). Location : Audio Recorders, Phoenix, Arizona. Overdubs recorded at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
March 2, 1961 : In Cincinnati, BOBBY FREEMAN records four tracks, all of which stay in the can for some time. "What Can I Do" hits the market in October 1964 (King 5953, c/w "Fever", recorded on February 27, 1961). Two months later, King releases "Somebody Somewhere (Hear My Plea)", coupled with "Be My Little Chick-A-Dee", a leftover from June 23, 1960 (King 5962). "Love Struck" is included on the LP "The Lovable Style Of Bobby Freeman" (King LP 930) in 1965. "Please Stay By Me" is eventually released in 2009 on the CD "Give My Heart A Break : The Complete King Sessions" (Ace CDCHD 1232, UK).
March 3, 1961 : THE FLEETWOODS revive the Thomas Wayne
1959 hit “Tragedy” (Dolton 40, April 10). For the second time the song
will enter the Top 10, peaking at # 10. The other side, “Little Miss Sad One”,
comes from the same session. Arranged by Hank Levine. Produced by Bob Reisdorff
in Los Angeles.
March 4, 1961 : CLIFF RICHARD records three tracks for the LP
"Listen To Cliff" (Columbia SX 1320, April) : "What'd
I Say", "Unchained Melody" and "I Want You To
Know". Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London,
England.
March 4, 1961 : Again, BOBBY FREEMAN cuts four tracks at the King Studio in Cincinnati. Three of these are eventually issued on the album "The Lovable Style Of Bobby Freeman" : "Please Give My Heart A Break", "Good Good Lovin'" and "Please Please Please". "Turn Around" is first released on the 2009 Ace CD mentioned above.
March 6, 1961 : One-track session by RICKY NELSON. The Dave Burgess
composition "Everybody But Me" is first released on the LP "Rick
Is 21" (Imperial LP 9152) in May and later (June 1964) as a single
(Imperial 66039, c/w "Lucky Star" from a session on April 10, 1961).
Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe
Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Unknown (vocal
chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at United Recording
Corporation in Hollywood. See also March 13, 20 and 27.
March 6-7, 1961 : BUCK OWENS cuts ten tracks for the LP "Buck Owens Sings Harlan Howard" (Capitol T 1482, August 28) : "I Don't Believe I'll Fall In Love Today", "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down", "Let's Agree To Disagree", "The Keeper of the Key", "Lyin' Again", "Heartaches By the Number", "The One You Slip Around With", "Heartaches For A Dime", "The Key's in the Mailbox" and "I'll Catch You When You Fall". Owens also records "Save the Last Dance For Me", which has never been issued. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Don Rich (guitar / fiddle) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Moose Stone (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 7, 1961 : AMOS MILBURN is at the King Studio in Cincinnati to record his new single, “My Sweet Baby’s Love”/“Heartaches That Make You Cry”. It is released on King 5483 in April.
March 7, 1961 : In New York City, JAMIE COE records material for two singles : "Two Dozen And A Half"/"I'm Getting' Married" (ABC-Paramount 10203, late March) and "How Low Is Low"/"Little Dear, Little Darling" (ABC-Paramount 10267, November). Orchestra and chorus conducted by Dick Wolf. Produced by Sid Feller.
March 7, 1961 : The final recording session of VARETTA DILLARD
results in the single "You Better Come Home"/"I Don't
Know What It Is, But I Like It" (Cub 9091, rush-released). Two
other tracks are first released in 1989 on the Bear Family CD
"The Lovin' Bird : Complete Recordings, 1956-1961, Vol. 2"
(BCD 15432) : "Hey Sweet Love" and "What Can I Say".
Location is New York City. King Curtis is the sax player, more details
unknown. Produced by Otis Blackwell.
March 7-9, 1961 : Three days of sessions by CONWAY TWITTY at Bradley Studio in Nashville result in two singles, "The Next Kiss (Is the Last Goodbye)"/"Man Alone" (MGM 12998, rush-released, a # 72 hit), "A Million Teardrops"/"I'm In A Blue, Blue Mood" (MGM 13011, May) and four tracks for the LP "The Conway Twitty Touch" (MGM SE 3943, June) : "A Tree In the Meadow", "Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young", "Above And Beyond" and "I Can Hear My Heart Break". "Tower of Tears", recorded on March 9, is saved for the B-side of "Portrait Of A Fool" (recorded on October 11, 1961, MGM 13050, November). "Donna's Dream" is first issued on the Bear Family box-set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BFX 15174) in 1985. Personnel : Al Bruno, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus, strings). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
March 8, 1961 : HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters are at the King Studio in Cincinnati where they record four tracks, all released as singles. "What Is This I See" is released on King 5491 in late March ; the A-side of this 45, "The Continental Walk" will be recorded on March 16 and peaks at # 12 R&B and # 33 pop. "I'm Gonna Miss You" appears in November (King 5578, c/w "Do You Remember" from a session on July 19, 1961) and "I'm Young" in May 1962 (King 5635, B-side of "Good Twistin' Tonight", to be recorded on January 6, 1962). "Daddy Rolling Stone" is saved until August 1964 for release on King 5931, c/w "What's Your Name" from a later session. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Fred Jordan (guitar) ; Joe Swift (bass) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Mark Patterson (trumpet) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Joe Hardwick (drums). "The Continental Walk" was recorded in New York City with Mickey Baker on guitar. Produced by Syd Nathan.
March 8, 1961 : BILLY 'CRASH' CRADDOCK is now contracted to Mercury, after three years with Columbia. His first session for the label yields two singles : "Truly True"/"How Lonely He Must Be" (Mercury 71811, April) and "A Diamond Is Forever"/"Ole King Cole" (Mercury 71862, August 3). Personnel : Jerry Kennedy (guitar) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; more details unknown. Arranged by Bill McElhiney, produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
March 10, 1961 : THE HOLLYWOOD FLAMES do a one-off session for Chess Records, in Chicago. "Gee"/"Yes They Do" is released in May (Chess 1787). "Gee" is a remake of the 1954 hit by the Crows. "Dear One" and "Don't Mess With the Messer" remain unissued. The(se) Hollywood Flames are : Donald Height (lead vocals), David Ford, Curtis Williams and Ray Brewster.
March 10, 1961 : THE PILTDOWN MEN record a first, "Bony Moronie"-styled version of "Gargantua". It is rejected by the powers that be at Capitol and remains in the vaults until 1998, when Ace in the UK releases the CD "The Piltdown Men Ride Again" (Ace CDCHD 681), where the track is listed as "Gargantua # 2". One other track is laid down, "Fossil Rock", which will be released (Capitol 4581, May) as the flip of a new, completely different version of "Gargantua", recorded on April 11. Personnel : Jackie Kelso, Scott Gordon (saxes) ; Bob Bain (guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (bass) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; probably Earl Palmer (kettle drums). Produced by Ed Cobb and Lincoln Mayorga at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
March 10-11, 1961 : JACK SCOTT's first session for his new label (Capitol) yields the single "Now That I"/"A Little Feeling (Called Love)" (Capitol 4554, April). "True True Love" is shelved until it sees the light of day on CD in 1990 (Capitol Collector's Series, CD 93192). An alternative version of "A Little Feeling" is included on the Bear Family box-set "Classic Jack Scott" (BCD 15534) in 1992. Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Manny Kellem in New York City.
March 12-13. 1961 : ELVIS PRESLEY records "I Feel So Bad" (RCA 47-7880, May, a # 5 hit, c/w "Wild in the Country" from a session on November 7, 1960) and eleven tracks for the LP "Something For Everybody" (RCA LPM 2370, June) : "There's Always Me", "Give Me the Right", "It's A Sin", "Starting Today", "Sentimental Me", "Gently", "I'm Comin' Home", "In Your Arms", "Put the Blame On Me", "Judy" and "I Want You With Me". (The twelfth track on the album is "I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell", recorded on November 8, 1960). "There's Always Me" and "Judy" are released on a 45 (RCA 47-9287) in August 1967 and reach # 56 and # 78 respectively on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Hank Garland, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; D.J. Fontana, Buddy Harman (drums) ; Millie Kirkham, the Jordanaires (background vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes at RCA Studio B in Nashville.
March 13, 1961 : RICKY NELSON's second March session yields the number one hit "Travelin' Man", released on April 10 (Imperial 5741). "Break My Chain" will be included on the "Rick Is 21" LP (Imperial LP 9152, May). A first attempt at "Hello Mary Lou" (the other side of "Travelin' Man") was shelved and has never been released. Personnel is the same as on March 6. A vocal chorus (The Jordanaires) was overdubbed on March 22. Studio : United Recording Corporation, Hollywood.
March 13, 1961 : Three-track session by MEL TILLIS at Bradley Studio in Nashville. His new single is "Hearts Of Stone"/"That's Where the Hurt Comes In" (Columbia 41986), released on April 3. "Party Girl" is saved until January 1962 for release on Columbia 42262 (c/w "If I Lost Your Love", recorded on October 31, 1960). The saxophonist is Boots Randolph, more personnel details unknown. Produced by Don Law.
March 14, 1961 : HANK LOCKLIN records four tracks at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. “Happy Birthday To Me” and You’re the Reason” are paired for release on RCA 47-7921 in July. Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 7 and # 14 respectively. The other two songs are “The Keeper Of the Keys” and “I Can See An Angel”, both of which will be included on the LP “Happy Journey” (RCA LPM 2464) in January 1962. Personnel : Grady Martin, Velma Sith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins.
March 15, 1961 : GEORGE HAMILTON IV records his next single, "Three Steps To the Phone"/"The Ballad Of Widder Jones" (RCA 47-7881, May), at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Personnel : Hank Garland, Billy Byrd, Ray Edenton, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
March 16, 1961 : THE MARCELS record "Teeter Totter Love", which will be used as the B-side of "Summertime" (recorded on April 11), for release in May (Colpix 196). "Two People in the World", "Sweet Was the Wine", "Over the Rainbow", "A Fallen Tear" and "Crazy Bells" are tracks that will appear on the LP "Blue Moon" in July (Colpix LP 416). Produced by Stu Phillips at RCA Studios in New York City.
March 17, 1961 : At RCA Victor Studio A in New York City, NEIL SEDAKA records the A-side of his next single, "Little Devil" (RCA 47-7874, April). A # 11 hit. (The reverse, "I Must Be Dreaming", was recorded on February 8, 1960.) One other track is laid down, "Another Day, Another Heartache", which will be included on the LP "Three Great Guys : Paul Anka, Sam Cooke And Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2720) in February 1964. Personnel : Al Caiola, Charles Macey, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Herman Yorks, Sol Schlinger, Romeo Penque (saxophones) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Phil Kraus (percussion). Plus 6 violin players and a 5-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner.
March 17-21, 1961 : BOBBY VEE records the LP "Bobby Vee With Strings And Things" (Liberty LRP 3186, May). Tracks : "Baby Face", "Pledging My Love", "Love's Made A Fool Of You", "Light Infatuation", "Susie-Q", "Tears On My Pillow", "How Many Tears", "That's All", "Diana", "Laurie", "Each Night" and "Bashful Bob". "How Many Tears"/"Baby Face" is released as a single in May (Liberty 55325, a # 63 hit). "Bashful Bob" will be used as the B-side of the # 1 hit "Take Good Care Of My Baby" (Liberty 55354, July). "Love's Made A Fool Of You" and "Susie-Q" are issued on a UK 45 (London HLG 9459) in November. Several other tracks were consigned to the vaults. Of these, "You Belong To Me", "Only One Love" and "White Silver Sands" were eventually released in January 2011 on the double CD "Rarities" (EMI International 9072062, UK). Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
March 20, 1961 : RICKY NELSON does a 3-hour session at United Recorders
in Hollywood, but only one song is recorded : "Hello Mary Lou", which
is coupled with "Travelin' Man" from the session of the week before.
"Hello Mary Lou" is overdubbed on March 22 (extra guitars,
Jordanaires) and released on April 10 (Imperial 5741). "Travelin'
Man" is the biggest hit (# 1), but "Hello Mary Lou" also makes
the Top 10, peaking at # 9. Personnel is the same as on March 6. Producer Jimmie
Haskell plays cowbell.
March 21-23, 1961 : ELVIS PRESLEY records songs for the movie and LP "Blue Hawaii" (RCA LPM 2426, October). Two songs are selected for single release, "Can't Help Falling In Love" and "Rock-A-Hula Baby" (RCA 47-7968, November 21, peak chart positions # 2 and # 23 respectively). The other songs are : "Blue Hawaii", "Almost Always True", "Aloha Oe", "No More", "Moonlight Swim", "Ku-u-i-po", "Ito Eats", "Slicin' Sand", "Hawaiian Sunset", "Beach Boy Blues", "Island Of Love" and "Hawaiian Wedding Song". "Steppin' Out Of Line" is used in the film, but excluded from the sound- track LP. Instead, it is included on the "Pot Luck" album (RCA LPM 2523, June 5). Personnel : Hank Garland, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Tiny Timbrell (rhythm guitar) ; Alvino Rey (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dudley Brooks (piano / celeste) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bernie Lewis, Fred Tavares (ukelele) ; George Fields (harmonica) ; Hal Blaine (drums) ; Bernie Mattinson (percussion) ; The Jordanaires and the Surfers (background vocals). Produced by Joseph Lilley and Hal Wallis at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
March 22, 1961 is the recording date of DEE CLARK's biggest hit "Raindrops" (Vee-Jay 383, April, # 2 pop, # 3 R&B). The B-side, "I Want To Love You", is recorded during the same session, at Universal Recording in Chicago. Produced by Calvin Carter.
March 23, 1961 : HUEY SMITH and the Clowns are at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans for another Imperial session. "Behind the Wheel, Parts 1 & 2" is released in late April on Imperial 5747. Three other tracks stay in the can until the release of the French LP "The Imperial Sides 1960-61" (Pathe Marconi 1546731) in 1983 : "I Don't Play Like That", "Heart Trouble, Part 1" and "Why Did I Do (Wa-Do-Do)". "Heart Trouble, Part 2" remains in the vaults. Arranged by Huey 'Piano' Smith, produced by Dave Bartholomew.
March 23, 1961 : FATS DOMINO also records at Cosimo's Studio on this day. All four tracks will be released on the LP "What A Party" (Imperial LP 9164, October) : "Trouble In Mind", "Hold Hands", "I've Been Calling" and "Bad Luck and Trouble". Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). See also March 28.
March 23, 1961 : First RCA session by JOHN D. LOUDERMILK. "Language Of Love"/"Darling Jane" will give him the biggest hit of his career (# 32), but is not released until September (RCA 47-7938). "Song of the Lonely Teen" is included on the LP "Language Of Love" (RCA LPM 2434, October). Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki (guitar) ; Bobby Watts (bass) ; Norro Wilson (harpsichord / piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman or James Isbell (drums). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. See also March 28.
March 23, 1961 : LINK WRAY is at the Columbia Studio in New York City to record four tracks. "El Toro" and "Tijuana" are coupled for release on Epic 9454 in August. "Rumble Mambo" will appear on the OKeh label (# 7166, January 1963, c/w "Hambone" by Red Saunders). "Kiki" is kept in the can until 2002, when it is included on the CD "Slinky : The Epic Sessions" (Sundazed 11098). Personnel : Link Wray (lead guitar) ; Vernon Wray (rhythm guitar) ; Shorty Horton (bass) ; Doug Wray (drums) ; more details unknown. Produced by Sal Rubinowitz.
March 25, 1961 : BOBBY DARIN cuts the A-side of his next single, "Nature Boy" (Atco 6196, May, a # 40 hit. Flip is "Look For My True Love", which was recorded on January 16, 1961). "Golden Earrings" is saved until April 1964 for release on Atco 6297 (B-side of "Milord", from a session on June 20, 1960). Also recorded are three instrumentals : "Theme From Come September"/"Walk Bach [sic] To Me" (Atco 6200, July, A-side overdubbed on June 8 under the supervision of Bob Mersey) and "Bobby's Blues" (rejected). Darin plays harpsichord on "Walk Bach To Me". Arranged by Fred Norman, produced by Ahmet Ertegun in Los Angeles (United Recorders). (Darin also recorded twelve songs for the LP "Love Swings" between 21 and 23 March. Released in June on Atco 33-134.)
March 25, 1961 : In Nashville, CARLA THOMAS records the follow-up to her big hit "Gee Whiz" : "A Love Of My Own"/"Promises" (Atlantic 2101, April). A # 56 pop hit (# 20 R&B). Also laid down are "Your Love" and "It Ain't Me", which will appear on her first LP, "Gee Whiz" (Atlantic LP 8057, June), along with the other two tracks.
March 27, 1961 : Fourth March session for RICKY NELSON. Both "My
One Desire" and "Sure Fire Bet" are tracks for the LP "Rick
Is 21" (Imperial LP 9152, May). A vocal chorus, consisting of Dave
Burgess, Jerry Fuller and Glen Campbell is overdubbed on April 12. Personnel /
studio are the same as on March 6.
March 27-28, 1961 : On the day that his record "Mother-In-Law" enters the Billboard charts (March 27) ERNIE K-DOE records five tracks in New Orleans (Cosimo's Studio). "Te-Ta-Te-Ta-Ta"/"Real Man" will be issued as his next single (Minit 627, May). A # 53 pop hit (# 21 R&B). "Waiting At the Station", "She's Waiting" and "Lonelyology" are tracks for the LP "Mother-In-Law" (Minit LP 0002, July). Three further tracks for the album are recorded the next day : "Rub Dub Dub", "Heebie Jeebies" and "Hurry Up And Know It". Personnel : Allen Toussaint (arranger / producer / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; more details unknown.
March 27-29, 1961 : Three days of sessions by BEN E. KING, at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. On the 27th he cuts "On the Horizon" (Atco 6194, the B-side of "Stand By Me", recorded on October 27, 1960) and "Here Comes the Night" (Atco 6207, September, a # 81 hit, c/w "Young Boy Blues", also from the October 1960 session). On March 28 and 29 he records eleven songs for his first LP, "Spanish Harlem" (Atco 33-133, June) : "Come Closer To Me", "Quizas, Quizas, Quizas", "Sway", "Besame Mucho", "Love Me, Love Me", "Granada", "Sweet And Gentle", "Frenesi", "Perfidia", "Amor" and "Souvenir Of Mexico". The last two songs are coupled for single release on Atco 6203 in July. "Amor" peaks at # 18 pop (# 10 R&B). Personnel varies, but these musicians are present on all three days : George Barnes, Alan Hanlon (guitars) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums). Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
March 28, 1961 : FATS DOMINO records more tracks for the "What A
Party" album (see March 23) : "Ain't Gonna Do It" and "I
Just Cry" (also issued as a single, Imperial 5753, May, B-side of "It
Keeps Rainin'", recorded on December 28, 1960). Two other songs are
unissued and lost : "If I Could" and "One Night".
(Fats will cut the latter song again on June 20). Personnel, producer and
studio are the same as on March 23.
March 28, 1961 : Five days after his first session for RCA, JOHN D. LOUDERMILK returns to the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville to record four more songs. "Road Hog" is saved until October 1962 for release on RCA 47-8101 (c/w "Angela Jones" from an April 1962 session. A # 65 hit). The three other songs from this session are all included on the album "Language Of Love" (RCA LPM 2434, October) : "You Reap Just What You Sow", "Two Strangers In Love" and "Mary's No Longer Mine". Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Norro Wilson (harpsichord / backup vocals) ; Unknown (drums) ; Don Gant, Ned Stewart (backup vocals). Produced by Chet Atkins.
March 29, 1961 : JESSIE HILL is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans where he records material for two singles : "Oogsey Moo"/"My Love" (Minit 628, June) and "Sweet Jelly Roll"/"It's My Fault" (Minit 638, December). Arranged and produced by Allen Toussaint, who also plays piano.
March 1961, unknown date : BROOK BENTON does a one-song session in New
York City (Mercury Sound Studio). "The Boll Weevil Song" will become
the biggest pop hit of his career, peaking at # 2 (Mercury 71820, first
week of May). The other side, "Your Eyes", was recorded in the summer
of 1960. Personnel unknown. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
March 1961, unknown date : JOHNNY BURNETTE cuts seven tracks for the LP "Johnny Burnette Sings" (Liberty LRP 3190, May) : "Mona Lisa", "I'm Still Dreamin'", "In the Chapel in the Moonlight", "Red Sails in the Sunset", "The Treasure Of Love", "The Fool" and "Memories Are Made Of This". In the UK, "I'm Still Dreamin'" is released as a single (London HLG 9458) in November (c/w "Settin' the Woods On Fire", recorded on July 9, 1959). On March 1, Johnny recorded "A Lover's Question", which was first issued on the CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette (EMI CDP 792924, UK) in 1989. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
(Probably) March 1961 : BOBBY CHARLES is back at Chess for a one-off session. Four tracks are laid down : "Teenagers", "Tell Me Baby", "I'd Like To Know" and "Lovesick Blues", but they stay in the vaults until the appearance of the Japanese CD "Chess Masters" (MCA Victor MVCM 22078) in 1996. All four are also included on Bobby's Bear Family CD ("See You Later Alligator", BCD 17207, 2010). The location is New Orleans (Cosimo Recording Studio). The producer is probably Paul Gayten.
March 1961, unknown dates : SANFORD CLARK records two singles for small labels owned by Lee Hazlewood, but probably at two different sessions. "Guess It's Love"/"It Hurts Me Too" (3 Trey 3016) is released in April and "Tennessee Walk"/"Give the Boy Love" probably in July (Project 5004). Al Casey plays guitar, more details unknown. Arranged and produced by Lee Hazlewood at Ramsey's Recording Studio in Phoenix, Arizona. The Project single is co-produced by Lester Sill.
March 1961, unknown date : THE DIAMONDS record five tracks in New York City (Fine Studios). "The Munch"/"Woomai-Ling" is released in April on Mercury 71818, followed by a remake of the Danleers' hit "One Summer Night", c/w "It's A Doggone Shame" in June (Mercury 71831). "One Summer Night" will become their last chart entry, peaking at # 22. The fifth track, "Chimes In My Heart" is first released on the Polygram CD (32734) "Best of the Diamonds" in 1996. The Diamonds are : John Felton, Evan Fisher, David Somerville and Mike Douglas.
March 1961, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY is back in the (New Orleans) studio for five tracks. "You Always Hurt the One You Love" is selected as the new single (Argo 5388, May, a # 12 hit), coupled with the previously recorded "Little Suzy". "Lonely Street"/"Why Can't You" is the subsequent single (Argo 5395, July, # 57). "I Love You, Yes I Do" and "Your Picture" end up on the LP "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (Argo LP 4009) later in the year. Arranged by Allen Toussaint, who also plays piano. Produced by Paul Gayten.
March 1961, unknown date : In Chicago, ETTA JAMES does a 5-track session. "Fool That I Am" is coupled with "Dream" for release on Argo 5390 in May. Both sides reach the pop charts, peaking at # 50 and # 55 respectively. "Don't Cry Baby" (Argo 5393) is a July release (c/w "A Sunday Kind Of Love", recorded in October 1960). A # 39 pop hit (# 6 R&B). "My Dear" and "Lover's Mourn" get a place on the album "Etta James" (Argo LP 4013) in March 1962. Arranged by Riley Hampton, produced by Leonard Chess.
March 1961, unknown date : THE VENTURES record their next single, “Lullaby of the Leaves”/“Ginchy” (Dolton 41, March 30). A # 69 hit. Produced by Bob Reisdorff and Don Wilson in Los Angeles.
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli and Tony Watson
Dik
APRIL 1961
April 3, 1961 : First of three April sessions for RICK(Y) NELSON. Both "I'll Make Believe" and "Stars Fell On Alabama" are included on the LP "Rick Is 21" (Imperial LP 9152, May). Personnel : Ricky Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ;Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Plus an unidentified vocal chorus that probably includes Glen Campbell. Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. See also April 10 / 17.
Wednesday, April 5, 1961 : CHET ATKINS records his next single, "Windy And Warm"/"Man Of Mystery" (RCA 47-7891, May 16). The B-side is a cover of the UK hit by the Shadows. A third track, "Always On Saturday" will be included on the album "Our Man In Nashville" (RCA LPM 2616) in December 1962. Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; more details unknown. Location : the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 5, 1961 : DON GIBSON is also at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville to cut his new 45, "Sea Of Heartbreak"/"I Think It's Best To Forget Me"(RCA 47-7890, May). It will peak at # 2 on the country charts and # 21 on the pop charts. The third track from this session, "That's How It Goes", stays in the can until the release of Bear Family's 4-CD set "Don Gibson -The Singer, The Songwriter, 1961-1966" (BCD 15664) in 1993. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
April 5, 1961 : In Cincinnati, FREDDY KING records eight tracks for the instrumental LP "Let's Hide Away And Dance With Freddy King" (King LP 773,December) : "Onion Rings" (Federal 12529), "Sen-Sa-Shun" (Federal 12432), "Side Tracked" (Federal 12456), "The Stumble" (Federal 12450), "San-Ho-Zay" (Federal 12428), "Wash Out" (the only track not also released as a single),"Just Pickin'" (Federal 12470) and "Heads Up" (Federal 12443).Personnel : Freddy King (guitar / leader) ; Fred Jordan (guitar) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Bill Willis (bass) ; Philip Paul (drums). The album was reissued in 1963 as "Freddy King Goes Surfin'" (King LP 856),with overdubbed audience noise.
April 5, 1961 : TEDDY RANDAZZO records four tracks which will be issued on four different singles : "Let the Sunshine In" (ABC-Paramount 10228, June), "Don't Go Away" (ABC-Paramount 10247, September), "Teenage Senorita" (ABC-Paramount 10312, April 1962) and "It Wasn't A Dream" (ABC-Paramount 10377, November 1962). Arranged and produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
April 6, 1961 : Another ABC-Paramount session by JO-ANN CAMPBELL. Her revival of "Eddie My Love" becomes the B-side of her new single in June (ABC-Paramount 10224 ; for the A-side see April 14). "Dance With Me Henry" is a track for the LP "For Twistin' and Listenin'" (ABC-Paramount ABC 393, February 1962). "Last Day Of School" is consigned to the vaults. Produced by Sid Feller at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. See also April 14 and 27.
April 6, 1961 : JOE
JONES is in the studio (probably Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans) to record two
parts of "The Big Mule". The first part will be used for his last
Roulette single (4377, July), coupled with "I Got A Uh-Uh Wife"
from a session on June 8, 1961. "The Big Mule, Part 2" has never been
released. Produced by Henry Glover.
April 6, 1961 : One-track session by drummer SANDY NELSON, who records the A-side of his next single, "Get With It" (Imperial 5745, rush-released).The reverse is "Big Noise From the Jungle", recorded on September 29, 1960. Produced by Eddie Ray in Los Angeles.
April 8, 1961 : PAT BOONE records what will be his sixth and last #1 hit : "Moody River" (Dot 16209), released in the third week of April. The flip-side, "A Thousand Years", was recorded on February 27, 1961. One other song is laid down : "That's My Desire", which will be used as the B-side of "Big Cold Wind" (from a session on June 15) and released on June 28 (Dot 16244).Personnel : Al Henderson, Tommy Tedesco (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ;Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Dick Shanahan (drums). Arranged and conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
April 10, 1961 : THE COASTERS do a four-track session in Hollywood (Gold Star Studio). "Teach Me How To Shimmy" ends up on the B-side of "Ridin' Hood" (recorded on December 7, 1960) in February 1962 (Atco 6219). "Hongry" is another B-side (of "Lady Like", recorded on February 26, 1960) and has to wait until March 1965 for a release (Atco 6341). The two other tracks, "Giving Up" and "I'm A Hum Dinger", have never been released. Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Cornel Gunter, Will 'Dub' Jones (vocals) ; Michael Adams (guitar) ; Llevellyn Klassy (bass) ; Steve Douglas (tenor sax) ; James H. Davids (electric piano) ; Sandy Nelson (drums). Produced by Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood.
April 10, 1961 : RICKY NELSON continues to record tracks for the album "Rick Is 21" (Imperial LP 9152, May). On this day he waxes "Oh Yes I'm In Love" and "Lucky Star". The latter is also released as a single in June 1964 (Imperial 66039, c/w "Everybody But Me" from a session on March 6, 1961). The final track for the LP, "That Warm Summer Night", is recorded on April 17 and overdubbed (with a vocal chorus) two days later. Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on April 3, except that Ricky doesn't play rhythm guitar on April 17 (replaced by Tommy Tedesco).
April 11, 1961 : THE MARCELS record five tracks in New York City, all of which will be released on 45s. "Summertime" becomes the follow-up to "Blue Moon" on Colpix 196 in May (c/w "Teeter Totter Love", laid down on March 16). A # 78 hit. "You Are My Sunshine"/"Find Another Fool" is the subsequent single (Colpix 606, September). "Footprints in the Snow" will serve as the B-side of "Twistin' Fever" (from a later session) in February 1962 (Colpix 629). "Hold On" is another B-side (of "Flower Pot"), issued in May 1962 on Colpix 640. Produced by Stu Phillips.
April 11, 1961 : The instrumental group THE PILTDOWN MEN records a new, completely different version of "Gargantua", after the first version (cut on March 10) was rejected. Release on Capitol 4581 in May, c/w "Fossil Rock" from the March session. Personnel (probably) : Bob Bain (guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (bass) ; Jackie Kelso, Scott Gordon (saxes) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
April 12, 1961 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN is back in King's Cincinnati studio. Six of the seven tracks will be released both as singles and LP tracks : "(I've Got) Spring Fever" (King 5503, late April), "Now You Know"/"Take My Love” (King 5516, July). "The Masquerade Is Over" (King 5602, March 1962),"Every Beat Of My Heart" (King 5641, May 1962) and "Rock Love" (King 5870, March 1964)."Like Boy, Like Girl” is eventually issued in 2009 on the CD “Heaven All Around Me : The Later King Sessions 1961-63” (Ace CDCHD 1221). Personnel unknown. Produced by Henry Glover.
Thursday, April 13, 1961 : THE FLEAS are a "supergroup", consisting of Ricky Nelson, Jerry Fuller, Dave Burgess and Glen Campbell. On this day they record the single "Scratchin'"/"Tears" (Challenge 9115, July), at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood. Both numbers were previously attempted on March 28. This session uses the instrumental backing track from that date, but with new vocals and a different mix. Backing by members of the Champs. Produced by Dave Burgess.
April 13, 1961 :
First Capitol session for IVORY JOE HUNTER. "Because I Love
You"/"I'm Hooked" is released in June on Capitol 4587. Both
songs are his own compositions. Hunter accompanies himself on piano ; more
personnel details unknown. Arranged by Stan Applebaum in New York City.
April 13, 1961 : EARL KING is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record four tracks. "Come Along With Me"/"You're More To Me Than Gold" is issued in May on Imperial 5750. "My Mother's Love" and "Nervous Breakdown" are first released on the CD "Come On : The Complete Imperial Recordings" in 2003 (Okra-Tone 4970). Personnel : Earl King (vocals / guitar) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Wardell Quezergue (trumpet) ; Waldron 'Frog' Joseph (trombone) ; Morris Bechamin (tenor sax) ; Carl Bluin (baritone sax) ; George French (bass) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums).
April 14, 1961 : Second session of JO-ANN CAMPBELL this month. "It Wasn't Right" is selected as the A-side of her next single (ABC-Paramount 10224, June, c/w "Eddie My Love", recorded on April 6). The other three tracks will all get a place on the LP "For Twistin' and Listenin'" (ABC-Paramount ABC 393) in February 1962 : "Johnny B. Goode", "Willie and the Hand Jive" and "Mr. Lee". Produced by Sid Feller at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. See also April 6 and April 27.
April 14, 1961 : SAM COOKE cuts his biggest hit of 1961, "Cupid", released on May 16 (RCA 47-7883, # 17 pop, # 20 R&B). The other side is "Farewell My Darling" from a January session. Cooke also records a second version of "Tenderness", which stays in the vaults until 2000 (4 CD-set "The Man Who Invented Soul"). Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Cliff White (guitar) ; Joseph Gibbons (guitar / banjo) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus overdubbed strings. Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood.
April 14, 1961 is the date of HAROLD DORMAN's first Sun session. The single "There They Go"/"I'll Stick By You" is released on May 21 (Sun362). A first version of "Wait 'Til Saturday Night" is shelved until 1976, when it will be included on the LP "Sun - The Roots Of Rock, Vol. 1" (Charly CR 30101, UK). (Dorman will cut the song again in March 1962.)"Let 'em Talk" is first released on the CD "Sun Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 1" (Charly CPCD 8277) in 1997. Personnel : Hank Garland, Kelton Herston (guitars) ; Junior Huskey(bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Millie Kirkham, Dorothy Ann Dillard, Gordon Stoker, Louis Dean Nunley (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips at Sun's new Nashville studio.
April 17-18, 1961 :
WANDA JACKSON records eleven tracks for the LP "Right Or Wrong"
(Capitol T 1596, October). "Why I'm Walking", "So Soon",
"The Last Letter", "I May Never Get To Heaven" and
"The Window Up Above" will get a place on Side 1 of the album, along
with the title track, which was recorded on October 28, 1960. Side 2 is the
rocking side with "Sticks And Stones", "Stupid Cupid",
"Slippin' And Slidin'", "Brown Eyed Handsome Man",
"Who Shot Sam" and "My Baby Left Me". Produced by Ken
Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville. See also April 20.
April 17, 1961 : THE LETTERMEN record their first hit, "The Way You Look Tonight"/"That's My Desire" (Capitol 4586, June, # 13). "Valley High" is a track for their first LP ("A Song For Young Love", Capitol T 1669, January 1962). "Heart And Soul" remains in the vaults. The Lettermen are : Jim Pike, Tony Butala and Bob Engemann. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
April 17, 1961 : JOHN
D. LOUDERMILK returns to the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville to record five
tracks. "The Great Snowman" and "Blue Train (Of the Heartbreak
Line)" are included on the LP "Language Of Love" in October (RCA
LPM 2434). "He's Just A Scientist (That's All)", "The Little
Bird" and "Rhythm and Blues" will appear on the subsequent LP,
"Twelve Sides Of Loudermilk" (RCA LPM 2539) in August 1962.
"Blue Train" and "Rhythm and Blues" are coupled for single
release in February 1964(RCA 47-8308). Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals /
guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Norro Wilson (piano / harpsichord) ;
Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers
(vocal chorus).Produced by Chet Atkins.
April 19, 1961 : THE JOHN BARRY SEVEN (Plus Four) are at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London for a two-track session. "A Matter Of Who" (from the film of the same name) will end up as the B-side of "Starfire" (cut on July 31, 1961), which is released on September 1 (Columbia DB 4699)."Dark Rider" is first released on the CD "John Barry - The EMI Years, Vol. Two : 1961" (EMI CD EMS 1501). Produced by Norman Newell.
April 19, 1961 :
Three-track session by MARTY ROBBINS at Bradley Studio in Nashville. His
next single is "Jimmy Martinez"/"Ghost Train", released
on May 1 (Columbia 42008, # 24 country, # 51 pop). "You Told Me
So" is used as the B-side of the subsequent 45 (Columbia 42065, July 29)
c/w "It's Your World" (a # 3 country hit, also # 51 pop),
recorded on March 10, 1961. Personnel : Jack Pruett, Hank Garland (guitars) ;
Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don
Law.
April 20, 1961 : The ERNIE FREEMAN COMBO cuts their next single, "Warsaw Concerto"/"Theme From 'Return To Peyton Place'" (Imperial 5752, May). Two other tracks are recorded : "The Freeloader", which is saved until October 1962 for release on Imperial 5883 (c/w "Say It Isn't So" from a session on August 23, 1956) and "Slow Motion", which has never been released. Produced by Jerry Wald in Los Angeles.
April 20, 1961 : WANDA JACKSON continues her sessions at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Four tracks are recorded, which will be used for forthcoming singles : "In the Middle Of A Heartache"/"I'd Be Ashamed" (Capitol 4635,September 25, a # 6 country hit) and "I Don't Wanta Go"/"A Little Bitty Tear" (Capitol 4681, December). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 20, 1961 : CHRIS KENNER does his second session for the Instant label. "A Very True Story"/"Packin' Up" will be released in August on Instant 3234. A third track, "Come See About Me", ends up on the B-side of "Something You Got" (from a later session, on September 12) in late October (Instant 3237). Personnel includes Allen Toussaint on piano and Roy Montrell on guitar ; more details unknown. Location is Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans.
April 20, 1961 : LLOYD PRICE cuts six tracks in New York City, but only two of them will be released, on the single "Mary And Man-O"/"I Ain't Givin' Up Nothin'" (ABC-Paramount 10221, June). The unissued tracks are :"Only Night", "Worried", "Tryin'" and "I'm Gonna Take Back My Heart". Personnel : Wallace Davenport, Tommy Purkson (trumpets) ; Wade Marcus, Sam Hurt (trombones) ; Chuck Reeves (alto sax) ; Charles McClendon, Danny Turner (tenor saxes) ; more details unknown. Produced by Sid Feller.
April 20, 1961 : THE SHADOWS record three tracks for their first album, simply called "The Shadows" (Columbia SX 1374, September) : "Shadoogie","Sleepwalk" and "That's My Desire". The latter features a vocal by Bruce Welch ; the other two tracks are instrumentals. Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar /vocals) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London, England.
April 21, 1961 : RAY
SHARPE is now contracted to Atlantic, but none of the four songs from this
session will see a release : "Hey Little Girl"(Sharpe will record
this for the Garex label in 1963), "When I Danced the Mashed Potatoes With
You", "Your Kisses" and "I'm Too Much". Personnel :
Everett Barksdale, Richard Ziegler (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Doc
Severinsen, Joe Wilder (trumpets) ; Urbie Green (trombone) ;Sam 'the Man'
Taylor, Walter Levinsky (tenor saxes) ; Stan Webb (baritone sax) ; Mike Spencer
(piano) ; Phil Kraus (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; The Helen Way
Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Fred Norman in New York City.
Monday, April 24, 1961 : DUANE EDDY visits United Recorders in Hollywood to cut another single for the Jamie label, "Ring Of Fire"/"Bobbie" (Jamie 1187, May, a # 84 hit). "Ring Of Fire" is a film theme ; a separate movie version was recorded at MGM Studios in Hollywood in March or April. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / producer) ; Barney Kessel, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; David Campbell (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn(sax) ; Jimmy Troxel (drums) and a vocal chorus of four male and four female vocalists. Strings (12 violins) arranged by Bob Thompson.
April 25, 1961 : KING CURTIS records the 10-track LP "Trouble In Mind : King Curtis Sings the Blues" (Tru-Sound LP 15001, August), in Englewood Cliffs, N.J. Tracks : "Trouble In Mind", "Bad Bad Whiskey", "Don't Deceive Me", "But That's Alright", "I Have To Worry", "Nobody Wants You When You're Down And Out", "Woke Up This Morning", "Ain't Nobody's Business", "Deep Fry" and "Jivin' Time". Two singles are drawn from the album : "Trouble In Mind"/"But That's Alright" (Tru-Sound 401, August) and "Twistin' & Jivin' (an edited version of "Jivin' Time") /"I Have To Worry" (Tru-Sound 406, February 1962).Personnel : King Curtis (vocals / tenor sax / alto sax / guitar) ; Al Casey, Mac Pierce (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Belton Evans (drums) ; The Cookies (vocal chorus on three tracks). Produced by Esmond Edwards.
April 25, 1961 : BOBBY HELMS arrives at Bradley Studio in Nashville to cut four songs. "How Can You Divide A Little Child"/"My Greatest Weakness" is released in August (Decca 31287). "I Can Take It Like You Can" and "Teach Me" will have to wait until 1992 for release on the double CD "Fraulein :The Classic Years" (Bear Family BCD 15594). Personnel : Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Paul Cohen.
April 26, 1961 : The final Atlantic session of RUTH BROWN produces only two tracks, one unissued ("Naturally"). "Anyone But You" will come out on Atlantic 2104 in May, coupled with "It Tears Me All To Pieces", recorded on August 30, 1960. Personnel : Bill Suyker, Richard Ziegler (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ;Mike Spencer (piano) ; Joe Venuto (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; unknown strings and unknown vocal group (overdubbed). Arranged by Fred Norman, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
April 26-27, 1961 : JOHNNY CASH records songs for the LP "Hymns From the Heart" (Columbia CS 8522, June 1962) : "I Got Shoes", "Let the Lower Lights Be Burning", "If We Never Meet Again", "When I Take My Vacation In Heaven", "When He Reached Down His Hand For Me", "Taller Than Trees", "I Won't Have To Cross Jordan Alone", "My God Is Real" and "These Hands". Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Ray Edenton, Luther Perkins(guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bill Pursell (organ) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Bradley Studio in Nashville. See also April 28.
April 27, 1961 : JO-ANN CAMPBELL records more tracks for the album "For Twistin' and Listenin'" (ABC-Paramount ABC 393, February 1962) : "Donnie", "Goodbye Jimmy Goodbye" and "Duane". The latter is first issued in October as the B-side of "Mama Don't Want No Twistin'" (ABC-Paramount 10258, from a session on February 24). Two other tracks, "Dear Al" and "Freddie", were intended for an album on ABC-Paramount ABC 386, of which no traces can be found and which has probably never been released. Produced by Sid Feller at Bell Sound Studios in New York City.
April 28, 1961 : Third day of sessions by JOHNNY CASH. "Mr. Lonesome" and "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know About Her" will be included on the LP "The Sound Of Johnny Cash" (Columbia CS 8602), released in August1962. Four other tracks - "There's A Mother Always Waiting" and remakes of "I Walk the Line", "Folsom Prison Blues" and "Hey Porter" - remain in the vaults until Bear Family releases the 5-CD box-set "The Man In Black, Vol 2 : 1959-1962" in 1991 (BCD 15562). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Tompall Glaser, Luther Perkins(guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano / vibes) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
April 28, 1961 : BILL HALEY and his Comets record their next single at Bell Sound Studio, New York City. "Flip, Flop and Fly" is coupled with the instrumental "Honky Tonk" for release on Warner Bros 5228 in June. Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Johnny Kay (guitar) ; Al Rappa (bass guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Tony Lee and Rudy Pompilli (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bates (drums).
April 1961, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE cuts three tracks at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Great Shakin' Fever" is chosen as the new single (Era 3045, third week of April, c/w "That's Me Without You", from a session on January 20, 1961). "Good Good Lovin'" and "It Could 've Been Different" are first released on the Bear Family CD "Great Shakin' Fever" (BCD 15545) in 1990. Personnel and producer unknown.
April 1961, unknown date : DALE HAWKINS does his first post-Checker session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result ;"Money Honey"/"The Same Old Way" (Tilt 781, May) and "Forbidden Love"/"Wish I Hadn't Called Home" (Tilt 783, July). Personnel : Fred Carter Jr (guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; more details unknown. Arranged by Cliff Parment.
April 1961, unknown date : JAN AND DEAN record “Heart and Soul” and “Those Words” in Los Angeles. The two songs are coupled for release on May 18 on Challenge 9111, but “Those Words” is soon replaced by “Midsummer Night’s Dream” (also recorded in April 1961, but probably not at the same session). “Heart and Soul” will reach # 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Lou Adler.
With thanks to Frank Frantik, the late Roy Simonds and Tapio Väisänen.
Dik
MAY 1961
May 1-2, 1961 : DON GIBSON records eleven tracks for the LP "Girls, Guitars And Gibson" (RCA LPM 2361, July) : "No One Will Ever Know", "Born To Lose", "Beautiful Dreamer", "Camptown Races", "Fireball Mail" (also released as a single, RCA 47-8367, in May 1964), "The Last Letter", "White Silver Sands", "Driftwood On the River", "The Lonesome Road", "Above And Beyond" and "Cute Little Girls". Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitars) ; Johnny Smith, Hank Garland, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
May 3, 1961 : JOHN BARRY and his orchestra cut eight tracks at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. Six of these will appear on the album "Stringbeat" (Columbia SX 1358, November) : "It Doesn't Matter Anymore", "Sweet Talk", "There's Life In the Old Boy Yet", "Spanish Harlem", "Zapata" and "Rodeo". The latter is also released as a single (Columbia DB 4659, June), coupled with "The Menace" from this same session. "Iron Horse" is first released on the EMI CD "John Barry : The EMI Years, Vol. 2 : 1961" in 1993. Produced by Norman Newell.
May 3, 1961 : IRMA THOMAS records her next single,
"Cry On"/"Girl Need Boy" (Minit 625, third week of May), at
Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans. Produced by Allen Toussaint.
Tuesday, May 9, 1961 : ANN-MARGRET records her biggest hit, “I Just Don’t Understand” (RCA 47-7894, June). Peak position in Billboard : # 17. The reverse, “I Don’t Hurt Anymore”, was recorded on April 23, 1961. Two other tracks are laid down, “There’s No Such Thing” and “Every Beat Of My Heart”. Both stay in the vaults until they are included on the 5-CD set “Ann-Margret 1961-66” (Bear Family BCD 16248) in 1998. Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmo- nica) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Produced by Chet Atkins and Dick Peirce at Nashville’s RCA Victor Studio.
Thursday, May 11, 1961 : DEL SHANNON is back at Bell Sound Studio in New York City to record the follow-up to "Runaway". "Hats Off To Larry"/ "Don't Gild the Lily, Lily" (Bigtop 3075) is released in the last week of May. Also laid down are two tracks for Del's first LP, "Runaway With Del Shannon" (Bigtop 12-1303, June) : "I Wake Up Crying" and "Wide Wide World". Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Max Crook (piano / musitron) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Harry Balk.
May 12, 1961 : Also at Bell Sound Studio in New York City, RAL DONNER cuts one track, "To Love", for the A-side of his next single (Gone 5108, June, c/w "And Then" from a session in June 1960). However, the single is soon withdrawn and replaced by another single, using the same catalog number (see May 24-25 session). "To Love" gets a second chance on Gone 5133 in October 1962, after being overdubbed on January 25, 1962. This time the reverse is "Sweetheart", recorded on August 4, 1961. Produced by George Goldner.
May 12, 1961 : One-track session by the UK group THE SHADOWS, who record the instrumental "Big Boy". It will be used as the closing track for their first LP, "The Shadows" (Columbia SX 1374), which is released in September. The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. See also May 25.
May 12, 1961 : LEROY VAN DYKE records at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Walk On By"/"My World Is Caving In" is selected for single release on Mercury 71834 in August. A major hit is the result (# 1 country, # 5 pop). "Save Me the Moonlight" is first released on the Bear Family CD "Walk On By" (BCD 15779) in 1994. A first attempt at “A Broken Promise” remains unissued ; Van Dyke would return to the song in January 1962. Personnel : Hank Garland, Kelso Herston, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (6-string bass guitar) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Willie Ackerman (drums) ; Margie Singleton (harmony vocals). Produced by Shelby Singleton.
May 13, 1961 : THE LOUVIN BROTHERS record four tracks in Nashville, all released as singles. "How's the World Treating You"/"It Hurts Me More (the Second Time Around)" is their next single (Capitol 4628, August). "Time Goes So Slow" hits the market in May 1962 (Capitol 4757, c/w "Broken Engagement" from a session on July 27, 1961). "Every Time You Leave" is saved until November 1963 for release on Capitol 5075 (c/w "There Is No Easy Way" from a session on May 9, 1962). Personnel : Charlie Louvin (vocals / guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocals/ mandolin) ; Odell Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano / organ) ; Willie Ackerman (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 16, 1961 : Two-track session by AARON NEVILLE at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans. "For Every Boy There's A Girl" is saved until 1967 for release on Instant 3282 (c/w "I've Done It Again" from a session on June 6, 1961). "Hey Little Alice" will be included on the LP "The Best Of Art And Aaron Neville" (Bandy 70013), May 16, 1961 : Two-track session by AARON NEVILLE at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans. "For Every Boy There's A Girl" is saved until 1967 for release on Instant 3282 (c/w "I've Done It Again" from a session on June 6, 1961). "Hey Little Alice" will be included on the LP "The Best Of Art And Aaron Neville" (Bandy 70013), which was issued circa 1982. Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Alvin 'Red' Tyler (baritone sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums). circa 1982. Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Alvin 'Red' Tyler (baritone sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums).
May 17, 1961 : MARV JOHNSON records his next two singles
in Detroit : "How Can We Tell Him"/"I've Got A Notion"
(United Artists 322, May 26) and "Oh Mary"/"Show Me"
(United Artists 359, August 14). Arranged by Sammy Lowe, produced by Berry
Gordy, Jr.
May 18, 1961 : Final Imperial session by HUEY SMITH and the Clowns, at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans. "Sassy Sara"/"More Girls" is the resulting single (Imperial 5772), released in August. Two other tracks - "Somebody Told It" and "Psycho" - are consigned to the vaults until the French label Pathe-Marconi issues the LP "The Imperial Sides 1960-61" (1546731) in 1983. Arranged by Huey Smith, produced by Dave Bartholomew.
May 19-21, 1961 : BRENDA LEE records 14 tracks during a 3-day session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Nine of these will appear on the LP "All the Way" (Decca DL 4176, August) : "Lover Come Back To Me", "Kansas City", "On the Sunny Side of the Street", "All the Way", "Tragedy", "Talkin' 'Bout You", "Dum Dum", "Eventually" and "Speak To Me Pretty". The latter is also issued as a UK single in March 1962 (Brunswick 0.5867, a # 3 UK hit). "Dum Dum"/"Eventually" is released as a US single on June 26 (Decca 31272). The A-side peaks at # 4, the B-side at # 56. "How Deep In the Ocean" will be included on the LP "Sincerely, Brenda Lee" in February 1962 (Decca DL 4216). “Tables Are Turning” is first issued in 1974 , on the German double LP “Brenda Lee : The Legends Of Rock, Vol. 2 : Rare Items” (MCA/Coral COPS 7292). Three tracks are first released on the Bear Family 4-CD set "Little Miss Dynamite" (BCD 15772, 1995) : "Careless, That's All", "Funny Feelin'" and "Let Me Be the One". Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin (guitars) : Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano / organ on "Dum Dum") ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Doug Kirkham (drums on May 19) ; Buddy Harman (drums on May 20-21) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus four violins and a cello. Arranged by Grady Martin, produced by Owen Bradley.
May 22, 1961 : ANDY STARR is in Nashville's RCA Victor Studio to record four tracks for two singles, which will be credited to Frank Starr and released on the Holiday Inn label, owned by Sam Phillips. "Knees Shakin'"/ "Evil Eye" is released in August (Holiday Inn 104) and "Little Bitty Feeling"/"Lost In A Dream" in April 1962 (Holiday Inn 108). The latter coupling even sees a UK release on London HLU 9545. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Leonard.
May 22, 1961 : JACKIE WILSON records his new single, “I’m Comin’ On Back To You”/“Lonely Life” (Brunswick 55216, rush-released) at the Decca Studio (Pythian Temple) in New York City. Both sides will make the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at # 19 and # 80 respectively. “One More Time” is used as an LP track ; “The Test Of Time” remains unissued. Orchestra and chorus directed by Dick Jacobs.
May 23, 1961 : HANK BALLARD is in New York City (possibly Bell Sound Studio) to record a number without the Midnighters, "The Switch-A-Roo". It will become the A-side of his new 45. (For the B-side, see May 26). Released on King 5510 in June, it will peak at # 3 on the R&B charts and # 26 on the pop charts. Personnel : Mickey Baker, Joe Richardson (guitars) ; Bob Bushnell (electric bass) ; Buddy Lucas, Hank Moore (tenor saxes) ; Horace Ott (piano) ; Unidentified (drums).
Wednesday, May 24, 1961 : LEE DIAMOND is at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans to record the single "I Need Money"/"Let Me Know" (Minit 635, October). Produced by Allen Toussaint.
May 24, 1961 : Four-track session by CLYDE McPHATTER at
Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "I Never
Knew"/"Happiness" is chosen for single release in July (Mercury
71841). "Friends" and "How Do I Make My Dreams Come True"
are first released on volume 4 of the 9-LP set "Rhythm And Soul,
'59-'65" (Bear Family BFX 15271) in 1988. Arranged and conducted by Chuck
Sagle. Produced by Clyde Otis.
May 24, 1961 : THE MONOTONES record their final released 45, "Daddy's Home But Momma's Gone"/"Tattletale" (Hull 743, June). The A-side is an answer to "Daddy's Home" by Shep and the Limelites. Location is New York City.
May 24, 1961 : BUCK OWENS is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood where he cuts four tracks. "Under the Influence Of Love"/"Bad Bad Dream" will become his next single (Capitol 4602, July 24). A # 2 country hit. "Nobody's Fool But Yours" is the subsequent single, released on January 2, 1962 (Capitol 4679, c/w "Mirror, Mirror On the Wall" from a session on December 6, 1961). Another country hit (# 11). "Down To the River" is used as a track for the LP "You're For Me" (Capitol T 1777, October 1962), which will also include the other three tracks from this session. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; Don Rich (fiddle) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Moose Stone (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
May 24, 1961 : CARL PERKINS does another session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "The Unhappy Girls"/"Anyway the Wind Blows" is selected as the new single (Columbia 42061, July 7). Two other tracks, "Someday, Somewhere, Someone Waits For Me" and an updated version of "Turn Around" stay on the shelves, waiting to be included on the 5-CD set "The Classic Carl Perkins" (Bear Family BCD 15494) in 1990. Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Willie Ackerman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 24, 1961 : RUSTY YORK records material for two singles : "Love Struck"/ "Goodnight Cincinnati, Good Morning Tennessee" (King 5511, July) and "Tore Up Over You"/"Tremblin'" (King 5587, January 1962). Bear Family lists this as a Cincinnati session, but New York City seems more likely (same personnel as the Hank Ballard session of May 23, which Bear Family locates in NYC). Personnel : Mickey Baker, Joe Richardson (guitars) ; Bob Bushnell (electric bass) ; Horace Ott (piano) ; Buddy Lucas, Hank Moore (tenor saxes) ; Unidentified (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
May 24-25, 1961 : In Miami (Criteria Studios), RAL DONNER records no less than 13 tracks. "You Don't Know What You've Got"/"So Close To Heaven" becomes his new single (Gone 5108, June, replacing another issue of Gone 5108, see May 12). It will go down in history as Donner's biggest hit, peaking at # 4. "Nine Times Out Of Ten", "School Of Heartbreakers", "Lonely Star" and "She's My Baby" are tracks for the album "Taking Care Of Business" (Gone LP 5012, September). "Please Don't Tease", "Cream Puff" and "Nite Owl" have to wait until 1978 / 1988 for belated LP releases. "You Haven't Lived Until You Loved", "Tears Of Misery" and "Little Miss Heartbreak" finally see the light of day in 1991, on the double CD "The Complete Ral Donner" (Sequel 2CD NED 190, UK). An early version of "Turn Back the Clock" remains unissued. Personnel unknown. Produced by George Goldner.
May 25, 1961 : Second May session by THE SHADOWS in London, England. Three tracks are committed to tape. "36-24-36" ends up on the B-side of the # 1 single "Kon-Tiki" (recorded on January 27) in September (Columbia DB 4698). "The Savage"/"Peace Pipe" is the subsequent single (Columbia DB 4726, November 10) and will peak at # 10 on the UK charts. Personnel and producer are the same as on May 12.
May 26, 1961 : HANK BALLARD is back from his trip to New York City and records in his usual studio in Cincinnati, this time with the Midnighters. "The Float" is used as the B-side of "The Switch-A-Roo" (King 5510, see May 23) and will chart in its own right (# 92 R&B). The instrumental "The Big Frog" (King 5513, June) is coupled with Hank Moore's "Doin' Everything", from a different session. "I Belong To You" is a track for King LP 759 ("Dance Along", 1962) and "I Got A Mind To Leave You" for King LP 781 ("The Twistin' Fools", July 1962). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis, Fred Jordan (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Mark Patterson (trumpet) ; Joe Hardwick (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
May 26, 1961 : DORSEY BURNETTE is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood to record three tracks. A cover of Slim Harpo's "Rainin' In My Heart" is coupled with "A Full House" for release on Dot 16230 in June. A third track, "Buckeye Road", stays in the vaults until the release of the Bear Family CD "Great Shakin' Fever" (BCD 15545) in 1992. Orchestra and chorus conducted by Billy Vaughn.
May 26, 1961 : JOE DOWELL has his first session for Smash Records, at Bradley Film &
May 26, 1961 : The penultimate session of THE KALIN TWINS
results in the single "One More Time"/"Bubbles (I'm Forever
Blowing Bubbles)" (Decca 31286, July). Location is the Decca Studio
A, Decca Building, New York City. Orchestra and chorus directed by Clint
Ballard, Jr.
May 26, 1961 : SHEP AND THE LIMELITES record four tracks in New York City, all released as singles. "Ready For Your Love"/"You'll Be Sorry" is their new single (Hull 742, June). A # 42 hit. "Three Steps From the Altar" follows in September (Hull 747, c/w "Oh What A Feeling" from an earlier session) and will also chart (# 58). "What Did Daddy Do" is a May 1962 release (Hull 751, c/w "Teach Me, Teach Me How To Twist" from a 1962 session). This one peaks at # 94.
May 26, 1961 : And yet another session on this Friday.
RAY STEVENS cuts two singles in Nashville (Bradley Studio). The July
release "Jeremiah Peabody's Poly Unsaturated Quick Dissolving Fast
Acting Pleasant Tasting Green And Purple Pills"/"Teen
Years" (Mercury 71843) will give him his first chart entry (# 35).
The follow-up, "Scratch My Back (I Love It)"/ "When You Wish
Upon A Star" (Mercury 71888) will be released in October. Orchestra
conducted by Jerry Kennedy, with vocal support by The Merry Melody Singers.
Produced by Shelby Singleton.
May 27, 1961 : ROY ORBISON records three tracks for his second album, "Crying" (Monument M 4007, January 1962) : "Dance", "Summer Song" (also released as the B-side of "Lana", Monument 939, in June 1966) and "Loneliness". Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph, Harry Johnson (saxes) ; Carl Garvin, Cameron Mullins (trumpets) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus five violins and one cello. Produced by Bob Moore at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Executive producer : Fred Foster.
May 30-31, 1961 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record ten songs for the 14-track LP "Both Sides Of An Evening" (Warner Bros 1418, August). "My Mammy", "Don't Blame Me", "When I Grow Too Old To Dream", "Grandfather's Clock" and "Mention My Name in Sheboygan" are laid down on the 30th and "My Gal Sal", "Hi-Lili, Hi-Lo", "Now Is the Hour", "The Wayward Wind" and "Love Is Where You Find It" on the 31st. "Don't Blame Me" is also released as a single (Warner Bros 5501, c/w "Muskrat", recorded on June 1) on the 2nd of September and reaches # 20 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Don Everly, Phil Everly (vocals / guitars) ; Hank Garland (guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown. Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
May 31, 1961 : DR. FEELGOOD (real name Willie Perryman, a.k.a Piano Red) and the Interns do their first session for OKeh Records, in Nashville (Bradley Studio). Eight tracks are recorded, all of which will appear on the LP "Doctor Feelgood" in 1962 (OKeh OKM 12101). Selected for single release are "Doctor Feelgood"/"Mister Moonlight" (OKeh 7144, January 1962) and "Right String But the Wrong Yo-Yo" (OKeh 7156, July 1962, c/w "What's Up Doc" from a session on April 3, 1962). Both A-sides will enter the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at # 66 and # 84 respectively. The other tracks are : "The Swabble", "I'll Be Home One Day", "Sea Breeze", "I Ain't Gonna Be A Lowdown Dog No More" and "Don't Let Me Catch You Wrong". Personnel : Willie Perryman (vocals / piano) ; Roy Lee Johnson, Jr., Curtis Smith, Beverly Watkins (guitars) ; Long John Hobbs (bass) ; Bobby Lee Tuggle (drums). Produced by Don Law.
May 1961, unknown date : JOHNNY BURNETTE records his next single in Hollywood, "I've Got A Lot Of Things To Do"/"Girls" (Liberty 55345, June). No US chart success this time, but in the UK, "Girls" is chosen as the A-side (London HLG 9388) and reaches # 37. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett. Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers. More details unknown.
May 1961, unknown date : The vocal group THE EDSELS, currently in the charts with their 3-year old "Rama Lama Ding Dong", records a single in New York City : "Bone Shaker Joe"/"My Jealous One" (Capitol 4588, June). The Edsels are : George Jones, Jr., Marshall Sewell, Harry Green, Larry Green and James Reynolds. The sax player on "Bone Shaker Joe" is probably King Curtis. Produced by Manny Kellem.
Early May 1961, unknown date : WILBERT HARRISON does a six-track session in New York City. "Off To Work Again"/"After Graduation" is released as a single in the third week of May (Neptune 123). "You Don't Know" gets a place on the Various artists LP "Washington Committee" (Double-L 2302) in 1963. Three tracks - "Jeanie", "Confused" and "Pledging" - were originally unissued, but all six tracks from this session appeared on the LP "Wilbert Harrison Vs. Baby Washington : Battle Of the Giants" (Joy Joys LP 191, UK) in 1971. The session is produced by Lloyd Price.
May 1961, unknown date : In Chicago, HOWLIN' WOLF (real name Chester Burnett) records his new single, "Down In the Bottom"/"Little Baby" (Chess 1793, June). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (vocals / guitar) ; Hubert Sumlin, Jimmy Rogers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Johnny Jones (piano) ; Sam Lay (drums).
May 1961, unknown date : BRIAN HYLAND records the first single for his new label, ABC-Paramount : "Let Me Belong To You"/"Let It Die!" (ABC 10236, July). A # 20 hit. Location is probably Bell Sound Studio in New York City. Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum.
June 1, 1961 : In Cincinnati, LATTIE MOORE records a new version of Jerry Reed's "If the Good Lord's Willing (And the Creek Don't Rise)", which he had previously recorded in 1959, but that version stayed in the can until 2000 (Westside WESF 109, CD "I'm Not Broke But I'm Badly Bent"). This new King recording is released in July (King 5526), coupled with "Sundown And Sorrow" from the same session.
June 1, 1961 : THE SHADOWS record two tracks for their first LP, simply titled "The Shadows" (Columbia SX 1374, September) : "See You In My Drums" (with a drum solo by Tony Meehan) and "Theme From A Filleted Place". The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Tony Meehan (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. See also June 13 and 21.
Friday, June 2, 1961 : CONNIE FRANCIS records her next single, "Together"/ "Too Many Rules" (MGM 13019, July). Both sides will enter the charts, peaking at # 6 and # 72 respectively. "Your Love" (sung to the melody of "La Paloma") will only be released in Germany (MGM 61055). Bob Moore plays bass, more details unknown. Arranged by Cliff Parman, produced by Jim Vienneau in Nashville.
June 4, 1961 : JOHNNY PRESTON is at Phillips Studio in Nashville to record three tracks. "She Once Belonged To Me"/"Let Them Talk" is issued on Mercury 71865 in August. A first version of "Kissin' Tree" is rejected, but will later become available on the Bear Family CD "Running Bear" (BCD 15473) in 1989. Personnel : Ray Edenton (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Bill Hall.
June 6, 1961 : FATS DOMINO lays down four tracks at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, all of which will come out on the LP "Let the Four Winds Blow" (Imperial LP 9153, July) : "Won't You Come On Back" (also released as a single, Imperial 5985, in November 1962), "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" (also Imperial 66005, August 1963), "I'm Alone Because I Love You" and "Good Hearted Man" (also released as the B-side of "Let the Four Winds Blow", Imperial 5764, July). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagens (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). See also June 12 and June 20.
June 6, 1961 : AARON NEVILLE also records at Cosimo's on this day. "Let's Live"/"I Found Another Love" is chosen for his new single (Minit 631, July). "I've Done It Again" is saved until 1967 for release on Instant 3282 (c/w "For Every Boy There's A Girl", from a session on May 16, 1961). "The Ticks Of the Clock" is eventually released on Aaron's CD "Show Me the Way" (Charly CPCD 8203, UK) in 1992. Personnel unknown. Produced by Allen Toussaint.
June 6, 1961 : MARTY ROBBINS cuts four tracks for the LP "Just A Little Sentimental" (Columbia CL 1666, August 14) : "Guess I'll Be Going", "To Think You've Chosen Me", "Too Young" and "A Little Sentimental". Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Hank Garland, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
June 7, 1961 : Guitarist AL CASEY is at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. He records and produces "Cookin'" and "Hotfood", which are first released on Ramco 3703 in the summer of 1961, then on Blue Horizon 925 (unknown date, possibly late 1961) and finally - in March 1962 - on Stacy 925. The Stacy single will spend two weeks on the Billboard charts, reaching # 92. Personnel : Al Casey (guitar / organ) ; Corky Casey (bass) ; Brad Bauder (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums). The session is engineered by Jack Miller.
Thursday, June 8, 1961 : In Nashville, BOB LUMAN records four songs. His next single is "Private Eye"/"You've Turned Down the Lights" (Warner Bros 5233, July). "Boston Rocker" and "Old Friends" will get a place on an EP (Warner Bros 5506) in October. Produced by Wesley Rose.
June 9, 1961 : SONNY JAMES is now recording for RCA. Three tracks are recorded on this day. "Innocent Angel"/"Hey Little Ducky" is selected for single release (RCA 47-7919, August). "Listen To My Heart" will be included on the LP "Young Love and Other Songs Of Love" (Camden CAS 2140) in January 1967. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus four violins. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio. in Nashville.
June 12, 1961 : Second FATS DOMINO session of this month. He records three more tracks for the "Let the Four Winds Blow" LP (Imperial LP 9153, July) : "Along the Navajo Trail", "In A Shanty In Old Shanty Town" and "One Night" (also issued as a single, Imperial 5980, in July 1963). Also laid down is the backing track for "Someday" (over- dubbed with Fats' vocal at a later, unknown date) ; the song will see a release on the album "Let's Dance With Domino" (Imperial LP 9239) in May 1963. Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano, except on "Someday") ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagens, Herb Hardesty (tenor saxes) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Unknown (piano on "Someday") ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Location is Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
June 12, 1961 : Four-track session by JERRY LEE LEWIS at Phillips Studio in Nashville. "It Won't Happen With Me" becomes the A-side of his new single (Sun 364, July, c/w "Cold Cold Heart" from a session on February 9, 1961). "Save the Last Dance For Me" is the subsequent single, released on September 1 (Sun 367, c/w "As Long As I Live", recorded in January 1960). "I Love You Because" is first issued on the LP "Original Golden Hits, Vol. 3" (Sun LP 128) in 1972. A new version of "C.C. Rider" is kept in the can until 1982 (12 LP-set "Jerry Lee Lewis : The Sun Years", SUNBOX 102). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Kelso Herston, Wayne Moss (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (organ) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (female vocal chorus). Produced by Billy Sherrill. See also June 14.
June 12, 1961 : RAY PRICE pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville. His next single is "Soft Rain"/"Here We Are Again", issued on August 28 (Columbia 42132, a # 3 country hit), after the A-side is overdubbed with a harmony vocal on July 13. "You're Stronger Than Me" will be used as a track for the LP "Love Life" (Columbia CL 2189) in August 1964. A first attempt at "This Cold War With You" remains unissued. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland, Willie Nelson, Pete Wade (guitars) ; Jimmy Day (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Tommy Jackson, Buddy Spicher (fiddles) ; Steve Bess (drums). Produced by Grady Martin and Don Law.
June 13, 1961 : THE BROWNS record four songs that will all be issued on singles. "My Baby's Gone"/"Whispering Wine" (RCA 47-7917) is an August release. "Alpha And Omega" comes out in December (RCA 47-7969, c/w "Foolish Pride" from a session on February 21, 1961). "Remember Me" is used as the B-side of "Buttons And Bows" (recorded on Dec. 7, 1961) in March 1962 (RCA 47-7997). Personnel : Jim Ed Brown, Maxine Brown, Bonnie Brown (vocals) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (marimbas) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a violin section. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 13, 1961 : CARL MANN visits Phillips Studio in Nashville to record four tracks. A new, faster version of "Ain't Got No Home" is chosen as the A-side of his next single (Phillips International 3569, July), coupled with "If I Could Change You". "Blueberry Hill" is first released on a Swedish LP in 1977 ("The Sun Story, Vol. 6 : Carl Mann", Spotlight SPO-131) and "Long Black Veil" on the album "Carl Mann : 14 Unissued Sides" (Jan/Star Club 33-8002, Sweden) in 1985. Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano / guitar) ; Kelso Herston, Eddie Bush (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips and Billy Sherrill.
June 13, 1961 : THE SHADOWS record three further tracks for their debut album, "The Shadows" (Columbia SX 1374, September), two vocals and an instrumental, "Nivram" (Marvin spelled backwards). The two vocal titles are "Stand Up And Say That" (with Hank Marvin on piano) and "All My Sorrows". Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
June 14, 1961 : LORRIE COLLINS is at CBS Recording Studio in Hollywood for a four-track session. "Home Of the Blues"/"Waitin' And Watchin'" is a November release (Columbia 42242). "Ain't You Never" and "What'Cha Gonna Do Now" remain in the vaults until Bear Family issues these two tracks on the Collins Kids 2-CD "Hop, Skip And Jump" (BCD 15537) in 1992. Personnel : Larry Collins, James Snyder, Roy Nichols (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Don Pearce (bass) ; Gordon Terry (fiddle) ; Muddy Berry (drums). Produced by Don Law.
June 14, 1961 : Second JERRY LEE LEWIS session within three days. "Hello Josephine" will be included on Jerry's second Sun LP, "Jerry Lee's Greatest" (Sun LP 1265, December). "High Powered Woman" is first released in 1978 on the LP "Golden Rock 'n' Roll" (Sun LP 1000). Two versions of "My Blue Heaven" stay in the vaults until 1987 when they appear on the Various artists box-set "Sun Records Into the '60s" (SUNBOX 109). A first attempt at Chuck Berry's "Sweet Little Sixteen" is eventually rescued by Bear Family in 1989 (8-CD set "Classic Jerry Lee Lewis", BCD 15420). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Brad Suggs (guitar) ; J.W. Brown (bass) ; Ace Cannon (sax) ; Gene Chrisman (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Scotty Moore at Sam Phillips Recording Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.
June 14, 1961 : Two songs are committed to tape during a session by ROY ORBISON. "Lana" is first released as an LP track (album "Crying", Monument M 4007, January 1962), then as a single in June 1966 (Monument 939, c/w "Summer Song", recorded on May 27). No chart success in the US, but in the UK "Lana" reaches # 15 (with a different flip-side, "House Without Windows"). A second version of "Dance" will get a place on the LP "Orbisongs" (Monument MLP 8035, July 1965). Location : RCA Victor Studio, Nashville. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Producer : Bob Moore. Executive producer : Fred Foster.
June 14, 1961 is also the recording date of BOBBY VEE's biggest hit, "Take Good Care Of My Baby" (Liberty 55354, July, # 1). "In My Baby's Eyes" ends up on the B-side of the # 15 hit "Sharing You" (Liberty 55451, May 1962, from a session on March 27, 1962). "Remember Me Huh" is a track for the LP "Take Good Care Of My Baby" (Liberty LRP 3211, January 1962). "Measure My Love" sees its first release in 1992 on the CD "I Remember Buddy Holly" (EMI E4 96057). Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
June 15, 1961 : DARRELL McCALL does a session at Bradley
Studio in Nashville. "(What'll I Do) Call the
Zoo"/"Loneliness" hits the market in August (Capitol
4609). The A-side was written by Benny Joy. "I Gotta Have You" is
saved from oblivion by Bear Family in 1996 (5-CD box-set "The Real McCall",
BCD 15846). Personnel : Hank Garland (guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano /
producer) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
More details unknown.
June 19, 1961 : Three-track session by BOBBY DARIN at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. "You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby"/"Sorrow Tomorrow" is Darin's next single (Atco 6206, August). A # 5 hit. "Things" is saved until June 1962 for release on Atco 6229 (c/w "Jailer, Bring Me Water", recorded on October 30, 1961). This is an even bigger hit, peaking at # 3. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Tommy Tedesco (guitars) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; John Rotella, Nino Tempo (saxes) ; Harold Diner (trombone) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Emil Richards (percussion). Arranged by Jimmie Haskell, produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
June 19, 1961 is the recording date of "Mexico" by BOB MOORE and his orchestra (Monument 446, c/w "Hot Spot", recorded on February 12, 1961). An international hit (# 7 in the US, # 1 in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium). "Ooh La La" is also released as a 45, in February 1962 (Monument 457, c/w "Auf Wiederseh'n Marlene", cut on January 12, 1962). Unissued from this session is "12th Street Rag". Personnel : Harold Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Boudleaux Bryant (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass / arranger) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; William McElhiney, Carl Garvin (trumpets) ; Boots Randolph (maracas) ; Marvin Hughes (marimbas) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus 3 violins. Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 19, 1961 : THE THREE FRIENDS cut the single
"Dedicated To the Songs I Love"/"Happy As A Man Can Be'
(Imperial 5763, July). The A-side, a # 89 hit, manages to include the titles of
38 current hits in its lyrics. Location is probably Los Angeles. The Three
Friends are : Clay Hammond (lead vocal), his brother Walter Hammond
(ex-Olympics) and Julius Brown.
June 19-21, 1961 : FARON YOUNG records seven tracks for his album "The Young Approach" (Capitol T 1634, September) : "The Part Where I Cry", "Things To Remember", "I Fall To Pieces", "A Moment Isn't Very Long", "Goin' Steady" (new version), "Three Days" and "Moments To Remember". Also laid down is "I Can't Find the Time", which is first released on the Bear Family box-set "Faron Young : The Classic Years, 1952-62" (BCD 15493) in 1991. Personnel : Hank Garland, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Ben Keith (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Tuesday, June 20, 1961 : Third June session by FATS DOMINO. Four more tracks for the LP "Let the Four Winds Blow" (Imperial LP 9153, July) are recorded, all of which will also be released as singles. "You Win Again" appears on a 45 in February 1962 (Imperial 5816) and peaks at # 22 (pop) on the Billboard charts. "Let the Four Winds Blow" is Domino's new single (Imperial 5764, July). A # 15 hit. "Trouble Blues" will be issued on Imperial 5937 in March 1963 and "Your Cheating Heart" on Imperial 66005 in August 1963. By that time Fats was recording for ABC-Paramount. Personnel is almost the same as on June 12 (see there). Add Clarence Ford on baritone sax, omit the unknown pianist on "Someday". Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
June 19-20, 1961 : JACK SCOTT is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City for a two-day session. Two singles are the result : "Strange Desire"/"My Dream Come True" (Capitol 4597, July 17) and "One Of These Days"/"Steps 1 And 2" (Capitol 4637, October 2). "Fancy Meeting You Again" is eventually released on the CD "Jack Scott - Capitol Collectors Series" (Capitol 7 93192 2) in 1990, while a second attempt at "True True Love" is saved from the vaults by Richard Weize for the CD box-set "Classic Jack Scott" (Bear Family BCD 15534, 1992). Produced by Manny Kellem.
June 21, 1961 : BARRY MANN's second session for ABC-Paramount will bring him his biggest hit (as a singer, at least) : "Who Put the Bomp (In the Bomp, Bomp, Bomp)"/"Love True Love" (ABC-Paramount 10237, July) will peak at # 7. Backing vocals by the Halos. More details unknown. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner in New York City.
June 21, 1961 : At Bell Sound Studio in New York City, DEL SHANNON records six tracks for his first album, "Runaway With Del Shannon" (Bigtop BT 12-1303, August) : "Misery", "Day Dreams", "His Latest Flame" (precedes the Presley recording by four days!), "The Prom", "Lies" and "He Doesn't Care". Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Max Crook (piano / musitron) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Produced by Harry Balk.
June 22, 1961 : LARRY COLLINS cuts four (vocal) tracks
without his sister Lorrie. "One Step Down"/"There Stands
the One" is released in August on Columbia 42131. "Wild And Wicked
Love" is saved until March 1962 for release on Columbia 42394 (c/w the
instrumental "T-Bone" from a session on December 12, 1960).
"You've Been Gone Too Long" is first released on the Collins Kids'
double CD "Hop, Skip And Jump" (Bear Family BCD 15537) in
1992. Personnel : Larry Collins (vocals / guitar) ; Ray Edenton, Harold
Bradley, Hank Garland (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ;
Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law at Bradley
Studio in Nashville.
June 22, 1961 : JOHNNY TILLOTSON records his next single, "Without You"/"Cutie Pie" (Cadence 1404, July). A # 7 hit. Ray Edenton plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Archie Bleyer at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 23, 1961 : The second Capitol session of IVORY JOE HUNTER results in two singles : "You Better Believe It Baby"/"May the Best Man Win" (Capitol 4648, October) and "The Life I Live"/"Great Big Heart" (Capitol 4688, January 1962). King Curtis plays tenor sax, more details unknown. Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Manny Kellem in New York City.
June 23, 1961 : The second Atlantic session of THE ISLEY BROTHERS yields two singles : "Your Old Lady"/"Write To Me" (Atlantic 2110, July) and "A Fool For You"/"Just One More Time" (Atlantic 2122, November). Personnel : Rudolph, Ronald and O'Kelly Isley (vocals) ; Al Casamenti, Allen Hanlon (guitars) ; Gordon Mitchell (bass) ; King Curtis, Buddy Lucas (tenor saxes) ; Al Epstein (baritone sax) ; Ernie Royal (trumpet) ; Mike Stoller (piano / organ) ; Bobby Rosengarden (tambourine / bongo / chimes) ; Gary Chester (drums). Arranged by Fred Norman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
June 25-26, 1961 : At RCA Studio B in Nashville, ELVIS
PRESLEY cuts "Kiss Me Quick" and "That's Someone You Never
Forget", both first released on the LP "Pot Luck" (RCA LPM 2523,
June 5, 1962). The next day he records his new single, "Little
Sister"/"(Marie's the Name) His Latest Flame" (RCA 47-7908,
August 8). Both sides will go Top 5 : "Little Sister" # 5, "His
Latest Flame" # 4. Also laid down on the 26th is "I'm Yours",
for the "Pot Luck" LP. "I'm Yours" is issued as a
single (RCA 47-8657) in August 1965 and reaches # 11 (c/w "Long
Lonely Highway" from a session on May 27, 1963). Personnel : Hank Garland,
Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano / organ) ;
Boots Randolph (claves) ; Buddy Harman, D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Jordanaires
and Millie Kirkham (backup vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes.
June 26-27, 1961 : Second session for ROY ORBISON this month. Three tracks will be included on the LP "Crying" (Monument M 4007, January 1962) : "Crying", "She Wears My Ring" and "The Great Pretender". "Crying" is first released as a single (Monument 447, July), coupled with "Candy Man", recorded on June 27. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 2 and # 25 respectively. "Sunset" will get a place on Orbison's third Monument LP, "In Dreams" (MLP 8003, July 1963). A first attempt at "Blue Bayou" remains unissued. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Boudleaux Bryant, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus 6 violins. Produced by Bob Moore at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Executive producer : Fred Foster
June 27, 1961 : Four-track session by SLIM HARPO in New Orleans. "Something Inside Me" and "A Man Is Crying" will eventually appear in 1969, on the Various artists LP "Rural Blues. Vol. 2 : Saturday Night Function" (Imperial LM-94001). "Still Raining In My Heart" and "Tonight I'm Lonely" have to wait even longer for a release : on Harpo's CD "Shake Your Hips" (Ace CDCHD 558, UK) in 1995. Personnel : Slim Harpo (vocals / harmonica) ; James Johnson, Rudolph Richard (guitars) ; Sammy K. Brown (drums).
June 27, 1961 : During a long session SUE THOMPSON records her two biggest hits. "Sad Movies (Makes Me Cry)"/"Nine Little Teardrops" (Hickory 1153, August) peaks at # 5 and "Norman"/"Never Love Again" (Hickory 1159, November) at # 3. "Two Of A Kind"/"It Has To Be" (Hickory 1166, March 1962) also does well, reaching # 42. "Too Much In Love" is released in November 1962 as the B-side of the # 78 hit "Willie Can" (from a session on August 27, 1962, Hickory 1196). One other, unknown title is laid down. Ray Edenton plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Wesley Rose at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 28, 1961 : LaVERN BAKER does another session for
Atlantic. "I Didn't Know I Was Crying"/"Hurtin' Inside" is
chosen as her new single (Atlantic 2109, July). "No Love So True"
will be coupled with "Must I Cry Again" (recorded on December 4,
1959) for release on Atlantic 2137 in February 1962. "All the Time"
ends up on the LP "See See Rider" (Atlantic LP 8071, January 1963).
Personnel : Al Casamenti, Carl Lynch (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Joe
Wilder, Jimmy Nottingham (trumpets) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Lee Anderson
(piano) ; Phil Kraus (vibraphone) ; Panama Francis (drums). Plus 12
strings. Arranged by Belford Hendricks. Produced by Clyde Otis in New York
City.
Thursday, June 29, 1961 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER cuts his next single, "Your Last Goodbye"/"Hang On" (RCA 47-7907, August). Both sides make the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at # 63 and # 95 respectively. A third song, "Lonely Again", will be included on the LP "America's Biggest Selling Pianist" (RCA LPM 2466) in August, along with the other two tracks. Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
Late June 1961, unknown date : GENE PITNEY cuts his next single, “Every Breath I Take”/“Mr. Moon, Mr. Cupid and I” (Musicor 1011, July). A # 42 hit. Background vocals by the Halos. Arranged by Alan Lorber. Produced by Phil Spector at Bell Sound Studios in New York City.
June 1961, unknown date : HOWLIN' WOLF (Chester Burnett)
is back in the Chess studio in Chicago, to record "Shake For Me" and
"The Red Rooster", which will be issued back to back on Chess 1804 in
October, and also on Chess LP 1469, simply titled "Howlin' Wolf" (aka
The Rockin' Chair album). Personnel : Chester Burnett (vocals / guitar) ;
Johnny Jones (piano) ; Hubert Sumlin, Jimmy Rogers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon
(bass) ; Sam Lay (drums).
June 1961, unknown date : IKE AND TINA TURNER record "It's Gonna Work Out Fine"/"Won't You Forgive Me" for release on Sue 749 in July, a # 2 R&B hit, also # 14 pop. Personnel : Tina Turner (vocals) ; Ike Turner (piano) ; Mickey Baker (vocals / guitar) ; Sylvia Vanderpool (guitar) ; Jesse Knight, Jr. (bass) ; T.N.T. Tribble (drums) ; The Ikettes (vocal group).
June 1961, unknown date : LARRY WILLIAMS' last recording session before his 18-month prison sentence takes place in Los Angeles. "Lawdy Mama"/ "Fresh Out Of Tears" is released on Chess 1805 in October. However, that version of "Fresh Out Of Tears" comes from a November 1960 session. The version from this June session remains unissued, just like "Have Fun" and "Boss Lover".
With thanks to Bill Daniels, Tony Watson, Mike Thompson and Henk Gorter.
JULY 1961
July 2, 1961 : ELVIS PRESLEY records a soundtrack session for United Artists at RCA Studio B in Nashville. Four of the songs are released on April 10, 1962, on the EP "Follow That Dream" : "Follow That Dream", "Angel", "I'm Not the Marrying Kind" and "What A Wonderful Life" (RCA EPA 4368). The EP will peak at # 15 on the singles charts. Also recorded are "A Whistling Tune" (early version, stays in the can until 1991) and "Sound Advice" (first released on the LP "Elvis For Everyone", RCA LPM 3450, in August 1965). Personnel : Hank Garland, Neal Matthews (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman, D.J. Fontana (drums) ; Millie Kirkham and the Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Hans Salter, engineered by Bill Porter.
July 4, 1961 : CLIFF RICHARD records tracks for his album "21 Today" (Columbia SX 1368, October 14) : "Forty Days", "The Night Is So Lonely" and "Tea For Two". Three further tracks are committed to tape on July 11 : "Y'Arriva", "Without You" and "Shame On You". The LP will reach number one on the UK album charts. Backing by the Shadows and the Norrie Paramor orchestra. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
Wednesday, July 5, 1961 : RAY CHARLES records his two biggest hits of 1961. "Hit the Road Jack"/"The Danger Zone" will be released on ABC- Paramount 10244 in August and becomes a number one hit, both pop and R&B. "Unchain My Heart"/"But On the Other Hand Baby" (ABC-Paramount 10266, November) also tops the R&B charts and reaches # 9 on the pop charts. (The B-side will chart in its own right, # 10 R&B and # 72 pop.) Personnel : Ray Charles (vocals / piano) ; Edgar Willis (bass) ; Phil Guilbeau, John Hunt (trumpets) ; Dave Newman (tenor sax) ; Leroy Cooper (baritone sax) ; Hank Crawford (alto sax) ; Mel Lewis (drums) ; Bruno Carr (percussion) ; The Raelettes (Margie Hendrix, Gwendolyn Barry, Darlene McCrea, Priscilla Lyles, vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Sid Feller in Los Angeles.
July 5, 1961 : AMOS
MILBURN"s next single is "Movin' Time"/"The Hammer"
(King 5529, August), recorded on this day in Cincinnati. Personnel and producer
unknown.
July 5-6, 1961 : A two-day session for ERNIE K-DOE in New Orleans, produced by Allen Toussaint. The harvest of the first day is "Hey Hey Hey"/"I Love You the Best" (Minit 645, April 1962), "Get Out Of My House" (Minit 656, October 1962, c/w "Lovin' You" from a session on June 5, 1962) and "Easier Said Than Done" (Minit 661, February 1963, c/w "Be Sweet", recorded on January 18, 1963). On July 6, Ernie records his new single, "I Cried My Last Tear"/"A Certain Girl" (Minit 634, October). Both sides will chart, peaking at # 69 and # 71 respectively. "Reaping What I Sow" is eventually released on Instant 3264 in April 1964 (c/w "Talking Out Of My Head", probably from the same session). Three tracks from July 6 have never been issued : "What's Her Name" (probably an alternate of "A Certain Girl"), "Report Yourself" and "Forget Her".
July 6, 1961 : JOHN D. LOUDERMILK is at Nashville's RCA Studio to cut four tracks for his first LP, "Language Of Love" (RCA LPM 2434, October) : "The Rocks Of Reno", "Mister Jones" (also released as the B-side of "Thou Shalt Not Steal", RCA 47-7993, in February 1962), "Jimmie's Song" and "What Would You Take For Me". Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Norro Wilson (harpsichord) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; James Isbell (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
July 6-7, 1961 : BROOK BENTON records eleven songs for the LP "The Bollweevil Song And 11 Other Great Hits" (Mercury MG 20641, late July). The title song had already been recorded in March. Of these eleven tracks, "Frankie And Johnny" is selected for the new single (Mercury 71859, August, c/w "It's Just A House Without You" from an earlier session). A # 20 pop hit (# 14 R&B). Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum in New York City. Produced by Clyde Otis.
July 7, 1961 : The final Capitol session of DEAN REED results in the single "Female Hercules"/"La Novia" (Capitol 4608, August). The B-side is sung in Spanish. Also laid down are "Donna Donna" and "You By My Side" (an English-language version of "La Novia"), which are first released on the Bear Family CD "The Red Elvis! The Very Strange Story Of Dean Reed" (BCD 16829) in 2007. Location is Los Angeles. Personnel : Howard Heitmeyer, Al Viola (guitars) ; Ray Pohlman (electric bass) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / arranger) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus strings and a 4-piece male vocal chorus.
July 10, 1961 : Second 1961 session for NEIL SEDAKA, as usual at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. "Sweet Little You" is chosen as the new single (RCA 47-7922, August, c/w "I Found My World In You", cut on October 12, 1960). A # 59 hit. "The Endless Night" will be used as a track for the LP "Three Great Guys : Paul Anka, Sam Cooke and Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2720, February 1964) and "Your Heart Has Changed Its Mind" is first released in 1978 on the album "The Many Sides Of Neil Sedaka" (RCA AFL1 2524). Personnel : Charles Macey, Bucky Pizzarelli, Arthur Ryerson (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Harvey Estrin (sax) ; Romeo Penque, Jerome Richardson (baritone saxes) ; Gary Chester, Phil Kraus (percussion) ; Panama Francis (drums). Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by George Avakian.
July 11, 1961 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS cuts four tracks for the LP "It's Party Time With King Curtis" (Tru-Sound 15008, June 1962) : "Slow Motion", "Firefly", "Something Frantic" and "Keep Movin'". Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Al Casey (guitar) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Jimmy Lewis (baritone sax) ; Ray Barretto (congas) ; Belton Evans (drums). Produced by Esmond Edwards in Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
July 13, 1961 : At Bell Sound Studio in New York, THE DRIFTERS record three future B-sides : "Loneliness Or Happiness" (Atlantic 2117, August), "Somebody New Dancing With You" (Atlantic 2127, November) and "Mexican Divorce" (Atlantic 2134, January 1962). The Drifters are : Rudy Lewis (lead), Charles Thomas (tenor / lead), Dock Green (baritone) and Tommy Evans (bass). Personnel : Billy Davis, Allen Hanlon, Bill Suyker, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Gordon Mitchell (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; George Devens (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Phil Kraus (percussion) ; Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee Warwick, Doris Troy (vocal chorus). Plus 5 violins. Arranged by Burt Bacharach, produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
July 13, 1961 : Another Afro-American group records in New York City on this day, namely THE IMPRESSIONS. They cut the single "Gypsy Woman"/ "As Long As You Love Me", which will be released in September on the ABC-Paramount label (10241). A # 20 pop hit (# 2 R&B). The Impressions are : Curtis Mayfield (lead), Sam Gooden, Arthur Brooks, Richard Brooks and Fred Cash. Arranged and conducted by Roy Glover, Jr.
July 14, 1961 : JOHN
BARRY and his orchestra record more songs for the 15-track LP
"Stringbeat" (Columbia SX 1358, November) : "Moody River",
"A Handful Of Songs", "Like Waltz", "Donna's
Theme", "The Challenge", "Rum-Dee-Dum-Dee-Dah" and
"Man From Madrid". "Starfire" (also for the LP) is laid
down on July 31 and first released as a single (Columbia DB 4699) on September
1 (c/w "A Matter Of Who", recorded on April 19). Produced by Norman
Newell and John Burgess at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
July 14, 1961 : ETTA JAMES does a five-track session in Chicago. Three songs will be included on the LP "The Second Time Around" (Argo LP 4011, September) : "One For My Baby", "It's Too Soon To Know" (also a single, Argo 5402, October) and "Don't Get Around Much Anymore". The other two songs will appear on the album "Etta James" (Argo LP 4013, March 1962) : "Guess Again" and "Waiting For Charlie To Come Home" (also issued as a 45, Argo 5409, on the B-side of "Something's Got A Hold On Me" from a session in December 1961). Arranged by Riley Hampton, produced by Leonard Chess.
Monday, July 17, 1961 : In Nashville (Bradley Studio), CONWAY TWITTY records "Unchained Melody", which will be released as the B-side of "There Is Something On Your Mind" (MGM 13089) in July 1962. "Prisoner Of Love" stays in the can until the release of the Bear Family box-set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (first on vinyl in 1985, BFX 15174, then on CD in 1997, BCD 16112) and "Rose Marie" from this session is unissued / lost. Personnel : Al Bruno, Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus unknown brass and a string section. Produced by Jim Vienneau. See also July 24.
July 18, 1961 : The ERNIE FREEMAN Combo records the instrumental single "The Swingin' Preacher"/"Conquest" (Imperial 5769, August). Unissued from this session are "Graduation Day" and "Forbidden Happiness". Location is Los Angeles.
July 18, 1961 : The female vocal group THE BOBBETTES records material for two singles in New York City. First released is “Are You Satisfied (With Your Love)”/“Looking For A Lover” in October (King 5551). “My Dearest”/ “I’m Stepping Out Tonight” will follow in April 1962 (King 5623).
July 18-19, 1961 : Another Cincinnati session for HANK BALLARD and his Midnighters. On the 18th they record the single "Big Red Sunset"/ "Can't You See I Need A Friend" (King 5550, October) and on the 19th also two tracks for single release. Their next 45 is "Nothing But Good" (King 5535, August, c/w "Keep On Dancing", recorded on July 27, 1960). Both sides will chart, the A-side reaching # 9 R&B and # 49 pop, the B-side # 66 pop. "Do You Remember" will be issued on King 5578 in November (c/w "I'm Gonna Miss You" from a session on March 8, 1961). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth and Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Fred Jordan, Dave Hamilton (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Mark Patterson, Gene Redd (trumpets) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Unidentified (baritone sax) ; Phillip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
July 19, 1961 : PAUL ANKA is still recording for ABC-Paramount. His next single is "Kissin' on the Phone"/"Cinderella" (ABC 10239, August). A double-sided hit (peak positions # 35 and # 70 respectively). Also recorded is "The Bells At My Wedding", the subsequent single, issued in November (ABC 10279, c/w "Loveland", which will be recorded on the 25th of October). Arranged by Stan Applebaum, produced by Sid Feller at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
July 19, 1961 :
JOHNNY CASH records at Columbia Studios in Hollywood. "Tennessee Flat-Top
Box" is selected for the next single (Columbia 42147, September, a # 11
country hit, # 84 pop). "I'm Free From the Chain Gang" ends up on the
LP "The Sound Of Johnny Cash" (Columbia CS 8602) in August 1962. Also
on that LP are "Delia's Gone" and "Sing It Pretty Sue", but
those versions date from February 1962 ; the earlier versions from this July
session can be found on the 5-CD box-set "The Man In Black, 1959-'62"
(Bear Family BCD 15562, 1991). "So Do I" is first released on the LP
"The Unissued Johnny Cash" (Bear Family BFX 15016, 1978). Also
recorded is an unissued remake of "I Walk the Line". Personnel :
Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Johnny
Western, Roy Nichols (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums).
Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
July 19, 1961 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS cuts their next single, "Cantina"/"Panic Button" (Challenge 59116, September). "Panic Button" was previously recorded as "Suicide" on July 6, 1960 ; it is unclear whether this is a remake, an overdub or a remastered version. Personnel : Jerry Cole, Dave Burgess (guitars) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Jimmy Seals (sax) ; Dash Crofts (drums). Arranged by Dave Burgess. Produced by Joe Johnson at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
July 19, 1961 : THE DEL-VIKINGS do a four-track session for ABC-Paramount. Their new single is "I Hear Bells (Wedding Bells)"/"Don't Get Slick On Me" (ABC 10248, September). "Face the Music" follows in November (ABC 10278, c/w "Kiss Me" from an earlier session) and "One More River To Cross" in February 1962 (ABC 10304, c/w "Big Silence", recorded on January 29, 1962). Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle.
July 20, 1961 : Time for a new RICK NELSON single. "A Wonder Like You" and "Ever Lovin'" fit the bill and come out on Imperial 5770 in August. Both sides make the Top 20, peaking at # 11 and # 16 respectively. The third track from this session is "Today's Teardrops", first released on Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167) in March 1962 and later singled out for release on a 45 (Imperial 66004, October 1963, a # 54 hit). Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). A vocal chorus (Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller and Dave Burgess) is overdubbed on July 28. Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
July 21, 1961 : DICK DALE and the Del-Tones record the instrumental 45 "Let's Go Trippin'"/"Del-Tone Rock" (Deltone 5017, September) at an unknown Hollywood studio. Peaking at # 60, it will become the biggest hit of Dale's career.
July 21-22, 24 : CLYDE McPHATTER records 14 tracks in three days at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Same Time, Same Place"/"Your Second Choice" is chosen as his new single (Mercury 71868, September). The other twelve tracks constitute the album "Golden Blues Hits" (Mercury MG 20655, January 1962) : "Honey Hush", "The Bells", "What Am I Living For", "The Clock", "Fever", "What'd I Say", "C.C. Rider", "Raining In My Heart", "Kansas City", "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday", "Honest I Do" and "Blues Stay Away From Me". Personnel : Jerry Kennedy (guitar / arranger) ; Kelso Herston (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Merry Melody Singers (vocal chorus). Probably produced by Shelby Singleton.
July 22, 1961 : WEBB PIERCE does a 4-track session at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Walking the Streets"/"How Do You Talk To A Baby" is chosen as his new single (Decca 31298, September). Both sides will enter the Country Top 10, with peak positions of # 5 and # 7 respectively. "You Are My Life" (Decca 31347, January 1962) ends up on the B-side of the # 5 hit "Alla My Love" (recorded on December 7, 1960). "Blue Mood" becomes an album track (LP "Sands Of Gold", Decca DL 4468, January 1964). Personnel unknown. Produced by Owen Bradley.
July 24, 1961 : Second CONWAY TWITTY session of this month, again at Bradley Studio in Nashville. He records his new single, "It's Driving Me Wild"/"Sweet Sorrow" (MGM 13034, August). "A Little Bird Told Me" remains unissued until Bear Family picks it up (see July 17). Personnel and producer are the same as on July 17. (Add : unknown vocal chorus.)
Wednesday, July 25, 1961 : BILL HALEY and his Comets do a session for Gone Records, their only one for the label. Two singles are the result : "Spanish Twist"/"My Kind Of Woman" (Gone 5111, August) and the instrumental 45 "Riviera"/"War Paint" (Gone 5116, November). Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Johnny Kay (guitar) ; Billy Williamson (steel guitar) ; Al Rappa (bass guitar) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Dave Bates (drums). Produced by George Goldner in New York City.
July 25, 1961 : EARL KING is at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record the single "You Better Know"/"Mama and Papa", for release on Imperial 5774 in September. "Case Of Love" is also released as a 45 (Imperial 5891, November 1962), coupled with "Come Along With Me" (from a session on April 13, 1961). "It's Wrong" has to wait until 2003 for a legal release (CD "The Complete Imperial Recordings", Okra-Tone CD 4970). Personnel : Earl King (vocals / guitar) ; George French (bass) ; Dave Bartholomew, Wardell Quezergue (trumpets) ; Morris Bechamin (tenor sax) ; Carl Bluin (baritone sax) ; Waldron Joseph (trombone) ; James Booker (piano) ; Robert French (drums). Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
July 26, 28 and 31 : RAL DONNER records songs for his first LP, "Takin' Care Of Business" (Gone LP 5012, September) : "Turn Back the Clock", "With You Now", "Pray For Me", "I Don't Need You" and "Please Don't Go". The latter is also issued as a single (Gone 5114, September, a # 39 hit), coupled with "I Didn't Figure On Him" from a session on January 2, 1961. Unissued are a few alternate versions of songs that Donner had already recorded earlier in the year : "School Of Heartbreakers", "Nite Owl" and "Lonely Star". "The Girl For Me" is incomplete and also unissued. Produced by George Goldner (?) at Criteria Studios, Miami, Florida.
July 27, 1961 :
Drummer SANDY NELSON records what will become his second biggest hit,
"Let There Be Drums"/"Quite A Beat" (Imperial 5775,
September). It peaks at # 7 in the USA and # 3 in the UK. Arranged by
Ernie Freeman, produced by Eddie Ray in Los Angeles.
July 27, 1961 : TRAVIS AND BOB record the single "What A Change"/"The Spider And the Fly (Mercury 71866, August) at Bradley Studio in Nashville. Two tracks from this session remain unissued : "Let's Cry Together" and "Wedding Bells"
July 27, 1961 : Second
UK session for GENE VINCENT, again at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, backed
by Sounds Incorporated. The result is the single "I'm Going Home (To See
My Baby)"/"Love Of A Man", released on Capitol CL 15215
(UK), on August 25. Reaches # 36 on the UK charts. Personnel : John St. John
(lead guitar) ; Wes Hunter (bass) ; Barrie Cameron (keyboards / baritone sax) ;
Alan Holmes, Griff West (tenor saxes) ; Tony Newman (drums). Produced by
Norrie Paramor.
July 29, 1961 : Last
CHUCK BERRY session before his 20-month prison sentence. "Come
On"/"Go Go Go" is selected as his new single (Chess 1779,
October). "The Man and the Donkey", "Brown Eyed Handsome
Man" (new version), "Trick Or Treat" and "All Aboard"
will all be released in 1963 on the LP "Chuck Berry On Stage" (Chess
LP 1480, with overdubbed audience noise). "Everything I Do Is
Wrong" remains unissued from this session. Personnel : Chuck Berry (vocals
/ guitar) ; Johnnie Johnson (piano) ; L.C. Davis (tenor sax) ; Ebby Hardy (drums)
; Martha Berry (harmony vocal on "Come On"). Location is the Chess
Studio in Chicago.
July 1961, unknown date(s) : FLOYD CRAMER records nine tracks for the LP "America's Biggest Selling Pianist" (RCA LPM 2466, August) : "You Win Again", "Someone Else Not Me", "Rejoice", "Unchained Melody", "The Waltz You Saved For Me", "Out On A Limb", "The Tide And the Sea", "Are You Sincere" and "The Portuguese Washerwoman". There were probably two separate sessions during this month. Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 1961, unknown date : CLARENCE "FROGMAN" HENRY has his first and only session outside of New Orleans, in Memphis. Nine tracks are laid down, from which two singles are drawn. "Standing in the Need Of Love"/"On Bended Knees" is released on Argo 5401 in October. "On Bended Knees" turns out to be the hit side, peaking at # 64. "A Little Too Much"/"I Wish I Could Say the Same" (Argo 5408, December) will also chart, reaching # 77. "If I Didn't Care" is saved until July 1963 for release on Argo 5448 (c/w "Takes Two To Tango" from a session in June 1963). "Since I Met You Baby" is first released on the CD "The Best Of Clarence 'Frogman' Henry" (MCA MCLD 19226) in 1993. The other three songs are still unissued : "Son Of A Gun", "Why Did You Leave" and "Whistle Away My Blues". Personnel : Bill Justis (guitar / producer) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano). More details unknown.
July 1961, unknown date : First Warwick session for MARVIN RAINWATER, in Washington, D.C. The result is the single "Boo Hoo"/"I Can't Forget" (Warwick 666, August). Backing by Link Wray and the Raymen.
July 1961, unknown date : The vocal group THE DOVELLS records the single “Bristol Stomp”/“Out In the Cold Again” (Parkway 827, August) at the Cameo- Parkway Studio in Philadelphia. A # 2 hit. Later pressings have “Letters of Love” on the B-side. Lead vocals by Len Barry. Arranged by Dave Appell. Produced by Kal Mann and Dave Appell.
July 1961, unknown date : THE VENTURES record their next
single in Los Angeles. “Theme From Silver City”/“Bluer Than Blue” will be
released in August (Dolton 44) and peaks at # 83 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Orchestral backing by Hank Levine, who also acts as arranger. Produced by Bob
Reisdorff and Don Wilson.
(Probably) July 1961, unknown date : DEL SHANNON takes another trip from Michigan to New York City (Mira Sound Studio this time), to record his new single, "So Long Baby"/"The Answer To Everything" (Bigtop 3083, late August). A # 28 hit (# 10 UK). It is a split session with Max Crook. Personnel : Del Shannon (vocals / kazoo) ; Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Max Crook (piano / musitron) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Joe Marshall (drums / tympani) ; Unidentified (tambourine, vibes, female vocal chorus). Produced by Harry Balk.
With thanks to Bill Daniels, the late Roy Simonds, Mike Thompson and Henk Gorter.
Dik
AUGUST 1961
Tuesday, August 1, 1961 : At Reco-Art Sound Recording Co. in Philadelphia, DANNY AND THE JUNIORS cut five tracks. "Back To the Hop"/"The Charleston Fish" is chosen as the new single (Swan 4082, mid-August). A # 80 hit. "Just Because"/"Your Hair's Too Long" follows in September (Swan 4084) and "Some Kind Of Nut" will be used as the B-side of "Twistin' All Night Long" (Swan 4092, with Freddy Cannon, December) from a later session. Backing by Frank Slay and his orchestra. Produced by Frank Slay and Bob Crewe.
August 1, 1961 : Four-track session by LOWELL FULSON in Los Angeles. "Hung Down Head"/"So Many Tears" is released as a single in November (Checker 992). "Why Don't You Write Me" and "Pay Day Blues" are first released on the double LP "Lowell Fulson" in the Chess Blues Masters series (Chess 2ACMB 205) in 1976. Personnel : Lowell Fulson (vocals / guitar) ; Irving Ashby (guitar) ; Billy Hadnott (bass) ; Lloyd Glenn (piano) ; Earl Brown (alto sax) ; Big Jay McNeely, Louis Williams (tenor saxes) ; Big Jim Wynn (baritone sax) ; Robert Sims (drums).
August 4, 1961 : BUZZ CLIFFORD does a two-track session at the Columbia Studio in New York City. "Moving Day" will become the A-side of his next single (Columbia 42177, November, c/w "Loneliness" from a session on July 19, 1960). "Magic Circle" is released on January 19, 1962 (Columbia 42290), coupled with "Forever" from a later session (January 4, 1962). Produced by Tony Piano.
August 4, 1961 : First Smash session by HOWARD CROCKETT. "Deep Elm
Dave"/ "Going Down To Soldier" is released on Smash 1721 in
November. The Johnny Horton numbers "Honky Tonk Man" and "All
Grown Up" stay in the vaults until they are saved by Bear Family for
release on the CD "Out Of Bounds" (BCD 16794) in 2007. "All
Grown Up" was prepared for release on Smash 1793 in 1963, but was
withdrawn. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy (guitar) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Ray
Stevens (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley
Studio in Nashville.
August 6, 1961 : BRAD SUGGS is at the Sun Studio in Memphis (639 Madison Avenue) to cut the instrumental single "Elephant Walk"/"Like, Catchin' Up" for release in November on Phillips International 3571. Personnel : Brad Suggs, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Larry Muhoberac (piano / organ) ; Ace Cannon (tenor sax) ; Vinnie Trauth (sax) ; Al Jackson (drums) ; Unknown (high voices on "Like, Catchin' Up").
(Probably) August 6, 1961 : 14-year old TONY ROSSINI records in the
same studio on this day, his first session for Sun. "Well I Ask
Ya" is a cover of Eden Kane's # 1 UK hit. It will be coupled with
"Darlena" from the same session for release on Sun 366 in the
third week of . Four other tracks
are laid down : the future single "Just Around the
Corner"/"(Meet Me) After School" (Sun 378, April 4, 1962)
and two unissued numbers, "Love You With All My Heart" and
"Vacation Time". Tony Rossini died on March 18, 2014, in Edgewood,
Kentucky, aged 67. Personnel : Brad Suggs, Scotty Moore (guitars) ; Al Jackson
(bass) ; Robert McGhee (bass) ; Larry Muhoberac (piano) ; Ace Cannon, Terry
James (saxes) ; Robert Alexius (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or
Scotty Moore.
August 7-9, 1961 : AL DEXTER re-records twelve of his old hits for Capitol during a three-day session. The result is released as the album "Al Dexter Sings And Plays His Greatest Hits" (Capitol T 1701, May 1962). The tracks are : "Pistol Packin' Mama", "Triflin' Gal", "Down At the Roadside Inn", "New Broom Boogie", "Wine, Women and Song", "Guitar Polka", "Rosalita", "Texas Waltz", "Honey, Do You Think It's Wrong", "Too Late To Worry", "I Learned About Love From You" and "So Long, Pal". "Pistol Packin' Mama"/"Rosalita" will be issued as a single in 1972 on Capitol Starlight 6171. Produced by Paul Wyatt at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
August 9, 1961 : SAM COOKE cuts his new single, "(Don't Fight It) Feel It"/"It's All Right" (RCA 47-7927, September). Both sides will enter the charts, reaching # 56 and # 93. "Frankie And Johnny" is saved until July 1963 for release on RCA 47-8215 (c/w "Cool Train", recorded on June 15, 1963). A # 14 hit. Ernie Hayes plays piano, more details unknown. Orchestra conducted by Ralph Burns. Arranged by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Hugo & Luigi at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City
August 10, 1961 : Three-track session by BUDDY KNOX in Hollywood.
"All By Myself" is his next single (Liberty 55366, September 1, c/w
"Three-Eyed Man", recorded in October 1960). "Open (Your Lovin'
Arms)"/ "Chi-Hua-Hua" is the subsequent 45 (Liberty 55411,
January 12, 1962). Vocal support comes from the Johnny Mann Singers. Arranged
by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett.
August 10, 1961 : RICK NELSON records two tracks at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Poor Little Heart" is unissued and lost. "Thank You Darlin'" will be released on the LP "Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167, March 1962) and later as the B-side of "Today's Teardrops" in October 1963 (Imperial 66004). Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Allen Harris (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller and Dave Burgess (vocal chorus). Produced by Jimmie Haskell. Another three tracks were recorded on August 14 ("Swingin' On the Golden Gate", "Nelson Family Theme", "What'd I Say"), but these are all unissued and lost. Most probably they were tracks for the TV show "The Adventures Of Ozzie And Harriet".
Saturday, August 12, 1961 : CONNIE FRANCIS records two John D. Loudermilk songs, "(He's My) Dreamboat" and "Hollywood" for her next 45 (MGM 13039, September). A double-sided hit (peak positions # 14 and # 42 respectively). "Pretty Little Baby" is first released on the LP "Connie Francis Sings Second Hand Love" (MGM SE 4049, May 1962) ; in the UK it is also issued as a single (MGM 1185, December 1962, B-side of "I'm Gonna Be Warm This Winter"). "He's Just A Scientist" has to wait until 1987 for release on a Polydor double LP ("The Rock Sides, 1957-64"). Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Arranged by Cliff Parman. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 14-15, 1961 : MERLE TRAVIS cuts an album of re-recordings at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Released as "Travis!" in January 1962 (Capitol T 1664). Tracks : "So Round, So Firm", "Cincinnati Lou", "Sweet Temptation", "Lawdy, What A Gal", "Three Times Seven", "No Vacancy", "Divorce Me C.O.D.", "Fat Gal", "Kentucky Means Paradise", "When My Baby Double Talks To Me", "I Like My Chicken Fryin' Size" and "Kinfolks In Carolina". Produced by Ken Nelson.
August 17, 1961 : One-track session by DONNIE BROOKS, who records the A-side of his next single, "Up To My Ears (In Tears)", which appears in September on Era 3059. The flip-side, "Sweet Lorraine" was recorded on January 16, 1961. Another version of "Up To My Ears In Tears" is recorded on August 28 by Milton Kirkpatrick, for release on Capitol 4634. Arranged by Hank Levine. Location : Gold Star Studio, Hollywood.
August 17, 1961 : First of four August sessions for PATSY CLINE, all in
Nashville (Bradley Studio). On this day she records four tracks for the LP
"Patsy Cline Showcase" (Decca DL 4202, November 27) : "San
Antonio Rose" (also released as a single, Decca 25673, July 1965),
"True Love" (also on Decca 25724, December 1967), "The Wayward
Wind" (also on Decca 25747, March 1969) and a new version of "A Poor
Man's Roses". Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin, Randy Hughes
(guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Hargus 'Pig'
Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Plus a
violin section. Produced by Owen Bradley. See also August 21 and August
24-25.
August 18, 1961 : A future number one pop hit is recorded on this day. JIMMY DEAN cuts the single "Big Bad John"/"I Won't Go Huntin' With You, Jake" (Columbia 42175). Released on September 22, it reaches the top spot in Billboard on November 6. A third track, "Abilene" is saved until 1968, when it is included on the album "Dean's List" (Columbia CS 9677). Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). On "Big Bad John", Floyd Cramer hits an iron door-stopper with a hammer. Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 20, 1961 is the recording date of the SHEB WOOLEY single "That's My Pa"/"Meet Mr. Lonely" (MGM 13046, November). It will top the country charts for one week and also reaches # 51 on the pop charts. Produced by Jim Vienneau in Nashville (probably Bradley Studio).
August 21, 1961 : NAPPY BROWN's penultimate Savoy session yields four tracks, which stay in the can for some time. "I've Had My Fun" will be issued in January 1963 on Savoy 1616 (c/w "Didn't You Know", recorded on December 27, 1962). "The Lock On the Door"/"So Glad I Don't Have To Cry No More" follows in August 1963 (Savoy 1621). "Never Too Late" has never been released. Location is New York City.
August 21, 1961 : PATSY CLINE records one of her most famous numbers, Willie Nelson's composition "Crazy", released on Decca 31317 on the 16th of October. It reaches # 2 on the country charts and # 9 on the pop charts (her only Top 10 pop hit). Personnel : Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Randy Hughes (acoustic guitar) ; Harold Bradley (6-string electric bass) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal group). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
August 22, 1961 : THE AL CASEY COMBO cuts the single "Jivin' Around"/ "Doin' the Shotish" (Stacy 936, July 1962). Also recorded is "Theme From Huckleberry Hound", which will be kept on the shelves until the release of the CD "Jivin' Around" (Ace CDCHD 612) in 1995. Personnel : Al Casey (guitar / organ) ; Corky Casey (bass) ; Brad Bauder (sax) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Al Casey at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona.
August 22, 1961 : FRANKIE LYMON records his last single for the Roulette label, "I Put the Bomp (In the Bomp Bomp Bomp)"/"Young" (Roulette 4391, first week of September). The A-side is of course an answer to Barry Mann's hit "Who Put the Bomp". Produced by Henry Glover in New York City.
August 22, 1961 : THE MIDNITE RIDERS are an instrumental group about whom very little is known. On this day they record "Tiger Lily"/"Danger, Soft Shoulders", which will be released in December on Imperial 5799. Probably the only record they ever made. Location unknown.
Wednesday, August 23, 1961 : YOUNG JESSIE records four tracks at an
unknown studio in Los Angeles. The single "My Country
Cousin"/"Teacher Gimme Back" is released on Mercury
71895 in November. "Party Invitation" and "Sweet
Talk" have never been issued. Billy Riley is probably the harmonica
player. Vocal backing by the Rivingtons. More personnel details unknown.
Orchestra conducted by Dick Hazard. Arranged by Jerry Long. Produced by Bumps
Blackwell and Quincy Jones.
August 24, 1961 : BARRY MANN records three of his own compositions in New York City. "Bless You" will be used as the B-side of "Teenage Has- Been" (from a later session, October 29, 1962) in December 1962 (ABC- Paramount 10380). "Footsteps" and "The Way Of A Clown" will be included on Barry's LP "Who Put the Bomp in the Bomp, Bomp, Bomp" (ABC-Paramount 399, October). Produced by Barry Mann himself.
August 24-25, 1961 : More PATSY CLINE studio dates. On the 24th she cuts
"Who Can I Count On" (the B-side of "Crazy", see August 21)
and four tracks for the LP "Patsy Cline Showcase" (Decca DL 4202,
November 27) : "Seven Lonely Days", "I Love So Much It
Hurts" (these two also coupled for single release on Decca 25686, November
1965), "Foolin' Around" (also Decca 25707, December 1966) and
"Have You Ever Been Lonely" (also on Decca 25718, July 1967).
The next day she records four more tracks, two for the
"Showcase" LP : a remake of "Walkin' After Midnight"
and "South Of the Border" (also on Decca 25673, July 1965).
"Strange" is first released on Decca 31354 in January 1962 and
"You're Stronger Than Me" (in this first version) on the double-LP
"The Patsy Cline Story" (Decca DXL 176, June 1963). Personnel,
producer and studio are the same as on the "Crazy" session (August
21), but Floyd Cramer plays organ this time, and Hargus Robbins piano.
August 28, 1961 : WYNN STEWART is at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood to record four songs. "Big Big Love"/"One More Memory" becomes his new 45 (Challenge 9121, September). "Wall To Wall Heartache" gets a place on the LP "Wynn Stewart" (Wrangler WR 1006). "Girl In White" will stay in the can until the release of the 12-CD box set "Wishful Thinking" (Bear Family BCD 15886) in 2000. Personnel : Wynn Stewart (vocals / guitar) ; Bobby Austin, Dale Norris (guitars) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Donald Duffy (bass) : Helen Price (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
August 29, 1961 : DON HOSEA cuts his only single for the Sun label, "Uh Huh Unh"/"Since I Met You" (Sun 368, October 9). He had previously recorded for Sun in May 1958, but these tracks remained unissued until 1978 and 2006. Personnel : Elbert Adair (guitar) ; Billy Wood (bass) ; Bobby Wood (piano) ; Charles Chalmers (sax) ; Eugene Ben Keller (drums). Produced by Stan Kesler, probably at Echo Recording Studio in Memphis.
August 29, 1961 : JOHNNY MAESTRO is in a New York studio to record his
next single, "The Way You Look Tonight"/"I.O.U." (Coed 557,
September). He is backed by an unknown vocal group (not the Crests).
August 29, 1961 : The second Capitol session of NED MILLER yields four tracks. "Dark Moon"/"Go On Back You Fool" is chosen for single release (Capitol 4652, December). "The Big Lie" and "Heart Without A Heartache" are first released on the CD "From A Jack To A King" (Bear Family BCD 15496) in 1991, along with the other two tracks. Produced by Paul Wyatt at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
August 29, 1961 : JOE MELSON records material for two singles at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Wake Up Little Susie"/"Take It Like A Man" is released in October (Hickory 1155) and "Dance"/"Love Is A Dangerous Thing" in June 1962 (Hickory 1175). Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose.
August 29-30, 1961 : BRENDA LEE is also in Nashville, at Bradley Studio.
On the 29th she records "Here Comes That Feeling" (Decca 31379, April
16, 1962, c/w the # 6 hit "Everybody Loves Me But You" from
a session on March 7, 1962), as well as two tracks - "Time Is
Not Enough" and "Just Forget" - that are first released on
the double LP "The Legends Of Rock, Vol. 2 - Rare Items" (MCA Coral
COPS 7292). The harvest of the next day is good for two singles, "Fool #
1"/"Anybody But Me" (Decca 31309, 25th September) and "So
Deep"/"Break It To Me Gently" (Decca 31348, December). All four
sides will chart. "Fool # 1" reaches # 3, "Anybody But Me"
# 31, "So Deep" # 52 and "Break It To Me Gently" # 4.
Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harold Bradley (electric
bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ;
The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus 3 trumpet players (August 30 only)
and 10 strings. Produced by Owen Bradley.
August 29-31, 1961 : Three days of sessions (four days actually, to be continued next month with September 1) for THE EVERLY BROTHERS. They record material for the LP "Instant Party" (Warner Bros W 1430), due for release in January 1962. "Bye Bye Blackbird" and "True Love" are recorded on the 29th, "Jezebel", "Autumn Leaves" and "Ground Hawg" on the 30th, and "The Party's Over" and "Long Lost John" on August 31. Also laid down on the 31st is "The Sheik Of Araby", with a solo vocal by Don Everly. This track is first released on the LP "Susie-Q" (Magnum Force MFLP 052, UK) in 1987. Personnel : Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; more details unknown. Engineered by Bill Porter. Location is the RCA Victor Studio, 1610 Hawkins Street, Nashville.
(Probably) August 1961, unknown date : In New York City, BROOK BENTON records four tracks for two future singles. "Revenge"/"Really, Really" is a November release (Mercury 71903) and a # 15 hit. "Walk On the Wild Side"/"Somewhere In the Used To Be" appears in February 1962 (Mercury 71925) and will peak at # 43. Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Clyde Otis.
(Circa) August 1961, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE records four tracks, all of which will appear on the LP "Dorsey Burnette Sings" (Dot DLP 3456, November 1962) : "The Creator", "Cry For Your Love", "Sad Boy" and "Feminine Touch". The latter two titles are also coupled for single release (Dot 16265, late August). Produced by Randy Wood in Hollywood, California.
Late August 1961 : LITTLE RICHARD is now signed to Mercury Records and this is his first session for the label. Seven tracks are recorded, all of them released on the album "It's Real : King of the Gospel Singers" (Mercury MG 20656, December) : "The Captain Calls For You", "Do You Care" (also released as a single, Mercury 71911, December), "In Times Like These", "He's Not Just A Soldier" (also issued as Mercury 71884, September), "He's My Star", "My Desire" and "It Takes Everything To Serve the Lord". Vocal chorus support is supplied by the Howard Roberts Singers. Produced by Quincy Jones, who also conducts the orchestra. Location is New York City, unknown studio.
August 1961, unknown date : GENE McDANIELS records his second biggest hit, "Tower Of Strength"/"The Secret" (Liberty 55371, September 8). Peak position is # 5. It is possible that one or two other (LP) tracks were recorded at this session. Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett in Hollywood.
August 1961, unknown date : FREDDIE NORTH records the single "Don't
Make Me Cry"/"Someday She'll Come Along" (Phillips International
3574, October 16). The third track from this session, "Blue Skies",
will eventually be released on a mp3 collection ("Sun Records - Doo
Wop") in May 2012. Personnel, studio and location unknown.
August 1961, unknown date : Five-track session by THE PLATTERS, at an unknown location. "Song For the Lonely" becomes the B-side of the remake of "You'll Never Know" (recorded in September 1960), which is issued in November on Mercury 71904. "Reaching For A Star" is another B-side, on the reverse of "It's Magic" (also from that September 1960 session) and appears on Mercury 71921 in January 1962. "All the Things You Are" and "How Will I Know" are included on the album "Song For the Lonely" (Mercury MG 20669, December), which also contains the four songs that are mentioned above. "Say A Prayer" is first issued on the Bear Family 9-CD box-set "Four Platters And One Lovely Dish" (BCD 15741) in 1994. The Platters are : Sonny Turner (lead vocal) ; David Lynch (tenor) ; Zola Taylor, Paul Robi (baritone) and Herb Reed (bass). Arranged and conducted by David Carroll.
With thanks to John Klompenhouwer, Bill Daniels, Mike Thompson and Henk Gorter.
Dik
SEPTEMBER 1961
Friday, September 1, 1961 : LaVERN BAKER records "Hey Memphis", an answer song to Elvis Presley's "Little Sister". It will become the A-side of her new 45 (Atlantic 2119, late September, c/w "Voodoo Voodoo" from a session on September 11, 1958). Also laid down is "Two Sides To Every Story", which has never been issued. Personnel : Mickey Baker, Richard Ziegler, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Mike Spencer (piano) ; Joe Venuto (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Unknown (backing vocals). Add King Curtis (tenor sax) and Leon Cohen (alto sax) on "Two Sides To Every Story". Arranged by Fred Norman. Produced by Phil Spector in New York City.
September 1, 1961 : JOHNNY BOND's last session for the Republic label results in the single "Buck's Private Lament"/"Sadie Was A Lady", which is released on Republic 2022 in the third week of September. The location is probably Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
September 1, 1961 : Following the studio dates of August 29-31, THE EVERLY BROTHERS record the final tracks for the "Instant Party" LP (Warner Bros W 1430, January 1962) : "Oh! My Papa (O Mein Papa)" and "When It's Night Time In Italy, It's Wednesday Over Here". Two other songs are committed to tape : "Gran Mamou" (first released on "The New Album", UK, 1977) and "Hernando's Hideaway", first issued as a bonus track on the 2-CD "Both Sides Of An Evening"/"Instant Party" in 2001 (WB 9362-47870-2). Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 1, 1961 : BARRY MANN cuts the A-side of his next single, "Find Another Fool" (ABC-Paramount 10263, October). The reverse, "Little Miss U.S.A.", will be recorded on September 30. Also recorded on this first day of September are "I Love How You Love Me" and "Sweet Little You", tracks for the forthcoming LP "Who Put the Bomp in the Bomp, Bomp, Bomp" (ABC-Paramount 399, October). Arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner.
September 1, 1961 : THE MARCELS (Allen Johnson, Ronald Mundy, Fred Johnson, Cornelius Harp and Walt Maddox) record their next single, "Heartaches"/"My Love For You" (Colpix 612, late September). A # 7 pop hit (# 19 R&B). Also laid down are "Flower Pot" (Colpix 640, May 1962, c/w "Hold On", a leftover from April 11, 1961) and "Allright, OK, You Win" (Colpix 665, November 1962, c/w "Lollipop Baby", recorded on July 23, 1962). Produced by Stu Phillips in New York City.
September 5, 1961 is the recording date of the CLINT BALLARD single "You Can't Get Enough Of A Good Thing"/"In the Middle Of A Puddle Of Tears" (Imperial 5777, third week of September). It is a New York session, with probably King Curtis on sax.
September 5, 1961 : JIM REEVES cuts his new single, "Losing Your Love"/ "(How Can I Write On Paper) What I Feel In My Heart" (RCA 47-7950, October). Both sides will chart, the A-side peaking at # 2 country and # 89 pop, the B-side at # 7 country and # 92 pop. "I Never Pass There Anymore" will be included on the LP "Gentleman Jim" (RCA LPM 2605) in February 1963. "Missing Angel" stays on the shelf until Bear Family releases the 16-CD box-set "Welcome To My World" (BCD 15656) in 1994. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Hank Garland, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 5, 1961 : LITTLE RICHARD records the final five tracks for the LP "It's Real : King Of the Gospel Singers" (Mercury MG 20656, December) : "Ride On King Jesus" (also released as a 45, Mercury 71911, promotional copies only), "Peace In the Valley", "Joy, Joy, Joy" (also released as a single, Mercury 71884, October), "It's Real" and "Do Lord Remember Me". Vocal group backing is supplied by the Howard Roberts Chorale. Arranged by Billy Byers, produced by Quincy Jones in New York City.
September 5-6, 1961 : SANDY NELSON records seven tracks in Hollywood. Three of them will be included on the LP "Let There Be Drums" (Imperial LP 9159, November) : "Slippin' and Slidin'", "Tequila" and "My Girl Josephine". "The Charleston", "Junior Jive" and "Mother-In-Law" remain unissued ; Nelson will return to the latter two songs in 1962. The long LP track "The Birth Of the Beat" (also for "Let There Be Drums") is the only number recorded on September 6. An edited version will appear as a single (Imperial 5809, January 1962, on the flip of "Drums Are My Beat", recorded on December 26, 1961). Produced by Eddie Ray.
September 6, 1961 : WEBB PIERCE is at Bradley Studio in Nashville to record four tracks. "Cow Town" will be released as a single (Decca 31421) in August 1962 (c/w ""Sooner Or Later" from a session on February 28, 1962). A # 5 country hit. "Sands Of Gold" is another single (Decca 31488, May 1963, c/w "Nobody's Darling But Mine", recorded on December 28, 1962). This will also enter the country charts, peaking at # 7. "Tender Years" and "First To Have A Second Chance" are included on the album "Hideaway Heart" (Decca DL 4218, February 1962), which also features the first release of "Cow Town". Produced by Owen Bradley.
September 6, 1961 : BOBBY VEE has several sessions this month, not all of them worth mentioning. On this day he cuts the two-sided hit "Run To Him"/"Walking With My Angel" (Liberty 55388, late October). The A-side will peak at # 2, the reverse at # 53. Also recorded is "Go On", which will be included on the LP "Take Good Care Of My Baby" (Liberty LRP 3211, January 1962), along with the other two tracks. Personnel includes Tommy Allsup and Howard Roberts on guitar, Earl Palmer on drums. Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers. More details unknown. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
September 7, 1961 :
JIMMY ELLEDGE records his best known number, "Funny How Time Slips
Away" (RCA 47-7946, October). A # 22 pop hit, but no country chart action,
surprisingly. The reverse, "Hey Jimmy Joe John Jim Jack" was
also recorded at this session, along with the unissued "Poodle Dog".
In Europe, "Funny How Time Slips Away" will be coupled with Jimmy's
piano instrumental "Swanee River Rocket" (originally on RCA 47-7910).
Personnel includes Floyd Cramer on piano and Bob Moore on bass. More details
unknown. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 8, 1961 : Four-track session by SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON at the Chess Studio in Chicago. "One Way Out" and a remake of "Nine Below Zero" are coupled for single release on Checker 1003 in January 1962. The other two tracks, "Too Old To Think" and "That's All I Want" are first released on the LP "The Real Folk Blues" (Chess LP 1503) in 1965. Personnel : Sonny Boy Williamson (Rice Miller) (vocals /harmonica) ; Luther Tucker, Robert Lockwood, Jr. (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Otis Spann (piano) ; Fred Below (drums).
Monday, September 11, 1961 : FATS DOMINO records three tracks at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans : "What A Party"/"Rockin' Bicycle" (the new single, Imperial 5779, rush-released) and "Did You Ever See A Dream Walking" (Imperial 5875, September 1962, c/w "Stop the Clock", recorded on January 5, 1962). All three tracks will chart (peak positions resp. # 22, # 83 and # 79) and will also appear on the album "What A Party!" (Imperial LP 9164, October 1961). Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Jimmy Donley, Pee Wee Maddux & one unknown other male voice (vocal chorus).
September 11, 1961 : Three-track session by JOE DOWELL at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "The Bridge Of Love"/"Just Love Me" (Smash 1717, October) is chosen as the follow-up to the # 1 hit "Wooden Heart". This time the single stalls at # 50. The third track is "The Thorn and the Rose", for release on Smash 1730 in January 1962. The other side, "Sound Of Sadness", will be recorded on November 5. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
September 12-13 1961
: CHRIS KENNER cuts seven tracks in two days at Cosimo Recording Studio in New
Orleans. Six of them will be released on singles : "Something You
Got"/"Come See About Me" (Instant 3237, late October),
"How Far" (Instant 3244, February 1962, c/w "Time" from a
later session), "Go Thru Life (With You)" (Instant 3257, May
1963, c/w "Come Back And See", recorded on April 20, 1961) and
"What's Wrong With Life"/ "Never Reach Perfection" (Instant
3263, January 1964). "Gonna Getcha Baby" is first issued on the
LP "The Name Of the Place" (Bandy LP 70015, 1983). Personnel : Roy
Montrell (guitar) ; Nat Perilliat and others (saxes) ; Allen Toussaint (piano /
producer). More details unknown.
September 13, 1961 : RONNIE HAWKINS records five tracks in New York City, which will eventually be released on the LP "The Best Of Ronnie Hawkins" (Roulette SR 25255) in 1964 : "You Know I Love You", "Sexy Ways", "Come Love" (also released as a single, Roulette 4400, in October), "Searchin'" and "Honey Love". Personnel : Robbie Robertson (guitar) ; Rick Danko (bass) ; Jerry Penfound (tenor sax) ; Levon Helm (drums). Plus a female vocal chorus that probably includes Dionne Warwick, Dee Dee Warwick and Cissy Houston (on "Come Love"). The Hawks (Robertson, Danko, Penfound and Helm) record "What A Party" on September 15, which remains unissued until the release of the double CD "Ronnie Hawkins and the Hawks : The Roulette Years" (UK Sequel NED CD 266) in 1994. Produced by Henry Glover. See also September 18.
September 15, 1961 :
In Hollywood, THE PENDELTONES record "Luau" and "Surfin'"
during a session at Hite Morgan's studio. Both tracks will remain unissued
for more than 30 years. The members of the group are Brian, Carl and
Dennis Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine, later to be known as The Beach
Boys. The recordings are eventually released on the CD "Lost And
Found" (UK Castle CD 022) in 1992 and are not the same versions that
were released on Candix 301. The session is produced by Hite and
Dorinda Morgan.
September 15, 1961 : Session pianist BOBBY WOOD cuts the single "Human Emotions"/"Everybody's Searchin'" (Sun 369). DJ copies are released on October 9, 1961, but the record was never commercially issued due to a contractual dispute. In August 1962 "Everybody's Searchin'" is released on Challenge 59160, coupled with "The Day After Forever", which probably stems from the same session. Wood will re-record "Human Emotions" for the Joy label in 1964 (Joy 298). Personnel : Bobby Wood (vocals / piano) ; Charlie Chalmers (sax) ; Gene Chrisman (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Stan Kesler at the Sun studio in Memphis.
September 18, 1961 : RONNIE HAWKINS and the Hawks continue their sessions in New York City and record five more tracks, four of which will appear on the album "Mojo Man" (Roulette SR 25390) in 1967 : "Susie-Q", "Matchbox", "Further On Up the Road"and "Nineteen Years Old". "I Feel Good" becomes the B-side of the new single, "Come Love" (see September 13). Personnel and producer are the same as on September 13.
Tuesday, September 19, 1961 : ROGER MILLER does a three-track session for RCA at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Burma Shave"/"Fair Swiss Maiden" is released in October on RCA 47-7958. "Sorry Willie" comes out in April 1962 (RCA 47-8028), c/w "The Hitch-Hiker" from a session on February 7, 1962. Personnel : Velma Smith, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
September 19, 22,
1961 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS records an 11-track album, "Old Gold"
(Tru-Sound LP 15006, December). Seven tracks are laid down on the 19th :
"Night Train", "You Came A Long Way From St. Louis",
"Honky Tonk", "Fever", "Tuxedo Junction", "Lean
Baby" and "The Hucklebuck". The remaining four tracks are cut on
September 22 : "Soft", "Tippin' In", "So Rare"
and "Harlem Nocturne". Selected for single release are "The
Hucklebuck" (labelled "The Hucklebuck (Twist)" on the 45rpm
issue) and "So Rare" (Tru-Sound 412, February 1962).
Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax / alto saax) ; Billy Butler, Eric Gale
(guitars) ; Bob Bushnell (bass) ; Jack McDuff (organ) ; Willie Rodriguez
(bongos / congas) ; Ray Lucas (drums). Produced by Esmond Edwards in Englewood
Cliffs, New Jersey.
September 20, 1961 : FAYE ADAMS does a one-off session for Savoy Records, probably in New York City. The single "Step Up And Rescue Me"/"Cry You Crazy Heart" is released on Savoy 1606 in October. "It Hurts To Be In Love" will eventually be released on the CD "Faye Adams - Greatest Hits" (Master Classics) in 2010. "Sunset, Sunrise Or Midnight" remains unissued.
September 21, 1961 : HAROLD DORMAN cuts his second single for the Sun label, "Uncle Jonah's Place"/"Just One Step" (Sun 370, November 7), at Sam Phillips Recording Studio on Madison Avenue in Memphis. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Roland Janes (guitars) ; O.T. Shaw (bass) ; Bobby Wood (piano) ; Martin Willis, Vinnie Trauth (tenor saxes) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Cecil Scaife.
September 21, 1961 :
JERRY LEE LEWIS also does a session at the Sun studio on this day. A cover of
the Barrett Strong hit "Money" is the first track to be
released as a 45, on Sun 371 (November 21), coupled with "Bonnie
B." from a session in January 1960. "Ramblin' Rose" ends
up on the B-side of "I've Been Twistin'" (recorded on January 4,
1962) and is released on January 19, 1962 (Sun 374). "Rockin' the
Boat Of Love" stays in the can until 1975 when it is included on the
Dutch LP "Jerry Lee Lewis Collectors Edition" (Sun NY-6).
Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Jerry Kennedy (guitar) ; Bob
Moore (bass) ; Jerry Tuttle (organ) ; Boots Randolph, Karl Gavin, Jim Hall
(saxes) ; John Wilkin, Donald Sheffield (horns) ; Cam Mullins, Bill McElhiney
(trumpets) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam
Phillips and / or Billy Sherrill.
September 22, 1961 : HAWKSHAW HAWKINS records material for two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Big Ole Heartache"/"Twenty Miles From Shore" is released on Columbia 42223 in November and "Darkness On the Face Of the Earth"/"I Can't Seem To Say Goodbye" on Columbia 42441 in May 1962. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
September 25, 1961 : At United Recording Corporation in Hollywood, JOHNNY BURNETTE records his next 45, "God, Country And My Baby"/"Honestly I Do" (Liberty 55379, October 2). A # 18 hit. The third track from this session, the Carl Perkins composition "Fools Like Me", was supposed to be the new single (55377), but it was cancelled in favour of "God, Country And My Baby" and remained in the can until 1989, finally emerging on the UK CD "The Best Of Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 792924). Personnel : Tommy Allsup, Dick Glasser, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Robert Florence (piano) ; Jerry Allison (drums) ; Emil Richards (percussion) ; The Johnny Mann Singers (vocal chorus). Plus 8 violins and 2 violas. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
September 25, 1961 : DORSEY BURNETTE records on the same day as his brother, in the same studio, but not for the same label. "The Biggest Lover In Town" and "No One But Him" are tracks for the LP "Dorsey Burnette Sings" (Dot DLP 3456, November 1962). Another track for that album is "He Gave Me My Hands", recorded on the 26th, along with "Somebody Nobody Wants" and "Little Child". These last two songs stay in the can until Bear Family issues the CD "Great Shakin' Fever" (BCD 15545) in 1992. Arranged by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood.
September 25, 1961 : THE COASTERS are back at Atlantic Studios, 11 West 60th Street, New York City, where they lay down three tracks. ("Ain't That) Just Like Me"/"Bad Blood" will become their new single (Atco 6210, November). No chart success this time. "My Babe" is included on the LP "Coast Along With the Coaters" (Atco 33-135, June 1962). The Coasters (Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Will 'Dub' Jones and Earl Carroll) are backed by members of Little Richard's band, The Upsetters. Personnel : Milt Hopkins, Joe Richardson (guitars) ; Grady Gaines, Clifford Burks (tenor saxes) ; Gary Bell (piano or tenor sax) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Olsie Robinson (bass) ; Emile Russell (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
September 25, 1961 : In New York City, THE DUBS cut the single "Lullaby"/ "Down, Down, Down I Go" (ABC-Paramount 10269, November). Unissued from this session are "Two Hearts Are Better Than One" and "You've Discovered Love". The Dubs are : Richard Blandon (lead vocals), Cleveland Still, Billy Carlisle, Jake Miller and Thomas Gardner. Arranged and produced by Sid Feller.
September 25-26, 1961
: BRIAN HYLAND records eight tracks for the album "Let Me
Belong To You" (ABC-Paramount LP 400, October) : "Lonely
Weekends", "Bye Bye Love", "It Ain't That Way At All"
(also a single, ABC-Paramount 10374, November 1962) , "All Shook Up",
"I'm Sorry", "Are You Lonesome Tonight", "Love
Me Tender" and "Walk A Lonely Mile" (also on ABC-Paramount
10359, September 1962, flip of the hit "Warmed Over Kisses" from a
later session). Arranged by Stan Applebaum in New York City.
September 26-27, 1961 : Two days of sessions by BUCK OWENS at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. On the first day he records five tracks for the album "You're For Me" (Capitol T 1777, October 1962) : "Down On the Corner Of Love", "Fool Me Again", "Blues For Life", "You're For Me" and "The House Down the Block". The latter two titles are coupled for single release on Capitol 4872 (November 5, 1962) and reach # 10, resp. # 24 on the country charts. Five songs are laid down on September 27. The instrumentals "Mexi- can Polka" and "Country Polka" will also appear on the "You're For Me" LP. "Bring It To Jesus" and "All the Way With Jesus" are eventually released on the album "Dust On Mother's Bible" (Capitol T 2497) in May 1966. A first attempt at "King Of Fools" is first issued on the Bear Family 5-CD set "Act Naturally" (BCD 16850) in 2008. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Don Rich (fiddle / guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Moose Stone (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
Thursday, September 28, 1961 : THE CRICKETS record the single "He's Old Enough To Know Better"/"I'm Feeling Better" (Liberty 55392, November 13). On this occasion the Crickets are Jerry Allison, Bobby Vee and Cliff Crofford. Tommy Allsup plays guitar, Earl Palmer drums, more details unknown. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
September 28-29, 1961 : DON GIBSON is at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. On September 28 he records "I Sat Back And Let It Happen" (first released on Bear Family BFX 15089, 1982), "I Know the Score" (first released on Bear Family BFX 15097, 1982) and "The Same Old Trouble" (RCA 47-7959, November, B-side of the new single). The next day Gibson continues with "Lonesome Number One" (A-side of the new single, # 2 country, # 59 pop), "So How Come (No One Loves Me)" (RCA 47-8085, September 1962) and "Let's Fall Out Of Love" (first released on Bear Family BFX 15097, 1982). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Velma Williams, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Joe Zinkan (bass, 28/9) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass, 29/9) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica, 29/9 only) ; Buddy Harman (drums, 28/9) ; Morris Palmer (drums, 29/9) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus, 28/8) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus, 29/9). Produced by Chet Atkins.
September 30, 1961 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW and his band record instrumental versions of twelve Fats Domino numbers : "Let the Four Winds Blow", "Ain't That A Shame", "Troubles Of My Own", "Blue Monday" "So Long", "Goin' Home", "I'm Walkin'", "Going To the River", "Blueberry Hill", "I'm In Love Again", "The Fat Man" and "Honey Chile". The result is released under the title "Fats Domino Presents Dave Bartholomew and His Great Big Band" (Imperial LP 9162, October). Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / arranger / producer) ; Eddie Nash, Clyde Kerr (trumpets) ; Waldron Joseph, Fred Doakes (trombones) ; Meyer Kennedy, Warren Bell (alto saxes) ; Clarence Hall, Warren Payne (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Bobby James (organ) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Smokey Johnson (drums). Location is Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans.
September 1961, unknown date : JOEY DEE and the Starliters record the single "Peppermint Twist, Parts 1 & 2", live at the Peppermint Lounge in New York City (Roulette 4401, October). Part 1 will reach the # 1 position on the Billboard pop charts on January 27, 1962. Personnel : Joey Dee (vocals) ; David Brigati, Larry Vernieri, Willie Davis (background vocals / handclaps) ; Carlton Lattimore (organ) ; Sam Taylor (guitar) ; Jerome Richardson (sax) ; Don Martin (drums). Produced by Henry Glover.
September 1961,
unknown date(s) : JACKIE DeSHANNON records an album of Ray Charles songs. It
is prepared for release in January 1962 on Liberty LRP 3213 under the
title "Hits Of the Genius", but subsequently cancelled. Titles :
"Ain't That Love", "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying",
"This Little Boy Of Mine", "The Night Time Is the Right
Time", "Swanee River Rock", "I Got A Sweetie",
"What'd I Say", "Georgia On My Mind", "Drown In
My Own Tears", "Hallelujah I Love Him So" and "Yes
Indeed".
September 1961, unknown date : BOBBY HENDRICKS records his third and final Mercury single, "I'm Coming Home"/"Every Other Night" (71881, October). "I'm Coming Home" was previously recorded by Carl Mann and Elvis Presley. "A Whole Lot Of Girls" and "Puddles Of Tears" from this session remain unissued. Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle. Produced by Shelby Singleton in New York City.
September 1961, unknown date(s) : The instrumental group THE MAR-KEYS records ten tracks for the LP "Last Night" (Atlantic LP 8055, October) : "Morning After", "Diana", "Alright, OK, You Win", "Sticks and Stones", "Misty", "About Noon", "One Degree North", "Sack O'Woe", "Hold It" and "Ebb Tide". "Morning After"/"Diana" is rush-released as a single (Stax 112, a # 60 pop hit). "About Noon"/"Sack O'Woe" follows in late October (Stax 114). An edited version of "One Degree North" will be coupled with "Foxy" (from a later session) for release on Stax 115 in November. Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Donald 'Duck' Dunn (electric bass) ; Bob Talley (organ) ; Wayne Jackson (trumpet) ; Don Nix (baritone sax) ; Charles Axton (tenor sax) ; Earl Forest (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart in Memphis, Tennessee.
Dik
OCTOBER 1961
October 4, 1961 : First recording session by THE BEACH BOYS under their new name. As the Pendeltones they cut "Surfin'" and "Luau" in September (originally unreleased). Both songs are now re-recorded and coupled for release on the tiny X label, owned by the producers (X 301, November). A few weeks later, both tracks are licensed to Herb Newman who releases them twice, first on Candix 301 (December 8), then on Candix 331 (January 1962). That second Candix pressing reaches # 75 on the Billboard charts. The Beach Boys are : Mike Love (lead vocals) ; Carl Wilson (guitar) ; Al Jardine (string bass) ; Brian Wilson (snare drum) ; Dennis Wilson (not present at the session). Produced by Hite and Dorinda Morgan at World Pacific Studio in Hollywood.
October 4, 1961 : BARRY DARVELL has his first session for Atlantic, in New York City. Two songs will be issued as singles : "Lost Love" (Atlantic 2128, November, c/w "Silver Dollar" from a session on November 2) and "A King For Tonight" (Atlantic 2138, February 1962, c/w "Adam and Eve", recorded in January 1962). Two other tracks ("Irresistable" and "Little Billy") remain in the vaults. Personnel : Al Caiola, Everett Barksdale (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Kelly Owens (piano) ; King Curtis, Jerome Richardson (tenor saxes) ; Chauncey Welsh (baritone sax) ; Gary Chester (drums) & 6 strings. Arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman.
Thursday, October 5, 1961 : NEIL SEDAKA cuts his new single at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. "Happy Birthday, Sweet Sixteen"/"Don't Lead Me On" is released on RCA 47-7957 at the end of October. A # 6 pop hit. Personnel includes Al Caiola on guitar and Gary Chester on drums. More details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Alan Lorber. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner.
October 9, 1961 : DALE HAWKINS is now contracted to Atlantic and does his first session for the label. "Stay At Home Lulu"/"I Can't Erase You (Out Of My Heart)" is chosen for single release (Atlantic 2126, November). "Mumbly Peg" (aka "The Peg") will see its first release in 1997, both on LP and CD ("Daredevil", Norton 256). "The First To Know" remains unissued from this session. Personnel : Larry Taylor (guitar) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Charles Calello. Produced by Bob Crewe in New York City. (Or Nashville, according to Tapio.)
October 10-11, 1961 : CONWAY TWITTY pays another visit to Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Portrait Of A Fool" is selected as the next single (MGM 13050, late November, c/w "Tower Of Tears, recorded on March 9, 1961). "There Is Something On Your Mind" also gets a single release, in July 1962 (MGM 13089, c/w "Unchained Melody" from a session on July 17, 1961). "Turn Around" and "Walk On By" end up on the LP "Conway Twitty Sings Portrait Of A Fool And Others" (MGM SE 4019, January 1962). An overdubbed version of "Walk On By" is released on MGM 14408 in June 1972. Personnel : Al Bruno, Ray Edenton, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Lightnin' Chance (acoustic bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau.
October 11, 1961 : SONNY JAMES re-records his 1956-7 hit "Young Love" at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. The lower deck, "Broken Wings", comes from the same session. The record is released on RCA's sub-label Groove (G4-1) in November. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 12, 1961 : THE CLOVERS are back at Atlantic for one last session. "The Bootie Green"/"Drive It Home" is released in December on Atlantic 2129. "Salty Tears" and "Travel On" remain in the vaults until today. The Clovers are : Buddy Bailey (lead vocals), Billy Mitchell, Harold Lucas, Matthew McQuater and Harold Winley. Personnel : Allen Hanlon, Don Arnone (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Robert Mosely (piano) ; Jesse Powell (tenor sax) ; Taft Jordan, Ernie Royal (trumpets) ; Sol Gubin (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums). Plus strings. Arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman in New York City.
October 12, 1961 : One-track session by THE IKETTES, who record "I'm Blue (The Gong Gong Song)", for release on Atco 6212 in November (c/w "Find My Baby" from a November session). A # 3 R&B hit (# 19 pop). The Ikettes are : Josephine Armstead, Eloise Hester and Delores Johnson. Produced by Ike and Tina Turner in Los Angeles.
Friday, October 13,
1961 : Last Fraternity session for BOBBY BARE before his move to RCA.
"Brooklyn Bridge" is yet another variation on "All
American Boy". It will be released on Fraternity 890 in December
(coupled with "Zig- Zag Twist" from a session on December 23, 1960).
"Great Big Car" stays in the vaults until the release in 1994
of the 4-CD box-set "All American Boy" (Bear Family BCD 15663).
Rusty York plays guitar, more details unknown. Location is the King Studio in
Cincinnati.
October 13, 1961 : BARRETT STRONG is in NYC for his first Atlantic session. Three songs are recorded, all Pomus-Shuman compositions. "Seven Sins" and "What Went Wrong" are coupled for release on Atco 6225 in May 1962. A third track, "Spanish Lace", remains unissued. Personnel : Mickey Baker, James Mitchell. Al Casamenti (guitars) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Moe Wechsler (piano) ; Clark Terry, Ernie Royal (trumpets) ; Bob Asher (trombone) ; Jerome Richardson (alto sax) ; George Berg (tenor sax) ; Abe Rosen (harp) ; Herb Lovell (drums) ; Gary Chester (percussion) ; The Helen Way Singers (vocal chorus). Plus 11 strings. "A Pomshu production" says the label, so Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman probably also produced the session.
October 15-16, 1961 :
First of two October sessions for ELVIS PRESLEY. The future single "Good
Luck Charm"/"Anything That's Part Of You" (RCA 47-7992, February
27, 1962) is recorded on October 15. The A-side will reach the top spot of the
Billboard charts on April 21, 1962, the B-side peaks at # 31 on its own
strength. "Night Rider" will be included on the LP "Pot
Luck" (RCA LPM 2523, June 5, 1962). "I Met Her Today" and
"For the Millionth and Last Time" are first released on the album
"Elvis For Everyone" (RCA LPM 3450, August 10, 1965). Personnel
: Scotty Moore, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer
(piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax / clarinet) ; Gordon Stoker (accordion on one
track) ; D.J. Fontana, Buddy Harman (drums) ; Millie Kirkham, the Jordanaires
(backup vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes at RCA Studio B in Nashville. See
also October 26-27.
October 16, 1961 : Three-track session by RICK NELSON at United Recorders in Hollywood. All three songs will be included on the LP "Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167) in March 1962 : "Baby You Don't Know", "History of Love" and "There's Not A Minute" (also released as a single, Imperial 5985, in August 1963, coupled with "Time After Time" from a session on April 5, 1960). Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller, Dave Burgess (vocal chorus). Produced by Jimmie Haskell. See also October 30.
October 17, 1961 : PAT BOONE is at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, where he records seven songs. His next single is "Johnny Will"/"(If I'm Dreaming) Just Let Me Dream" (Dot 16284, late October). A # 35 hit in the USA and # 4 in the UK. Also released as a single is "In the Room (Where I'm Missing You" (Dot 16416, November 1962, c/w "Mexican Joe", from a session on August 23, 1962). Three other tracks end up on various LP's - "Deep Are the Roots", "It Sure Looks Lonesome Outside" and "Just Out Of Reach". "I Never Knew You At All" is first released on the 6-CD box-set "Sixties (1960-1962)" in 2006 (Bear Family BCD 16776). Personnel : Carol Kaye, Tommy Tedesco (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Frank Scott (piano) ; George Field (harmonica) ; Nick Fatool (drums) ; Elmer Schmidt (percussion). Plus strings. Arranged by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood.
October 17, 18 and 21, 1961 : At Bradley Studio in Nashville, JIMMY DEAN cuts eleven tracks, eight of which will appear on the LP "Big Bad John" (Columbia CL 1735, November) : "Gotta Travel On", "Sixteen Tons", "Make the Waterwheel Roll", "Oklahoma Bill", "Grasshopper MacClain", "Night Train To Memphis", "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette" (also a single, Columbia 42259, December) and "To A Sleeping Beauty" (also on Columbia 42282, January 1962, a # 26 hit). Also recorded are two B-sides of future hits, "Walk On Boy" (Columbia 42338, March 1962, flip of "P.T. 109") and "Little Bitty Big John" (Columbia 42483, June 1962, B-side of "Steel Men"). "The Lonesome Road" remains in the vaults until the release of the CD "Big Bad John" (Bear Family BCD 15723, 1993), which also contains the other ten tracks. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano on October 17-18) ; Bill Pursell (piano on October 21) ; Bill McElhiney (trumpet on October 17) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
October 18, 1961 :
THE TROPHIES are a vocal group, consisting of Dave Burgess, Glen Campbell,
Jerry Fuller and Rick Nelson. On this day they record the single "Doggone
It"/"Desire", for release on Challenge 9133 in January 1962.
Previously they cut a Challenge single under the name The Fleas (April 13,
1961). Backing by Glen Campbell (lead guitar), Dave Burgess (rhythm guitar /
producer) and members of the Champs. Location is Gold Star Recording Studios in
Hollywood.
October 18, 1961 : GENE VINCENT records his new single, "Lucky Star"/"Baby Don't Believe Him" (Capitol 4665, first week of December) at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood (Studio A). Personnel : Glen Campbell (guitar) ; Jerry Cole (electric bass) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Produced by Nik Venet.
October 18, 1961 : JOHNNY OTIS records four tracks in Los Angeles. “Hand Jive One More Time”/“Baby I Got News For You” is released in December on King 5581. “It Must Be Love” follows in March 1962 (King 5606), coupled with “She’s All Right” from a session on November 15, 1961. “Let’s Live It Up” is eventually released on a CD of the same title in 1992 (Charly CD 269, UK). Personnel : Johnny Watson, Johnny Rogers (guitars) ; Chuck Norris (bass) ; Robert Gross (organ) ; Gaynel Hodge (drums). Unknown (vocal group).
October 19, 1961 : DUANE EDDY's final Jamie session results in the (non- charting) single "The Avenger"/"Londonderry Air" (Jamie 1206, November). Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Bill Pitman, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Rebel yells on "The Avenger" overdubbed the next day. Arranged by Bob Thompson. Produced by Duane Eddy at United Recorders in Hollywood.
October 20, 1961 : The second and last Capitol session of THE EDSELS results in two singles : "Shake Shake Sherry"/"If Your Pillow Could Talk" (Capitol 4675, December) and "Don't You Feel"/"Shaddy Daddy Dip Dip" (Capitol 4836, September 1962). Location is New York City. The Edsels are : George Jones, Jr., Larry Green, James Reynolds, Harry Green and Marshall Sewell. King Curtis plays sax, more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Teacho Wiltshire. Produced by Manny Kellem.
October 20, 1961 : THE FOUR PREPS record another single for Capitol : "The Seine"/"Once Around the Block" (Capitol 4659, release date November 20). The Four Preps are : Bruce Belland, Ed Cobb, Marvin Inabnett and Glen Larson. Arranged and conducted by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
October 20, 1961 : First Hickory session for BOBBY LORD, at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result. "I'll Go On Alone"/"My Heart Tells Me So" is released on Hickory 1158 in November, followed by "The Precious Jewel"/"The Trail Of Tears" (Hickory 1169) in June 1962. Ray Edenton plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Wesley Rose.
October 21, 1961 : AARON NEVILLE is at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans to record material for his next two singles. "I'm Waiting At the Station"/"How Many Times" will be released on Minit 639 in December. "Humdinger"/"Sweet Little Mama" follows in June 1962 (Minit 650). Personnel includes the cream of the New Orleans session musicians : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; Alvin 'Red' Tyler (baritone sax) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet) ; John Boudreaux (drums).
October 23, 1961 is
the date of RUTH BROWN's first post-Atlantic session, in New York City. Eight
tracks are recorded, but only "If You Don't Tell Nobody"/"He
Tells Me With His Eyes" gets a release, and not until January 1963
(Philips 40086). "If You Don't Tell Nobody" is reissued later in 1963
on Philips 40119, with a different flip-side ("Satisfied", from a
later 1961 session).
October 24, 1961 : RAY SMITH returns to Sun Records for a one-off session. All four tracks will be released, on two singles. "Travlin' Salesman" (sic) /"I Won't Miss You (Till You Go)" is released on November 21 (Sun 372). "Candy Doll"/"Hey, Boss Man" follows on February 9, 1962 (Sun 375). Personnel : Stanley Walker (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Unknown (guitar, brass section, drums, vocal chorus). Produced by Bill Justis and / or Billy Sherrill at Sam Phillips Recording Studio in Nashville.
October 24, 1961 : Saxophonist HERB HARDESTY records four numbers at the King Studio in Cincinnati, released on two singles. First issued is ”Just A Little Bit of Everything”/“It Must Be Wonderful” (Federal 12444, January 1962), followed by “The Chicken Twist”/“Why Did We Have To Part” (Federal 12460) in May 1962. Personnel : Herb Hardesty (tenor sax / trumpet) ; Walter ‘Papoose’ Nelson (guitar / vocals on “It Must Be Wonderful” and “Why Did We Have To Part”) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax / alto sax) ; Buddy Hagans (tenor sax) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums).
October 25, 1961 : PAUL ANKA does one of his last sessions for the ABC- Paramount label. "Loveland" is released in November on ABC 10279 (c/w "The Bells At My Wedding" from a session on July 19, 1961). "Fools Hall Of Fame"/"Far From the Lights Of Time" follows only a few weeks later, in December (ABC 10282). Arranged and conducted by Sid Feller in New York City (probably Bell Sound Studio).
October 25, 26 and 29, 1961 : BRENDA LEE records ten tracks for the album "Sincerely, Brenda Lee" (Decca DL 4216, February 12, 1962). An uninteresting LP, from which no singles are drawn. On October 29, Brenda also cuts two snappier titles, "Organ Grinder's Swing" (for the LP "Brenda, That's All", Decca DL 4326, October 1962) and "Let the Four Winds Blow", which is held in the can until 1974, when it emerges on the German double-LP "Legends Of Rock, Vol. 2" (Coral 7292). Personnel on these two tracks : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Grady Martin. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 25, 1961 : TOMMY SANDS records one of his better songs, "The Wrong Side Of Love" (written by Paul Anka), for release on Capitol 4660 in the last week of November. The other side, "Jimmy's Song" (from the pen of John D. Loudermilk) was laid down on October 23, along with three unissued songs. Vocal chorus support is supplied by the Jordanaires. Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
Thursday, October 26, 1961 : DONNIE BROOKS cuts his new single, "Your Little Boy's Come Home"/"Goodnight Judy" (Era 3063, November) at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood. Arranged by Hank Levine.
October 26, 1961 : THE DRIFTERS are at Atlantic Recording Studios in NYC, where they record three tracks. "Jackpot" becomes the B-side of the non- charting single "Sometimes I Wonder" (recorded in May 1960 with Ben E. King on lead) in July 1962 (Atlantic 2151). "When My Little Girl Is Smiling" will be issued in February 1962 on Atlantic 2134 (c/w "Mexican Divorce" from a session on July 13, 1961). A # 28 pop hit. "She Never Talked To Me That Way" remains in the can until it comes out on the UK compilation "Saturday Night At the Club" (Pickwick LP SHM 3029) in 1972. Personnel : Rudy Lewis (lead), Charlie Thomas, Dock Green, Tommy Evans (vocals) ; Billy Davis, Allen Hanlon, Phil Spector (guitars) ; Al Chernet (mandolin) ; Gordon Mitchell (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Ted Sommer (drums) ; Martin Grupp, Bradley Spinney (percussion). Plus 9 strings. Arranged by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
October 26-27, 1961 : ELVIS PRESLEY does a soundtrack session for the movie "Kid Galahad" at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The six songs - "King Of the Whole Wide World", "This Is Living", "Riding the Rainbow", "Home Is Where the Heart Is", "I Got Lucky" and "Whistling Tune" - will be released on an EP ("Kid Galahad", RCA EPA 4371) in August 1962. It peaks at # 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Neal Matthews (guitars) ; Tiny Timbrell (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; D. J. Fontana, Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Jeffrey Alexander.
October 28, 1961 : At New York's Atlantic Studio, BEN E. KING lays down "Ecstasy" and "Yes", for release on Atco 6215 in January 1962. A # 56 pop hit. The third track from this session, "Jamaica", stays in the can until 1965, when it gets a place on the LP "Seven Letters" (Atco 33-174). Personnel : Allen Hanlon, Phil Spector, Al Casamenti (guitars) ; Gordon Mitchell (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Martin Grupp, Phil Kraus (percussion). With 11 strings. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
October 30, 1961 :
Second RICK NELSON session of this month. (Third if you include the Trophies
session.) "Mad Mad World" is first released on the LP "Album
Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167, March 1962) and later as a single
(Imperial 5958, May 1963, c/w "A Long Vacation", recorded on June 16,
1959). "Sweet Little Lovable You" stays in the vaults until the
release of the "Legacy" 4-CD box-set in 2000 (Capitol CDP 29521).
Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ;
Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Glen Campbell,
Jerry Fuller, Dave Burgess (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie
Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood.
October 30-31, 1961 : A two-day session by WANDA JACKSON results in eight tracks, six of which will appear on the LP "Wonderful Wanda" (Capitol T 1776, August 1962) : "Seven Lonely Days", "Don't Ask Me Why", "I Need You Now", "Is It Wrong", "We Could" and "You Don't Know Baby". "This Should Go On Forever" is released as a single in May 1963 (Capitol 4973, c/w "We Haven't A Moment To Lose" from a session on October 29, 1962). Finally, "Before I Lose My Mind" gets its first release on the Bear Family box-set "Right Or Wrong" (BCD 15629) in 1992. Personnel : Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; more details not known. Produced by Ken Nelson at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
October 31, 1961 : BOBBY DARIN records three tracks in Los Angeles, all released as singles. "Irresistible You" becomes his new 45 (Atco 6214, November, c/w "Multiplication" from a session on November 8, 1961) and reaches # 15 on the Billboard charts. "Jailer Bring Me Water" will be used as the B-side of "Things" (recorded on June 19, 1961) in June 1962 (Atco 6229). "Baby Face" is released in September 1962 (Atco 6236, c/w "You Know How", recorded on July 22, 1959). A # 42 hit. Personnel : Alan Reuss, Tommy Tedesco, Nino Tempo (guitars) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Dudley Brooks or Gene Garf (piano) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; Harold Diner, Marshall Cram (trombones) ; Julius Wechter (French horn) ; Richie Frost or Earl Palmer (drums). Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
October 31, 1961 : Four-track session by the ERNIE FREEMAN COMBO in Los Angeles. "Shine On Harvest Moon" is the B-side of the new 45 (Imperial 5793, November, c/w the # 93 hit "The Twist", recorded on September 29, 1960). "Down By the Old Mill Stream" will be included on the album "The Stripper" (Imperial LP 9193) in May 1962. Unissued from this session are "El Cid" and a track listed as "Untitled Original No. 1".
October 1961, unknown date : WILLIAM BELL records his first single, "You Don't Miss Your Water"/"Formula Of Love" (Stax 116, December). It will spend one week at # 95 on the Billboard Hot 100. Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar / producer) ; Lewis Steinberg (bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Marvell Thomas (piano) ; Ron Capone (drums) ; Unknown (tenor sax, baritone sax, trumpet). Location is the Stax Studio in Memphis.
October 1961, unknown date : BRUCE CHANNEL records his future number one hit single "Hey! Baby"/"Dream Girl", in Fort Worth, Texas. It is first released on Le Cam 953 in November, then (first week of 1962) on Smash 1731 and reaches the top spot in Billboard on March 10, 1962. (Also a # 2 hit in the UK.) Personnel : Bob Jones, Billy Sanders (guitars) ; Jim Rogers (bass) ; Ray Torres (drums) ; Delbert McClinton (harmonica). Produced by Major Bill Smith and Marvin Montgomery.
October 1961, unknown date : COWBOY COPAS records four tracks at the Starday Sound Studio in Nashville. "A Thousand Miles Of Ocean" is the A-side of his new single (Starday 573, November). "Seven Seas From You" is the subsequent single (Starday 585, February 1962). "Black Eyed Susie" eventually gets a single release in January 1965 (Starday 708). "A Penny For your Thoughts" is included on the LP "Mr. Country Music" (Starday SLP 175, May 1962), along with the other three tracks. Personnel : Lloyd Copas (vocals / guitar) ; Kelso Herston (guitar) ; Little Roy Wiggins (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Tommy Vaden, Tommy Jackson (fiddles). Produced by Tommy Hill.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1961
Wednesday, November 1, 1961 : THE JOHN BARRY SEVEN record their next 45, "Watch Your Step"/"Twist It", for release on Columbia DB 4746 on November 24. An earlier version of "Watch Your Step" was recorded on September 28 and was held in the can until the release of the CD "John Barry : The EMI Years, Vol. 2" in 1993. "Watch Your Step" features a clavioline (an electronic instrument, sort of an early synthesizer), played by Ted Taylor. Produced by Norman Newell at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
November 1, 1961 : Last day of a three-day session by WANDA JACKSON at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Let Me Talk To You" is first released on Capitol 5015 in July 1963 (c/w "Memory Mountain", recorded on June 5, 1963). "The Tip Of My Fingers" and "(Let's Stop) Kickin' Our Hearts Around" stay on the shelf until 1965, when they are included on the LP "Wanda Jackson Sings Country Songs" (Capitol T 2438). Personnel includes Harold Bradley on guitar and Bob Moore on bass. More details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
(Circa) November 1, 1961 : DEL SHANNON records his next single at Mira Sound City in New York City. "Hey! Little Girl"/"I Don't Care Anymore" is rush-released on Bigtop 3091 and reaches # 38 on the Billboard charts. In the UK, "Hey! Little Girl" is coupled with "You Never Talked About Me" from a session in February 1962. Released on March 2, 1962 (London HLX 9515), it will peak at # 2 on the UK charts. It is a split session with MAX CROOK, who cuts the instrumental single "Greyhound"/"Autumn Mood", for release on Twirl 2003 in October 1962 (credited to MAXIMILIAN). Personnel : Al Caiola (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Max Crook (piano / musitron) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Joe Marshall (drums). Plus unidentified tambourine, strings and female vocal chorus. Produced by Harry Balk.
November 1, 1961 : IRMA THOMAS records material for two singles at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans. First released is "I Done Got Over It"/ "Gone" (Minit 642, January 1962). "It's Raining"/"I Did My Part" will come out in August 1962 (Minit 653). Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (electric bass) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer). More details unknown.
November 2, 1961 : One-track
session by FATS DOMINO, who overdubs his vocals and piano on "Birds and
Bees", first released on the album "Just Domino" (Imperial
LP 9208) in September 1962. The backing track was recorded on October 19
(along with three other, unissued numbers) under the title "I
Remember When". Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell
(guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Lee Allen, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ;
Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ;
Cornelius Coleman (drums). Location is Cosimo Recording Studio in New
Orleans.
November 2, 1961 : In New York City, CONNIE FRANCIS records her next single, "When the Boy In Your Arms (Is the Boy In Your Heart)"/"Baby's First Christmas" (MGM 13051, rush released). Both sides will chart, with peak positions of # 10 and # 26. Even more successful is "Don't Break the Heart That Loves You" (MGM 13059, late January 1962, a # 1 hit), which is coupled with "Drop It Joe", from a session on January 9, 1962. A fourth track, "I'm Falling In Love", becomes the UK B-side of "Baby's First Christmas" (MGM 1145, December) and will not be released in the USA until February 1966 (LP "Jealous Heart", MGM SE 4355). Arranged and conducted by Don Costa. Produced by Arnold Maxin. See also November 20.
November 2, 1961 : RICK NELSON records two tracks for the LP "Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167, March 1962) : "Stop Sneakin' Around" and "Excuse Me Baby". Also laid down is "Window On the World", which is unissued and lost. Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Dave Burgess, Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Master Recorders in Hollywood. See also November 6.
November 2-3, 1961 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS cuts the LP "The Twist!" (RCA LPM 2494), for release in April 1962. Six tracks are recorded on November 2 : "Honeysuckle Rose", "Twelfth Street Twist", "Jersey Bounce", "Stompin' at the Savoy", "Alright, Okay, You Win" and "The Hucklebuck. The remaining six tracks are laid down the next day : "The Arthur Murray Twist", "Twistin' Time", "The Twist", "Let's Twist Again", "The Pepper- mint Twist" and "The Fly". Location is New York City. Personnel on November 2 : King Curtis, Warren Lucky (tenor saxes) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Mickey Baker, Billy Butler, Carl Lynch (guitars) ; Bob Bushnell (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano / organ) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Joe Marshall (drums). On November 3 Everett Barksdale replaces Mickey Baker. King Curtis also on lead vocals. Add Don Covay, Henry Ollie and John Berry (background vocals). Produced by Ethel Gabriel.
November 5-7, 1961 : FLOYD CRAMER records the LP "Cramer Gets Organ-ized" (RCA LPM 2488, February 1962). Tracks : "My Funny Valentine", "A String Of Pearls", "The Dreamer", "Perdido", "Lullaby Of Birdland", "Jordu", "Let's Go" (also B-side of a single, RCA 47-7978, January 1962), "Again", "Sentimental Journey", "The Gospel Theme", "My Blue Heaven" and "The First Hurt" (also issued as the B-side of "Lovesick Blues", RCA 47-8013, which will be recorded on February 14, 1962 and released in March 1962). Also laid down are "Suddenly There's A Valley", which is first released on the LP "The Magic Touch Of Floyd Cramer" (Camden CAL-874) in March 1965, and (on November 7) "Chattanooga Choo Choo", which is chosen as the A-side of Cramer's next single (RCA 47-7978, January 1962). A # 36 hit ; the other side, "Let's Go", reaches # 90. Personnel : Floyd Cramer (organ / piano) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). More details unknown. Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 6, 1961 : RICK NELSON records two more songs for the LP "Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167, March 1962) : "I Can't Stop Loving You" and "Summertime". The latter will first be issued on a single (B-side of "Young World", from a session on January 18, 1962), on February 24, 1962. A third track from this session, "Fragile", is unissued and lost. Personnel is the same as on November 2. Add : The Blossoms (vocal group on "Summertime") and an unidentified harmonica player on "Summertime".
November 7, 1961 : First of four November sessions by BOBBY DARIN, for the album "Bobby Darin Sings Ray Charles" (Atco 33-140, March 1962). On this day he records "My Bonnie", "Tell Me How Do You Feel", "Tell All the World About You" and "What'd I Say". The latter will also be issued as a two-part single (in slightly edited form) in March 1962 (Atco 6221) ; Part 1 reaches # 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. Personnel : Nino Tempo (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; John Anderson, Tony Terran (trumpets) ; Ray Johnson (piano / organ on "Tell Me How Do You Feel") ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Richie Frost (percussion) ; The Blossoms (Darlene Love, Fanita James, Gloria Jones - background vocals). Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. See also November 8, 10 and 14.
November 7, 1962 : One-track session by JIMMY DEAN. "The Cajun Queen" is released in January 1962 (Columbia 42282), c/w "To A Sleeping Beauty", from a session on October 21, 1961. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 22 and # 26 respectively. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 8, 1961 : At Reco-Art Sound Recording Co. in Philadelphia, DANNY AND THE JUNIORS record "Twistin' All Night Long", with a guest vocal by FREDDY CANNON. Six days later, at an overdub session at Mira Sound Studio in New York, The Four Seasons add vocal support to the basic track. The final result is rush-released as the A-side of Swan 4092 (a # 68 hit), coupled with a second release of "Some Kind Of Nut" (recorded on August 1, 1961). Instrumental accompaniment by Frank Slay and his orchestra. Produced by Bob Crewe and Frank Slay.
November 8, 1961 : Second day of BOBBY DARIN's sessions for the "Sings Ray Charles" LP, with modified personnel. Recorded are "The Right Time" and "Drown In My Own Tears", as well as the single "Multiplication" (not on the LP), released on Atco 6214 in late November (c/w "Irresistible You" from a session on October 31). A # 30 hit (# 5 in the UK). Personnel : Tommy Tedesco, Nino Tempo (guitars) ; Joe Comfort (bass) ; William Green (tenor sax) ; John Anderson, Tony Terran (trumpets) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Jesse Sailes (drums) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus). Same producer, arranger and studio as on November 7.
November 8, 1961 : ROY ORBISON records at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "House Without Windows" will be used as a track for the LP "In Dreams" (Monument LP 8003, July 1963). There's also a first attempt at "(They Call You) Gigolette", later included on the Bear Family box- set "Orbison" (BCD 16423, 2001). Bob Moore acts as bass player, arranger and producer. Fred Foster is listed as executive producer. See also November 15.
November 8-9, 1961 : MARTY ROBBINS cuts his new single on November 8 : "Sometimes I'm Tempted"/"I Told the Brook" (Columbia 42246, release date November 24). The A-side reaches # 12 on the country charts, the B-side # 81 on the pop charts. The next day Robbins records two more songs. "The Bend In the River" will first appear on the LP "A Portrait Of Marty" (Columbia CL 1855, August 1962). "When the Work's All Done This Fall" is saved (in this version at least) until September 1984, for inclusion on the double album "Long, Long Ago" (Columbia KC2-39575). Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Jack Pruett, Billy Grammer (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
November 9, 1961 : GENE McDANIELS records five tracks at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Chip Chip"/"Another Tear Falls" is selected as his next single (Liberty 55405, release date December 29). A # 10 hit. "He's Got My Sympathy" is a track for the LP "Tower Of Strength" (Liberty LRP 3215, January 1962). "A Miracle" is left unfinished ; it will be completed on January 14, 1964 and released on Liberty 55805 in June 1965 (c/w "Walk With A Winner", recorded in May 1965). "Master Puppeteer" is first released on the CD "The Best Of Gene McDaniels, A Hundred Pounds Of Clay" (EMI 7-99998-2) in 1992. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
November 10, 1961 : BOBBY
DARIN records more songs for the "Sings Ray Charles" LP :
"Ain't That Love", "Leave My Woman Alone" and
"Hallelujah I Love Her So". "Multiplication" is attempted
again, but it will be the version of November 8 that is released. Personnel :
Tommy Tedesco (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Plas Johnson, Nino Tempo
(saxes) ; John Anderson, Tony Terran (trumpets) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ;
Earl Palmer (drums) ; Richie Frost (percussion) ; The Blossoms (vocal
chorus). Producer, arranger and studio are the same as on November 7.
November 11, 1961 : In Washington D.C., MARVIN RAINWATER records his second Warwick single, "Tough Top Cat"/"(There's A) Honky Tonk In Your Heart" (Warwick 674, January 1962), possibly with Link Wray and the Raymen. The A-side is a take-off on Jimmy Dean's "Big Bad John". Arranged by Marvin Rainwater. Produced by Ray Vernon.
November 13-14, 1961 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record the final three tracks for the "Instant Party" LP (Warner Bros W 1430, January 1430) on November 13 : "Theme From Carnival (Love Makes the World Go 'Round)", "Step It Up And Go" and "Trouble In Mind". Also laid down is "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts Of Town", which will see its first release on the LP "Rock 'n' Soul" (Warner Bros W 1578) in March 1965. On November 14 the brothers cut their next single, "Crying In the Rain"/ "I'm Not Angry" (Warner Bros 5250), released on December 12. A # 6 hit. Also the A-side of the subsequent single, "That's Old Fashioned" (Warner Bros 5273, April 18, 1962, a # 9 hit), which will be coupled with "How Can I Meet Her" from a session on April 4, 1962. "He's Got My Sympathy" is eventually released on the UK LP "New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415) in September 1977. Producer and personnel unknown. Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 14, 1961 : BOBBY DARIN completes the recording of the 11-track album "Bobby Darin Sings Ray Charles" with "That's Enough" and a long version of "I Got A Woman". This was his last session for Atco. Personnel : Jim Gordon (guitar) ; Nino Tempo (guitar and/or sax) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Plas Johnson (tenor sax) ; John Anderson, Tony Terran (trumpets) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Richie Frost (percussion) ; The Blossoms (vocal chorus). Producer, arranger and studio are the same as on November 7.
November 14, 1961 : One-track session by THE KINGSTON TRIO, who record the Pete Seeger composition "Where Have All the Flowers Gone". Release on Capitol 4671 in December. A # 21 hit. The reverse, "O Ken Karanga", was recorded in L.A. on August 16, 1961. Personnel : Bob Shane, Nick Reynolds (vocals / guitars) ; John Stewart (vocals / banjo, guitar) ; David Morris Wheat (bass). Produced by Voyle Gilmore in New York City.
November 14 & 16, 1961 : RAL DONNER is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City for two sessions in three days. First released is the single "(What A Sad Way) To Love Someone"/"Will You Love Me In Heaven" (Gone 5125), in March 1962. A # 74 hit. Also recorded are "Loveless Life" (used for a future single, Gone 5129, June, bubbled under at # 117), "She's Everything" (available for just a few weeks on the withdrawn single Gone 5121) and two tracks that were shelved for some 30 years, "Half Heaven, Half Heartache" (first released on the Murray Hill LP "She's Everything" in 1988) and "Silver and Gold" (first released in 1991 on the 2-CD "The Complete Ral Donner 1959-1962" (Sequel NED 190, UK). Arranged by Artie Ripp. Produced by George Goldner.
Wednesday, November 15, 1961 : More recording activity by ROY ORBISON in Nashville. A new attempt at "(They Call You) Gigolette" is mastered for release on the "In Dreams" LP (Monument LP 8003, July 1963). "How Are Things In Paradise" stays in the can until 1983, when the track is released on the 2-LP "The Roy Orbison Collection" (Monument/CBS XPS 178), which also includes "Yes" (probably from this same session). "Let the Good Times Roll" will be first released on the album "Orbisongs" (Monument MLP 8035) in July 1965, then as a single (Monument 906) in November 1965 (a # 81 hit). The classic "Blue Bayou" is inexplicably held back until August 1963, when it comes out on Monument 824. A # 29 hit (# 3 in the UK). "Wedding Day" is a track for the LP "Crying" (Monument M 4007, January 1962). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Fred Carter Jr., Joe Tanner (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass / arranger) ; Bill Purcell (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums); John Greubel (drums). Plus 7 strings. Bear Family has no information on the harpsichord player on "Blue Bayou", who is possibly Floyd Cramer. Produced by Fred Foster.
November 15, 1961 : Another King session by JOHNNY OTIS, in Los Angeles. “She’s All Right” will be issued in March 1962 on King 5606 (c/w “It Must Be Love”, recorded on October 18, 1961). “Early in the Mornin’ Blues” and “The Hey Hey Hey Song” are coupled for release on King 5690 in October 1962. The instrumental “Let’s Surf Awhile” gets a place on the Various artists LP “Look Who’s Surfing Now” (King LP 882) in 1964. Unissued from this session is “Slow Blues”.
November 16, 1961 : THE CHAMPS record their next single, "Tequila Twist"/ "Limbo Rock" (Challenge 9131, December), this time with session musicians instead of the usual road crew. "Tequila Twist" spends one week at # 99 on the Billboard charts. Then the radio stations discover "Limbo Rock", which eventually peaks at # 40. Also recorded is "Tijuana Two Step", for the LP "Great Dance Hits" (Challenge CHL 613, May 1962). The vocal interjections on "Tequila Twist" and "Limbo Rock" are overdubbed later. Personnel : Tommy Tedesco (acoustic guitar) ; Alan Reuss (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Morris (bass) ; Plas Johnson (sax / flute) ; Unknown (organ) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Jim Gordon (percussion). Location is Hollywood, probably Gold Star Studio.
November 17, 1961 : Final RCA session by BAKER KNIGHT. "Whose Little Baby Are You" is prepared for release on RCA 47-8002 in early 1962, coupled with "Bring It On Home To Me" from a session in August 1960. However, this 45 is withdrawn and appears on Kit 102 instead. Three other songs are laid down - "Tears On My Pillow", "Do You Love Me' and "Careless Hands" - but they have never been released. Personnel : Howard Roberts, Gerald McGee, Bud Coleman (guitars) ; Cliff Hills (bass) ; Henry Mandel (sax) ; Robert Florence (piano) ; Jerry Adler (harmonica) ; Jack Costanzo (percussion) ; Jesse Sailes (drums). Arranged by Hank Levine. Produced by Dick Peirce at RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood.
November 17, 1961 : THE LETTERMEN record one of their biggest hits (# 17), "Come Back Silly Girl"/"A Song For Young Love" (Capitol 4699, January 1962), along with "I'll Be Seeing You" (LP track) and "(Where Are You) Now That I Need You" (unissued). Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Nik Venet at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
November 20, 1961 : First RCA session by PAUL ANKA. "Love Me Warm And Tender"/"I'd Like To Know" becomes his debut single for the label (RCA 47-7977, January 1962). A # 12 hit. "I Never Knew Your Name" will be used as the B-side of "A Steel Guitar And A Glass Of Wine" (recorded on April 3, 1962, RCA 47-8030, released late April 1962). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
November 20, 1961 : One-track session by CONNIE FRANCIS in New York City. "Mr. Twister" becomes the opening track of the LP "Do the Twist With Connie Francis" (MGM SE 4022, February 1962). In the UK it is also released as a single (MGM 1151, February 1962, c/w "Don't Cry On My Shoulder", recorded on January 4, 1962). Arranged and conducted by Sammy Lowe. Produced by Arnold Maxin.
Tuesday, November 20, 1961 : A group of studio musicians records two instrumentals in Los Angeles, which will be credited to BILLY JOE AND THE CHECKMATES. “Percolator (Twist)”/“Round And Round And Round and Round” is issued in December on Doré 620 and peaks at # 10 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Julius Wechter (marimbas) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Lew Bedell.
November 21, 1961 : One of the rare HANK BALLARD sessions outside of Cincinnati. In New York City (Bell Sound Studio) he records "Up And Away" and "Miss Twister", both for the LP "The Twistin' Fools" (King LP 781), released in February 1962. "Hello Lover, Goodbye Tears" remains in the vaults until it is rescued by Bear Family and included on the 5-CD box-set "Nothing But Good, 1952-1962" (BCD 16795, 2007). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Mickey Baker, Billy Davis (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings, Barney Richmond (bass) ; Jimmy Johnson, Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Unidentified (organ) ; Buddy Lucas, Hank Moore (tenor saxes) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Pat Patterson, Dud Bascomb, Ray Copeland (trumpets) ; Dickie Harris, Clifford Woods (trombones) ; Joe Hardwick (drums). Arranged by Horace Ott. Producer unknown.
November 21, 1961 : Deejay Murray the K (Murray Kaufman) tries his hand at singing. "The Lone Twister"/"Twistin' Up A Storm" is credited to THE LONE TWISTER and released on Atlantic 2130 in December. Personnel : Mickey Baker, Bucky Pizzarelli, Don Arnone (guitars) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Haywood Henry (baritone saax) ; Robert Mosely (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums). Location : New York City.
November 22, 1961 : Final Dot
session by DORSEY BURNETTE. His new single is "Dying
Ember"/"A Country Boy in the Army" (Dot 16305, December).
"Don't Let Go" will be used as an album track (LP "Rainin'
In My Heart", Dot DLP 3456, October 1962). Arranged and
conducted by Billy Vaughn. Produced by Randy Wood at United Recording
Corporation in Hollywood.
November 22, 1961 : Another Atlantic session in NYC, by BOBBY PETERSON. "Tell Me What You Gonna Do"/"Every Now And Then" will appear in June 1962 (Atlantic 2152). A third track from this session, "Swanee River Rock", has never been issued. Personnel : Bobby Peterson (vocals / piano) ; Sam Thomas (guitar) ; Joe Pyatt (tenor sax) ; Emmett Simmons (baritone sax) ; Hasson Miah (drums).
November 22, 1961 : EDDIE CLEARWATER does a one-off session for Federal in Cincinnati, which results in two singles. “I Was Gone”/“Twist Like This” is released in January 1962 on Federal 12446. “A Real Good Time”/ “Hey Bernadine” follows in June 1962 (Federal 12463). Personnel : Eddie Clearwater (vocals / guitar) ; Freddy King (guitar) ; Lawrence Frazier (bass) ; Mich Robinson (piano) ; Hank Mahr (organ) ; Osborne Whitfield (tenor sax) ; Phillip Paul (drums).
Thursday, November 30, 1961 :
The third UK session by GENE VINCENT results in "Spaceship To
Mars" (for the movie "It's Trad Dad") and "There I Go Again
(Whoops I'm Dreaming)". "Spaceship to Mars is first issued on the
Various artists LP "It's Trad Dad" (Columbia SX 1412, UK) in March
1962. "There I Go Again" is originally only issued in France and
Spain ("Be Bop A Lula '62" EP, 1962) and sees its first UK
release in 1974, on the album "King Of Fools" (Regal Starline
SRS 5177). In France, both tracks are also released as singles in 1963 (Capitol
F 88, 89). Backing by Sounds Incorporated : Barrie Elmes (guitar) ; Wess
Hunter (electric bass) ; Bobby Cameron (piano / organ) ; Alan Holmes,
Griff West (saxes) ; Tony Newman (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's
Abbey Road Studio in London.
November 1961, unknown date : ARTHUR ALEXANDER records the single "You Better Move On"/"A Shot Of Rhythm and Blues" (Dot 16309, December) in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. A # 24 hit (pop). Personnel : Norbert Putnam (bass) ; David Briggs (piano) ; Jerry Carrigan (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Rick Hall.
(Probably) November 1961, unknown date : RAYBURN ANTHONY records his second Sun single, "How Well I Know"/"Big Dream" (Sun 373, January 19, 1962). The location is the Sam Phillips Studio in Memphis. Personnel : Carl Mann (piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Tony Austin (drums). Plus strings, arranged by Vinnie Trout. Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Scotty Moore.
November 1961, unknown date(s) : BO DIDDLEY records eight tracks this month, but only four of them will be released in the 1960s, all as album tracks. "Doin' the Jaguar" appears on the LP "Bo Diddley Is A Twister" (Checker LP 2982) in March 1962. The instrumental "Bo's Bounce" is included on an LP simply titled "Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 2984, October 1962). "Two Flies" and "Background To A Music" have to wait until 1966 for release on the album "The Originator" (Checker LP 3001). "I Want My Baby" and "Please Mr. Engineer" will see a release in September 1991, on the CD "Rare & Well Done" (Chess CHD 9331). "I Know (I'm Alright)" and "For the Love Of Mike" are first released on the 12-CD box-set "The Chess Years, 1955-1974" (Charly R&B Red Box 8) in 1993. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Johnson (guitar) ; Jesse James Johnson or Chester Lindsey (bass) ; Jerome Green (maracas / vocals on "Background To A Music") ; Billy Downing (drums) ; The Bo-ettes (vocal group on "Doin' the Jaguar"). Location is the Chess studio in Chicago.
November 1961, unknown date : LARRY DALE revives "Drinkin' Wine Spo-Dee- O-Dee", which is released in January 1962, coupled with the instrumental "Keep Getting Up" from the same session (Atlantic 2133). Three other tracks are recorded, but consigned to the vaults : "Travelin' Blues", "Things Ain't What They Used To Be" and "Looking For A Woman". Personnel : Larry Dale (vocals / guitar) ; Everett Barksdale (bass guitar) ; Bob Geddy (piano) ; Matt Gray (tenor sax) ; Willie Jones (drums). Producer unknown. Location is New York City.
November 1961, unknown date : The final Mercury session of THE DIAMONDS results in the single "The Horizontal Lieutenant"/"Vanishing American" (Mercury 71956, March 1962). Unissued from this session is "Sorry I Ran All the Way Home". Location is probably Los Angeles. Arranged by Edgar Redmond. Orchestra conducted by Rene Hall. Produced by Nat Goodman.
November 1961, unknown date : In New York City, sax player KING CURTIS records what will become his first solo hit : "Soul Twist"/"Twisting Time" (Enjoy 1000, December). A # 1 R&B hit, also # 17 pop. Credited to King Curtis and the Noble Knights. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Billy Butler (guitar) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; George Stubbs (piano) ; Ray Lucas (drums). Produced by Bobby & Danny Robinson.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, the late Roy Simonds, the late Stuart Colman and Mike Thompson.
DECEMBER 1961
December 1, 1961 : THE IKETTES record "I Do Love You", which will be released in November 1962 (Atco 6243), coupled with "I Had A Dream the Other Night", from a session on June 13, 1962. One other track is laid down, "Box Top" (unissued). The Ikettes are : Josephine Armstead, Delores Johnson and Eloise Hester. Produced by Ike Turner in New York City.
December 1, 1961 : At EMI's Abbey Road Studio, JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates record their new single, "Hurry On Back To Love"/"I Want That", backed by the Mike Sammes Singers and orchestra. Release on HMV POP 978 in January 1962.
December 3, 1961 : Saxophonist RED PRYSOCK records five tracks at the King Studio in Cincinnati, all released as singles : "Hand Clapping One More Time"/"Smokestack" (King 5595, January 1962), "Quick As A Flash"/ "Old Folks" (King 5644, June 1962) and "Can't Sit Down" (King 5704, December 1962, c/w "Here We Go Again" from a later session).
December 4, 1961 : LLOYD PRICE lays down his new single, "Be A Leader"/ "'Nother Fairy Tale" (ABC-Paramount 10288, January 1962). A third track, "Don't You Know It" remains unissued. Arranged, conducted and produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
December 4-5, 1961 : Two days of sessions by CLIFF RICHARD. On December 4 he cuts four tracks. "Let's Make A Memory", "I Wake Up Crying" and "Spanish Harlem" will appear on the LP "32 Minutes and 17 Seconds With Cliff Richard" (Columbia SX 1431, October 1962). An alternate version of "Do You Remember" will stay in the vaults until the release of the EMI CD "The Rock n Roll Years, 1958-1963" in 1997. The next day, two further songs are recorded for the "32 Minutes .." album : "How Long Is Forever" and "Falling In Love With Love". Furthermore, strings are overdubbed on "The Young Ones", Cliff's new single (Columbia DB 4761, January 5, 1962, a UK # 1). The basic track of "The Young Ones" was recorded on August 11 and the reverse, "We Say Yeah", on July 28. Produced by Norrie Paramor. See also December 19.
Tuesday, December 5, 1961 : EDDY ARNOLD records his next single, "Tears Broke Out On Me"/"I'll Do As Much For You Someday" (RCA 47-7984, January), at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. A # 7 country hit. A third track, "The Wall Came Tumbling Down", stays in the vaults until 2011, when it is included on the CD "Tears Broke Out On Me" (Bear Family BCD 17205). Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Velma Smith (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus).
December 5, 1961 : JIMMY DEAN is at Bradley Studio in
Nashville to cut the A-sides of two forthcoming singles. The recitation
"Dear Ivan" is rush-released on Columbia 42259 and reaches #
24. The reverse is "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette", recorded on
October 17, 1961. "P.T. 109" is released on March 16, 1962 (Columbia
42338) and will peak at # 8 (coupled with "Walk On Boy", from a
session on October 18). Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Harold
Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Sam Hollingsworth, Bob Moore (basses) ;
Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Rufus Long (piccolo) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ;
Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law.
December 5, 1961 : THE FOUR PREPS record the LP "Campus Encore", live at North Hollywood High School (Capitol T 1647, March 1962). Tracks : "Come To the Dance", "The Sphinx Won't Tell", "The Big Draft (Medley)", "Lonesome Town", "Suzy Cockroach", "The Next Man Told His Tale", "Lullaby", "Moon River" and Remembering". "The Big Draft"/"Suzy Cockroach" is released as single on March 5, 1962 (Capitol 4716) and reaches # 61 on the Billboard Hot 100. The Four Preps are : Glen Larson (who died on November 14, 2014), Ed Cobb, Bruce Belland and Marvin Inabnett. Orchestra directed by Lincoln Mayorga. Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
December 5, 1961 : SMILEY LEWIS is now signed to OKeh Records. His only released single for the label is "Tore Up"/"I'm Coming Down With the Blues" (OKeh 7146, February 1962). The other two tracks from this session, "To the River" and "Tomorrow Night" will first appear on the Bear Family box-set "Shame, Shame, Shame" (BCD 15745) in 1993. Personnel : Lawrence Nelson (Prince La La) (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Melvin Lastie (cornet / leader) ; Nat Perrilliat, Harold Battiste (tenor saxes) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; William Myles (trombone) ; Oscar Moore (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Sol Rabinowitz in New Orleans.
Wednesday, December 6, 1961 : SOLOMON BURKE cuts his new single, "Cry To Me"/"I Almost Lost My Mind" (Atlantic 2131, January 1962). A # 44 pop hit, also # 5 R&B. The third track from this session is "A Tear Fell", first issued as an LP track ("Solomon Burke's Greatest Hits", Atlantic LP 8067, June 1962), later released as a single (Atlantic 2369) in December 1966. Personnel : Don Arnone, Al Caiola, Bucky Pizzarelli, Everett Barksdale (guitars) ; Art Davis (bass) ; Hank Jones (piano) ; Robert Mosely (organ) ; Jesse Powell (tenor sax) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; Gary Chester (drums). Plus a 7-piece male vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Wexler in New York City.
December 6, 1961 is also the recording date of the CLAY COLE
single "Twist Around the Clock"/"Don't Twist (With Anyone Else
But Me)", two tunes from the Columbia Pictures movie "Twist Around
the Clock". Release on Imperial 5804 in the third week of December.
Backing vocals by the Capris.
December 6, 1961 : Four-track session by BUCK OWENS at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Mirror, Mirror On the Wall" becomes the B-side of his new single (Capitol 4679, January 2, 1962 ; A-side is "Nobody's Fool But Yours", recorded on May 24, 1961). "Kickin' Our Hearts Around" is issued as a 45 on August 20, 1962 (Capitol 4826, a # 8 country hit), coupled with "I Can't Stop (My Lovin' You)" from a session on April 18, 1962. "One Way Love" will be used as a track for the LP "Buck Owens On the Bandstand" (Capitol T 1879, April 1963) and "Storm Of Love" is included on the album "Together Again / My Heart Skips A Beat" (Capitol T 2135) in July 1964. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; Don Rich (fiddle / guitar) ; George French, Jr. (piano) ; Moose Stone (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
December 6, 8, 1961 : Thirteen radio transcriptions by
HANK WILLIAMS from October 1949 are overdubbed for release on the
album "Hank Williams On Stage" (MGM SE 3999) in January
1962. Titles : "Happy Rovin' Cowboy", "Wedding Bells",
"Lovesick Blues", "I'll Have A New Body", "Lost
Highway", "Old Joe Clark", "Where the Soul Of A Man Never
Dies", "I'm A Long Gone Daddy", "I'm Tellin' You",
"Bill Cheatum", "When God Comes And Gathers His Jewels",
"The Blues Come Around" and "I Won't Live and Love Always".
Overdubs supervised by Jim Vienneau.
December 7, 1961 : THE BROWNS pay another visit to the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Buttons And Bows" becomes the A-side of their next single (RCA 47-7997, March 1962, c/w "Remember Me" from a session on June 13, 1961). The subsequent single is "The Old Master Painter"/"It's Just A Little Heartache" (RCA 47-8066, July 1962). The fourth track from this session, "No Love At All" gets a place on the LP "Three Shades Of Brown" (RCA LPM 2987) in January 1965. Personnel : Jim Ed Brown, Bonnie Brown, Maxine Brown (vocals) ; John D. Loudermilk, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano / vibes) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; John Greubel (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
December 7, 1961 : RICK NELSON does an evening session at Master Recorders in Hollywood. The Jerry Fuller compositions "Congratulations" and "Poor Loser" both end up on the LP "Album Seven By Rick" (Imperial LP 9167) in March 1962. The former is also released as a single (Imperial 66017) in February 1964 and reaches # 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 (c/w "One Minute To One", recorded on June 5, 1959). Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Glen Campbell, Jerry Puckett (guitars) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Dave Burgess, Glen Campbell and Jerry Fuller (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell.
December 11, 1961 : Another Capitol session by JACK SCOTT, at Bell Sound Studio, 237 West 54th Street in New York City. The six tracks recorded are used for Jack's next three singles : "Grizzily [sic] Bear"/"Cry, Cry, Cry" (Capitol 4689, January 22, 1962), "You Only See What You Wanna See"/"The Part Where I Cry" (Capitol 4738, April 9, 1962) and "Sad Story"/"I Can't Hold Your Letters In My Arms" (Capitol 4796, July 2, 1962). Orchestra conducted by Bill Sanford. Produced by Manny Kellem.
December 12, 1961 : In Nashville, BOB LUMAN records his next two singles : "Louisiana Man"/"Rocks of Reno" (Warner Bros 5255, January 1962) and "Big River Rose"/"Belonging To You" (Warner Bros 5272, April 1962). Backing by unknown members of the Nashville A-Team and the Anita Kerr Singers. Supervised by Wesley Rose.
December 12, 1961 : This is also the recording date of the single "Pity the Fool"/"I've Got Everybody Fooled (But Me)" by JERRY REED (Columbia 42311, February 1962). One other, unknown title was recorded (unissued). Produced by Don Law at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 12-13, 1961 : HANK THOMPSON records seven tracks in two days, all released as singles. "That's the Recipe For A Heartache"/"Drop Me Gently (So My Heart Won't Break)" hits the market in January 1962 (Capitol 4694). The subsequent single is "Blue Skirt Waltz" (Capitol 4722, April 1962, c/w "Westphalia Waltz", recorded on June 22, 1955). "I Cast A Lonesome Shadow"/"How Many Teardrops Will It Take" follows in July 1962 (Capitol 4786) and "Honky Tonk Town"/"I'd Look Forward To Tomorrow (If It Wasn't For Yesterday)" in November 1962 (Capitol 4871). Personnel : Hank Thompson (vocals / guitar) ; Billy Gray (guitar / leader) ; Merle Travis (guitar) ; Bobby Garrett (steel guitar) ; Billy Stewart (bass) ; Jimmy Pruett (piano) ; Harold Hensley, Billy Jack Saucer, Billy Wright (fiddles) ; Bernard Young (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 13, 1961 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records six tracks for the LP "Drums Are My Beat" (Imperial LP 9168, February 1962) : "My Blue Heaven", "Hawaiian War Chant", "Caravan" (also released as a single, Imperial 5988, in August 1963, c/w "Sandy" from a session on January 31, 1962), "Twisted", "Drum Roll" and "Topsy". "Drum Roll" will be issued as a 45 under the title "Rompin' & Stompin'" (Imperial 5860) in July 1962, coupled with "All Night Long", also from the session on January 31, 1962. Produced by Eddie Ray in Los Angeles. See also December 26.
December 14, 18 and 21, 1961 : BEN E. KING records twelve songs for the album "Ben E. King Sings For Soulful Lovers" (Atco 33-137, June 1962) : "What A Difference A Day Made", "Because Of You", "My Heart Cries For You" (also issued as a single, Atco 6231, July 1962), "He Will Break Your Heart", "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", "At Last", "Dream Lover", "It's All in the Game", "Moon River", "My Foolish Heart", "On the Street Where You Live" and "Fever". One track is rejected, "Ya Ya". Personnel varies, but four musicians are present on all three days : Robert Mosely (piano) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Bobby Rosengarden (percussion). Arranged by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
December 16, 1961 : JOHNNY BURNETTE is at United
Recording Corporation in Hollywood to record three tracks. "Clown
Shoes" is chosen as the A-side his next single (Liberty 55416,
February 1962, c/w "The Way I Am" from a session on January 16,
1962). A # 35 hit in the UK. "Angry At the Big Oak Tree" is a
track for the LP "Roses Are Red" (Liberty LRP 3252, August
1962). "Second Chance" is first released on the CD "The
Best Of Johnny Burnette" EMI CDP 792924, UK) in 1989. Personnel :
Tommy Allsup, Barney Kessel, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass)
; Robert Florence (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus 10 strings. Arranged by
Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett. See also December 21, 26.
December 17, 1961 : PATSY CLINE records the Hank Cochran composition "She's Got You", for release on Decca 31354 on January 10, 1962. (Flip is "Strange", recorded on August 25, 1961). It will top the country charts for five weeks. Personnel : Grady Martin (electric guitar) ; Randy Hughes (acoustic guitar) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Harold Bradley (6-string electric bass) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bill Pursell (organ) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
December 18-19, 1961 : SAM COOKE records four tracks at RCA Studio 1 in Hollywood. "Twistin' the Night Away"/"One More Time" is selected as his new single (RCA 47-7983, January 1962). A # 9 hit. "Somebody's Gonna Miss Me" gets a place on the LP "Twistin' the Night Away" (RCA LPM 2555, May 1962) and "Don't Cry On My Shoulder" on the posthumous album "Try A Little Love" (RCA LPM 3435, October 1965). Personnel : Tommy Tedesco, Clifton White, Rene Hall (guitars) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Jewell Grant, Jackie Kelso, John Ewing (saxes) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Arranged by Rene Hall. Produced by Hugo & Luigi.
December 19, 1961 : In London, CLIFF RICHARD records two future B-sides. At least, "Do You Wanna Dance" was the B-side in the UK (Columbia DB 4828, May 1962, A-side "I'm Looking Out the Window") ; in many other countries it was the top deck and even a # 1 in Holland. "Since I Lost You" becomes the reverse of "It'll Be Me" (from a later session), released on August 31, 1962 (Columbia DB 4886). This was probably a split session with the Shadows, see below. Produced by Norrie Paramor.
December 19, 1961 : RUSTY AND DOUG record material for two singles. First released is "Cheated Too"/"So Lovely Baby" (new version) in February 1962 (Hickory 1163). "Cajun Joe (The Bully of the Bayou)"/"Sweet Sweet Girl To Me" follows in July 1962 (Hickory 1177). Personnel : Doug Kershaw (vocals), Rusty Kershaw (vocals) ; Chet Atkins, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Wesley Rose at RCA Victor Studio B in Nashville.
December 19, 1961 : THE SHADOWS record two instrumental tracks at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. "Stars Fell On Stockton" will be used as the B-side of the # 1 hit "Wonderful Land" (from a later session) and released on Columbia DB 4790 on February 23, 1962. "Tales Of A Raggy Tramline" is a track for the LP "Out of the Shadows" (Columbia SX 1458, October 1962). Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet Harris (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
Thursday, December 21, 1961 : In New York City, THE MARCELS lay down their next single, "My Melancholy Baby"/"Really Need Your Love" (Colpix 624, January 1962). A # 58 hit. Produced by Stu Phillips.
December 21, 26, 1961 : JOHNNY BURNETTE records seven tracks for his new album, "Johnny Burnette's Hits And Other Favorites" (Liberty LRP 3206, January 1962) : "Walk On By", "You're the Reason", "Just Out Of Reach", "The Girl Of My Best Friend", "Hello Walls", "Moody River" and "A Little Bitty Tear". All covers of recent hits. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
December 26, 1961 : SANDY NELSON records more tracks for the LP "Drums Are My Beat" (Imperial LP 9168, February 1962) : "Drums Are My Beat" (also released as a single, Imperial 5809, January 1962, a # 29 hit), "The City", "Day Drumming", "Hum Drum" and "Drum Stomp" (also issued on a 45, Imperial 5829, April 1962, a # 86 hit). Produced by Eddie Ray in Los Angeles.
December 26, 1961 : JAY AND THE AMERICANS record the single that will give them their first chart entry : “She Cried”/“Dawning” (United Artists 415, January 8, 1962). It reaches # 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
December 27, 1961 : One-track session by HANK BALLARD and the Midnighters at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Do You Know How To Twist" is released in January 1962 on King 5593 (c/w "Broadway" from a session on May 2, 1960). It will become Ballard's last entry into the Billboard pop charts, peaking at # 87. Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Lawson Smith, Henry Booth, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Billy Davis (guitar) ; Navarro Hastings (bass) ; Jimmy Johnson (piano) ; Hank Moore (tenor sax) ; Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan.
December 1961, unknown date(s) : In Chicago, JOHN LEE HOOKER records the LP "Burnin'" (Vee-Jay LP 1043), released in June 1962. Tracks : "Process", "Thelma", "What Do You Say", "Boom Boom", "Blues Before Sunrise", "Lost A Good Girl", "She's Mine (Keep Your Hands To Yourself)", "I Got A Letter", "A New Leaf", "Let's Make It" and "Drug Store Woman". Prior to the release of the album, "Boom Boom"/"Drug Store Woman" is issued as a single (Vee-Jay 438, April 1962) and reaches # 16 on the R&B charts and # 60 on the pop charts. Also released as a 45 are "A New Leaf" and "She's Mine" (Vee-Jay 453, August 1962). Personnel : John Lee Hooker (vocals / guitar) ; Larry Veeder (guitar) ; James Jamerson (bass) ; Joe Hunter (piano) ; Hank Cosby, Mike Terry (saxophones) ; Benny Benjamin (drums).
December 1961, unknown date : HOWLIN' WOLF is back at the Chess studio in Chicago. Two singles are the result of this session : "You'll Be Mine"/ "Goin' Down Slow" (Chess 1813, February 1962) and "I Ain't Superstitious"/ "Just Like I Treat You" (Chess 1823, May 1962). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals / guitar) ; Hubert Sumlin, Jimmy Rogers (guitars) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Henry Gray (piano) ; Sam Lay (drums).
December 1961, unknown date : ETTA JAMES cuts the A-side of her next 45, "Something's Got A Hold On Me" (Argo 5409, c/w "Waiting For Charlie To Come Home", recorded on July 14, 1961). A # 4 R&B hit (# 37 pop). Also released as a single is "Next Door To the Blues" (Argo 5424, c/w "Fools Rush In" from a session in June 1962). Another chart success (# 13 R&B, # 71 pop). "I Don't Want It" is eventually released on the 3-CD set "The Chess Box" in June 2000. "St. Louis Woman" and "I Got To See Mama" remain unissued. Personnel : Matt Murphy (guitar) ; Reggie Boyd (bass) ; John Young (piano) ; Al Duncan (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Riley Hampton, produced by Leonard Chess.
JANUARY 1962
January 1, 1962 : THE BEATLES do an audition for Decca in London, but they are turned down by Dick Rowe. In three hours (11:00 a.m - 2:00 p.m.) they perform fifteen songs, five of which are eventually released on the 2-CD "The Beatles Anthology, Vol. 1" (November 21, 1995) : "Like Dreamers Do", "The Sheik Of Araby", "Hello Little Girl", "Three Cool Cats", "Searchin'". Personnel : John Lennon (rhythm guitar / vocals) ; Paul McCartney (bass / vocals) ; George Harrison (lead guitar / vocals) ; Pete Best (drums). Produced by Mike Smith. More details at: http://www.beatleshock.com/2013/02/the-decca-audition-1-january-1962.html
Tuesday, January 2, 1962 :
ERNIE K-DOE records four tracks at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans :
"Pop Eye Joe"/"Come On Home" (Minit 641, late January),
"Be Sweet" (Minit 661, February 1963, c/w "Easier Said Than
Done" from a session on July 5, 1961) and "Wait For Me"
(unissued). Producer / pianist : Allen Toussaint, more details unknown.
January 3, 1962 : BRIAN HYLAND records his new 45, "Ginny Come Lately"/ "I Should Be Gettin' Better" (ABC-Paramount 10294, February). A # 21 hit (# 5 in the UK). "Remember Me" is saved until January 1963 for release on ABC-Paramount 10400 (B-side of "If Mary's There", from a session on January 3, 1963, exactly one year later). A fourth track, "Get Along", has never been issued. Arranged and conducted by Stanley Applebaum in New York City. Produced by Pogo Productions.
January 3, 1962 : The
instrumental group THE PILTDOWN MEN cuts the single "A Pretty Girl Is Like
A Melody"/"Big Lizzard" (Capitol 4703, February). Two other
titles stay in the vaults until 1998 : "Agricultural Twist" and
"Flint Stomp". In that year they are included on the CD "The
Piltdown Men Ride Again" (Ace CDCHD 681, UK). Personnel : (probably)
Tommy Tedesco (guitar) ; Bob Bain (electric bass) ; Jackie Kelso (tenor sax) ;
Unknown (second sax player) ; Lincoln Mayorga (piano / co-arranger) ;
Earl Palmer (drums). Co-arranged by Ed Cobb. Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the
Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
January 4, 1962 : GEORGE JONES begins his tenure at United Artists by recording an entire LP, "The New Favorites of George Jones" (United Artists UAL 3193, March). Tracks : "Three's A Crowd", "Poor Little Rich Boy", "Root Beer", "What Am I Worth", "She Once Lived Here", "Imitation of Love", "Open Pit Mine", "Beggar To A King", "She Thinks I Still Care", "Running Bear", "Best Guitar Picker" and "Sometimes You Just Can't Win". Picked for single release is "She Thinks I Still Care" (United Artists 424, March, c/w "Sometimes You Just Can't Win"), which will top the country charts for six weeks. "Open Pit Mine" is the subsequent single (United Artists 462, May, c/w "Geronimo", recorded on March 13, 1962) and reaches # 13 country. Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar) ; Unknown (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Pappy Daily at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 4, 1962 : Three-track session for CONNIE FRANCIS in New York City. "Don't Cry On My Shoulder" is initially only released in Europe. In the UK it becomes the B-side of "Mr. Twister" (recorded on November 20, 1961), released in February on MGM 1151. "Ain't That Better Baby" is a track for the LP "Do the Twist With Connie Francis" (MGM SE 4022, February) and is also released as a B-side in the UK (MGM 1157, April ; A-side is "Don't Break the Heart That Loves You"). "Love Bird" is first released on the 5-CD set "Kissin', Twistin', Goin' Where the Boys Are" (Bear Family BCD 15826) in 1996. Arranged by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Jim Vienneau.
January 4, 1962 : First of four 1962 sessions by JERRY LEE LEWIS. "I've Been Twistin'" becomes the A-side of his next single (Sun 374, January 19, c/w "Ramblin' Rose", recorded on September 21, 1961). "I Know What It Means" will be issued on Sun 396 on March 15, 1965 (c/w "Carry Me Back To Old Virginia" from a session on August 28, 1963), by which time Lewis was recording for Smash. "High Powered Woman" is first released (in this version) in October 1975, on the LP "16 Songs Never Released Before, Vol. 1" (Charly CR 300 006). "Whole Lotta Twistin' Goin' On" stays in the vaults until 1978, when it is included on the LP "Golden Rock 'n' Roll" (Sun LP 1000). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Roland Janes, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Robert McGhee (bass) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at the Sun Studio, 639 Madison Avenue, Memphis.
January 4, 1962 : GENE McDANIELS records material for two future singles. "Point Of No Return"/"Warmer Than A Whisper" is released in July and peaks at # 21 (Liberty 55480). "Spanish Lace"/"Somebody's Waiting" follows in October (Liberty 55510) and reaches # 31. Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recorders in Hollywood.
January 5, 1962 : Penultimate
Imperial session by FATS DOMINO. "My Real Name" is released on
Imperial 5833 in May (c/w "My Heart Is Bleeding" from a session on
November 4, 1958). A # 59 hit. The other three tracks will be released on
the LP "Just Domino" (Imperial LP 9208) in September : "Stop
the Clock" (also a September single, Imperial 5875), "Teenage
Love" and a new version of "Goin' Home", which is also issued as
a single, first on Imperial 5999 (August 1963), then on Imperial 66005
(December 1963), over- dubbed with a female chorus. Personnel : Fats Domino
(vocals / piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Herb Hardesty
(tenor sax) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave Bartholomew (trumpet /
producer) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Location is, as usual, Cosimo's Studio in
New Orleans.
January 6-8, 1962 : Over three days, HANK BALLARD records twelve songs that will be assembled on the album "The Jumpin' Hank Ballard and the Midnighters" (King LP 973, February 1, 1963). Nine of the twelve tracks are also issued as singles, often prior to the release of the LP. Titles: "I'm Learning" (King 5821, November 1963), "Dream World" (King 5677, August), "It's Twistin' Time" (King 5601, February), "What's Your Name" (King 5931, August 1964), "I Want To Thank You" (King 5655, June), "Good Twistin' Tonight" (King 5635, April), "Get Ready", "Your Lovin'", "After School", "She's the One" (King 5703, November), "Autumn Breeze" (King 5601, February) and "Excuse Me (I Think I've Got A Heartache)" (King 5655, June). Personnel : Hank Ballard (lead vocals) ; Henry Booth, Lawson Smith, Norman Thrasher (background vocals) ; Dave Hamilton. Fred Jordan (guitars) ; Navarro Hastings (electric bass) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) ; Unknown (organ) ; Elmer Yates (tenor sax) ; Unknown (second tenor sax) ; Gene Redd (trumpet / vibraphone) ; Philip Paul (drums). Produced by Syd Nathan at the King Studio in Cincinnati.
January 8, 1962 : BILLY FURY records four tracks at West Hampstead's Decca Studio for his first movie, "Play It Cool". Titles : "Play It Cool", "You're Swell", "Let's Paint the Town" and "The Twist Kid". They will be released on an EP titled "Play It Cool" (Decca DFE 6708) on May 25. Backing by the Tornados. Arranged by Ivor Raymonde. Produced by Mike Smith.
January 8, 1962 : SONNY JAMES records the A-side of his final RCA single, "The Day's Not Over Yet" (RCA 47-7998, March, c/w "The Brown Mountain Light", recorded on January 23). Two other tracks, "No Lana" and "Time's Running Backwards For Me" will be included on the album "Young Love And Other Songs Of Love" (Camden CAL 2140) in January 1967. Personnel : Sonny James (vocals / guitar / leader) ; Grady Martin (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Morris Palmer (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
January 9, 1962 : JOHN D.
LOUDERMILK is at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio to record four songs. "Thou
Shalt Not Steal" is chosen for single release (RCA 47-7993, February, c/w
"Mr. Jones", recorded on July 6, 1961). The other three tracks will
be included on the LP "Twelve Sides Of Loudermilk" (RCA LPM
2539, August) : "Google Eye", "All Of This For Sally" and
"Every- body Knows (Everyone But You)". Personnel : John D.
Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki, Junior Huskey (bass) ; Norro
Wilson (piano / harpsichord) ; Buddy Harman, James Isbell (drums) ;
Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
January 9, 1962 : CHRIS KENNER is at Cosimo’s Recording Studio in New Orleans, where he records four tracks. “Time” is issued in February on Instant 3244 (c/w “How Far”, from a session on September 12, 1961). “Anybody Here Seen My Baby”/“She Can Dance” is saved until April 1964 for release on Instant 3264. Unissued from this session is “Friend In Need”. Personnel : Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Nat Perilliat and others (saxes) ; John Boudreaux (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group).
January 9-10, 1962 : Two-day session for ROY ORBISON at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. On the 9th Roy records "Dream Baby", which is selected as the A-side of his new single (Monument 456, February) and will reach # 4 on the Billboard charts. Also laid down on this day are "Evergreen" and "Love Star", two tracks for the LP "Roy Orbison's Greatest Hits" (Monument MLP 4009, July), and "Party Heart", which stays in the can until 1989 (album "The Rare Orbison, Vol. 2", Monument AK 45404). The next day yields three tracks : "The Actress" (B-side of "Dream Baby"), "No One Will Ever Know" (released on the LP "In Dreams", Monument MLP 8003, July 1963) and a first attempt at "The Crowd" (unissued / lost). Personnel : Fred Carter Jr., Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; John Greubel, Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a string section and a female vocal chorus. Produced by Bob Moore. Executive producer : Fred Foster.
Thursday, January 11, 1962 : JOHN BARRY and his orchestra are at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. Four tracks are recorded, "Blueberry Hill" (2nd version), "Cherry Pink & Apple Blossom White", "I'll Be With You in Apple Blossom Time" and "Volare", all of which are first released in 1995 on the EMI CD "John Barry : The EMI Years, Vol. 3 : 1962-1964". Arranged by John Barry, produced by John Burgess.
January 16, 1962 : JOHNNY
BURNETTE records seven tracks at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
Three of them are released as singles : "The Way I Am" (Liberty
55416, February, B-side of "Clown Shoes", recorded on 16th December
1961), "The Poorest Boy In Town" (Liberty 55448, April, c/w "The
Fool Of the Year", from a session on March 26, 1962) and "Lonesome
Waters" (Liberty 55489, August, c/w "Damn the Defiant", also
from the March 26 date). These three will also appear on the album
"Roses Are Red" (Liberty LRP 3255, August), along with "When
Today Is A Long Time Ago" and "Roses Are Red" from this same
January session. "Let Me Be With You" and "Standing On the
Outside Of Her Door" are first issued in 1989, on the CD "The Best Of
Johnny Burnette" (EMI CDP 792924, UK). Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced
by Snuff Garrett.
January 16, 1962 : GEORGE HAMILTON IV re-records "If You Don't Know I Ain't Gonna Tell You" (previously recorded in 1956 for Colonial / ABC-Paramount), which is coupled with "(I Want To Go) Where Nobody Knows Me" (also from this session) for release on RCA 47-8062 in July. A # 6 country hit. This release is preceded by the single "China Doll" (recorded on January 4) / "Commerce Street and Sixth Avenue North" (RCA 47-8001, March). "The Roving Gambler" will get a place on the LP "Abilene" (RCA LPM 2778) in August 1963. The fifth track from this session, a first attempt at "Oh So Many Years", will eventually be issued on the 6-CD box-set "From You and Yours To Me and Mine" (Bear Family BCD 15773) in 1995. Personnel : Billy Byrd, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; James Isbell (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
January 16, 1962 : BEN E. KING records "Too Bad", which is issued as a 45 in July (Atco 6231). A # 88 pop hit. (Flip is "My Heart Cries For You", from a session on December 14, 1961). One other song is laid down, "Down Home", which gets a place on the album "Seven Letters" (Atco 33-174) in January 1965. Personnel : Charles Macey, Danny Perri (guitars) ; Wendell Marshall (bass) ; King Curtis, Seldon Powell (saxes) ; Jimmy Buffington (French horn) ; Robert Mosely (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Willie Rodriguez (percussion). Plus a 6-piece mixed vocal group and 9 strings. Arranged by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. See also January 23.
January 17, 1962 : CHARLIE RICH is back at the new Sun studio in Memphis, after an absence of eleven months. "Midnite Blues" is released as a 45 (Phillips International 3576, April, c/w "Easy Money", laid down on March 20, 1962). "Time and Again" gets its first release on Sun LP 134 ("Sun's Golden Treasures") in 1974. The instrumental "That's Rich" will come out in the same year (1974), on the album "Charlie Rich : Early Years" (Sun LP 132). Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Scotty Moore, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Robert McGhee (bass) ; Floyd Newman (tenor sax) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Cecil Scaife.
January 17-18, 1962 : BOBBY VEE records seven tracks, four of which will appear on the LP "A Bobby Vee Recording Session" (Liberty LRP 3232, July) : "My Golden Chance", "Teardrops Fall Like Rain", "Please Don't Ask About Barbara" and "I Can't Say Goodbye". Prior to the release of the LP, the latter two songs are coupled for single release (Liberty 55419, February). Both sides will chart, with "Please Don't Ask ..." peaking at # 15 and "I Can't Say Goodbye" at # 92. "You Won't Forget Me" will be included on the album "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Liberty LRP 3285, April 1963). "Just One More Time" is eventually released on the 2-CD "Rarities" in 2011 (EMI UK). A first attempt at "A Forever Kind Of Love" is unissued / lost. Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recorders in Hollywood.
January 18, 1962 : RICK NELSON
records "Young World" at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
It will become the A-side of his new single (Imperial 5805, February, c/w
"Summertime" from a session on November 6, 1961). A # 5 hit. Personnel
: Rick Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Glen Campbell
(guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Jim Pierce (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Dave
Burgess, Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller (vocal chorus). Produced by Jimmie
Haskell.
January 18, 1962 : THE SHADOWS' original recording of "Wonderful Land" (from May 12, 1961) is overdubbed with strings and brass for the final take 19. Release on Columbia DB 4790 on February 23 (c/w "Stars Fell On Stockton" from a session on December 19, 1961). It will top the UK charts for eight weeks. USA release on Atlantic 2146 in April. Produced by Norrie Paramor in London, England. See also January 26.
Monday, January 22, 1962 : JO-ANN CAMPBELL records an answer song to "Hit the Road Jack", called "I Changed My Mind, Jack" (ABC-Paramount 10300, February, c/w "You Made Me Love You" from the same session). "Amateur Night" will be issued on ABC-Paramount 10335 in June (c/w "I Wish It Would Rain All Summer", recorded on April 30, 1962). A fourth track, "Applause To You", remains in the vaults until 2014, when it is included on the CD "Boogie Woogie Country Girl", in Bear Family's Juke Box Pearls series (BCD 17320). Arranged and produced by Sid Feller in New York City.
January 22-23, 1962 : JOHNNY
TILLOTSON records the A-side of his next single, "It Keeps Right On
A-Hurtin'" (Cadence 1418, April, c/w "She Gave Sweet Love To Me"
from a session on August 9, 1960). A # 3 pop hit, also # 4 country. Six other
titles are laid down during this two-day session, all for the album "It
Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'" (Cadence CLP 3058, June) : "Lonely
Street", "I Fall To Pieces", "Take Good Care Of Her",
"Four Walls", "Fool # 1" and "Hello Walls". Ray
Edenton plays guitar, more details unknown. Produced by Archie Bleyer at the
RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
January 23, 1962 : The second January session by BEN E. KING results in three tracks, all released as singles and coupled with tracks from a later session (March 3, 1962) : "The Hermit Of Misty Mountain" (Atco 6222, April, B-side of the hit "Don't Play That Song), "Walking in the Footsteps Of A Fool" (Atco 6237, September, c/w "I'm Standing By"), and "Tell Daddy" (Atco 6246, December, c/w "Auf Wiedersehen, My Dear"). "Tell Daddy" will reach # 29 on the R&B charts. Personnel : Al Caiola, Billy Mure (guitars) ; Wendel Marshall (bass) ; Pat Bown, Carole King (piano) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Bobby Rosengarden, Sol Gubin (percussion). Plus a 6-piece mixed vocal group and 10 strings. Arranged by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
January 23, 1962 : LLOYD PRICE
cuts an instrumental single, "Popeye's Irresistible
You"/"Twistin' the Blues" (ABC-Paramount 10299, February).
Credited to "Lloyd Price and his great orchestra". Location is New
York City.
January 24, 1962 : RAY STEVENS records his first big hit, "Ahab the Arab"/"It's Been So Long" (Mercury 71966, May). Peak position : # 5. "I've Loved and Lost" is used as the B-side of "Santa Claus Is Watching You" (recorded in October, Mercury 72058) in November. The fourth track from this date, "All Around the World", remains unissued. Backing vocals by the Merry Melody Singers. Arranged by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
January 26, 1962 : CLAUDE KING records two tracks at Bradley Studio in Nashville. "Wolverton Mountain" will become the biggest hit of King's career : nine weeks at # 1 country, also # 6 pop. It is released in March (Columbia 42352), c/w "Little Bitty Heart", recorded on the previous day. "I Backed Out" will appear on Columbia 42688 in January 1963 as the flip of the # 12 country hit "Sheepskin Valley" (recorded on June 25, 1962). Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Gerald Tomlinson (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus), possibly the Anita Kerr Singers. Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
January 26, 1962 : THE SHADOWS
record two tracks for their second album, "Out Of the Shadows"
(Columbia SX 1458, October) : "The Bandit" (with a lead vocal by Hank
Marvin) and the instrumental "Spring Is Nearly Here"
(overdubbed with strings on June 18). The Shadows are : Hank Marvin (lead
guitar), Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar), Jet Harris (bass), Brian Bennett (drums).
Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
January 27-28, 1962 : DEE DEE SHARP records her first single, “Mashed Potato Time”/“Set My Heart At Ease” (Cameo 212, February). It will top the R&B charts (for four weeks) and peaks at # 2 on the pop charts. Buddy Savitt plays the sax ; background vocals by the Orlons. More personnel details unknown. Arranged by Dave Appell. Produced by Kal Mann and Dave Appell at the Cameo-Parkway Studio in Philadelphia.
January 29, 1962 : EDDIE BOND
records a gospel LP for Sun at Echo Studio in Memphis. Titled "Eddie Bond
Sings Greatest Country Gospel Hits", the album is released on Philips
International PILP 1980 in April. Titles : "Hallelujah Way", "I
Saw the Light", "If We Never Meet Again", "Just A Closer
Walk With Thee", "Letter To God", "Most Of All I Want To
See Jesus", "Precious Memories", "Satisfied",
"When They Ring Those Golden Bells For Me", "Where Could I Go
But To the Lord", "Will I Be Lost Or Will I Be Saved" and
"Pass Me Not, Oh Gentle Savior", Personnel : Eddie Bond (vocals /
guitar) ; John Hughey (steel guitar) ; Tomstone Hawkins (bass) ; Jimmy Smith
(piano) ; Gilbert Mickle (fiddle) ; Morris Tarrant (drums). Produced by Len
Rossie and Eddie Bond.
January 29, 1962 : Four-track session by THE DEL VIKINGS in New York City. "The Big Silence" is the A-side of their next single (ABC-Paramount 10304, February, c/w "One More River To Cross", recorded on July 19, 1961). The subsequent 45 is "Confession of Love"/"Kilimanjaro" (ABC-Paramount 10341, June). Unissued from this session is "Tiny Little Ants". Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle.
January 31, 1962 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records five tracks in Hollywood. Four of them will appear on the LP "Drummin' Up A Storm" (Imperial LP 9189, July) : "All Night Long" (also a single, Imperial 5860, July), "I'm In Love Again", "Castle Rock" (issued as a single in July 1964, Imperial 66034) and "Sandy" (also used as the B-side of "Caravan", Imperial 5988, August 1963). The fifth track is "Just Bull", a single released in June 1963 (Imperial 5965, c/w "Here Wo Go Again" from a session on March 15, 1962). Produced by Eddie Ray.
Late January 1962 : NARVEL FELTS records two titles for the small Starline label out of Flint, Michigan. "I Swear By Stars Above"/"Little Miss Blue" is issued on Starline 1002 in September. Produced by Bob Cloud.
January 1962, unknown date : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS does a session for the Enrica label in New York City. "I Hear Voices"/"Just Don't Care" is issued on Enrica 1010 in February. Hawkins plays organ on the A-side, piano on the B-side (beside the vocals). Label credit goes to Screamin' Jay Hawkins and the Chicken Hawks with Teddy McRae's orchestra. Two tracks from the session remain unissued : "Wake Up And Live" and "Armpit No. 6". (Other versions of "Armpit # 6" were released on Red Top in 1958 and on UK Polydor in 1980.)
January 1962, unknown date : The instrumental group THE MAR-KEYS records the single "Pop-Eye Stroll"/"Po-Dunk", for release in March on Stax 121. It will spend one week on the Billboard pop charts, at # 94. Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Donald 'Duck' Dunn (bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Packy Axton (tenor sax) ; Don Nix (baritone sax) ; Wayne Jackson (trumpet) ; Marvel Thomas (piano) ; Terry Johnson (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart in Memphis, Tennessee.
January 1962, unknown date(s)
: MEL ROBBINS (a.k.a. Hargus 'Pig' Robbins) records the instrumental LP
"Hully Gully To the Hits" at Bradley Studio in Nashville (Smash
MGS 27012, May). Tracks : "Hey Baby", "(Baby) Hully Gully",
"Blueberry Hill", "Searchin'", "Lucille",
"Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu", "Splish
Splash", "I Know", "Mother-In-Law", "White Silver
Sands", "Young Blood" and "Stand By Me".
With thanks to Tapio Väisänen, Peter Stoller, Tony Watson and Henk Gorter.
Dik
FEBRUARY 1962
January 31 / February 1, 1962 : Over two days, saxophonist ACE CANNON records eleven tracks for the instrumental album "Tuff Sax" (Hi HL 12007, March) : "Trouble In Mind", "St. Louis Blues", "Wabash Blues", "Basin Street Blues", "Cannonball", "Blues In My Heart", "The Lonesome Road", "Blues Stay Away From Me", "Careless Love", "Kansas City" and "I Got A Woman". (The twelfth track is the hit "Tuff", recorded in the autumn of1961.) Selected for single release is "Blues Stay Away From Me"/"Blues In My Heart" (Hi 2051, March). A # 36 hit. Personnel : Ace Cannon (sax) ; Carl Simmons (guitar) ; Jesse Carter (bass); Charles Eldred (organ / piano) ; Kenneth Earwood (drums). Produced by Carl McVoy at Royal Recording Studio in Memphis.
February 1, 1962 : After a stint with Warwick Records, SHIRLEY AND LEE are now signed to Imperial. They record material for two singles on this day : "The Joker"/"Together We Stand (Divided We Fall)" (Imperial 5818,March) and "My Last Letter"/"I'm Old Enough" (Imperial 5854, June). Produced by Dave Bartholomew at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
February 1, 1962 : Another Imperial session on this day, by ERNIE FREEMAN and his combo, takes place in Hollywood. The old Spiders hit "I Didn't Want To Do It" is coupled with "What Am I Living For" (recorded on 19 January, 1962) for release later in February. Three other songs will be included on the LP "The Stripper" (Imperial LP 9193, May) : "My Babe","Travelin' Mood" and "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts of Town". Unissued from this session is "Pledging My Love".
Friday, February 2, 1962 : In New York City, RONNIE HAWKINS records "Mojo Man" and "Arkansas". Both tracks will be released on the LP "The Best Of Ronnie Hawkins" (Roulette R 25255) in 1964. Personnel : Robbie Robertson (guitar) ; Rick Danko (bass) ; Mort Shuman (piano) ; Garth Hudson (organ) ; Jerry Penfound (sax) ; Sonny Terry (harmonica) ; Levon Helm (drums). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
February 3, 1962 : JOHNNY AND
DORSEY BURNETTE record three instrumentals in Hollywood. "Green
Hills"/"Lonely Island" is released on May 16 (Liberty 55460),
credited to THE SHAMROCKS. The third track, "Island Girl" is first
issued on Johnny's 9-CD Bear Family box-set (BCD 16438) in 2003. Personnel :
Johnny Burnette, Dorsey Burnette (acoustic guitars / background vocals) ; Al
Vescovo (steel guitar) ; Unknown (electric lead guitar on "Island
Girl") ; Joe Osborn (bass).
February 5, 7, 1962 : RAY CHARLES starts work on the future # 1 album "Modern Sounds In Country and Western Music" (ABC-Paramount 410, April). On this day he records "Bye Bye Love", "Careless Love", "Half As Much" and "Hey Good Looking". Four more tracks are laid down on February 7 : "Who Cares (For Me)", "Just A Little Lovin'", "Move It On Over" and "It Makes No Difference Now". "Who Cares" and "Move It On Over" will be saved until October for release on the LP "Modern Sounds In Country and Western Music, Vol. 2" (ABC-Paramount 435). Backing by 17 musicians. Arranged and conducted by Gerald Wilson. Produced by Sid Feller at Capitol Studios in New York. See also February 9 and 15.
February 6, 1962 : WYNN STEWART does a five-song session at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. “I Don’t Feel At Home”/“I Done Done It” is selected as his new single (Challenge 9142, March 15). “Donna On My Mind” will be used as the B-side of “Another Day, Another Dollar” (recorded two days later), which is released on Challenge 9164 in August. “Falling For You” is first released on the LP “Webb Pierce / Wynn Stewart” (Design DLP 6104) later in 1962. “Judy” is held in the can until 1988, when it is included on a Bear Family double-LP (BFD 15261). Personnel : Roy Nichols (guitar) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; Robert Pierce (piano) ; Helen Price (drums). Produced by Joe Johnson.
February 7, 1962 : During a tour of the UK, BOBBY VEE does a session in London, at EMI's Abbey Road studio. "At A Time Like This" is a song for the Billy Fury film "Play It Cool" and will be used as the UK B-side of "Sharing You" (to be recorded on March 27) on Liberty LIB 55451 (May). A new version of "A Forever Kind Of Love" is only released in the UK and Australia, as a single. The UK release is on Liberty LIB 10046 in September (coupled with "Remember Me Huh" from a session on June 9, 1961) and reaches # 13 on the UK charts. A third song, "Don't Ever Take Her For Granted", is first released in 1973 on a United Artists double-LP (LA025-G2) in the Legendary Masters series. Backing vocals by the Mike Sammes Singers. Arranged by Norrie Paramor. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
February 7-9, 1962 : SLIM
WHITMAN spends three days at Columbia Studio in Nashville, recording the LP
"Slim Whitman Sings" (Imperial LP 9194, June). Tracks, in the order
in which they were committed to tape : "Just Out Of Reach",
"Valley Of Tears" (also released as a single, Imperial 5821,March),
"The Wayward Wind" (also Imperial 5900, December) , "We Live In
Two Different Worlds", "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever
Know" (also Imperial 5859, June), "I'm Walking Behind You",
"There's A Goldmine In the Sky", "Send Me the Pillow That
You Dream On", "Anytime", "You You You", "Love
Letters In the Sand" (also Imperial 5919, February 1963) and "Tammy".
Personnel : Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass on
February 7 and 9) ; Bob Moore (bass on February 8) ; Floyd Cramer(piano) ;
Buddy Harman (drums).
February 8-9, 1962 : THE VELVETS record four tracks at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. “The Love Express”/“Don’t Let Him Take My Baby” is released in March on Monument 458. A revival of “Let the Good Times Roll” will be paired with “The Lights Go On, the Lights Go Off” (recorded in May 1962) in June (Monument 464). “Bird Dog” stays in the vaults until 1996, when it is included on the CD “The Complete Velvets” (Ace CDCHD 625, UK). Lead vocals by Virgil Johnson. The other members are Clarence Rigsby, Robert Thursby, William Solomon and Mark Prince. Personnel includes Bob Moore (bass) and Boots Randolph (sax). More details unknown. Produced by Fred Foster.
February 9, 1962 : In between
the sessions for the "Modern Sounds ..” album, RAY CHARLES cuts his
new single, "Hide 'Nor Hair"/"At the Club” (ABC-Paramount
10314, March). Both sides will chart, peaking at # 20 and # 44 pop and # 7
R&B (both sides). Backing by Marty Paich and his orchestra. Produced by Sid
Feller at United Recorders in Hollywood. See also February 5, 7, and 15.
February 9, 1962 : DON GIBSON does another session for RCA Victor, at their Nashville studio. "I Can Mend Your Broken Heart"/"I Let Her Get Lonely" is chosen as the new single (RCA 47-8017, March). A # 5 country hit. "That's How It Goes" is first released on a Bear Family LP (BFX 15193) in 1986 and "For A Little While" on the Bear Family 4-CD set "Don Gibson, The Singer, The Songwriter, 1961-1966" (BCD 15664) in 1993. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jerry Reed, Sam Pruett (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Norro Wilson (harpsichord) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 9, 1962 : TERRY NOLAND records a single for the ABC-Paramount subsidiary Apt. "Long Gone Baby"/"There Goes A Girl" will be released on August 4 (Apt 25065). Location is New York City.
February 9, 1962 : NEIL SEDAKA records the A-sides of his next two singles at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City. "King of Clowns" is coupled with "Walk With Me" (recorded on February 8, 1960) for release on RCA 47-8007 in March. A # 45 hit. Far more successful is "Breakin' Up Is Hard To Do"(RCA 47-8046, June), which will become Neil's first number one. The flip is "As Long As I Live", previously released on Neil's first LP, from a session on January 15, 1959. The third track from this session, "All the Words in the World" is first issued in 1977, on the LP "Sedaka : The 50s & 60s". Personnel : Al Casamenti, Charles Macey, Arthur Ryerson (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Artie Kaplan (sax) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Gary Chester(drums) ; The Cookies (vocal chorus) ; The Malcolm Dodds Singers (additional vocal chorus on two tracks). Plus three percussionists, two cellos and five violins. Arranged by Alan Lorber. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner.
February 10-12, 1962 : During a three-day session at Columbia Studio A in Nashville, JOHNNY CASH records ten songs for the LP "The Sound Of Johnny Cash" (Columbia CL 1802, August). "Delia's Gone", "Lost on the Desert", "I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know About Her" and "Sing It Pretty Sue" are recorded on the 10th, "Accidentally On Purpose" and "You Remembered Me" on the 11th and "In the Jailhouse Now", "Let Me Down Easy", "In Them Old Cotton Fields Back Home" and "You Won't Have Far To Go" on the 12th. One song is selected for single release, "In the Jailhouse Now" (Columbia 42425, May 4, c/w "A Little At A Time" from a session on March 19, 1962). A # 8 country hit. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Johnny Western(guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; The Glaser Brothers (background vocals on February 10) ; The Jordanaires (backing vocals on February 11-12.Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
February 12, 1962 : At London's EMI Abbey Road Studio, The JOHN BARRY Seven and Orchestra record "Lost Patrol", for release on Columbia DB 4806 on March 23. The other side, "Cutty Sark", is laid down on February 20 and reaches # 35 on the UK charts. On February 26, Barry records "Theme From Roman Spring Of Mrs. Stone" and "Tears", which will be released in March on Columbia DB 4800, credited to Michael Angelo and his Orchestra. Arranged by John Barry, produced by John Burgess.
February 12, 13, 15, 1962 : PATSY CLINE records ten tracks for the LP" Sentimentally Yours" (Decca DL 4282, August). With the exception of "You Belong To Me", all tracks will also be released as singles : "Heartaches"(Decca 31429) in August 1962, "Your Cheatin' Heart"/"I Can't Help It" (Decca 31754) in February 1965, "Half As Much" (25694) in March 1966, "Lonely Street"/"You Were Only Fooling" (25699) in July 1966, "That's My Desire" (25707) in December 1966, "You Made Me Love You" (25738) in August 1968 and "Anytime" (25744) in November 1968. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Randy Hughes (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Bill Pursell (organ) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica on February 13) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Plus a string section. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 13, 1962 : EDDIE BOND records no less than 15 tracks at Echo Studio in Memphis, intended for the Sun label, but none of them was originally released. In 1993 they were all included on the 2-CD "Rockin' Daddy" (Bear Family BCD 15708) ; two numbers were previously released in the 1970s on Charly LP's (UK), and eight on SUNBOX 109 in 1987.Titles : "Double Duty Lovin'" (new version), "Back Street Affair", "Rockin' Daddy" (new version), "The Day I Found You", "Back Home In Indiana", "I'd Just Be Fool Enough", "I Can't Quit", "My Bucket's Got A Hole In It", "They'll Never Take Her Love From Me", "One More Memory", "Our Secret Rendezvous", "Standing In Your Window", "You Nearly Lose Your Mind", "Your Eyes" and "Big Boss Man". Some tracks were possibly recorded (in part or in whole) on January 29, 1962. Personnel : Eddie Bond (vocals / guitar) ; John Hughey (steel guitar) ; Tombstone Hawkins (bass) ; Jimmy Smith (piano / organ) ; Gilbert Mickle (fiddle / sax) ; Morris Tarrant (drums).Produced by Stan Kesler and Eddie Bond.
February 13, 1962 : The new single by THE CHAMPS is (again) recorded by studio musicians, not by the road group. "La Cucaracha"/"Experiment in Terror" is released on Challenge 9140 in March. Also laid down are the first four tracks for the 10-track LP "The Champs Play Joshua Logan's All American" (Challenge CHL 614, late March) : "Night Life", "Once Upon A Time", "Our Kids Twist" and "What A Country" (twice on the album, as the first and last track, and also released as a single, Challenge 9143, April).The vocals on "Once Upon A Time" and "What A Country" (by unknown singers)are overdubbed later. Personnel : Glen Campbell, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Bill Pitman (bass) ; Plas Johnson, Jackie Kelso (saxes) ; Richie Frost (drums).Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Dave Burgess at United Recorders in Hollywood. See also February 16.
February 13, 1962 : JESSIE HILL records four tracks at Cosimo’s Recording Studio in New Orleans. “Can’t Get Enough (Of That Ooh Poo Pah Doo)”/“The Pot’s On A Strike” is chosen as his next single (Minit 646, April). The other two songs stay in the can for more than two decades. “Popcorn Pop Pop” is first issued on Bandy LP 70016 in 1984 and “Candy” on the album “Y’All Ready Now?” (Charly CRB 1169, UK) in 1987. Produced by Allen Toussaint, who also plays piano.
February 14, 1962 and two
later unknown dates in February : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records the LP "I
Remember Hank Williams" (RCA LPM 2544, August). Four tracks are laid down
on the 14th : "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry", "I Can't Help
It", "Lovesick Blues" (first released as a 45, RCA 47-8013,
March, a # 87 hit) and "Half As Much" (not on the LP, but included on
the album "Night Train", Camden CAS 2152, in 1967). The other tracks
are : "Your Cheatin' Heart", "Cold Cold Heart",
"Alone And Forsaken", "Why Don't You Love Me", "A
House Of Gold", "I Saw the Light", "Hey Good
Lookin'", "Kaw-Liga" and "Jambalaya". Arranged by
Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
Wednesday, February 14, 1962 : WANDA JACKSON waxes her next two singles at Bradley Studio in Nashville : "If I Cried Every Time You Hurt Me"/"Let My Love Walk In" (Capitol 4723, March, a # 28 country hit) and "Between the Window and the Phone"/"I Misunderstood" (Capitol 4785, July). Personnel : Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; more details unknown. Strings and chorus arranged by Bill McElhiney. Produced by Ken Nelson.
February 15, 1962 : RAY CHARLES records the final six tracks for the LP" Modern Sounds In Country and Western" (see also February 5, 7) : "I Love You So Much It Hurts", "You Don't Know Me", "I Can't Stop Loving You", "Born To Lose", "Worried Mind" and "You Win Again". Selected for single release are "I Can't Stop Loving You"/"Born To Lose" (ABC-Paramount 10330, April, # 1) and "You Don't Know Me"/"Careless Love" (ABC-Paramount 10345, July, # 2). Orchestra and chorus conducted by Marty Paich. Produced by Sid Feller at United Recorders in Hollywood.
February 15, 1962 : SAM COOKE records at Hollywood's RCA Victor Studio. "Sugar Dumpling" will be released posthumously in July 1965 (RCA 47-8631, c/w "Bridge Of Tears" from an unknown session). A # 32 pop hit (# 18 R&B). "Somebody Have Mercy" will be used as the B-side of "Nothing Can Change This Love" in September (RCA 47-8088) and reaches # 3 R&B (# 70 pop) on its own strength. An early version of "Nothing Can Change This Love" is also attempted at this session (originally unissued, later included on the 4 CD-set "The Man Who Invented Soul"), but the released single version dates from August 23, 1962.Arranged by Rene Hall. Produced by Hugo and Luigi.
February 15, 1962 : Sax player KING CURTIS records the album "Doing the Dixie Twist" (Prestige Tru-Sound 15009, April). Tracks : "Sweet Georgia Brown", "Alexander's Ragtime Band", "In A Shanty In Old Shanty Town", "St. Louis Blues", "Royal Garden Blues", "When the Saints Go Marching In", "Basin Street Blues", "Muskrat Ramble", "Up A Lazy River" and "St. James Infirmary". Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Britt Woodman (trombone) ; Billy Butler, Carl Lynch (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Ray Lucas (drums). Produced by Esmond Edwards in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.
February 15, 1962 : THOMAS WAYNE records the single "I've Got It Made"/"The Quiet Look" (Phillips International 3577, April 27). One other song is laid down, a remake of his big hit "Tragedy", which stays in the can until 1987 (Various artists box-set "Sun Records Into the 60s", SUNBOX 109). Personnel : Scotty Moore, Brad Suggs (guitars) ; Robert McGhee (bass) ;Larry Muhoberac (piano) ; Al Jackson (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Scotty Moore and / or Billy Sherrill at the Sam Phillips Recording Studio in Memphis.
February 16, 1962 : THE CHAMPS record the remaining five tracks for the album "The Champs Play Joshua Logan's All American" (see also February13) : "All American Twist", "The Real Me", "Physical Fitness", "We Speak the Same Language" and "I've Just Seen Her" (also released as the B-side of "What A Country", Challenge 9143, April). The last two tracks are vocal numbers (vocals overdubbed later). Personnel details are probably the same as for February 13, with the addition of an organ, possibly played by Jimmie Haskell.
February 17, 1962 : MARTY ROBBINS records an LP of pop and jazz standards, "Marty After Midnight" (Columbia CL 1801, May 14). Tracks : "I'm in the Mood For Love", "Misty", "Looking Back", "Don't Throw Me Away", "Pennies From Heaven", "Summertime", "It Had To Be You", "I'm Having A Ball", "If I Could Cry", "All the Way" and "On the Sunny Side Of the Street". The twelfth track, "September in the Rain", will be laid down on March 8 (possibly along with some of the other tracks mentioned above). Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin (lead guitar) ; Jack Pruett (guitar) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
February 17-20, 1962 : French rock n roll star JOHNNY HALLYDAY has his first US session, at Bradley Studio in Nashville. A 12-track LP is recorded, "Johnny Hallyday Sings America's Rockin' Hits" (Philips PHM 200-019, April), as well as the single "Shake the Hand Of A Fool"/"Hold Back the Sun"(Philips 40014, March). Two tracks from the album are also released as a single, "Be Bop A Lula" and "I Got A Woman" (Philips 40024, May). Three tracks ("Hound Dog", "Garden Of Love", "Tender Years") were originally unissued, but emerged later on various European LP's. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph, Bill Justis (saxes) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Merry Melody Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
Monday, February 19, 1962 :
Four-track session by FRANKIE FORD in New Orleans. "They Said It
Couldn't Be Done" (with its prediction that there will soon land a
man on the moon) is coupled with "A Man Only Does (What A Woman Makes
Him Do)" for release on Imperial 5819 in March. The other two songs,
"Dedicated To Fats" and "One Hour" are first released on
the CD "Cruisin' With Frankie Ford" (Ace CDCHD 696, UK) in 1998.
Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
February 19, 1962 : Brother and sister team NINO TEMPO & APRIL STEVENS do their first session for Atco Records. "Sweet And Lovely"/"True Love (Means More Than Anything)" is chosen as their first 45 for the label (Atco 6224, April, a # 77 hit). "I've Been Carrying A Torch For You For So Long That I Burned A Great Big Hole In My Heart" is saved until August 1963, for release on Atco 6273 as the B-side of the # 1 hit "Deep Purple" (recorded on October 8, 1962). "Shine On Harvest Moon" will be used as a track for the "Deep Purple" album (Atco 33-156, October 1963). A first attempt at "One Dozen Roses" remains unissued. Personnel : Glen Campbell (lead guitar) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; The Blossoms (background vocals). More details unknown. Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun in Los Angeles.
February 19, 21, 23 and 28, 1962 : A busy period for DUANE EDDY (now contracted to RCA), who records his first LP for the label during this month ("Twistin' And Twangin'", RCA LPM 2525, April). "Sugartime Twist" and "Walkin' And Twistin'" are recorded on the 19th, "Country Twist" and "Twistin' And Twangin'" on the 21st, "The Twist", "Let's Twist Again", "Peppermint Twist" and "Miss Twist" on the 23rd, and "Dear Lady Twist", "Exactly Like You" and "Moanin' And Twistin'" on the 28th. (12th track next month.) Sessions on February 15 and 26 did not produce anything that could be released. Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Barney Kessel, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn(sax) ; Plas Johnson (sax, Feb. 28 only) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Sharps (backing vocals). Arranged by Bob Thompson. Produced by Duane Eddy and Lee Hazlewood at RCA Victor Studio 2 in Hollywood.
February 21, 1962 : During his first session for ABC-Paramount, TOMMY ROE records the future number one "Sheila"/"Save Your Kisses" (ABC 10329, May). It is a split session with VINCE EVERETT, who cuts "Such A Night"/"Don't Go" (ABC-Paramount 10313, March). Personnel for the Vince Everett numbers is : Jerry Reed (guitar / leader) ; Joe South (guitar); Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Moore, Harman and the Jordanaires are also present on the Tommy Roe tracks, along with Wayne Moss on guitar. Produced by Felton Jarvis at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
February 23, 1962 : At the
Capitol Tower in Hollywood, LOUIS PRIMA cuts the LP "The Wildest Comes
Home" (Capitol T 1732, April), backed by Sam Butera and the Witnesses.
Tracks : "You're Just In Love", "All Night
Long", "Glow-Worm", "Twist All Night",
"Three-Handed Woman", "St. Louis Blues", "Just
One Of Those Things", "Harlem Nocturne", "Everybody
Knows", "Lover Come Back To Me", "Ain't Misbehavin'-
Way Down Yonder In New Orleans". Two songs are chosen for single
release, "Twist All Night" and "Everybody Knows"
(Capitol 4732, March). Also recorded is "John Ping Pong", first
issued on the 8-CD box set "The Capitol Recordings" (Bear Family BCD 15776)
in 1994. Personnel : Louis Prima (vocals / trumpet) ; Sam Butera (vocals /
tenor sax) ; Morgan Thomas (trumpet) ; Lou Sineaux (trombone) ; Alan Reuss,
Allan Seltzer (guitars) ; John Nagy (piano) ; Roland Dioro (bass) ; James
Vincent Faraci (drums). Produced by Voyle Gilmore.
February 28, 1962 : Fourth February session for PATSY CLINE. On this day she records her next two singles : "When I Get Thru With You"/"Imagine That" (Decca 31377, May 7) and "So Wrong"/"You're Stronger Than Me" (Decca 31406, July 16). The first three titles will all enter the country charts, peaking at # 10, # 21 and # 14 respectively. Personnel is the same as on February 12, 13 and 15, minus Bill Pursell and Charlie McCoy. Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley Studio in Nashville.
February 1962, unknown date : JIMMY ELLEDGE does a four-track session at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "What A Laugh"/"Can't You See It In My Eyes" becomes his new single (RCA 47-8012, March). "Diamonds" is released in June (RCA 47-8042), coupled with "Bo Diddley" from a later May session. "A Golden Tear" is the subsequent single (RCA 47-8081, September), coupled with "I'll Get By", also from the May session. Personnel : Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Chet Atkins.
February 1962, unknown date :
CLYDE McPHATTER cuts four tracks in New York City. "Lover
Please'/"Let's Forget About the Past" is selected for the new single
(Mercury 71941, February) and will reach # 7 on the pop charts (his second
biggest hit). "Happy Good Times" is released on Mercury 72220 in
November 1963, as the B-side of "Deep in the Heart Of Harlem" (from a
later session). "Baby You Been Good" is an LP track (Spanish release
only, Mercury MCL 125306), later also issued on Bear Family BFX 15271 (9
LP-set, 1987). Personnel includes King Curtis on sax, more details unknown.
Arranged and conducted by Stan Applebaum. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
February 1962, unknown date : DEL SHANNON does another New York session, at Mira Sound Studio. "Ginny In the Mirror"/"I Won't Be There" appears in March on Bigtop 3098 (Del's first non-charting single). "You Never Talked About Me" is first released in the UK on March 2 (London HLX 9515, B-side of "Hey! Little Girl"), to coincide with the release of the film "It's Trad Dad", in which the song is featured. US release in June (Bigtop 3117), as the B-side of "The Swiss Maid" (from a later session). Personnel : Bucky Pizzarelli (guitar) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Bill Ramal(sax / arranger) ; Joe Marshall (drums) ; Unidentified (piano, strings). Produced by Harry Balk.
(Probably) February 1962 : At
Royal Recording Studio in Memphis, four tracks are recorded by GENE SIMMONS.
"Twist Caldonia"/"Be Her # 1" is his new single (Hi 2050,
early March). "Down in the Alley" will eventually be included
on the UK album "Goin' Back To Memphis" (Hi DHI 416, 1988),
while "Anna Baby" remains unissued. Personnel : Gene Simmons (vocals
/ guitar) ; Reggie Young (lead guitar) ;Mike Leech (bass) ; Carl McVoy (organ /
piano) ; Willie Mitchell (tenor sax) ; Jerry Arnold (drums) ; Unknown (vocal
chorus).
With thanks to Roy Simonds, Tony Watson, Mike Thompson, Michel Henry and Henk Gorter.
Dik
MARCH 1962
Friday, March 2, 1962 : Three-track session by DUANE EDDY at RCA Victor Studio 2 in Hollywood. Selected as his first RCA single is "Deep in the Heart of Texas"/"Saints and Sinners" (RCA 47-7999, late March). A # 78 hit (# 19 in the UK). "Twisting' Off A Cliff" is the twelfth and final track for the LP "Twistin' And Twangin'" (RCA LPM 2525, April). Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Barney Kessel, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Plas Johnson, Jim Horn (saxes) ; Jack Sheldon (trumpet) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; The Sharps (vocal chorus). Arranged by Bob Thompson. Produced by Duane Eddy and Lee Hazlewood.
March 2, 1962 : ESKEW REEDER (Esquerita) returns to the studio after several years of absence. "Green Door"/"I Waited Too Long" is issued on Minit 648 in May. "Undivided Love" will come out on Instant 3258 in June 1963 (c/w "The Flu", recorded on August 7, 1962). Personnel : Eskew Reeder (vocals / organ) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums) ; Unknown (bass) ; The Esquerettes (backup vocals) ; New Orleans Symphony Orchestra (string section). Location is Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans.
March 3, 1962 : BEN E. KING records four tracks in NYC which end up on four different singles : "Don't Play That Song" (Atco 6222, April, a # 2 R&B hit, # 11 pop), "I'm Standing By" (Atco 6237, September), "Auf Wieder- sehn My Dear" (Atco 6246, December) and "Gloria Gloria" (Atco 6256, Febr. 1963). The last three are all B-sides. Personnel : Al Caiola, Charles Macey, Art Ryerson (guitars) ; Jack Lesberg (bass) ; Robert Mosely (piano) ; Eddie Bert (trombone) ; Margaret Ross (harp) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; The Cookies (backing vocals). Plus eight strings. Arranged by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
March 5, 1962 : BROOK BENTON records his next single, "Hit Record"/"Thanks To the Fool" (Mercury 71962, April). It is indeed a hit record, peaking at # 45. "Two Tickets To Paradise" was prepared for single release on Mercury 72009, was withdrawn, but came out later on Mercury 72177 in August 1963. The fourth track, "Our Hearts Knew", was released on a Various artists LP in 1966 (Mercury SR 61088). Arranged and conducted by Malcolm Dodds. Produced by Shelby Singleton in New York City.
March 6-8, 1962 : Three days of sessions by LITTLE WILLIE JOHN (at the King Studio in Cincinnati) result in eight tracks, all of which will be released on the LP "Come On And Join Little Willie John At A Recording Session" (King LP 802, November). All titles will also appear as singles : "Until Again My Love"/"Mister Glenn" in April (King 5628), "I Wish I Could Cry" in May (King 5641), "Half A Love"/"Without A Friend" in October (King 5694), "Come On Sugar" in May 1963 (King 5744), "Bill Bailey" in February 1964 (King 5850) and "Don't You Know I'm In Love" in September 1964 (King 5949). Backing by Bill Parker's band.
March 6-8, 1962 : MARTY ROBBINS also records on three consecutive days, at the Columbia Recording Studio in Nashville (formerly Bradley Studio). "You Belong To My Heart" and "La Borrachita", both recorded on March 6, are held in the can until 1972, for release on the LP "Bound For Old Mexico" (Columbia KC 31341). The same goes for "La Paloma", laid down on March 7. "Doggone Cowboy" is a track for the LP "Return of the Gunfighter" (Columbia CL 2072, September 1963). "When the Work's All Done This Fall" is first released in 1966, on the LP "Saddle Tramp" (Columbia Record Club DS 237) and "Old Red" on Bear Family BFX 15183 in 1985. On March 8, Robbins cuts "September In the Rain" for the LP "Marty After Midnight" (Columbia CL 1801, May 14) and possibly a few other tracks for this album. (See also the Marty Robbins entry for February 17, 1962.) Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
Wednesday, March 7, 1962 : Former Sun artist DICKEY LEE records the biggest hit of his career, "Patches" (Smash 1758, June, # 6) and its flip-side, "More Or Less". Location is the Columbia Studio in Nashville. Backing vocals by the Stephen Scott Singers. Produced by Bill Hall and Jack Clement.
March 7-8, 1962 : BRENDA LEE cuts six tracks during a two-day session at Columbia Studio in Nashville. "Everybody Loves Me But You" becomes the A-side of her new single (Decca 31379, April, c/w "Here Comes That Feelin'", recorded on August 29, 1961). A # 6 hit. "Heart In Hand" is the subsequent single (Decca 31407, June, c/w "It Started All Over Again", from a session on May 18, 1962) and reaches # 15. "She'll Never Know" will be released as the B-side of "Your Used To Be" (laid down on August 9, 1962) in January 1963 (Decca 31454) and peaks at # 47 on its own strength. The Ronnie Self composition "It Takes One To Know One" is held in the can until June 1966 (Decca 31970). "Why Me?" is first released on an EP and then on the album "Brenda, That's All" (Decca DL 4326, October). Finally, "Sweet Lovin'" stays on the shelf until the appearance of the Bear Family 4-CD box-set "Little Miss Dynamite" (BCD 15772) in 1995. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harold Bradley (electric bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a 9-piece string section. Produced by Owen Bradley.
March 8, 1962 : Guitarist CHET ATKINS records the single "Down Home"/ "Melissa" (RCA 47-8029, April) and the LP track "Montego Bay" (album Caribbean Guitar", RCA LPM 2549, July). Produced by Atkins himself at RCA Victor Studio, Nashville.
March 8, 1962 : RUTH BROWN is now contracted to Philips Records. She records four tracks on this day. "Say It Again" is selected as the B-side of her new single (Philips 40028, May, c/w "Shake A Hand" from a session on April 12, 1962). "Hold My Hand" becomes the B-side of the subsequent single (Philips 40056, July, c/w a remake of "Mama, He Treats Your Daughter Mean", also from the April session). "Talking To the River" and "Tie A Little String" are still lingering in the vaults. Backing vocals by The Milestone Singers. Arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle in New York City.
March 9, 1962 : At Columbia Studio in Nashville, CARL PERKINS has his penultimate session for the label. "Hollywood City"/"The Fool I Used To Be" is chosen for the new single (Columbia 42405, April). "Forget Me (The Next Time Around)" was originally selected as the B-side of "Hollywood City" and this coupling exists as a promo single on Columbia 42403. In March 1963, "Forget Me" did get a release, on Columbia 42753 (coupled with "I've Just Got Back From There", recorded on June 27, 1962). The 4th track, the Buddy Killen composition "When the Right Time Comes Along", is first issued on Carl's Bear Family box-set, "The Classic Carl Perkins" (BCD 15494) in 1990. Personnel : Grady Martin, Billy Byrd, Wayne Moss (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Doug Kirkham (drums). Produced by Don Law.
March 9, 1962 : THE CRICKETS are at United Recorders in Hollywood to cut the single "Don't Ever Change"/"I'm Not A Bad Guy" (Liberty 55441, April). No chart success in the US, but in the UK it will become a # 5 hit. The Crickets are : Jerry Allison, Sonny Curtis, Glen D. Hardin and Jerry Naylor. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
March 12, 1962 : HAROLD DORMAN records his third and last Sun single, "In the Beginning"/"Wait 'Til Saturday Night" (Sun 377, April 4). The third track from this session, "You're Gonna See", has never been issued. Personnel : Roland Janes (guitar) ; O.T. Shaw (bass) ; Bobby Wood (piano) ; Martin Willis (tenor sax) ; Vinnie Trauth (horn) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips at his recording studio in Memphis.
March 12, 1962 : DAVID WILKINS
also records in the Sun Studio on this day. Nine songs are laid down, but only
two will be released : "Thanks A Lot"/"There's Something About
You", issued on Phillips International 3581 in June. The other seven
tracks remain in the vaults. Personnel : David Wilikns (vocals / piano) ; Ruck
Shutt (guitar) ; Roland Janes (guitar or bass) ; Scotty Moore (bass) ; Bobby
Wood (piano) ; Martin Willis (tenor sax) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam
Phillips.
March 12, 16 and 23, 1962 : DUANE EDDY records the LP "Twangy Guitar, Silky Strings" (RCA LPM 2576, August) at RCA Victor Studio 2 in Hollywood. Tracks in order of recording : "Angel On My Shoulder", "High Noon", "Love Me Tender", "Mirriam", "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain", "Unchained Melody", "Bali Ha'i", "When I Fall In Love", "Moon River", "Hi-Lili Hi-Lo", "Memories Of Madrid" and "Born To Be With You". Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Barney Kessel, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; James E. Bond (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus a 20-piece string orchestra and an 8-piece mixed vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Bob Thompson. Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
March 13, 1962 : DON GIBSON records the first three tracks for the album "Some Favorites Of Mine" (RCA LPM 2448, June) : "It Makes No Difference Now", "Settin' the Woods On Fire" and "Baby We're Really In Love". The latter is also released as a single in September (RCA 47-8085, B-side of "So How Come" from a session on September 29, 1961). Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Johnny Smith, Joseph Tanner, Harold Bradley, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Arranged by Johnny Smith. Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. See also March 17.
March 14, 1962 is the recording date of the single "A Girl Named Liz"/ "Trouble At the Tower" by MERLE KILGORE (Mercury 71978, June). A third track from this session, "I Feed It A Memory" is unissued and lost. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
March 15, 1962 : At the Atlantic Studio in New York City, THE DRIFTERS cut their new single, "Stranger On the Shore"/"What To Do" (Atlantic 2143, April). A # 73 pop hit. Personnel : Rudy Lewis (lead vocals) ; Charlie Thomas, Doc Green, Tommy Evans (background vocals) ; Billy Davis, Don Arnone, Bucky Pizzarelli (guitars) ; Norman Keenan (bass) ; Robert Mosely (piano) ; George Devens (vibraphone) ; Gary Chester (drums) & 11 strings. Arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
March 15, 1962 : The NELSON RIDDLE Orchestra records the single "Route 66 Theme"/"Lolita Ya Ya" (Capitol 4741, April), at the Capitol Tower in Los Angeles. A # 30 hit. Personnel includes Bob Bain on guitar and Mike Melvoin on piano. More details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle. Produced by Tom Morgan.
March 15, 1962 : Three-track session by drummer SANDY NELSON in Los Angeles. "Drummin' Up A Storm" becomes his new single (Imperial 5829, April, c/w "Drum Stomp" from a session on December 26, 1961). A # 67 hit. "Here We Go Again" and "Tub Thumpin'" are tracks for the LP "Drummin' Up A Storm" (Imperial LP 9189, July). The former is later released as a 45 as "Here We Go" (Imperial 5965, June 1963, c/w "Just Bull", recorded on January 31, 1962). Produced by Eddie Ray.
March 15, 1962 : CONWAY TWITTY records at Columbia Studio in Nashville. "Mister Jones" and "Hang Up the Phone" see their first release in February 1964, on the LP "Hit the Road" (MGM SE 4217). "Don't Cry No More" is first released by Bear Family (BFX 15174, 1985). Personnel : Al Bruno, Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Jim Vienneau. See also March 27.
March 15, 1962 is the recording date of the JOHNNY OTIS single “Queen Of the Twist”/“I Know My Love Is True” (King 5634, April). The location is an unknown studio in Los Angeles.
March 16, 1962 : BOBBY BARE records his first RCA single, "Shame On Me"/ "Above and Beyond" (RCA 47-8032, May). A # 23 pop hit (# 18 country). Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (sax) ; Bill Justis (trumpet) ; Jim Hall (trombone) ; William Ackerman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 17, 1962 : DON GIBSON cuts the remaining nine songs for the LP "Some Favorites Of Mine" (see also March 13). "I Love You So Much It Hurts", "It's A Sin", "I'm Sorry For You My Friend" and "This Cold War With You" are recorded between 10:30 and 13:00, "Where Is Your Heart Tonight", "Blue Dream", "How's the World Treating You", "May You Never Be Alone" and "We Live In Two Different Worlds" between 14:00 and 17:00. Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar / arranger) ; Jerry Reed, Sam Pruett (guitars), Harold Bradley (guitar, morning session only) ; Thumbs Carlisle (guitar, afternoon session only) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums, morning session) ; Morris Palmer (drums, afternoon session) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
March 18, 1962 is the recording date of a single by LLOYD GEORGE, "Sing Real Loud"/"Lucy Lee" (Imperial 5837, April). UK release on London HLP 9562 in June. Location unknown. The artist also recorded under the name Ken Marvin and as one half of the duo Lonzo & Oscar.
March 18-19, 1962 : At RCA Studio B in Nashville, ELVIS PRESLEY records his next single, "She's Not You"/"Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello" (RCA 47- 8041, July). Peak positions : # 5 A-side, # 55 B-side. Also laid down are seven songs for the LP "Pot Luck" (RCA LPM 2523, May) : "Something Blue", "Gonna Get Back Home Somehow", "(Such An) Easy Question (also released as a single, RCA 47-8585, June 1965, a # 11 hit), "Fountain Of Love", "Suspicion" (also released as the B-side of "Kiss Me Quick", RCA 447-0639, April 1964), "Just For Old Time's Sake" and "I Feel That I've Known You Forever". Finally, "You'll Be Gone" will be used as the B-side of "Do the Clam" (RCA 47-8500, February 9, 1965). Personnel : Scotty Moore, Harold Bradley, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; D.J. Fontana, Buddy Harman (drums) ; Millie Kirkham and the Jordanaires (backup vocals). Produced by Steve Sholes.
March 19, 1962 : JOHNNY CASH is at Nashville's Columbia Studio to record three songs. "A Little At A Time" is released as the B-side of "In the Jailhouse Now" (Columbia 42425, May 4). "Johnny Reb" and a first attempt at "Were You There (When They Crucified My Lord)" are first released in 1991 on the Bear Family box-set "The Man In Black 2 : 1959-1962" (BCD 15562). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Robert Johnson (lute) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
Tuesday, March 20, 1962 : One-track session by CHARIE RICH at the Sun Studio in Memphis. "Easy Money" is released on April 4 (Phillips Inter- national 3576), as the B-side of "Midnite Blues" (recorded on January 17, 1962). Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Martin Willis (sax) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
March 20, 1962 : CARL MANN also records at the Sun Studio on this day. "When I Grow Too Old To Dream"/"Mountain Dew" becomes his new single (Phillips International 3579, June). "Canadian Sunset" is first issued on the Swedish LP "14 Unissued Sides By Carl Mann" (Jan / Star Club 33- 8022) in 1985. Personnel : Carl Mann (vocals / piano) ; Eddie Bush (guitar) ; R.W. Stevenson (bass) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Scotty Moore.
March 23, 1962 : DAVE BARTHOLOMEW records the instrumental single "Honky Tonk Trumpet"/"A Sunday Kind Of Love" (Imperial 5835, April). Unissued from this session are "A Smoke Filled Room" and a new version of "Short Subjects". Personnel : Dave Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; James Booker (organ / piano) ; Justin Adams (guitar) ; Frank Fields (bass) ; Smokey Johnson (drums). Plus a three-piece female vocal chorus. Location is Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans.
March 23-25, 1962 : BILL HALEY and the Comets record the 10-track LP "Twistin' Knights At the Round Table" (Roulette SR 25174) at the Round- table in New York City. Release probably in May. Tracks : Lullaby Of Birdland (instr.), Twist Marie, One-Two-Three Twist (instr.), Down By the Riverside Twist, Queen of the Twisters, Caravan Twist (instr.), I Want A Little Girl, Whistlin' and Walkin' Twist (instr.), Florida Twist (instr.) and Eight More Miles To Louisville, Personnel : Bill Haley (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Franny Beecher (lead guitar) ; Johnny Kay (rhythm guitar) ; Billy Williamson (vocals / steel guitar) ; Al Rappa (bass guitar) ; Johnny Grande (piano) ; Rudy Pompilli (tenor sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums).
March 25, 1962 : CONNIE FRANCIS cuts the A-side of her new 45, "Second Hand Love" (MGM 13074, rush-released, a # 7 hit). Flip is "Gonna Git That Man", recorded on January 8, 1962. One other track is laid down, "I Was Such A Fool (To Fall In Love With You)", for release in September on MGM 13096. Another hit for Connie (# 24) and the other side, "He Thinks I Still Care" (from a session on June 18, 1962), also enters the charts (peak position # 57). Produced by Danny Davis at A and R Studio in New York City.
March 26, 1962 : The final Liberty session by JOHNNY BURNETTE yields three tracks. "The Fool Of the Year" becomes the A-side of the new single in late April (Liberty 55448, c/w "The Poorest Boy In Town", recorded on January 16, 1962). "Damn the Defiant" is released on Liberty 55489 in August (c/w "Lonesome Waters", also from the January 16 session). "Choo Choo Train" is a track for the LP "Roses Are Red" (Liberty LRP 3255, August). Personnel : Tommy Allsup, Nick Bonney, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Kathryn Julye (harp) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus 10 strings and two trumpets. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
March 26-30, 1962 : ELVIS PRESLEY does a soundtrack session at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, for the Paramount film "Girls! Girls! Girls!". Of the sixteen songs recorded, eleven end up on the LP "Girls! Girls! Girls!", which will be released in November. "Return To Sender" from this session is a first try-out, not the released master. None of the tracks is released as a single. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Barney Kessel, Tiny Timbrell and Neal Mathews (guitars) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; D.J. Fontana, Hal Blaine (drums) ; Bernie Mattinson (percussion) ; The Jordanaires, The Mellow Men (backup vocals). Produced by Joseph Lilley.
March 27, 1962 : Twelve days after his last session, CONWAY TWITTY is back in the recording studio. "Comfy 'n' Cozy"/"A Little Piece Of My Heart" is chosen as his next single (MGM 13072, April 21). "She Knows Me Like A Book" stays in the vaults until Bear Family releases the box- set "The Rock 'n' Roll Years" (BFX 15174, vinyl) in 1985. Personnel is the same as on March 15. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
March 27-28, 1962 : Two days of sessions by BOBBY VEE. "Sharing You" and "In My Baby's Eyes" are selected for the new single (Liberty 55451, May). A # 15 hit. "Forget Me Not" and a third version of "A Forever Kind Of Love" will be included on the album "A Bobby Vee Recording Session" (Liberty LRP 3232, July). Four more tracks are laid down on the 28th. First "Go Away Little Girl" (the original of the Steve Lawrence hit), which will be used as a track for the LP "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Liberty LRP 3285, April 1963). Then "What's Your Name" and "You Better Move On", both for LRP 3232, and finally "Have Yourself A Cry", first issued in 2011 on the double CD "Rarities". Vocal support is supplied by the Johnny Mann Singers. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recorders in Hollywood.
March 29, 1962 : In New York City, LaVERN BAKER records three tracks for the LP "Richard Rodgers' No Strings : An After-Theatre Version" (Atlantic LP 1383, August) : "Loads Of Love", "You Don't Tell Me" and "Eager Beaver". The other nine tracks on the album are by Chris Connor, Herbie Mann and Bobby Short. Arranged and conducted by Bobby Scott. Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun.
March 30, 1962 : Second March session for CARL MANN. This time he records five tracks, all originally unissued. "Even Though", "Because Of You" and Chinatown, My Chinatown" are first released on the 1985 LP mentioned under March 20, "Mexicali Rose" on the 1977 album "Carl Mann, Legendary Sun Performer" (Charly CR 30130) and "'Til the End Of Forever" sees its first release on the Bear Family 4-CD set "Mona Lisa" (BCD 15713) in 1993. Personnel is the same as on March 20, plus Charlie Rich (piano) and Martin Willis (sax). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Scotty Moore at Sam Phillips Studio in Memphis.
Saturday, March 31, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record three versions of "Little Hollywood Girl" at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. None of the three was originally issued. Take 3 is first released on "The New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415, UK) in 1977. Take 2 was included on the CD "From Nashville To Hollywood" (Warner Bros 5046-75829-2) in 2005. The brothers will return to the song in April, in Nashville (see next month). Personnel : Glen Campbell, Dick Glasser, Bill Pitman, Nick Bonney (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Leon Russell (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Frank Capp (percussion) ; Unknown (female chorus). Produced by Jimmy Hillard.
March 1962, unknown date : ARTHUR ALEXANDER records the single "Where Have You Been (All My Life)"/"Soldier Of Love" (Dot 16357, April) in Nashville. A # 58 hit. Boots Randolph plays sax, more details unknown. Produced by Noel Ball.
March 1962, unknown date :
RICHIE BARRETT records the original version of "Some Other Guy" and
its flip, "Tricky Dicky" (Atlantic 2142, April). The sax player
is probably King Curtis and the female vocal group sounds like The Cookies.
More personnel details unknown. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in
New York City.
March 1962, unknown date(s) : CLYDE McPHATTER records eleven tracks for the LP "Lover Please!" (Mercury MG 20711, May) : "Little Bitty Pretty One", "Don't Let Go", "Rockin' Robin", "Money Honey", "Oh Lonesome Me", "Pretty Girls Everywhere", "Everybody Loves A Winner", "I'm Movin' On", "Sixty Minute Man", "Next To Me" and "Such A Night". The twelfth track is the album's title track, which was recorded in February. Selected for single release is "Little Bitty Pretty One"/"Next To Me" (Mercury 71987, May). A # 25 pop hit. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Kelso Herston, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Bill Justis (trumpet) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman, Bill Ackerman (drums) ; The Merry Melody Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
With thanks to Tony Watson, the late Tony Wilkinson, Jarle Jensen and Henk Gorter.
Dik
APRIL 1962
April 2, 1962 : FARON YOUNG is at Columbia Studio in Nashville to cut his new single, "The Comeback"/"Over Lonely And Under Kissed" (Capitol 4754, May). A # 4 country hit. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore or Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (organ) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 3, 1962 : One-track session by PAUL ANKA, who records the A-side of his second RCA single, "A Steel Guitar And A Glass Of Wine" (RCA 47-8030, late April, a # 13 hit). The reverse, "I Never Knew Your Name", was laid down on November 20, 1961. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, William Butler, Vincent Gambella (guitars) ; Milt Hinton (bass) ; Leroy Glover (piano) ; Joe Marshall, Jr. (drums). Arranged and conducted by Ray Ellis at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
April 3, 1962 : Second OKeh session for DR. FEELGOOD and the Interns. Four tracks are recorded, for the LP "Doctor Feelgood" (OKeh OKS-14101), which will be released in June. "What's Up Doc" (OKeh 7156) and "Bald- Headed Lena" (OKeh 7167) will also come out as singles, in July 1962 and January 1963 respectively. The other two tracks are "I'll Give You Anything" and "Love Is Amazing". Personnel : Willie Perryman aka Dr. Feelgood (vocals / piano) ; Roy Lee Johnson, Curtis Smith, Beverly Watkins (guitars) ; Long John Hobbs (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bobby Lee Tuggle (drums). Produced by Don Law at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
April 3, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS lay down another version of "Little Hollywood Girl" in Nashville (RCA Victor Studio), after having recorded the song in Hollywood three days earlier. This Nashville version is first issued on the CD "From Nashville To Hollywood" (Warner Bros 5046-75829-2) in 2005. The next day, April 4, they record "How Can I Meet Her" (B-side of their new single, Warner Bros 5273, April, # 75). The A-side is "That's Old Fashioned", recorded on November 14, 1961. "Burma Shave", also waxed on April 4, sees its first release in 1977, on "The New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415, UK). Personnel : Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Chet Atkins (guitar on April 3) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Buddy Harman (drums). More details unknown.
April 4, 1962 : SOLOMON BURKE records five tracks for the LP "Solomon Burke's Greatest Hits" (Atlantic LP 8067, October), in New York City. Two of these are coupled for single release, "Down in the Valley" and "I'm Hanging Up My Heart For You" (Atlantic 2147, May). Both sides will enter both the pop and the R&B charts : A-side peaking at # 71 pop, # 20 R&B, B-side # 85 pop, # 15 R&B. "Looking For My Baby" is released as a 45 in June 1964 (Atlantic 2241, B-side of "Everybody Needs Someone To Love" from a session on May 28, 1964). The other two songs are "Baby I Wanna Be Loved" and "Gotta Travel On". Personnel : Jimmy Spruill, Bucky Pizzarelli, Bob Bushnell (guitars) ; Charles Massey (bass guitar) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Teacho Wiltshire (organ / arranger) ; Alfred Williams (piano) ; Dud Bascomb, Lamar Wright (trumpets) ; King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Buddy Lucas (alto sax) ; Haywood Henry (baritone sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Gary Chester (percussion, drums) ; Unknown (female vocal group). Produced by Bert Berns and Jerry Wexler.
April 4, 1962 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records only one track on this day, but it is a long one : "All Around the World With Drums" clocks in at 11 minutes and 11 seconds. The number is included on the LP "Drummin' Up A Storm" (Imperial LP 9189), which appears in July. Produced by Eddie Ray.
April 4, 1962 : CLIFF RICHARD and the Shadows record two tracks at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London. "For You For Me" is first issued on the EP "Holiday Carnival" in May 1963 (Columbia SEG 7892). "I'm Walking the Blues" is used as a track for the LP "32 Minutes And 17 Seconds With Cliff Richard" (Columbia SX 1431, October). Without Cliff, THE SHADOWS record the narration (by Brian Bennett) "What A Lovely Tune", which will appear on the B-side of "Guitar Tango" (Columbia DB 4870, July, recorded on May 23, 1962). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
April 5, 1962 : DAVID BOX records the single “If You Can’t Say Something Nice”/“I’ve Had My Moments" (Candix 339, August), at RCA Studio B in Nashville. Both songs are offered to him by Roy Orbison, who co-wrote them with Joe Melson. The A-side will be reissued in February 1964 on Joed 114, c/w “Sweet Sweet Day” from a session in late 1963. Personnel : Fred Carter Jr. (lead guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus ‘Pig’ Robbins (piano) ; prob. Buddy Harman (drums) ; Joe Melson, Ray Rush, Dolores Dinning and possibly Roy Orbison (backing vocals). Produced by Ben Hall.
April 5, 1962 : THE
SHADOWS return to the EMI studio to record "Cosy" for their second
LP, "Out Of the Shadows" (Columbia SX 1458, October). It will be
released as a single in South Africa. On April 12 the group records two more
tracks for the album, "Perfidia" and "South Of the Border".
Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Jet
Harris (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
Saturday, April 7, 1962 : DONNIE BROOKS arrives at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood to record his next single, "Oh, You Beautiful Doll"/“Just A Bystander” (Era 3077, May), with unknown musicians. Arranged by Perry Botkin, Jr.
April 9-10, 1962 :
THE SHOWMEN are at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to record material for two
singles. "I Love You Can't You See"/"Com 'N Home" is
released in the last week of April on Minit 647. "True Fine Mama"
(not the Little Richard number)/"The Owl Sees You" follows in
August (Minit 654). Lead vocal by Norman Johnson, also the writer of three of
the four songs. Produced by Allen Toussaint, who also plays piano.
April 10, 1962 : At the Sun Studio (639 Madison Avenue, Memphis) FRANK FROST and the Night Hawks record a total of 27 songs, 15 of them unissued. The other twelve are released on Phillips International PILP 1975 under the title "Hey Boss Man" in June. Tracks : "Everything's Alright", "Lucky To Be Living", "Jelly Roll King", "Baby You're So Kind", "Gonna Make You Mine", "Now Twist", "Big Boss Man", "Jack's Jump", "So Tired Living By Myself", "Now What You Gonna Do", "Pocketful Of Shells" and "Just Come On Home". The Night Hawks are Jack Johnson (guitar) and Sam Carr (drums). Frost himself takes care of the vocals and plays harmonica and occasionally guitar. Produced by Sam Phillips. See also April 28.
Tuesday, April 10, 1962 : At Nashville's Columbia Studio, MARTY ROBBINS records two future number ones on the country charts : "Devil Woman" (Columbia 42486, June 22, also # 16 pop) and "Ruby Ann" (Columbia 42614, October 26, # 18 pop). Also waxed is "My Wonderful One" for the album "Hawaii's Calling Me" (Columbia CS 8840, June 1963). Personnel : Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
April 12, 1962 : RUTH BROWN records the A-sides of her next two singles, "Shake A Hand" (Philips 40028, May, a # 97 pop hit) and a remake of "Mama He Treats Your Daughter Mean" (Philips 40056, July, # 99). The B-sides, "Say It Again" and "Hold My Hand" were recorded on March 8, 1962. The two hit sides will also be included on the album "Along Comes Ruth" (Philips LP 200-028, June), along with "Please Accept My Love", "It's Too Late", "Treasure Of Love", "Jim Dandy", "Sea Of Love", "I Cried A Tear", Love, Love, Love", "So Little Time", "Why Don't You Write Me" and "Cry, Cry, Cry", all recorded at this date. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy (guitar) ; Ray Stevens (piano). More details not known. Produced by Shelby Singleton in Nashville.
(Circa) April 13, 1962 : CARL BELEW does his second session for RCA, at their Nashville studio. "Hello Out There"/"Together We Stand" is released in July and reaches # 8 on the country charts. The third track from this date, "Keeping My Feet On the Ground", is consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Henry Strezelcki (bass) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums); The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
April 14, 1962 :
Final Imperial session for FATS DOMINO, who has been with the label since 1949.
Two singles are the result : "Dance With Mr. Domino" (a # 98 hit)
/ "Nothing New (Same Old Thing)" (# 77) (Imperial 5863, June) and
the non-charting coupling "Hum Diddy Doo"/"Those Eyes"
(Imperial 5909, February 1963). All four are also released on the LP "Just
Domino" (Imperial LP 9208, September), as is the fifth track from this
session, "I Want To Go Home". Personnel : Fats Domino (vocals /
piano) ; Roy Montrell (guitar) ; Jimmie Davis (bass) ; Lee Allen, Herb
Hardesty, Buddy Hagans (tenor saxes) ; Clarence Ford (baritone sax) ; Dave
Bartholomew (trumpet / producer) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums). Location : Cosimo
Recording Studio, New Orleans.
April 16, 1962 : THE MARCELS record five tracks in New York City. "That Old Black Magic"/"Don't Turn Your Back On Me" is released in March 1963 (Colpix 683). "Give Me Back Your Love" will become the B-side of "I Wanna Be the Leader" (from a later session) in April 1963 (Colpix 687). "Tell Them About It" and "Baby Where Y'Been" stay on the shelf until the release of the 2-CD set "The Marcels : The Complete Colpix Sessions" (Sequel NED CD 264) in 1993. Produced by Stu Phillips.
April 16, 1962 :
Saxophonist BOOTS RANDOLPH cuts his second single for the Monument label :
"Bluebird Of Happiness"/"Keep A Light In Your Window
Tonight" (Monument 460, May). Also released in the UK on London HLU 9567
in June. Label credit goes to "Boots Randolph, soprano sax, with chorus
and orchestra". Bob Moore plays bass, more details unknown. Produced by
Fred Foster at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 17, 1962 : Another Monument session at Nashville's RCA studio, where ROY ORBISON records his next single, "The Crowd"/"Mama" (Monument 461, May). A # 26 hit. Personnel : Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass / arranger of "The Crowd") ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a string section. "Mama" arranged by Jim Hall. Produced by Fred Foster.
April 17, 1962 : THE PLATTERS record four songs for the album "Encore Of Broadway Golden Hits" (Mercury MG 20613, July) : "That Old Black Magic", "My Heart Belongs To Daddy", "Sometimes I'm Happy" and "But Not For Me". The other eight tracks for the LP were recorded at a February session. Lead vocals by Sonny Turner. Arranged, conducted and produced by David Carroll in Chicago.
April 18, 1962 : REX ALLEN records his only pop hit, "Don't Go Near the Indians" (Mercury 71997, August, # 17, also # 4 country) and its flip, "Touched So Deeply". "Goodnight Mrs Jones" ends up on the LP "Rex Allen Sings And Tells Tales" (Mercury MG 20752) in October. Backing vocals by The Merry Melody Singers. Produced by Jerry Kennedy at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
April 18, 1962 : THE FALCONS are at Cosimo's Studio in New Orleans to cut their new single, "Darling"/"Lah-Tee-Lah-Lah" (Atlantic 2153, June). Two other songs are recorded, "That's My Girl" and "Don't Leave Me", but they have never been released. Personnel : Wilson Pickett (lead vocal) ; Eddie Floyd, Mack Rice, Ben Knight, Joe Stubbs (background vocals) ; Lance Finnie, Roy Montrell (guitars) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Harold Battiste (piano) ; John Boudreaux (drums).
April 18, 1962 : Three-track session by BUCK OWENS at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Save the Last Dance For Me"/"King Of Fools" becomes the new single (Capitol 4765, May, a # 11 country hit). "I Can't Stop My Lovin' You" is used as the B-side of "Kickin' Our Hearts Around" (from a session on December 6, 1961) and is released on Capitol 4826 in August. It reaches # 17 on the country charts on its own strength. Personnel : Buck Owens (vocals / guitar) ; Don Rich (guitar / fiddle) ; Ralph Mooney (steel guitar) ; Bobby Austin (bass) ; George French (piano) ; Moose Stone (drums). Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 19, 1962 : THE BEACH BOYS record three tracks at Western Studios in Hollywood. The masters are sold to Capitol and equalized and remastered at the Capitol studios in Hollywood, under the supervision of Nik Venet, who is usually mentioned as the producer (incorrectly). "Surfin' Safari"/ "409" is issued on June 4 (Capitol 4777). Both sides enter the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at # 14 and # 76 respectively. "Lonely Sea" gets a place on the album "Surfin' USA" (Capitol T 1890), which is released on March 27, 1963. Personnel : Mike Love (lead vocals, except on "Lonely Sea") ; Brian Wilson (lead vocal on "Lonely Sea") ; Carl Wilson (lead guitar / vocals) ; David Marks (guitar / vocals) ; Dennis Wilson (drums / vocals). Produced by Murry Wilson.
April 20, 1962 :
ERNIE FREEMAN covers the David Rose hit "The Stripper", for release
on Imperial 5841 in May (c/w "I Hear You Knockin'" from a session on
January 19, 1962) and also on the LP of the same name (Imperial LP 9193, May).
The "Stripper" album will also include the second track from this
session, "For Strippers Only". Location is Los Angeles.
April 23, 1962 : JOHNNY CASH records two tracks in Hollywood (Columbia Studio). "Bonanza" is issued on Columbia 42512 in August. A # 94 pop hit. Flip is "Pick A Bale O'Cotton", recorded on June 8, 1962. The other song, "Shamrock Doesn't Grow In California", stays in the can until its release on Bear Family BFX 15016 in 1978 (LP "The Unissued Johnny Cash"). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins, Johnny Western (guitars) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; W.S. Holland (drums) ; The Jack Halloran Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones. On April 18, Cash had recorded two duets with Lorne Greene at the same studio : "Shifting Whispering Sands" and "The Place Where I Worship". Due to objections raised by Lorne Greene's label, RCA, these have never been issued.
April 24, 1962 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records the Allen Toussaint number "Java", which will be released as a single in November (RCA 47-8116, c/w "Melissa", from a session on October 18, 1962). A # 49 hit. "The Twelfth Of Never" is a track for the LP "Swing Along With Floyd Cramer" (RCA LPM 2642, January 1963). Unissued from this session are "Silver Bells" and a first attempt at "For Those That Cry". Arranged by Bill Justis and H.B. Johnson. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
April 24, 1962 : DALE HAWKINS does an Atlantic session in Nashville. "Women - That's What's Happening"/"With A Feeling" is issued on Atlantic 2150 in June. "A Fool In Love" remains unissued until this day. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Larry Taylor (guitars) ; Fred Carter, Jr. (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Raymond Smith (unknown instrument). Produced by Buddy Killen.
April 25, 1962 is the recording date of "A Wonderful Dream"/"Time Will Tell" by the vocal group THE MAJORS (Imperial 5855, end of May). A # 22 pop hit (also # 23 R&B). The Majors are : Ricky Cardo (lead vocal), Ronald Gathers, Frank Troutt, Eugene Glass and Idella Morris. Bobby Tate plays guitar, more details unknown. Arranged and produced by Jerry Ragavoy, probably at a Philadelphia studio.
April 26, 1962 : SAM COOKE is at Hollywood's RCA Victor Studio to record his new single, which will become a double-sided hit. "Bring It On Home To Me" will reach # 2 on the R&B charts and # 18 on the pop charts. "Having A Party" peaks at # 4 R&B and # 17 pop. Release in May on RCA 47-8036. Harmony vocal on "Bring It On Home To Me" by Lou Rawls. Arranged and conducted by Rene Hall. Produced by Hugo & Luigi.
April 26, 1962 : WANDA JACKSON waxes four tracks at Columbia Studio in Nashville, all released as singles : "The Greatest Actor"/"You Bug Me Bad" (Capitol 4833, September), "One Teardrop At A Time" (Capitol 4884, December, c/w "Whirlpool", recorded on November 2, 1962) and "To Tell You the Truth" (Capitol 5142, February 1964, c/w "The Violet And A Rose" from a session on June 5, 1963). Personnel includes Harold Bradley on guitar and Bob Moore on bass. More details unknown. Strings and chorus arranged by Bill McElhiney. Produced by Ken Nelson.
April 26, 1962 : JOHN D. LOUDERMILK records five tracks for the album "12 Sides Of John D. Loudermilk" (RCA LPM 2539, August), in Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "Oh How Sad" (RCA 47-8054, June) and "Angela Jones" (RCA 47-8101, October) are also released as singles. The other three songs are "Tobacco Road", "The Bully of the Beach" and "Big Daddy". Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals / guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Joe Tanner (banjo) ; Norro Wilson (harpsichord) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Jimmy Isbell (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
April 28, 1962 : FRANK FROST is at Sam Phillips's studio in Memphis to record the single "Jelly Roll King"/"Crawlback" (Phillips International 3578, June). The B-side is an instrumental. Unissued from this session are Don't Leave Me Alone" and a new version of "Everything's Alright". It's not quite clear if this is the version of "Jelly Roll King" that was included on the "Hey Boss Man" LP. The version of April 10 was probably rejected. Personnel : Frank Frost (vocals / harmonica) ; Jack Johnson (guitar) ; Ronald Janes (bass) ; Sam Carr (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips.
April 30, 1962 : JIMMY JONES records his next single, "You're Much Too Young"/"The Nights Of Mexico" (Cub 9110, July), in New York City. Produced by Bert Berns. More details unknown.
April 30, 1962 : CHRIS KENNER records material for two singles in New Orleans. “Let Me Show You How (To Twist)”/“Johnny Little” is released in May (Instant 3247) and “Land Of 1,000 Dances”/“That’s My Girl” in October (Instant 3252). The latter reaches # 77 on the Billboard Hot 100. Produced by Allen Toussaint.
April 30, 1962 : The vocal group THE ORLONS records their fourth single, which will bring them their first chart entry and the biggest hit of their career. “The Wah Wahtusi”/“Holiday Hill” is released on Cameo 218 in May and will peak at # 2. Arranged by Dave Appell. Produced by Kal Mann and Dave Appell at the Cameo- Parkway Studio in Philadelphia.
April 1962, unknown
date : DORSEY BURNETTE cuts his fis first single for the Reprise label,
"The Boys Kept Hangin' Around"/"Castle In the Sky" (Reprise
20093, June). Location is probably Los Angeles. Produced by Steve Venet.
April 1962, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY waxes two numbers in New Orleans. "The Jealous Kind" is released in October on Argo 5426 (c/w "Come On And Dance" from a later session). "That's My Desire" will stay in the vaults until 1993 when it is included on the CD "The Best Of Clarence Frogman Henry" (MCA MCLD 19226). Produced by Allen Toussaint, who also plays piano. More details unknown.
April 1962, unknown date : LAZY LESTER records six tracks in Crowley, Louisiana. The session yields two singles, "If You Think I've Lost You"/ "I'm So Tired" (Excello 2219, September) and "Lonesome Highway Blues"/ "I Made Up My Mind" (Excello 2230, April 1963). The other two tracks, "Ain't Nothin' In the World" and "Bloodstains" are eventually released on two different Flyright LP's (UK) in 1977 and 1979. Personnel : Lazy Lester (vocals / harmonica) ; Al Foreman (guitar) ; Bobby McBride (bass) ; Merton Thibodeaux (piano) ; Austin Broussard (drums) ; Sylvester Buckley (harmonica on some tracks). Produced by J.D. Miller.
With thanks to Roy Symonds, Jarle Jensen, Mike Thompson and Henk Gorter.
Dik
MAY 1962
May 1, 1962 : BRIAN HYLAND is in New York City (probably at Bell Sound Studio) to cut his next single, "Sealed With A Kiss"/"Summer Job" (ABC- Paramount 10336) for release later in the month. A # 3 hit, both in the USA and the UK. Arranged by Stan Applebaum. "A Pogo Production."
May 2, 1962 : ART NEVILLE records his next single at Cosimo’s Recording Studio in New Orleans. “All These Things”/“Come Back Love” is released in July on Instant 3246. Produced by Joe Banashak.
May 4, 1962 : The instrumental group THE MAR-KEYS records their next single, "Whot's Happenin'!"/"You Got It" (Stax 124, June), at the Stax studio in Memphis. Overdubbed on May 18. Personnel (probably) : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Donald 'Duck' Dunn (bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Marvel Thomas (piano) ; Packy Axton (tenor sax) ; Don Nix (baritone sax) ; Wayne Jackson (trumpet) ; Terry Johnson (drums). Produced by Nick Charles.
Saturday, May 5, 1962 : CHRIS MONTEZ records his biggest
hit, "Let's Dance" and its flip-side, "You're the One"
(Monogram 505, July). Peak position in the USA # 4, in the UK # 2 and the
record will also chart in many other countries. Personnel : Joel Hill
(guitar) ; Ray Pohlman (bass) ; Ray Johnson (organ) ; Jesse Sailes
(drums). Produced by Jim Lee in Los Angeles.
May 5, 1962 : CLIFF RICHARD is at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, where he cuts the future UK number one "Summer Holiday"/"Dancing Shoes" (Columbia DB 4977). Release is postponed until February 15, 1963, to coincide with the release of the film "Summer Holiday", in which both songs are featured. "Summer Holiday" is overdubbed by the Norrie Paramor Strings on November 19. A third song from the film, "The Next Time", is laid down on May 10 and will also reach the top position on the UK charts. Flip is "Bachelor Boy", recorded on November 16 and released exactly two weeks later (Columbia DB 4950). Backing by the Shadows (Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, Brian Locking, Brian Bennett). Produced by Norrie Paramor.
May 8-9, 1962 : DEL SHANNON, who usually records in NYC, does a session in Nashville, at Columbia Studio. His next single, "Cry Myself To Sleep"/ "I'm Gonna Move On" (Bigtop 3112, June) is recorded on May 8. A # 99 hit in the US, # 29 in the UK. The other four tracks are laid down on May 9. "The Swiss Maid" will be released on Bigtop 3117 in August (coupled with - in the USA at least - "You Never Talked About Me" from a February session) and reaches # 64 in the US, # 2 in the UK. "Dream Baby", "She Thinks I Still Care" and "Runaround Sue" end up the LP "Little Town Flirt" (Bigtop 12-1308), released in June 1963. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano / organ / harpsichord) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Arranged by Bill Ramal. Produced by Harry Balk.
May 9, 1962 : First Capitol session (as a solo artist,
that is) by GLEN CAMPBELL, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Too Late To
Worry, Too Blue To Cry"/"How Do I Tell My Heart Not To Break?"
is his first single for the label (Capitol 4783, July) and reaches # 76 on the
pop charts. "Tomorrow Never Comes" will see a single release in
January 1965 (Capitol 5360, c/w "It's A Woman's World", recorded on
June 29, 1963). The fourth track, "Walking the Floor Over You", is included
on the LP "Too Late To Worry, Too Blue To Cry" (Capitol T 1881) in
June 1963, along with the other three tracks. Arranged by Jimmie Haskell.
Produced by Nik Venet.
May 9, 1962 : LEFTY FRIZZELL has only one session in 1962, on this day, at Columbia Studio in Nashville. Two singles are the result : "Stranger"/ "Just Passing Through" (Columbia 42521, August) and "Forbidden Lovers"/ "A Few Steps Away" (Columbia 42676, January 1963). "Forbidden Lovers" peaks at # 23 on the Billboard country charts. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Grady Martin. Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
May 9, 1962 : At the same studio, THE LOUVIN BROTHERS record four tracks, all released as singles. "The First Time In Life"/"Must You Throw Dust In My Face" is their next 45 (Capitol 4822, August). "Love Turned To Hate" will hit the market in March 1963 (c/w "I Cried After You Left", from a session on March 25, 1956). "There's No Easy Way" is released in November 1963 (c/w "Every Time You Leave", recorded on May 13, 1961). Personnel : Charlie Louvin (vocals / guitar) ; Ira Louvin (vocals / mandolin ) ; Jimmy Capps (guitar) ; Harold Bradley (6-string bass guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Marvin Hughes (piano) ; Bill Ackerman (drums) ; The Slater Sisters (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
May 10, 1962 : DUANE EDDY is back at Hollywood's RCA Victor studio. "The Ballad Of Paladin"/"The Wild Westerners" becomes his second RCA single (RCA 47-8047, June). A # 33 hit (# 10 in the UK). "Stretchin' Out" will be used as the B-side of the subsequent single, "(Dance With the) Guitar Man" (recorded on July 4, 1962), released in September on RCA 47-8087. Personnel : Duane Eddy (lead guitar) ; Barney Kessel, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; James Bond (bass) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Plas Johnson (sax) ; Richard Perissi (horn) ; Vincent DeRosa (French horn) ; Joe Howard (trombone) ; George Tracy (harmonica) ; Earl Palmer, Frank Capp (drums) + seven violins. Arranged by Bob Thompson. Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
Friday, May 11, 1962 : FLOYD CRAMER is at RCA's Nashville studio to cut his next single, "Hot Pepper"/"For Those That Cry" (RCA 47-8051, June). "Hot Pepper" (a harpsichord update of "Flip, Flop and Bop") peaks at # 63. "Make Love To Me" will be included on the album "Swing Along With Floyd Cramer" (RCA LPM 2642, January 1963). Unissued from this session is "I'm Still In Love". Produced by Chet Atkins.
May 11, 1962 : In Paris, France, MEMPHIS SLIM records the LP "The Memphis Slim Story" (Vogue LD 58330, France). Tracks : "We've Been Together Too Long", "Sassy Mae", "The Driving Wheel", "Life Is Like That", "All By Myself", "Next Time You See Me", "Misery", "Kansas City", "The Comeback", "HCF Boogie", "The Blues Is Everywhere" and "Boogie Jam". Release date unknown. Later reissues under the title "The Blues Is Everywhere : The Very Best Of Memphis Slim". Personnel : Memphis Slim (vocals / piano) ; Ben Waters (tenor sax / soprano sax / clarinet) ; Guy Pedersen (bass) ; Kansas Field (drums).
May 12, 1962 : Gospel singer BROTHER JAMES ANDERSON records 32 (!) tracks at the Sun Studio, 639 Madison Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee. In February 1967, Knox Phillips decides to launch a Sun "Gospel series" and issues two songs from this session on Sun 406 : "I'm Gonna Move In the Room With the Lord" and "My Soul Needs Resting". It is both the first and final release in the Sun Gospel series. Two other tracks were released in 1987 on the box-set "Sun Records Into the 60s" (SUNBOX 109) and a few on mp3 Sun collections in the 21st century, but the great majority has never been issued. Personnel : Roland Janes, Chips Moman (guitars) ; Lester Robertson (piano) ; Al Jackson (drums) ; The James Anderson Singers (background vocals). Produced by Sam Phillips.
May 16, 1962 : PAT BOONE records the song that will become his last Top Ten hit, "Speedy Gonzales" (Dot 16368, June, # 6). The lower deck, "The Locket", was recorded on May 14. Also laid down on the 16th are the album tracks "Angel Talk", "Where Are You" and "Going To New York", as well as "The Rains Came", which stays on the shelf until the release of Boone's 12-CD Bear Family box-set in 1997. Personnel : Glen Campbell, Johnny Pisano, Tony Rizzi, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Mel Blanc (voice of Speedy Gonzales); Unknown (female voice). Plus a string section. Arranged by Billy Vaughn. Orchestra conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Randy Wood at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
Thursday, May 17, 1962 : JIMMY DEAN records the A-sides of his next two singles at Columbia Studio in Nashville. "Steel Men" is released on June 8 (Columbia 42483, c/w "Little Bitty Big John" from a session on October 21, 1961) and will peak at # 41. "Little Black Book" will appear on August 10 (Columbia 42529, c/w "Please Pass the Biscuits", recorded on June 4, 1962) and reaches # 29 on the pop charts and # 10 country. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Billy Byrd (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jimmy Riddle (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Arranged by Grady Martin. Produced by Don Law.
May 17, 1962 : Three-track session by JOHN D. LOUDERMILK
at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Callin' Dr. Casey" is chosen
as the A-side of his new single (RCA 47-8054, June, c/w "Oh How Sad"
from a session on April 26, 1962). A minor hit (# 83). "Mary's Little Boy
Child" is an album track (Various artists LP "Nashville
Christmas Party", RCA LSP 2579, December). "Givin' You All My
Love" is first released on the Bear Family CD "It's
My Time" (BCD 15422) in 1989. Personnel : John D. Loudermilk (vocals
/ guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki or Bobby Watts (bass) ; Norro Wilson (piano /
harpsichord) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman, James Isbell
(drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins.
May 17, 1962 : Third May session by CLIFF RICHARD, who cuts three songs. Prior to its LP release, "It'll Be Me" comes out as a single (Columbia DB 4886, August 31), which will reach # 2 in the UK. The B-side is "Since I Lost You", laid down on December 19, 1961. "When My Dreamboat Comes Home" and "Blueberry Hill" will both be included on the LP "32 Minutes And 17 Seconds With Cliff Richard" (Columbia SX 1431, September), along with "It'll Be Me". Backing by the Shadows and an unknown pianist. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
May 19, 1962 : In New York City, THE FIESTAS record their next two singles. "Broken Heart"/"The Railroad Song" is issued on Old Town 1122 in July and becomes their second hit (# 18 R&B, # 81 pop) after "So Fine". "I Feel Good All Over"/"Look At That Girl" follows in October (Old Town 1127). The Fiestas are : Tommy Bullock (lead) ; Eddie Morris (tenor) ; Sam Ingalis (baritone) and Preston Lane (bass). Arranged by Gene Redd. Produced by Hy Weiss.
Sunday, May 20, 1962 : Two-track session by JOHNNY TILLOTSON at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. "Send Me the Pillow You Dream On" is released as the A-side of his new single (Cadence 1424, July, a # 17 hit). The other side will be recorded a week later (see May 27). "Funny How Time Slips Away" is saved until October 1963 for release on Cadence 1441 (c/w "A Very Good Year For Girls" from a session on January 23, 1963). Produced by Archie Bleyer.
May 21, 1962 : BRENDA LEE records three further tracks for the LP "Brenda, That's All" (see May 17-18) : "Gonna Find Me A Bluebird", "I'm Sittin' On Top of the World" and "It's A Lonesome Old Town". Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on May 17-18.
May 21, 1962 : French rock star JOHNNY HALLYDAY records his third USA single, "Caravan Of Lonely Man"/"Hey Little Girl" (Phillips 40043, June). Also recorded at this session is a French version of "Don't Play That Song" : "Pas Cette Chanson" (Philips 432799, France, EP). Another track from this EP, a French-language version of "Hey Baby" is laid down in late May, along with eleven other tracks (most of them unissued). The only two non-French tracks from this second May session, "King For Tonight" and "I Need A Whole Lotta You", were first issued on a Bear Family LP (BFX 15316) in 1990. Backing by the Milestone Singers and unknown members of the Nashville A-Team. Arranged by Bill Justis. Orchestra conducted by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
May 21, 1962 : DEE DEE SHARP records the follow-up to her
big hit “Mashed Potato Time”. “Gravy (For My Mashed Potatoes)”/“Baby Cakes”
will appear in early June (Cameo 219). Peak positions : # 9 pop, # 11 R&B.
Arranged by Dave Appell. Produced by Kal Mann and Dave Appell at the Cameo
Parkway Studio in Philadelphia.
May 22, 1962 : Saxophonist KING CURTIS does his first session for Capitol, in New York City. The result is the single "Beach Party"/"Turn 'em On" (Capitol 4788, June), credited to King Curtis and the Noble Knights. A # 60 pop hit. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax) ; Billy Butler, Joe Richardson (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; George Stubbs (piano) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; Ray Lucas (drums). Produced by Manny Kellem and Lookapoo Productions (= Bert Berns).
May 23, 1962 : One-track session by THE SHADOWS, who record "Guitar Tango". Orchestral overdubs on June 18, release on Columbia DB 4870 on July 26. A # 4 hit in the UK. US release on Atlantic 2166 in October. The reverse is the narration "What A Lovely Tune", recorded on April 4, 1962. Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Brian Locking (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
May 24, 1962 : PEE WEE CRAYTON does a session for Smash Records in Los Angeles, his only one for the label. "Git To Gittin'"/"Hillbilly Blues" is released on Smash 1774 in August. Two other tracks, "The Sabre Twist" and a new version of "Blues After Hours", stay in the vaults. Arranged by Bob Smith. Orchestra conducted by Bumps Blackwell.
May 25, 1962 : SHIRLEY AND LEE are at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans to record four tracks. "Don't Stop Now"/"A Little Thing" will be released on Imperial 5868 in August. "You Wouldn't" and "The Engagement Song" stay in the vaults until the release of the LP "The Imperial Sides 1962/1963" (Pathé Marconi 1566331, France) in 1986. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
May 26, 1962 : In New York City, LLOYD PRICE cuts his new single, "Your Picture"/"Counterfeit Friends" (ABC-Paramount 10342, June). Four other tracks are recorded, all unissued : "Trouble Trouble", "Hey Joe", "Don't Cry Baby" and "Guess Who". The single is credited to "Lloyd Price and his great orchestra". Personnel : Bill Jones (guitar) ; Charles Lindsay (bass) ; Charles Brooks (piano) ; Charles Reeves (alto sax) ; Red Holloway, Danny Turner (tenor saxes) ; Pee Wee Moore (baritone sax) ; Tommy Purkson, Eddie Preston, Martin Banks (trumpets) ; Wade Marcus, Sam Hurt (trombones) ; Larry Rice (drums). Arranged by Maxwell Davis. Produced by Sid Feller.
May 27, 1962 is the recording date of FRANK IFIELD's big hit "I Remember You"/"I Listen To My Heart" (UK Columbia DB 4856, June 22). A # 1 hit in the UK. US release on Vee-Jay 457 in July, peak position in Billboard # 5. Arranged, conducted and produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London, England.
May 27, 1962 : Second JOHNNY TILLOTSON session this
month. Two classic Hank Williams songs, "I Can't Help It" and
"I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" are coupled for release on Cadence 1432
in October. Both sides will chart, peaking at # 24 and # 89 respectively.
"What'll I Do" will become the B-side of "Send Me the Pillow You
Dream On" (Cadence 1424, July), which was recorded on May 20. Produced by
Archie Bleyer at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio.
Wednesday, May 30, 1962 : Three-track session by ERNIE K-DOE, way down yonder in New Orleans. First released is "Beating Like A Tom Tom"/"I Got To Find Somebody" (Minit 651, July). The subsequent single is "Loving You" (Minit 656, October, c/w "Get Out Of My House", recorded on July 5, 1961). Arranged and produced by Allen Toussaint.
May 31, 1962 : THE CADILLACS are now contracted to Capitol. Their first single for the label is "White Gardenia"/"Groovy, Groovy Love" (Capitol 4825, August). "I Saw You"/"La Bomba" (Capitol 4935, March 1963) will be credited to Bobby Ray & the Cadillacs. Arranged and conducted by Teacho Wiltshire. Produced by Manny Kellem and Lookapoo Productions.
May 31, 1962 : JOE TURNER does his final recording session for Atlantic Records, after an 11-year affiliation with the label. Four tracks are laid down in New Orleans, "Howling Winds" "Laura Lee", "The Party's Over" and an untitled number, but none of them has ever been released. Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Peter Badie (bass) ; Alvin 'Red' Tyler (baritone sax) ; Nat Perilliat (tenor sax) ; John Brunious (trumpet) ; James Booker (piano) ; Eskew Reeder (organ) ; John Boudreaux, James Black (drums).
May 1962, unknown date : ARTHUR ALEXANDER records "Anna (Go To Him)", which will be covered by the Beatles on their first LP. Released on Dot 16387 in August. A # 10 R&B hit (# 68 pop). The reverse, "I Hang My Head And Cry" was recorded at a different session, probably in July. Produced by Noel Ball in Nashville.
May 1962, unknown date : BOBBY FULLER records his second
single for the Yucca label, "My Heart Jumped"/"Gently My
Love" (Yucca 144, June), at the Norman Petty Studio in Clovis, New
Mexico. Personnel : Bobby Fuller (vocals / guitar) ; Jim Reese (guitar) ; Randy
Fuller (bass) ; Vi Petty (piano) ; Dalton Powell (drums). Produced by Norman
Petty.
May 1962, unknown date : CLARENCE 'FROGMAN' HENRY does another session in New Orleans. "Lost Without You"/"Dream Myself A Sweetheart" will be the next single (Argo 5414), released later in May. "Come On And Dance" will become the B-side of the previously recorded "The Jealous Kind" (Argo 5426, November). "Please Mr. Boss Man" is held in the can until 1993, when it shows up on the CD "The Best Of Clarence Frogman Henry" (MCA MCLD 19226). The fifth track, "I'm Gonna Murder You" has never been issued, not surprisingly with a title like that. Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; George French (bass) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; Morris Bashmfut (tenor sax) ; Carl Blowin (baritone sax) ; Waldren Joseph (trombone) ; Wardell Quezergue, Leroy Derbigny (trumpets) ; Smokey Johnson (drums).
May 1962, unknown date : BUDDY KNOX records material for his next two singles. "She's Gone"/"Now There's Only Me" will be released on June 22 (Liberty 55473). No chart success in the US, but in the UK it reaches # 45. "Dear Abby"/"Three Way Love Affair" follows in September (Liberty 55503). Backing vocals by the Johnny Mann Singers. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recorders in Hollywood.
May 1962, unknown date : PROFESSOR LONGHAIR returns to the studio after an absence of three years. "Whole Lotta Twisting"/"I Believe I'm Gonna Leave" is released on Rip 155 in June. "Everybody's Blowin', Parts 1 & 2" is also released on Rip (probably in October), but without a catalogue number. Location is Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans. Personnel : Professor Longhair (Roy Byrd) (vocals / piano) ; Wardell Quezergue (trumpet / arranger). Unknown guitar, sax, bass, drums.
With thanks to Roy Symonds, Jarle Jensen, Mike Thompson and Henk Gorter.
Dik
JUNE 1962
June 1, 1962 : BAKER KNIGHT does an afternoon session at United Recorders in Hollywood. Selected for single release are “Hungry For Love” and “House Next Door" (Checker 1023, August). The other two tracks, "Can I Depend On You" and "I Can't Get You Out Of My Mind", remain unissued. Personnel : Irving Ashby, Rene Hall, Bill Pitman (guitars) ; Alfred McKibbon (bass) ; Ernie Freeman (piano / arranger) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus four violin players.
June 4, 1962 : THE SHADOWS record two tracks for their second LP, "Out Of the Shadows" (Columbia SX 1458, October) : "1861" and "Kinda Cool". The latter features Hank Marvin on piano. Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar / piano) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Brian Locking (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London.
June 4-5, 1962 :
JIMMY DEAN is at Nashville's Columbia Studio where he records nine tracks for
the LP "Portrait Of Jimmy Dean" (Columbia CL 1864, August). Of these,
"Please Pass the Biscuits" is also released as a single on August 10
(Columbia 42529, B-side of "Little Black Book, from a session on May
17, 1962). A tenth track, "Cajun Joe" (recorded on June 5),
stays in the can until the release of Bear Family's "Big Bad
John" CD (BCD 15723) in 1993. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold
Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ;
Bill Pursell (organ) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica on June 5) ; Buddy Harman
(drums). Produced by Don Law.
Tuesday, June 5, 1962 : OTIS BLACKWELL records the single "Kiss Away"/ "Granddaddy Of Them All" (MGM 13090, August). Unissued from this session is "The World's Biggest Fool". Location is Nashville, more details unknown.
June 5, 1962 : DALE HAWKINS records "Ookie Dookie" for Atlantic in New York City. Tapio Väisänen writes : "Ookie Dookie" was written by Dale Hawkins. Michel Ruppli's Atlantic Discography shows "Ookie Dookie" under matrix 6222 from a session under Dale Hawkins' name, dated 5th June 1962. However, Dale's recording wasn't ever released. "Ookie Dookie" was released (with matrix nr 6222) on the flip of Leon Martin's "Turn On Your Lovelight" (Atlantic 2154), which was recorded exactly one week later under matrix 6245 at Leon Martin's own session.
June 5, 1962 : JERRY LEE LEWIS is back at Madison Avenue 639 in Memphis for another session. "Sweet Little Sixteen" is chosen as his new single (Sun 379, July 7, c/w "How's My Ex Treating You" - see June 14). Peak position is a disappointing # 95 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Hello Josephine" is another attempt at the Fats Domino song, not the version that was previously included on Jerry's second Sun LP ; it will appear on the "Rockin' Rhythm & Blues" LP (Sun LP 107) in 1969. One of two versions of "Waiting For A Train" (aka "All Around the Watertank") is first released in July 1970, on the album "Ole Tyme Country Music" (Sun LP 121) and then as a single (Sun SI-1119) two months later. The fourth number, "Set My Mind At Ease" gets its first release on the Dutch LP "Jerry Lee Lewis Collectors Edition" (Sun NY-6, 1975). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Scotty Moore, Roland Janes (guitars) ; J.W. Brown (bass) ; Shirley Sisk (organ) ; Al Jackson (drums). Produced by Sam Phillips and / or Scotty Moore. See also June 14.
June 5-6, 1962 : KING CURTIS records his first Capitol album, titled "Country Soul" (Capitol T 1756, July). Tracks : "Tennessee Waltz", "Wagon Wheels", "Anytime", "Beautiful Brown Eyes", "Raunchy", "Your Cheatin' Heart", "Home On the Range", "Night Train To Memphis", "I'm Movin' On", "Tumbling Tumbleweeds","High Noon" and "Walking the Floor Over You". Selected for single release is "Beautiful Brown Eyes"/"Your Cheatin' Heart" (Capitol 4841, September). The location is New York City, studio unknown. Personnel : King Curtis (tenor sax / vocals on some tracks) ; Billy Butler, Carl Lynch, Charles Massey (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Paul Griffin, Ernie Hayes (piano / organ) ; Harold 'Money' Johnson, Taft Jordan (trumpets) ; Ray Lucas (drums) ; Gary Chester (percussion) ; Unknown (female chorus). Arranged by Leroy Glover. Produced by Manny Kellem and Lookapoo Productions.
June 6, 1962 : MEL TILLIS does a four-track session at Nashville's Columbia Studio. "How Come Your Dog Don't Bite Nobody But Me"/"So Soon" is released in December (Decca 31445). The A-side is a duet with Webb Pierce and peaks at # 25 on the country charts. "Half Laughing, Half Crying" is the subsequent single (Decca 31474, February 1963) and "Couldn't See the Forest For the Trees" is released in August 1963 (Decca 31528). The latter two songs will both be coupled with tracks recorded on January 22, 1963 : "Don't Tell Mama" and "It's No Surprise" respectively. Produced by Owen Bradley.
June 6-7, 1962 : LITTLE WILLIE JOHN cuts eight tracks in two days, all released as singles. First issued is "She Thinks I Still Care"/"Come Back To Me" (King 5667, July). "Big Blue Diamonds"/"Doll Face" follows one month later (King 5681). "Heaven All Around Me"/"Don't Play With Love" is a February 1963 release (King 5717). "My Baby's In Love With Another Guy" is coupled with "Come On Sugar" (from a session on March 8, 1962) for release on King 5744 in May 1963. Finally, "My Love Will Never Change" reaches the market in February 1964 (King 5850, c/w "Bill Bailey", waxed on March 6, 1962). Personnel unknown. Location is the King studio in Cincinnati.
June 6-8, 1962 : Three-day session for JOHNNY CASH at Columbia Studio in Nashville. On the first day he records three Christmas songs, "Blue Christ- mas", "The Christmas Spirit" and "Silent Night", which will be released on the LP "The Christmas Spirit" (Columbia CL 2117) in November 1963. On June 7th these are followed by "No One Will Ever Know" (issued in 1966 on the album "Happiness Is You", Columbia CL 2537) and "The Legend Of John Henry's Hammer", which becomes the opening track for the LP "Blood, Sweat And Tears" (Columbia CL 1930, February 1963). Finally, on June 8, Cash records the B-side of his next single, "Pick A Bale O'Cotton" (Columbia 42512, August, c/w "Bonanza", recorded on April 23, 1962), "The Danger Zone" (first issued on Bear Family BFX 15016 in 1978) and "Hardy Wouldn't Run" (first released on the 5-CD set "The Man In Black, 1959-'62, Bear Family BCD 15562, in 1991). Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; Luther Perkins (guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Joe Babcock (banjo) ; The Carter Family (backing vocals, except on June 6). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
June 8, 1962 : Final Decca session by THE KALIN TWINS, at Columbia Studio in Nashville. They cover Joe Brown's UK hit, "A Picture Of You" (Decca 31410, July). The other side, "Trouble", also comes from this session. A third track, "It's Just Terrible", remains on the shelf until the release of the Bear Family CD "When" (BCD 15597) in 1992. Personnel : Herbie and Harold Kalin (vocals) ; Billy Grammer, Jerry Kennedy, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (trombone) ; Don Sheffield (trumpet) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Arranged by Harold Bradley. Produced by Owen Bradley.
June 8, 1962 : First Capitol session by ex-Cricket EARL SINKS. "A Little Bit Of Heaven"/"Be Good" will come out on December 3 on Capitol 4885. Two other tracks, "Lovesick" and "Order Me A Clown's Hat" are consigned to the vaults. Produced by Paul Wyatt at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
June 8, 1962 : SKEETER DAVIS records the biggest hit of her career, “The End Of the World” (RCA 47-8098, November, c/w “Somebody Loves You”, from a session on February 16, 1961). It will peak at # 1 on the country charts and # 2 on the pop charts. Also released as a single is “It Was Only A Heart” (RCA 47-8219, August 1963, the B-side of her # 7 pop hit “I Can’t Stay Mad At You”, recorded in July 1963). Two other songs are laid down, both used as LP tracks (“Didn’t I” and “Longing To Hold You Again”). Personnel : James Wilson, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Anita Kerr (harpsichord) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus strings. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 9, 1962 : EDDIE BO is at Cosimo's Recording Studio in New Orleans to cut his new single, "You're the Only One"/"You're With Me". First issued on Rip 156 in July, then on Chess 1833 in September. "I Just Keep Rollin'" is eventually released on the 3-CD set "The Instant And Minit Story" (Charly SNAJ 731, UK) in 2005. Unreleased from this session is "Something's Working (And It's Holding Me)".
June 10, 1962 is the recording date of the LATTIE MOORE single "Heaven All Around Me"/"I Told You So" (King 5685, September). Location is the King Studio in Cincinnati. Produced by Ray Pennington.
June 11, 1962 : GEORGE JONES is at Columbia Studio in Nashville, where he records the forthcoming single "A Girl I Used To Know"/"Big Fool Of the Year" (United Artists 500, August). Both sides will make the country charts, peaking at # 3 and # 13 respectively. "Not What I Had In Mind" is also released as a single (United Artists 528, October, a # 7 country hit), coupled with "I Saw Me" from a session on September 13, 1962). "Lonesome Life" will become the opening track of the LP "I Wish Tonight Would Never End" (United Artists UAL 3270, April 1963). Label credit goes to "George Jones & the Jones Boys". Produced by Pappy Daily.
Wednesday, June 13, 1962 : RICK NELSON records "It's Up To You", which will be released in late November on Imperial 5901 (c/w "I Need You”, recorded on November 15, 1962) and will peak at # 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Also laid down is the backing track for "I've Got My Eyes On You” (see June 20). Personnel : James Burton (lead guitar) ; Glen Campbell (rhythm guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Allan Harris (piano) ; John Audino, Anthony Terran (trumpets) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Dave Burgess, Glen Campbell, Jerry Fuller (vocal chorus). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
June 14, 1962 : Second June session for JERRY LEE LEWIS. "Good Rockin' Tonight" is a slowed-down version of the classic, very different from Jerry's 1958 version and first released in 1969 on the album "Rockin' Rhythm and Blues" (Sun LP 107). "Be Bop A Lula" stays on the shelf until 1971, when the "Monsters" LP is issued (Sun LP 124). Yet another version of "Hello Josephine" remains in the vaults for 27 years, until the Bear Family label releases the "Classic Jerry Lee Lewis" 8-CD box-set (BCD 15420). The fourth number, "How's My Ex Treating You", becomes the B-side of "Sweet Little Sixteen" (recorded on June 5), which is issued on July 7 (Sun 379). Personnel, producer and studio are the same as on June 5.
June 14, 1962 : First Atlantic session by LITTLE RICHARD (vocals / piano), at Conway Studio in Los Angeles, with unknown personnel. Five tracks are recorded, but none of them has ever been released : "Hole In the Wall", "You'll Never Walk Alone", "Eliger Rock", "Jericho" and "If You Can't Take It, You Can't Make It". Richard will re-record "Hole In the Wall" on February 14, 1963, and that version will be released on Atlantic 2181.
June 14, 1962 : Five-track session by JIM REEVES at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "I'm Gonna Change Everything"/"Pride Goes Before A Fall" is released in July (RCA 47-8080). The A-side will peak at # 2 on the country charts (also # 95 pop), the B-side at # 18. "Little Ole You" is used as the B-side of "Guilty" (recorded on February 27, 1963) and released on RCA 47-8193 in June 1963 (# 11 country). "Where Does A Broken Heart Go" will appear posthumously on the LP "Distant Drums" (RCA LPM 3542, May 1966). A second version of "Welcome To My World" sees its first release on the Bear Family box-set of the same name in 1994. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Leo Jackson, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Bill Ackerman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus a string section. Produced by Chet Atkins.
June 18, 1962 : CONNIE FRANCIS records her new single, "Vacation"/"The Biggest Sin Of All" (MGM 13087, July). It will become her last Top 10 hit (# 9 US, # 10 UK). Unissued from this session are "Out Of This World” and a first attempt at "You're the Only One Who Can Hurt Me". Personnel : Grady Martin, Jerry Kennedy, Harold Bradley, Wayne Moss (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Arranged and conducted by Bill McElhiney. Produced by Danny Davis and Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
June 19, 1962 : Two-track session by THE CRICKETS at United Recorders in Hollywood. "Little Hollywood Girl" is released as a single on August 24 (Liberty 55495, c/w "Parisian Girl", recorded on March 19, 1962). The other track is "Break It Easy", which is first issued in 1991 on the CD "The Liberty Years" (EMI CDP 7 95842). At this time the line-up of the Crickets is : Jerry Allison, Sonny Curtis, Glen D. Hardin and Jerry Naylor. Produced by Snuff Garrett.
June 20, 1962 : RICK NELSON returns to Western Recorders in Hollywood to cut his new single, "Teenage Idol"/"I've Got My Eyes On You" (Imperial 5864, July). A # 5 hit. The backing track for the B-side was recorded on June 13. Personnel : James Burton (lead guitar) ; Tommy Tedesco (guitar) ; Leroy Vinnegar (bass) ; Pete Jolly (piano) ; John Rotella (sax) ; John Anderson, Holly Humphreys (trumpets) ; Marshall Cram (trombone) ; Richie Frost (drums) ; Unidentified (male chorus on "Teenage Idol") ; Darlene Love and the Blossoms (vocal chorus on "I've Got My Eyes On You"). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell.
June 20, 1962 : BOBBY VEE does an afternoon session and an evening session at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood. "Punish Her" is chosen as his next single (Liberty 55479, August, a # 20 hit). The flip is "Someday (When I'm Gone From You)", lifted from the album "Bobby Vee Meets the Crickets", which was recorded in late 1961. Four tracks will be included on the LP "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Liberty LRP 3285, April 1963) : "Theme For A Dream", "It Might As Well Rain Until September", "What About Me" and "If She Were My Girl". "Tears Wash Her Away" remains in the vaults until 2011 when it comes out on the double CD "Rarities". Arranged by Ernie Freeman, produced by Snuff Garrett.
June 21, 1962 : Another Nashville session by CLYDE McPHATTER (at Columbia Recording Studio B). Two tracks are selected for the next single, "Maybe" and "I Do Believe" (Mercury 72025, August). "I've Lost Again" and "Walking Back To Baltimore" are first released on Bear Family BFX 15271 (LP 6), in 1987. Vocal support by the Merry Melody Singers (Margie Singleton, Millie Kirkham, Ray Walker, Gordon Stoker, Neal Matthews). Arranged and conducted by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
June 21, 1962 : Four-track session by saxophonist RED PRYSOCK at the King Studio in Cincinnati. "Harem Girl"/"Hide Away - 1962" is a July release (King 5669). "Here We Again" follows in December (King 5704, c/w "Can't Sit Down", recorded on December 3, 1961). "Time After Time" has never seen a release. Personnel : Red Prysock (tenor sax) ; Sonny Thompson (piano) : Gene Redd (vibraphone) ; more details unknown.
June 23, 1961 : TONY ROSSINI records his fourth Sun single, "New Girl In Town"/"You Make It Sound So Easy" (Sun 380, July 10). Label credit goes to Tony Rossini and the Chippers. Personnel : Scotty Moore, Roland Janes, Steve Cropper (guitars) ; Lewis Steinberg (bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Larry Mohoburac (piano) ; Floyd Newman, Robert Oldham, George Tidwell (horns) ; Al Jackson (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips and/or Scotty Moore at the Sun studio in Memphis.
June 24, 1962 : In Hollywood, drummer SANDY NELSON records six tracks for the album "Golden Hits" (Imperial LP 9202, August) : "I Want To Walk You Home", "Kansas City", "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday", "Walking To New Orleans", "Splish Splash" and "Early In the Morning". With the exception of "Kansas City", all tracks will also be included on the LP "Sandy Nelson Plays" (Imperial LP 9249) in November 1963. Produced by Eddie Ray and Sandy Nelson.
June 24-25, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS are at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. On June 24, they record a first version of "Nancy's Minuet", which is first released in October 1977 on "The New Album" (UK). Wally Haynes plays steel guitar, more details unknown. The harvest of the next day is "What About Me” and "Nice Guy", both unissued until the release of the Magnum Force LP "Nice Guys" (UK), in September 1984. Buddy Harman plays drums ; no further details available.
Monday June 25, 1962 : First JOHNNY BURNETTE session for his new label, Chancellor Records. "The Giant" and "I Wanna Thank Your Folks" are chosen for single release (Chancellor 1116, late July). The other two tracks, "I Just Called Up To Say Goodbye" and "I'll Never Get Over You", remain unissued until the appearance of Johnny's Bear Family box-set (BCD 16438) in 2003. Personnel : Tommy Allsup, John Gray, Alfred Viola (guitars) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Robert Florence (piano) ; Sharky Hall (drums) + 7 strings. Arranged by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Jimmy Bowen at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
June 25, 1962 : In New York City, SOLOMON BURKE records four tracks, all released as singles. First issued is "I Really Don't Want To Know"/"Tonight My Heart Is Crying" (Atlantic 2157, September). "Home In Your Heart" will appear in February 1963 (Atlantic 2180, c/w "Words", recorded on October 17, 1962). "You Can Make It If I Try" is chosen as the B-side of the # 2 R&B hit "If You Need Me" (from a session on March 15, 1963) and comes out on Atlantic 2185 in April 1963. All four tracks will also be included on the album "If You Need Me" (Atlantic LP 8085, mid-1963). Personnel : Bill Suyker, Chauncey Westbrook (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Dick Hyman (organ) ; Leon Cohen (alto sax) ; Herb Wasserman (tenor sax, flute) ; Gary Chester (drums) ; Phil Kraus (xylophone) ; The Helen Way Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged, conducted and produced by Bert Berns.
June 25, 1962 :
ROSCO GORDON does his first session for ABC-Paramount, in New York City. Two
singles are the result, "A Girl To Love"/"As You Walked
Away" (ABC 10351, August) and "I Want Revenge"/"A Little
Bit Of Magic" (ABC 10407, April 1963). Orchestra and chorus conducted
by Sammy Lowe. Produced by Sid Feller.
June 26, 1962 : RAY STEVENS records eight tracks for his first LP. "1,837 Seconds Of Humor" (Mercury MG 20732, July). Two tracks are also released as a single : "Further More"/"Saturday Night At the Movies" (Mercury 72039, September). The other tracks are : "A Hermit Named Dave", "Julius Played the Trumpet", "PFC Rhythm and Blues Jones", "Popeye And Olive Oil", "The Rock and Roll Show" and "The Rockin' Boppin' Waltz". Vocal support is provided by the Merry Melody Singers. Arranged and conducted by Jerry Kennedy. Produced by Shelby Singleton at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
June 27, 1962 : BO DIDDLEY records his new single, "You Can't Judge A Book By the Cover"/"I Can Tell" (Checker 1019, July). It reaches # 48 on the pop charts and # 21 on the R&B charts. Four other tracks are laid down. The instrumental "Sad Sack" will be issued on the LP "Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 2984, August). "Rock and Roll" stays in the vaults until the release of the 12-CD set "The Chess Years, 1955-1974" (Charly REDBOX 8) in 1993. "Get Away From Here" and a second version of "Aloha" have never been released. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / lead guitar) ; Peggy Jones (rhythm guitar/ backing vocals) ; Jerome Green (maracas / backing vocals) ; Willie Dixon (bass) ; Frank Kirkland (drums). Produced by Ralph Bass in Chicago.
June 27, 1962 : CARL PERKINS does his final recording session for Columbia Records (10:00 - 13:00). Recorded are three tracks : the single "Hambone"/ "Sister Twister" (Columbia 42514, July) and "I've Just Got Back From There" (Columbia 42753, March 1963, c/w "Forget Me", recorded on March 9, 1962). Personnel : Carl Perkins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law at Columbia Studio in Nashville. (He and Grady Martin stay in the studio, see below.)
June 27, 1962 : MARTY ROBBINS enters Columbia's Nashville studio after Carl Perkins has left. He records four tracks for the LP "Return Of the Gunfighter" (Columbia CL 2072, September 1963) : "San Angelo", "Fastest Gun Around", "Tall Handsome Stranger" and "Red Hills Of Utah". Also two songs for the album "Hawaii's Calling Me" (Columbia CL 2040, June 1963) : "Hawaiian Wedding Song" and "Hawaiian Bells". Personnel : Marty Robbins (vocals / guitar) ; Grady Martin, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
June 27, 1962 : HANK SNOW records what will become his first number one (on the country charts) since 1954 : "I've Been Everywhere", coupled with "Ancient History" (RCA 47-8072, August). Also a # 68 pop hit. Personnel : Hank Snow (vocals / guitar) ; Harold Bradley, Velma Smith, Howard White (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Chubby Wise (fiddle) ; Bill Ackerman (drums) ; The Glaser Brothers (background vocals). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
June 27-29, 1962 : Marathon session for ETTA JAMES at the Chess Studio in Chicago. She records her next single, "Stop the Wedding"/"Street Of Tears" (Argo 5418, July, # 6 R&B, # 34 pop), the LP "Etta James Sings For Lovers" (Argo LP 4018, September) and three unissued tracks. From the LP, two songs are released as singles : "Fools Rush In" (Argo 5424, October, c/w "Next Door To the Blues" from a session in December 1961) and "How Do You Speak To An Angel" (Argo 5430, December, c/w "Would It Make Any Difference To You", recorded on November 15, 1962). Arranged by Riley Hampton. Produced by Leonard Chess.
June 28, 1962 : THE DRIFTERS record three tracks at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "Up On the Roof"/"Another Night With the Boys" is a single release in October (Atlantic 2162). A major hit (# 5 pop, # 4 R&B). Also issued as a 45 is "I Feel Good All Over", the later B-side of "I'll Take You Home" (recorded on April 12, 1963, Atlantic 2201), issued in August 1963. Personnel : Rudy Lewis (lead vocals) ; Charlie Thomas, Dock Green, Tommy Evans (background vocals) ; Al Casement, Don Arnone, Bob Bushnell (guitars) ; George Duvivier (bass) ; Carole King, Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Jimmy Sedlar, Jimmy Nottingham (trumpets) ; Jimmy Cleveland, Frank Sarocco (trombones) ; Bobby Rosengarden, George Devens (percussion) ; Gary Chester (drums). Plus five strings. Arranged and conducted by Gary Sherman. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
June 1962, unknown date : The instrumental group BOOKER T AND THE MG's records their first and biggest hit, "Green Onions"/"Behave Yourself" (Stax 126, July). A # 1 R&B hit (for four weeks) and a # 3 pop hit. Personnel : Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Lewis Steinberg (electric bass) ; Al Jackson, Jr (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart in Memphis.
June 1962, unknown
date : RUTH BROWN records the LP "Gospel Time" (Philips PHM 200-055,
September) in Nashville, with vocal support by the Milestone Singers. Tracks :
"Morning Train", "Will the Circle Be Unbroken", "Deep
River", "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands", "Milky
White Way", "I've Got Shoes", "Satisfied" (also
released as a single, Philips 40119, May 1963), "Just A Closer Walk
With Thee", "Peace In the Valley", "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"
and "Walk With Me Lord". Produced by Shelby Singleton.
June 1962, unknown date : JACKIE DeSHANNON records material for her next two singles, "Just Like In the Movies"/"Guess Who" (Liberty 55484) and "You Won't Forget Me"/"I Don't Think So Much Of Myself Now" (Liberty 55497, September). The latter will become her first UK release. Produced by Dick Glasser in Hollywood.
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, John Klompenhouwer, Tony Watson and Neil Slaven/Mike Leadbitter.
Dik
JULY 1962
July 3, 1962 : Another UK session by GENE VINCENT, at EMI's Abbey Road
Studio in London. Four tracks are recorded, released on two UK singles.
"Be Bop A Lula 62"/"King Of Fools" comes out in August
(Capitol CL 15264) and "Held For Questioning"/"You're Still In
My Heart" in February 1963 (Capitol CL 15290). Backing by Charles
Blackwell's orchestra and chorus. Produced by Bob Barratt.
July 3-4, 1962 : At Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona, DUANE EDDY cuts "(Dance With the) Guitar Man", the A-side of his next 45, released in September (RCA 47-8087, c/w "Stretchin' Out", recorded on May 10, 1962). A major hit (# 12 USA, # 4 UK). One other track is laid down, "Lonely Boy, Lonely Guitar", which will hit the market in May 1963 (RCA 47-8180, c/w "Joshin'" from a session on April 2, 1963). This one peaks at # 82 US and # 35 UK. Both tracks will be overdubbed by the vocal group The Blossoms (Darlene Wright, Fanita James, Gracia Nitzsche), in Hollywood. They are billed as The Rebelettes on the label. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / leader) ; Donnie Owens (guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Larry Knechtel (piano) ; Bob Taylor (drums). Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
Friday, July 6, 1962 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records more tracks for the album "Golden Hits" (Imperial LP 9202, August) : "Honky Tonk", "Live It Up", "Bony Moronie", "Rockhouse" and "What'd I Say". "Live It Up" is also released as a single in August (Imperial 5870, c/w “...And Then There Were Drums", recorded on July 7). Produced by Eddie Ray and Sandy Nelson in Hollywood. See also July 20 and 31.
July 9, 1962 : BOB DYLAN is at Columbia Recording Studio A in New York City where he records four tracks for his second LP, "The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan" (Columbia CL 1986, May 27, 1963) : "Bob Dylan's Blues", "Blowin’ In the Wind", "Honey Just Allow Me One More Chance" and "Down the Highway". Three other songs are recorded, now available on "The 50th Anniversary Collection" (2012), which also includes outtakes of the songs mentioned above. Produced by John Hammond.
July 11, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS undertake a session in Hollywood,
at United Recording Corporation. "Don't Ask Me To Be Friends"
is released on Warner Bros 5297 in October (c/w "No One Can Make My
Sunshine Smile", from a session on September 20, 1962). "Chains"
is first released in 1984 on the Magnum Force LP "Nice Guys"
(UK). A second version of "He's Got My Sympathy" (previously
recorded in November 1961) makes its first appearance on the 7-CD box
"The Price Of Love" (Bear Family BCD 16511) in 2005. Personnel :
Tommy Allsup, Glen Campbell, Bill Pitman, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Red
Callender (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Plus 5 violins, 2
cellos and a viola. Conducted by Carole King. Engineered by Bones Howe.
July 12, 1962 : Final Warner Bros session for BOB LUMAN, probably at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. The four tracks recorded end up on two singles : "Hey Joe"/"The Fool" (Warner Bros 5299, August) and "Envy"/ "You're Everything" (Warner Bros 5321, November). Backing by members of the Nashville A-Team. Supervised by Wesley Rose.
July 12, 1962 : At EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London, CLIFF RICHARD
records "Razzle Dazzle" and "Reelin' and Rockin'", which
are held in the can until 1965, when the tracks appear on an LP simply
titled "Cliff Richard" (Columbia SX 1709). Also recorded is "A
Forever Kind Of Love", which will be released on an EP of the same
name (Columbia SEG 8347) in September 1964. Backing by the Shadows
and the Norrie Paramor orchestra. Produced by Norrie Paramor. See also July
20.
July 12, 1962 : MARTY ROBBINS cuts three songs for the LP "Hawaii's Calling Me" (Columbia CL 2040, June 1963) : "Lovely Hula Hands", "The Night I Came Ashore" and "Echo Island". Personnel : Billy Byrd, Jack Pruett (guitars) ; Jerry Byrd (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
July 13, 1962 is the recording date of the future # 1 hit "He's A Rebel" by THE CRYSTALS. It is a well-known fact that the Crystals do not actually sing on the record. The lead singer is Darlene Wright of the Blossoms who would be rechristened Darlene Love by Phil Spector in January 1963. Vocal support comes from the other two Blossoms, Fanita James and Gloria Jones, and from Bobby Sheen. There were two guitarists, Howard Roberts and Tommy Tedesco, two bass players (unheard of at the time!), Ray Pohlman and Jimmy Bond, two sax players, Steve Douglas and Nino Tempo, Al De Lory played piano and Hal Blaine drums. Released on Philles 106 on August 14, with "I Love You Eddie" (by the regular Crystals, from a different session) on the flip-side. Arranged by Jack Nitzsche. Produced by Phil Spector. Engineered by Larry Levine at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
July 16, 1962 : After an enormously successful tour of South Africa, Jim Reeves, Chet Atkins and Floyd Cramer decide to record an album of South African songs for the S.A. market. On this day CHET ATKINS records his contribution to the the LP ("Jim Reeves, Floyd Cramer, Chet Atkins In Suid-Afrika", RCA 31.630, South African release only) : "Westewindje", "Outa In Die Langpad", "Mossie Se Moses" and "Marie". Personnel : Chet Atkins (guitar / producer) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; more details unknown. Location is the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. See also July 23.
July 16-17, 1962 : Marathon session by BROOK BENTON at Columbia Studio in Nashville. Of the 18 tracks recorded, eight end up on four singles, all Top 10 R&B hits. "Lie To Me"/"With the Touch Of Your Hand" is his next 45 (Mercury 72024, August) and peaks at # 3 R&B, # 13 pop. "Hotel Happiness"/"Still Waters Run Deep" follows in November (Mercury 72055, # 2 R&B, # 3 pop). "I Got What I Wanted" will be coupled with "Dearer Than Life", for release on Mercury 72099 in March 1963 (# 4 R&B, # 28 pop, B-side # 59 pop). "My True Confession"/"Tender Years" is a June 1963 release (Mercury 72135, # 7 R&B, # 22 pop). Most of the other tracks will appear on the LP "Singing the Blues" (Mercury MG 20740, September) and two tracks remain unissued. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Harold Bradley, Kelso Herston (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Ray Stevens (organ / trumpet) ; Bill Justis (trumpet) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Merry Melody Singers (vocal chorus). Arranged by Jerry Kennedy and Bill Justis. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
July 17, 1962 : WILLIE NELSON records five tracks at Nashville's Columbia Studio. "Half A Man"/"The Last Letter" is released as single in January 1963 (Liberty 55532). "How Long Is Forever" is saved until October 1963 for release on Liberty 55638 (c/w "You Took My Happy Away", recorded on February 20, 1963). "You Wouldn't Even Cross the Street" and "Take My Word" are first released on the 2-CD "Early Years : The Complete Liberty Masters" (Liberty CDP 8-28077-2) in 1994. Junior Huskey plays bass ; more session musicians unknown. Produced by Tommy Allsup.
July 18, 1962 : BARRY MANN records and produces "Hey Baby I'm Dancin'", which will become the A-side of his new single in August (ABC-Paramount 10356, c/w "Like I Don't Love You", from a session on September 30, 1961). Arranged by Alan Lorber. Location is New York City.
Thursday, July 19, 1962 : One month after his discharge from the US Army, OTIS WILLIAMS records a solo single at the King studio in Cincinnati : "Only Young Once"/"When We Get Together". Release on King 5682 in August. Produced by Syd Nathan.
July 20, 1962 : Two weeks after his last session, SANDY NELSON returns to the studio. Four tracks are recorded for the album "Country Style" (Imperial LP 9203, August) : "The Battle Of New Orleans", "Wolverton Mountain", "The Tijuana Jail" and "Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor". The fifth number from this date is "Be Bop Baby", which will become the twelfth track for the "Golden Hits" LP (Imperial LP 9202, August) and is also released as a single in December (Imperial 5904, c/w "Let the Four Winds Blow", recorded on September 25, 1962). Produced by Eddie Ray and Sandy Nelson in Hollywood.
July 20, 1962 : CLIFF RICHARD records a track for the American market, the Bacharach-David composition "Wonderful To Be Young". US release in October on Dot 16399, c/w "Got A Funny Feeling" from a session on April 19, 1961. First UK release on the EP "A Forever Kind Of Love" (Columbia SEG 8347) in September 1964. Backing by the Shadows (personnel see below) and Max Harris on piano, plus a female chorus recruited from the Mike Sammes Singers. Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London.
July 20, 1962 : After backing Cliff Richard, THE SHADOWS record a number of their own, "Sweet Dreams" (instrumental). It will be issued on the EP "The Boys" (Columbia ESG 7881) in October. In Norway and Denmark it will be released as a single. Personnel : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Brian Locking (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road studio in London, England.
July 23, 1962 : Another session at the Abbey Road Studio : JOHN BARRY and his orchestra record "The James Bond Theme", for the first James Bond movie, "Doctor No". The B-side, the old Ella Mae Morse hit "Blacksmith Blues", will be recorded on August 19. Released on Columbia DB 4898 on September 21. "The James Bond Theme" will reach # 13 on the UK charts. Arranged by John Barry, produced by John Burgess.
July 23, 1962 : First Capitol session for BOBBY DARIN, at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. Selected for the new single are "If A Man Answers" and "A True True Love" (Capitol 4837, September). A # 32 hit. "I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now" will become the B-side of "As Long As I'm Singing" (recorded on July 25) in February 1964 (Capitol 5126). The drummer is Earl Palmer, other details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Nik Venet. Bobby records no less than 37 titles between July 24 and 31, but nothing remotely approaching rock n roll. Most of these recordings end up on the albums "Oh! Look At Me Now" (Capitol T 1791), "Earthy!" (Capitol T 1826) and "Golden Folk Hits" (Capitol T 2007). Producers : Nik Venet, Tom Morgan.
July 23, 1962 : JIM REEVES records four songs for the South African market, released on the LP "Jim Reeves, Floyd Cramer, Chet Atkins in Suid-Afrika" (RCA 31.630, South Africa, 1962) : "Tahiti", "Bolandse Nooientjie", "Die Ou Kalahari" (also released as a # 1 hit single in South Africa) and "Ek Verlang Na Jou". Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Leo Jackson, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Junior Huskey (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Bill Ackerman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. See also July 16.
(Circa) July 23, 1962 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records his four songs for the "In Suid-Afrika" album (see above) : "Boereseun", "Kaapsedraai", "Bloemfontein Se Rose" and "Zambesi". "Kaapsedraai" is also released as a single in the USA, on the B-side of "(These Are) The Young Years" from a session on March 13, 1963 (RCA 47-8171, April 1963), with the addition "The South African Cape Reel" on the label. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
July 23, 1962 : In New York City, THE MARCELS record the A-side of their new single, the social commentary "Friendly Loans" (Colpix 651, August). The lower deck, "Loved Her the Whole Week Through", is a leftover from their first Colpix session, on February 15, 1961. Two other tracks are laid down. "Lollipop Baby" is released on Colpix 665 in November, coupled with "Allright, Okay, You Win" from a session on September 1, 1961. "Blue Heartaches" is first released on the CD "The Best Of the Marcels" (Rhino CD R2 70953) in 1990. Produced by Stu Phillips.
Tuesday, July 24, 1962 : At Nashville's Columbia Studio, BILL JUSTIS records eight tracks for the LP "Bill Justis Plays 12 Big Instrumental Hits" (Smash MGS 27021) : "The Stripper", "Mexico", "Wonderland By Night", "Calcutta", "Last Date", "Theme From A Summer Place", "Stranger On the Shore" and "Take Five". Unissued from this session is "Sleep Walk". The other four tracks will be recorded in August. Vocal support is provided by the Stephen Scott Singers. Produced by Shelby Singleton.
July 27, 1962 : LOWELL FULSON records material for two singles : "Shed No Tears"/"Can She"(Checker 1027, October) and "Love Grows Old"/"Trouble With the Blues" (Checker 1046, June 1963). Location unknown, probably Los Angeles.
July 30, 1962 : JOHNNY CASH records three tracks at Columbia Studio in Nashville. "(There'll Be) Peace In the Valley" is released as a single on October 26 (Columbia 42615, c/w "Were You There", recorded on August 21, 1962). The other two numbers, "Casey Jones" and "Waiting For A Train", are included on the LP "Blood Sweat and Tears" (Columbia CL 1930), which is released in February 1963. Personnel : Johnny Cash (vocals / guitar) ; The Carter Family (vocals) ; Maybelle Carter (autoharp) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Unknown (banjo) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
July 31, 1962 : EDDY ARNOLD records the A-side of his next 45, "Does He Mean That Much To You" (RCA 47-8102, November), which will peak at # 5 on the country charts and # 98 on the pop charts. The reverse is "Tender Touch", recorded on May 4, 1962. Two other tracks are recorded, "The Green Leaves Of Summer" and "The Battle Of New Orleans", both for the album "Our Man Down South" (RCA LPM 2596, January 1963). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Bill Ackerman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor studio in Nashville.
July 31, 1962 is the date of the only 1962 session by THE COASTERS. "The Climb, Parts 1 & 2" is released on Atco 6234 in September. Part 1 is the vocal side, part 2 is an instrumental. Original title : "The Slime" (rejected by Jerry Wexler). Also recorded is "Bull Tick Waltz" (Atco 6251, February 1963, c/w "The P.T.A." from a session on January 10, 1963). Personnel : Carl Gardner, Billy Guy, Will 'Dub' Jones, Earl Carroll (vocals) ; Billy Butler, Curley Palmer, Bucky Puzzarelli (guitars) ; Al Lucas (bass) ; Mike Stoller (piano / arranger) ; Wilbur 'Dud' Bascomb, Lamar Wright (trumpets) ; Harry DeVito (trombone) ; King Curtis or Buddy Lucas (tenor sax) ; Gary Chester (drums). Plus a string section (on "The Climb"), arranged by Alan Lorber. Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
July 31, 1962 : Final Columbia session by LARRY COLLINS, at Nashville's Columbia Studio. The result is the single "Hey Mama Boo-A-Lacka"/"More Than A Friend", released on August 24 (Columbia 42534). The third track from this session, "The Pied Piper Poodle", is first released in 1983, on the Larry Collins / Joe Maphis LP "Rockin' Rollin'" (Bear Family BFX 15106). Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Dutch McMillin (trumpet) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
July 31, 1962 : Third July session by SANDY NELSON and his drum kit. He
records the remaining eight numbers for the "Country Style" LP (Imperial
LP 9203, August) : "Waterloo", "The Wild Side Of Life",
"Four Walls", "Fraulein", "Geisha Girl",
"Bimbo", "Chew Tobacco Rag" and "North Wind".
Also laid down are three tracks for the album "Compelling Percussion"
Imperial LP 9204, his third August LP release!) : "Drums - For Drummers
Only", "Drums - For Strippers Only" and
"Civilization". Glen Campbell plays guitar and banjo on the
"Country Style" tracks, more details unknown. Produced by Eddie Ray
and Sandy Nelson at an unknown Hollywood studio.
July 1962, unknown date : NARVEL FELTS records the single "Lovelight Man"/ "Larry and Joellen", which is released on Renay 303, probably in December. A third track from this session, "Slippin' and Slidin'", remains in the can until 1990, when Bear Family issues the Narvel Felts CD "Memphis Days" (Bear Family BCD 15515), which also includes the other two tracks. Produced by Roland Janes at Sonic Studio in Memphis.
(Probably) July 1962, unknown date : SCREAMIN' JAY HAWKINS records a single with PAT NEWBORN, "Nitty Gritty"/"Ashes" (Chancellor 1117, August) in Philadelphia, with unknown personnel. Arranged and conducted by Russ Faith. Produced by Bob Marcucci and Russ Faith.
July 1962, unknown date : PETER, PAUL AND MARY record their version of "If I Had A Hammer" (Warner Bros 5296, August), which will peak at # 10 on the Billboard charts. The reverse, "Gone the Rainbow", also stems from this session. A third track, "Settle Down (Goin' Down That Highway)" will appear in January 1963 (Warner Bros 5334, c/w "500 Miles" from a February session) and reaches # 56. Personnel : Paul Yarrow, Paul Stukey, Mary Travers (all vocals / guitars) ; more details unknown. Produced by Albert B. Grossman in New York City (probably Bell Sound Studio).
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels and Bear
Family.
AUGUST 1962
August 1, 1962 : One-track session by DUANE EDDY at Audio Recorders in Phoenix, Arizona. "Twangsville" will get its first release on the album of the same name in July 1965 (RCA LPM 3432). Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar / leader) ; Donnie Owens (guitar) ; Dave Campbell (bass) ; Don Robertson (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Jimmy Troxel or Bob Taylor (drums). Plus an unknown vocal chorus and handclaps. Produced by Lee Hazlewood.
August 6, 1962 : Pianist FLOYD CRAMER records his next single, "Swing Low"/ "Losers Weepers" (RCA 47-8084, September). "Piano Roll Rock" will be used as a track for the album "Swing Along With Floyd Cramer" (RCA LPM 2642, January 1963). A second version of "Zambesi" (previously recorded for the "In Suid Afrika" LP) remains unissued. Arranged by Anita Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
August 6, 1962 : WARNER MACK has resigned with Decca, after an earlier stint in 1957-58. It is the beginning of a 10-year affiliation with the label, with 10 Top 10 country hits between 1964 and 1969. "Afraid To Look Back"/"I Wake Up Crying" becomes his first new single for the company (Decca 31436, October). Unissued from this session is "The Heart You Break". Produced by Owen Bradley at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 7, 1962 : Time for a new single by THE CHAMPS. "Limbo Dance"/"Latin Limbo" appears in the third week of August, on Challenge 9162. The A-side features overdubbed vocals by the group members and will spend one week at # 97 on the Billboard Hot 100. The undubbed version (without vocals) will later be released on the 2-CD set "The Challenge Album Collection" (One Way OW 34488, 1997). "Fandango" is an alternate version of "Latin Limbo" and is eventually released on the 5-CD set "Much More Tequila" in 2008. Personnel includes Plas Johnson on sax. More details unknown. Produced by Dave Burgess in Hollywood, California.
August 8, 1962 : Three-track session by THE BEACH BOYS at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood. "Ten Little Indians" is chosen as the A-side of their next single (Capitol 4880, November 26) and will reach # 49 in Billboard's Hot 100. The flip-side is "County Fair", which will be recorded on 6th September. "Chug-A-Lug" and "The Shift" are tracks for their first LP, "Surfin' Safari" (Capitol T 1808, October). Personnel : Mike Love (lead vocals) ; David Marks, Carl Wilson (guitars) ; Brian Wilson (bass) ; Dennis Wilson (drums). All members contribute harmony and backing vocals. Produced by Nik Venet.
August 8-9, 1962 : MARTY ROBBINS records the LP "Devil Woman" (Columbia CL 1918, September), except for the title track which was laid down on April 10. Titles : "Ain't Life A Crying Shame", "Time Can't Make Me Forget", "In the Ashes Of An Old Love Affair", "Hands You're Holding Now", "Worried", "Little Rich Girl", "Progressive Love", "I'm Beginning To Forget", "Love Is A Hurting Game", "Kinda Halfway Feel", "The Wine Flowed Freely". Personnel : Grady Martin (lead guitar / arranger) ; Jack Pruett (guitar) ; Walter Haynes (steel guitar) ; Jerry Byrd (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Louis Dunn (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 9, 1962 : BRENDA LEE cuts six tracks, also at Nashville's Columbia Studio. Her new single is "All Alone Am I"/"Save All Your Lovin' For Me", released on September 24 (Decca 31424). The A-side reaches # 3 in Billboard, the B-side # 53. The subsequent single is "Your Used To Be" (Decca 31454, January 28, 1963), which peaks at # 32. The reverse is "She'll Never Know", laid down on December 8, 1962. "He's So Heavenly" will be used as the B-side of "I'm Losing You" (Decca 31478, April 8, 1963) and charts in its own right (# 73). Unissued from this session are "Anyone For Love" and "Just Half A Love". Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley.
August 9, 1962 : Probably the final Sun session for CHARLIE RICH. (Some of his session dates are unknown.) "Sittin' and Thinkin'"/"Finally Found Out" is released on Phillips International 3582 (October 18) and "There's Another Place I Can't Go" on Phillips International 3584 in April 1963. (Flip is "I Need Your Love" from an unknown session date, probably 1959.) "Gentle As A Lamb" and "Goodbye Mary Ann" are first released in 1971 on the LP "A Time For Tears" (Sun International LP 123). Personnel : Charlie Rich (vocals / piano) ; Kelso Herston (guitar) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Bill Ackerman (organ) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; James Wilkerson (drums). Plus four violin players. Produced by Billy Sherrill at Sam Phillips Recording Studio in Nashville.
August 13, 1962 : Four-track session by SOLOMON BURKE in New York City. "Stupidity" will be used as the B-side of the # 66 pop hit "Can't Nobody Love You" (from a session on March 15, 1963). Release on Atlantic 2196 in June 1963. "Send Me Some Lovin'" is included on the LP "If You Need Me" (Atlantic SD 8085), also released in June 1963. The two other songs, "Poppin'" and "Let's Face It", are still lingering in the vaults. Backing vocals by The Van Dykes (who will record their own version of "Stupidity" the next day, for release on Atlantic 2161). More details unknown. Arranged by Garry Sherman. Produced by Jerry Wexler and Bert Berns.
August 13, 1962 : HOWARD CROCKETT is at Columbia Studio in Nashville to
record three tracks. The single "Trail Of Tears"/"Jessie And the
Glendale Train" is released in October on Smash 1782. "The Great
Titanic" stays in the vaults until 2007, when it is included on Crockett's
CD "Out Of Bounds" (Bear Family BCD 16794). Personnel : Jerry Kennedy
(guitar) ; Buddy Killen (bass) ; Ray Stevens (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ;
The Stephen Scott Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Shelby Singleton.
August 13, 1962 : VINCE EVERETT's second session for the ABC-Paramount label yields the great rocker "I Ain't Gonna Be Your Low Down Dog No More", c/w the Cleveland Crochet number "Sugar Bee" (ABC-Par. 10360, September). Two other tracks, "Baby I Don't Care" and "Mean Old Frisco" are consigned to the vaults. Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Joe South, Wayne Moss (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Ray Stevens (piano) ; Charlie McCoy (harmonica) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Produced by Felton Jarvis at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 14, 1962 : ROY ORBISON pays another visit to the RCA Victor
Studio in Nashville. On this day he records "Leah" and "Workin'
For the Man", which are coupled for release in September (Monument
467). Both sides will enter the charts, peaking at # 25 and # 33
respectively. The third track from this session, "(I Get So)
Sentimental" is saved until July 1965 for release on the LP
"Orbisongs" (Monument MLP 8035). Backing by Bob Moore's
orchestra and chorus. Produced by Fred Foster.
August 15, 1962 : BRIAN HYLAND records the A-sides of his next two singles. "Warmed Over Kisses (Left Over Love)" will be released in the first week of September (ABC-Paramount 10359, c/w "Walk A Lonely Mile", recorded on 26th September, 1961). A # 25 hit. "I May Not Live To See Tomorrow" follows in November on ABC-Paramount 10374 (c/w "It Ain't That Way At All", from a session on September 25, 1961). That single will peak at # 69. Unissued from this session is a first attempt at "I Wish Today Was Yesterday". Hyland will return to the song in January 1963. Arranged by Stan Applebaum in New York City.
August 15, 1962 : CLAUDE KING records the follow-up to "Wolverton Mountain", "The Burning Of Atlanta" (Columbia 42581, September). A # 10 country hit, # 53 pop. The B-side, "Don't That Moon Look Lonesome" is recorded the next day, along with "I've Got the World By the Tail" (Columbia 42630, November, # 11 country). The B-side of the latter is "Shopping Center", laid down on June 26, 1962. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano on August 15) ; Bill Pursell (piano on August 16) ; Rufus Long (flute on August 15) ; Boots Randolph (sax on August 16) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a violin section on August 16. Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 15, 1962 : TOMMY ROE spends all day at a New York studio to record eleven tracks for his first album, "Sheila" (ABC-Paramount 432, November). Titles : "Little Hollywood Girl", "Think About the Good Times", "There's A Great Day A-coming", "Blue Ghost", "There Will Be Better Years" (also a single, ABC-Paramount 10515, January 1964), "Look At Me", "I Found A Love", "Heartbeat", "Maybellene", "Susie Darlin'" and "Piddle de Pat". The latter two numbers are coupled for single release in September (ABC-Paramount 10362). "Susie Darlin'" will peak at # 35. Unissued from this session is "Katy Did". Produced by Felton Jarvis.
Monday, August 20, 1962 : JIMMY DEAN records his next 45, "Gonna Raise A Ruckus Tonight"/"A Day That Changed the World" (Columbia 42600, October 26). One other track is recorded, "When I Grow Too Old To Dream" (unreleased / destroyed). Personnel : Grady Martin (guitar / arranger) ; Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Karl Garvin (trumpet) ; Buddy Harman, Doug Kirkham (drums). Produced by Don Law at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 21-22, 1962 : Recording activity at the Columbia Studio in
Nashville continues with a two-day session by JOHNNY CASH. On the first day he
records the single "Busted"/"Send A Picture Of Mother"
(Columbia 42665, December, a # 13 country hit), "Were You There (When
They Crucified My Lord)" (Columbia 42615, October) and the LP track
"Another Man Done Gone" ("Blood, Sweat And Tears" LP,
Columbia CL 1930). During the evening of August 22, Cash waxes four
further tracks for the "Blood, Sweat And Tears" album (released
in February 1963) : "Tell Him I'm Gone", "Roughneck",
"Chain Gang" and "Nine Pound Hammer". "I'll Be
All Smiles Tonight" is held in the can until Bear Family releases the
LP "The Unissued Johnny Cash" (BFX 15016) in 1978. Personnel : Johnny
Cash (vocals / guitar) ; The Carter Family (vocals) ; Maybelle Carter
(autoharp) ; Luther Perkins (electric guitar) ; Marshall Grant (bass) ; Bob
Johnson (five-string banjo, and acoustic 12-string guitar on August 22) ; Bill
Pursell (piano) ; W.S. Holland (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank
Jones.
August 22, 1962 : Don Law is a busy man. Preceding Johnny Cash's evening session, he supervises an afternoon session by DR. FEELGOOD (Piano Red), who records his next single : "The Same Old Things Keep Happening" /"Let's Have A Good Time Tonight" (OKeh 7161, October). Two other tracks, "I Feel Good" and "It's A Sin To Tell A Lie", stay in the can until the release of Bear Family's 4-CD set "The Doctor's In!" (BCD 15685) in 1993. Personnel : Willie Perryman (vocals / piano) ; Curtis Smith, Roy Lee Johnson, Beverly Watkins (guitars) ; Long John Hobbs (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bobby Lee Tuggle (drums). Produced by Don Law at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
d for the new single are "Ten Lonely Guys" and "Lover's Lane" (Dot 16391, rush-released). A # 45 hit. "Mexican Joe" is also released as a single (Dot 16416, October, c/w "In the Room", recorded on October 17, 1961). Five other songs are laid down, four of them originally unissued, but now available on the Bear Family box-set "The Sixties : 1960-1962" (BCD 16776). Personnel : Al Henderson, Alan Reuss, Howard Roberts (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Gene Garf (piano) ; Carl Fortina (accordion) ; Richie Frost (drums). Plus unknown horns and strings. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Randy Wood.
August 23, 1962 : SAM COOKE is at Hollywood's RCA Victor Studio to record the A-side of his next single, "Nothing Can Change This Love" (RCA 47-8088, September). A # 2 R&B hit, # 12 pop. Flip is "Somebody Have Mercy", from a session on February 15, 1962. One other track is laid down, "I'm Gonna Forget About You", which will be included on the LP "Three Great Guys : Paul Anka, Sam Cooke, Neil Sedaka" (RCA LPM 2720, February 1964). Personnel : Rene Hall (guitar / arranger) ; Edward Beal (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). More details unknown. Produced by Hugo & Luigi.
August 23, 1962 : Two-track session by saxophonist KING CURTIS. "Slow Drag" is eventually issued as a single in August 1965 on Capitol 5490 (c/w "The Prance" from a session on March 12, 1965). "New Dance" will see its first release on the CD "Blow Man Blow!" (Bear Family BCD 15670) in 1992. Produced by Dave Kavanaugh.
Friday, August 24, 1962 : PHIL SPECTOR assembles a cavalry of musicians at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood for a recording of "Zip-A-Dee Doo-Dah" from the 1946 Walt Disney movie "Song of the South". He credits the final result to BOB B. SOXX AND THE BLUE JEANS. The reverse is the instrumental "Flip And Nitty", recorded at a later date. The single is released in the last week of October (Philles 107) and will peak at # 8 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Darlene Wright (lead vocal) ; Fanita James, Bobby Sheen (backing vocals) ; Billy Strange (electric guitar) ; John Anderson (acoustic guitar) ; Jimmy Bond (upright bass) ; Wallick Dean (Fender bass) ; Carol Kaye (Danelectro bass) ; Al DeLory, Nino Tempo (piano) ; Steve Douglas (tenor sax) ; Jay Migliori (baritone sax) ; Hal Blaine (drums) ; Frank Capp (percussion). Arranged by Jack Nitzsche. Produced by Phil Spector. Engineered by Larry Levine.
August 24, 1962 : RUFUS THOMAS records his first (solo) single for the
Stax label : "It's Aw' Rite"/"Can't Ever Let You Go" (Stax
126, September). Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Lewis Steinberg (bass) ;
Al Jackson, Jr. (drums) ; Unknown (trumpet, tenor sax, baritone sax). Produced
by Jim Stewart at the Stax studio in Memphis.
August 24, 1962 : SHEB WOOLEY cuts another single for MGM : "Give the Ball To Willie B."/"The Legend Of Echo Mountain" (MGM 13094, September). Backing by unknown members of the Nashville A-Team. Produced by Jim Vienna at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
August 25, 1962 : DAVID BOX records the single "Waitin'"/"I Do the Best I Can" (Joed 717, March 1963), at Ben Hall's studio in Big Spring, Texas. Personnel : David Box (vocals / guitar) ; Doug Walding (bass) ; David Box and Ray Rush (overdubbed backing vocals). More details unknown. Arranged by Ray Rush.
August 27, 1962 : BOOKER T AND THE MG's record ten tracks for their
first album, "Green Onions" (Stax LP 701, October) : "Rinky-Dink",
"Twist And Shout", "I Can't Sit Down", "Comin' Home
Baby", "A Woman, A Lover, A Friend", "I Got A Woman",
"Stranger On the Shore", "Mo' Onions" (also a single, Stax
142, December), "Lonely Avenue" and "The One Who Really Loves
You". Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Lewis Steinberg (bass) ; Booker
T. Jones (organ) ; Al Jackson Jr. (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart at the Stax
studio in Memphis.
August 27, 1962 : SUE THOMPSON records one of her biggest hits, "James (Hold the Ladder Steady)". Released in September on Hickory 1183 (c/w "My Hero", from a session on February 2, 1961). Peak position : # 17. Also issued as singles are "Suzie" (Hickory 1217, May 1963) and "Looking For A Good Boy" (Hickory 1270, July 1964). "Fan Club" is first released on the LP "Paper Tiger" (Hickory LPM 121) in January 1965. Produced by Wesley Rose at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
August 29, 1962 : Second Chancellor session by JOHNNY BURNETTE. Both "I'm Losing My Mind" and "The Old Man In the Country" stay in the can until 2003, when Bear Family releases the 9-CD box "The Train Kept-A Rollin' : Memphis To Hollywood" (BCD 16438). Produced by Jimmy Bowen at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
August 30, 1962 : At Radio Recorders in Hollywood, ELVIS PRESLEY cuts two tracks for the LP (and film) "It Happened At the World's Fair" : "Happy Ending" and "Relax" (RCA LPM 2697, April 1963). Personnel : Scotty Moore, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Don Robertson (electric piano / celeste) ; Clifford Scott (sax) ; D.J. Fontana (drums). Produced by Leith Stevens.
August 30, 1962 : NEIL SEDAKA records the A-side of his new single "Next Door To An Angel" (RCA 47-8086, September). A # 5 hit. The B-side, "I Belong To You" (recorded on March 4, 1959) is a track from Neil's first LP. A first attempt at "Bad Girl" goes unissued. Produced by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner at RCA Victor Studio A in New York City.
August 1962, unknown date : BO DIDDLEY is at the Chess Studio in Chicago where he records five tracks for his next album, which is simply titled "Bo Diddley" (Checker LP 2984, October). Titles : "Mama Don't Allow No Twistin'", "Babes In the Woods", "Who May Your Lover Be" and two instru- mentals, "Give Me A Break" and "Diddling". "Bo's A Lumberjack" will be included on the subsequent LP, "Bo Diddley And Company" (Checker LP 2985, January 1963). Three numbers from this session remain unissued : "Place Of Business", "Original Man" and an untitled instrumental. Personnel : Bo Diddley (vocals / guitar) ; The Duchess (second guitar on "Diddling") ; Chester Lindsey (bass) ; Unknown (harmonica) ; Jerome Green (maracas) ; Billy Downing or Edell Robertson (drums) ; The Bo-ettes (vocal group).
August 1962, unknown date(s) : Sax man ACE CANNON records the LP "Looking Back" at Royal Recording Studio in Memphis (Hi HL 12008, October 18). The twelve tracks are : "Looking Back", "Harlem Nocturne", "Someday", "My Blue Heaven", "Jealous Heart", "Blue Prelude", "I Love You, Yes I Do", "Volare", "Lazy River", "September Song", "Night Life" and "Foggy River". Selected for single release is "Volare"/"Looking Back" (Hi 2057, also October). Produced by Joe Cuoghi.
August 1962, unknown date : ESTHER PHILLIPS (formerly known as Little
Esther) makes a big comeback after several years of absence from the
studio. "Release Me"/"Don't Feel Rained On" is released on
Lenox 5555 in October and will reach the number one position on the
R&B charts in December (also # 8 pop). Backing vocals by the Anita
Kerr Singers. More details unknown. Arranged by Cliff Parman. Produced by Bob
Gans in Nashville.
August 1962, unknown date : First recording session by DIONNE WARWICK, at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. "Don't Make Me Over"/"I Smiled Yesterday" is released in October on Scepter 1239. "Don't Make Me Over", originally the B-side, reaches # 21 on the Billboard pop charts (# 5 on the R&B charts). Arranged by Burt Bacharach. Written and produced by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
With thanks to Frank Frantic, Bill Daniels, Michel Ruppli and Bear Family.
Dik
SEPTEMBER 1962
September 4, 1962 : First recording session of THE BEATLES (not counting the auditions for Decca on January 1 and for EMI on June 6). Drummer Pete Best is dismissed from the group in favour of Ringo Starr. They record "How Do You Do It" (unissued until 1995, "Anthology 1") and 15 takes of "Love Me Do" under the supervision of George Martin, who is not satisfied with the results. On Tuesday September 11, the group returns to EMI's Abbey Road studio in London. In George Martin's absence, Ron Richards is now sole producer. Richards isn't happy with the drum sound on "Love Me Do" and brings in studio drummer Andy White (whose fee amounts to ￡5 15 s). Recorded are "P.S. I Love You", a remake of "Love Me Do" and a few first attempts at "Please Please Me", while Ringo sits quietly in the control box, next to Richards. "Love Me Do"/"P.S. I Love You" is released on October 5 on Parlophone R 4949. Peak position on the UK charts : # 17. In the USA "Love Me Do" will top the charts in May 1964 (for one week), on Tollie 9008, with "P.S. I Love You" reaching # 10.
September 4, 1962 : CARLA THOMAS records an answer song to Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home To Me", called "I'll Bring It Home To You". The flip, "I Can't Take It", is also laid down at this session. Release on Atlantic 2163 in the last week of September. Peak positions : # 9 R&B, # 41 pop. The location is Nashville. Producer and personnel unknown.
September 5, 1962 : First of two PATSY CLINE sessions this month. The four tracks from this date will be released on four different singles. "Why Can't He Be You" appears at the end of September (Decca 31429, c/w "Heartaches" from a session on February 12, 1962). "Leavin' On Your Mind" is the subsequent single (Decca 31455, November) and reaches # 8 on the country charts. (For the reverse, see September 10.) "When You Need A Laugh" is a September 1963 release (c/w "I'll Sail My Ship Alone", cut on February 7, 1963). "Your Kinda Love" sees a release in February 1964 on Decca 31588 (c/w "Someday You'll Want Me To Want You" from a session on February 4, 1963). Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton, Randy Hughes (guitars) ; Harold Bradley (6-string electric bass) ; Bob Moore (acoustic bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Rita Faye Wilson (autoharp) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires (vocal chorus). Plus 4 violins, 1 viola and 1 cello. Produced by Owen Bradley. See also September 10.
September 5, 1962 : PERCY MAYFIELD records four tracks in Los Angeles. “Never Say Naw” is coupled with “Life Suicide” for release on Tangerine 927 in October. “Baby Please” follows in May 1963 (Tangerine 931) ; the other side (from a later session) is a remake of Mayfield’s 1952 Specialty recording “The River’s Invitation”. “Memory Pain” is released in January 1964 (Tangerine 935), also paired with a song from a later session (“You Don’t Exist No More”). Produced by Ray Charles, who also plays piano.
September 5-6, 1962 : THE BEACH BOYS record more tracks for their first LP, "Surfin' Safari" (Capitol T 1808, October) : "Heads You Win, Tails I Lose", "Summertime Blues", "Cuckoo Clock", "County Fair" (also released as the B-side of "Ten Little Indians", Capitol 4880, November 26), "Little Girl (You're My Miss America)" and "Moon Dawg". "Land Ahoy" (recorded on September 6) is first released in 1983 on the LP "Beach Boys Rarities". Personnel : Mike Love (lead vocals on most tracks) ; David Marks, Carl Wilson (guitars) ; Brian Wilson (bass / lead vocals on "Cuckoo Clock") ; Dennis Wilson (drums / lead vocals on "Little Girl"). All five members contribute harmony and backing vocals. Produced by Nik Venet at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood (except "Land Ahoy", produced by Brian Wilson).
September 5-7, 1962 :
RAY CHARLES records the LP "Modern Sounds In Country and Western Music,
Vol. 2" (ABC-Paramount 435, October). Five tracks are also released
as singles : "You Are My Sunshine"/"Your Cheating
Heart" (ABC-Paramount 10375, November, # 7 and # 29), "Take These
Chains From My Heart"/"No Letter Today" (ABC-Paramount 10435,
March 1963, # 8) and "Making Believe" (ABC-Paramount 10481, B-side of
"Busted" from a later session). The other tracks are :
"Midnight", "Someday (You'll Want Me To Want You)",
"Don't Tell Me Your Troubles", "Oh Lonesome Me", "I'll
Never Stand In Your Way", "Hang Your Head In Shame" and
"Teardrops In My Heart". Chart placings are from the Billboard Hot
100 (pop). Arranged by Gerald Wilson (September 5-6), Jack Halloran and Marty
Paich (September 7). Produced by Sid Feller and Ray Charles in Los
Angeles.
September 7, 1962 : PAT BOONE records four songs for the film "The Main Attraction" : the title song, "Si Si Si", "Gondoli Gondola" and "Amore Baciami". In the UK "The Main Attraction" is coupled with "Amore Baciami" for release on London HLD 9620 on November 2, to coincide with the London world premiere of the film. It will become Boone's last UK chart entry, peaking at # 12. In the USA, all four songs will appear on the EP "Pat Boone Sings Songs From The Main Attraction" (Dot 16498, June 1963). Prior to that, "The Main Attraction" is released as a single (Dot 16474, May 1963), coupled with a cover of Russ Conway's UK hit "Always You And Me" (from a session in November 1962). Personnel : Alan Reuss, Howard Roberts, Tommy Tedesco (guitars) ; Larry Breen (bass) ; Ernie Hughes (piano) ; Carl Fortina (accordion) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Unknown (horns, strings). Produced by Randy Wood and Pat Boone at Radio Recorders in Hollywood.
Saturday, September 8, 1962 : ESKEW REEDER (Esquerita) cuts four songs, all issued as singles. "We Had Love"/"Never Again" hits the market in November (Minit 658). "The Flu" will appear on the Instant label (3258) in July 1963 (c/w "Undivided Love" from a session on March 2, 1962). "I Woke Up This Morning (With My Mind On My Baby)" is released in two parts on Instant 3268 in November 1964. Personnel : Eskew Reeder (vocals / organ) ; Allen Toussaint (piano / producer) ; John Boudreaux (drums / percussion) ; The Esquerettes (vocal group). More details unknown. Location is Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans.
September 8, 1962 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS records their new single, "That Did It"/"Varsity Rock", for release on Challenge 9174 in October. Unissued from this session is "Midnight Spiritual". Produced by Dave Burgess at an unknown Hollywood studio.
September 8, 1962 : BOBBY MITCHELL is back with Imperial and records four tracks at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans, all written or co-written by Dave Bartholomew. "When First We Met"/"My Southern Belle" is released in November on Imperial 5882. The other two tracks, "I'll Fiddle While You Cry" and "Oh Yeah" are first released on Bobby's Bear Family 2-CD "I'm Gonna Be A Wheel Someday" (BCD 15961) in 1997. Produced by Dave Bartholomew.
September 9, 1962 : Final Mercury session of JOHNNY PRESTON. His last single for the label is "Let the Big Boss Man (Pull You Through)"/"The Day After Forever" (Mercury 72049, October). Two other tracks, "Sounds Like Trouble" and "Don't Know Why", are rejected. Personnel : Ray Edenton, Jerry Kennedy (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Merry Melody Singers (vocal chorus) ; Unknown (horns, strings). Arranged by Bill Justis. Produced by Bill Haley at the Columbia Studio in Nashville.
September 10, 1962 : Five days after her previous session, PATSY CLINE returns to Columbia Studio in Nashville. "Tra Le La Le La Triangle" will become the B-side of "Leavin' On Your Mind" (see September 5) in November (Decca 31455). "Back In Baby's Arms" will come out on Decca 31483 in April 1963 (a month after her premature death) as the B-side of "Sweet Dreams", recorded on February 4, 1963. "That's How A Heartache Begins" is also released as a single (Decca 31616), in April 1964 (c/w "Love Letters In the Sand", also laid down on February 4, 1963). Personnel is the same as on September 5, minus Rita Faye Wilson. Add: Bill Pursell (organ).
September 10-12, 1962 : Like Patsy Cline, HAWKSHAW HAWKINS will be killed in a plane crash on March 5, 1963. Ironically, he has a session on the same day as Patsy. Divided over three days, he records an entire album of 12 songs at the King studio in Cincinnati ("All New Hawkshaw Hawkins", King LP 808, November). All songs will also be released as singles (1962-64), including the number one country hit "Lonesome 7-7203" (c/w "Everything Has Changed", King 5712, February 1963), which enters the country charts two days before his death.
September 11, 1962 : Four-track session by JERRY LEE LEWIS at the Sam Phillips Studio in Nashville. Two tracks are selected for the next 45 : "Good Golly Miss Molly" and "I Can't Trust Me In Your Arms Anymore" (Sun 382, November 5). "My Pretty Quadroon" is first released on the Dutch LP "Jerry Lee Lewis Collectors Edition" (Sun NY-6) in 1975. Yet another version of "Waiting For A Train" is laid down ; this one will eventually see a release on Jerry's 8-CD Bear Family box (BCD 15420) in 1989 ("Classic Jerry Lee Lewis"). Personnel : Jerry Lee Lewis (vocals / piano) ; Kelton Herston, Fred Carter (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; Unknown (vocal chorus). Produced by Sam Phillips.
September 11-13, 1962 : During a three-day session, CONWAY TWITTY records songs for the LP "R & B '63" (MGM SE 4089, February 1963). "Swanee River Rock" is unissued and lost. The other ten songs are : "Lookin' Back", "Pledging My Love", "It's Too Late" (also issued as a single, MGM 14355, January 1972), "I Almost Lost My Mind", "I Got A Woman", "My Babe", "Let the Good Times Roll", "Don't Cry No More", "Fever" and "Boss Man". The latter two tracks will be coupled for single release in October 1972 (MGM 14447). Personnel : Al Bruno, Grady Martin, Harold Bradley (guitars) ; poss. Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus a brass section and an unknown vocal chorus. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio B in Nashville.
September 12, 1962 : GLEN CAMPBELL records his new single at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood : "Long Black Limousine"/"Here I Am" (Capitol 4856, October). "Prima Donna" is also released as a single (Capitol 4925), in February 1963 (c/w "Oh My Darlin'", recorded on the previous day). Two other tracks, "Be Honest With Me" and "I Hang My Head And Cry", will be included on the LP "Too Late To Worry, Too Blue To Cry" (Capitol T 1881) in March 1963. Personnel : Glen Campbell (vocals / acoustic guitar) ; Allen Reuss (guitar) ; Carl Tandberg (bass fiddle) ; Richie Frost (drums). More details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Nik Venet.
September 12, 1962 :
The vocal group THE EARLS records four tracks in New York City. Among them
their only chart entry, "Remember Then", which is released on
Old Town 1130 in November (c/w "Let's Waddle" from a different
session). It will reach # 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. The subsequent 45 is
"Never" (Old Town 1133, February 1963, c/w "I Keep A Tellin'
You" from an unknown session). The remaining two songs,
"Looking' My Way" and "Eyes" are coupled for release on Old
Town 1141 in May 1963. The Earls are : Larry 'Chance' Figueiredo (lead singer),
Bob Del Din, Eddie Harder and Jack Wray. The fifth original member, Larry
Palumbo, died before he had a chance to record with the group. Arranged by
Alan Lorber. Produced by Hy Weiss.
September 13, 1962 : Five-track session by CONNIE FRANCIS in New York City. "I'm Gonna Be Warm This Winter" will become the A-side of her next single (MGM 13116, November, c/w "Al Di La", recorded on October 1, 1962). A # 18 hit. "Playin' Games" is an LP track in the USA, but a single in the UK (MGM 1171, October). The other three tracks, "Movie Queen", "Saturday Night Knight" and "Handy Andy" stay in the can until 1995, when they are included on a rare South African CD ("Once To Every Heart", Teal Records). Arranged by Bill Ramal.
September 13, 1962 : MEL TORME records his only pop hit of the rock era, "Coming Home Baby"/"Right Now" (Atlantic 2165, October). Peak positions : # 36 in the USA, # 13 in the UK. Location is New York City. Personnel : Bucky Pizzarelli, Everett Barksdale, Bob Bushnell (guitars) ; Joe Benjamin, Ben Tucker (bass) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; Sam Taylor (sax) ; Joe Wilder, Ernie Royal (trumpets) ; Gary Chester, Ted Sommer (drums / percussion) ; The Cookies (backing vocals). Arranged and conducted by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Nesuhi Ertegun.
Friday, September 14, 1962 :
THE EVERLY BROTHERS return to United Recorders in Hollywood to record two
tracks. Both "Foolish Doubts" and a first version of "No One Can
Make My Sunshine Smile" remain unissued until the release of the
"From Nashville to Hollywood" CD (Warner Bros 5046-75829-2) in
2005. Personnel : Bobby Gibbons, Howard Roberts, Billy Strange (guitars)
; Ray Pohlman, Alfred McKibbon (bass) ; Charlie Kennedy, Joseph Maini (saxes) ;
Gilbert Falco, Lew McCreary (trombones) ; Norman Jeffries (drums) ; Emil Richards
(percussion). Arranged and conducted by Neal Hefti. See also September 17 and
20.
September 17, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record no less than 36 takes of the Gerry Goffin/Carole King composition "I Can't Say Goodbye To You". Nevertheless, the song is passed over and does not surface until 1977 on "The New Album" (Warner Bros K 56415,UK). Personnel : Sonny Curtis, Tommy Allsup, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Alfred McKibbon (bass) ; Ray Johnson (organ) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; Frank Capp (percussion). Arranged and conducted by M. Hy Lesnick at United Recorders, Hollywood.
September 17, 1962 : KRIS JENSEN records eight tracks at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville. Chosen as the A-side of his new single is "Claudette" (Hickory 1195, November). "Poor Unlucky Me" will follow in February 1963 (Hickory 1203). For the B-sides see September 21. "Donna, Donna" is issued in September 1963 (Hickory 1224, c/w "Big As I Can Dream" from a session on March 29, 1962). "In Time" will be used as the B-side of "Looking' For Love" (recorded on December 5, 1963) in February 1964 (Hickory 1243). "Somebody's Smiling (While I'm Crying)" is also released as a single (Hickory 1285) in November 1964 (c/w "Little Wind-Up Doll", also cut on December 5, 1963). The other three tracks, "Lonely Island", "No One Really Cares" and "I Went A-Walkin'" are included on the LP "Torture" (Hickory LPS-110, late October). Personnel : Harold Bradley, Fred Carter (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; James Isbell (drums) ; Earl Sinks (harmony vocals). Produced by Wesley Rose. See also September 21.
September 17, 1962 :
THE MAJORS record the follow-up to their current hit "A Wonderful
Dream" : "A Little Bit Now (A Little Bit Later)"/"She's A
Troublemaker" (Imperial 5879, October). Both sides will enter the pop
charts, peaking at # 63 and # 83 respectively. "Don't Lose Your Cool"
is a track for their first LP, "Meet the Majors" (Imperial LP 9222,
February 1963). One other, unknown and unissued title was recorded. Lead vocals
by Ricky Cordo. Produced by Jerry Ragovoy at an unknown location.
September 20, 1962 : Third session for THE EVERLY BROTHERS during this month. On this day they record an improved version of "No One Can Make My Sunshine Smile" (previously attempted on September 14), which will be released in October on Warner Bros 5297. In the UK it is the A-side and reaches # 11 on the charts. In the USA, the charting side is "Don't Ask Me To Be Friends", recorded on July 11, 1962. Also laid down is "Dancing On My Feet", which is first released on the Magnum Force LP "Nice Guys" in September 1984. Personnel : Tommy Allsup, Sonny Curtis, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Alfred McKibbon (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums). Arranged by Neal Hefti at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
September 21, 1962 : Four days after his previous session, KRIS JENSEN returns to Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "Don't Take Her From Me" becomes the B-side of "Claudette" (Hickory 1195, see September 17) and "Cut Me Down (From Your Whipping Post)" the reverse of "Poor Unlucky Me" (Hickory 1203). "Come Back To Me My Love" is released as a single (Hickory 1256) in June 1964 (c/w "You've Only Got Me To Lose", recorded on December 5, 1963). "Little Dutch Village" is another track for the "Torture" LP (Hickory LPS 110, late October). Personnel is the same as on September 17, plus Ray Edenton on guitar. Produced by Wesley Rose.
September 22, 1962 :
CLYDE McPHATTER records eight tracks for the album "Rhythm and Soul"
(Mercury MG 20750, November). Two tracks are selected for single release :
"The Best Man Cried"/"Stop" (Mercury 72051, October). Vocal
backups by the Merry Melody Singers. Arranged and conducted by Jerry Kennedy.
Produced by Shelby Singleton at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
September 22, 1962 : ELVIS PRESLEY is in Hollywood (at Radio Recorders) to record eight tracks for the soundtrack LP "It Happened At the World's Fair" (RCA LPM 2697, April 1963). Of these, two songs are released as a single, "One Broken Heart For Sale"/"They Remind Me Too Much Of You" (RCA 47-8134, January 1, 1963). Peak chart positions : # 11 and # 53. The other tracks are : "I'm Falling In Love Tonight", "Cotton Candy Land", "A World Of Our Own", "How Would You Like To Be?", "Beyond the Bend" and "Take Me To the Fair". Personnel : Scotty Moore, Billy Strange (guitars) ; Tiny Timbrell (rhythm guitar) ; Ray Siegel (bass) ; Clifford Scott (sax) ; Dudley Brooks (piano) ; Don Robertson (organ / electric piano / celeste) ; D.J. Fontana (drums) ; The Jordanaires and The Mello Men (backup vocals). Produced by Leith Stevens.
September 24, 1962 : BOB MOORE records six instrumental numbers with his orchestra. "Autumn Souvenirs"/"Flea Circus" is released on Monument 800 in October and "Kentucky"/"Flowers of Florence" on Monument 814 in April 1963. Two tracks remain in the vaults : "Antonella" and "Barbados Melody". Personnel : Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton, Joseph Tanner (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass / leader) ; Boots Randolph, Gene Mullins (saxes) ; Bill McElhiney, Carl Gavin (trumpets) ; Rufus Long (clarinet) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (piano / organ / vibes) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus six violins and a cello. Location : the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 24, 1962 :
GENE SUMMERS records two tracks for Mel-O Records in Chicago, but they remain
unissued for quite some time. "Turnip Greens" will first show up on
the LP "Rockin' With Gene Summers" (White Label LP 8826, Holland) in
1981. A new version of "Someone Somewhere" (previously recorded in
1958) sees its first release in 1997, on the CD "The Ultimate School
Of Rock & Roll" (Crystal Clear Sound CCR 9723-2). Location is the
Clifford Herring Studio in Fort Worth, Texas. Personnel : James McClung (lead
guitar / piano) ; Glenn Keener (guitar) ; David Martin (bass) ; Charlie Mendias
(drums) ; Unknown (strings).
Tuesday, September 25, 1962 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records six tracks for the album "Teenage House Party" (Imperial LP 9215, November) : "Hearts Of Stone", "Tweedle Dee", "Feel So Good" (also a single, Imperial 5932, March 1963), "Let the Good Times Roll", "Let the Four Winds Blow" (also released on a 45, Imperial 5904, December) and "Dumplins". The other six tracks for the LP will be recorded on October 8. Produced by Eddie Ray and Sandy Nelson in Hollywood.
September 26, 1962 : Final Atlantic session for LaVERN BAKER. "See See Rider" and "The Story Of My Love" are selected for her next 45 (Atlantic 2167, November). A # 9 R&B hit (# 34 pop). The other two tracks from this session, "Talk Of the Town" and "Tears" remain unissued. Personnel : Everett Barksdale, Carl Lynch, Joe Richardson (guitars) ; Russ Saunders (bass) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Ernie Hayes (organ) ; Buddy Lucas (tenor sax) ; Sticks Evans (drums) ; Unknown (vocal group). Strings and washboard are overdubbed later. Arranged by Ray Ellis. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun and Jerry Wexler in New York City.
September 26, 1962 : THE PLATTERS record material for two singles in New York City : "Heartbreak"/"Memories" (Mercury 72060, November) and "I'll See You In My Dreams"/"Once In A while" (Mercury 72107, March 1963). The Platters are : Sonny Turner, David Lynch, Zola Taylor, Paul Robi and Herb Reed. Arranged and conducted by Bill Ramal. Produced by Buck Ram.
September 26, 1962 is also the recording date of the RAY PRICE single "Walk Me To the Door"/"You Took Her Off My Hands (Now Please Take Her Off My Mind)", which is released in December on Columbia 42658. Both sides will enter the country charts, peaking at # 7 and # 11 respectively. Personnel : Art Bishop, Grady Martin, Darrell McCall, Pete Wade (guitars) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Tommy Jackson, Shorty Lavender (fiddles) ; Jan Skugstad (drums). Plus a violin section. Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
September 27, 1962 : JOHNNY BURNETTE records his next two singles, "Tag Along"/"Party Girl" (Chancellor 1123, October) and "Remember (I'm the One Who Loves You")/"Time Is Not Enough" (Chancellor 1129, December). Two further tracks from this session, "After the Boy Gets the Girl" and "Nobody Could", are first issued on Johnny's 9-CD Bear Family box-set in 2003 ("The Train Kept-A Rollin'", BCD 16438). Produced by Jimmy Bowen at RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
September 27, 1962 : LLOYD PRICE, who usually records in NYC, does a session at the Columbia Studio in Nashville. His next single is "Under Your Spell Again"/"Happy Birthday Mama" (ABC-Paramount 10372, October). Also released as a single is "Who's Sorry Now" (ABC-Paramount 10412, February 1963, c/w "Hello Bill" from a session on January 29, 1963). Produced by Felton Jarvis.
September 27, 1962 : One-track session by BOOTS RANDOLPH at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. He records the instrumental "Windy and Warm", written by John D. Loudermilk. Release is postponed until July 1963 (Monument 821). The other side is "Lonely Street", recorded in March 1963. Personnel : Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bob Moore (bass). More details unknown. Produced by Fred Foster.
September 27, 1962 : JERRY WALLACE does another session for the Challenge label. "Shutters And Boards"/"Am I That Easy To Forget" is released on October 4 (Challenge 9171) and will peak at # 24 on the Billboard Hot 100. The studio is either Radio Recorders or Gold Star, in Hollywood. Arranged by Gus Levine (spelled Levene on the label).
September 27, 1962 : FARON YOUNG records his next single, “Down By the River”/“Safely In Love Again” (Capitol 4868, November 5), at the Columbia Recording Studio in Nashville. A # 9 country hit. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Lightnin’ Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Ken Nelson.
September 28, 1962 : BEN COLDER (the alter ego of SHEB WOOLEY) records a parody of the Rex Allen hit "Don't Go Near the Indians" called "Don't Go Near the Eskimos". Released in November (MGM 13104), it reaches # 18 on the country charts and # 62 on the pop charts. The reverse is "Louisiana Trapper", recorded on May 10, 1962. Also laid down is "Daddy Kiss And Make It Well", which will be issued in February 1963 (MGM 13125), credited to Sheb Wooley. It is the B-side of "Little Bitty Bilbo Abernathy Nathan Allen Quincy Jones", from a session on December 14, 1962. Produced by Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
September 28, 1962 : HOWLIN' WOLF records four tracks at the Chess studio in Chicago. "Do the Do"/"Mama's Baby" is issued on Chess 1844 in December. "Tail Dragger" is saved until April 1964 for release on Chess 1890 (c/w "Hidden Charms" from a session on August 14, 1963). "Long Green Stuff" stays in the can until 1979, when it appears as a track on the LP "Can't Put Me Out" (Blues Ball LP 2002). Personnel : Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett) (vocals) ; Hubert Sumlin (guitar) ; Jerome Arnold (bass) ; Johnny Jones (piano) ; J.T. Brown (tenor sax) ; Unknown (second sax) ; Junior Blackman (drums).
(Circa) September 1962, unknown date : EDDIE FONTAINE does a one-off session for Warner Bros, which results in two singles. "My Heart Belongs To You"/"I'm Gonna Settle Down" is released in October (Warner Bros 5313, a Top 10 hit in the Philippines) and "All That I Want Is You"/"(It's No) Sin" in February 1963 (Warner Bros 5345). Arranged and conducted by Don Ralke in Los Angeles.
September 1962, unknown date : NEIL SEDAKA overdubs his vocals on two songs for which the backing tracks were recorded in Italy with Luis Enriquez and his orchestra. "Waiting For Never" will become the B-side of "Let's Go Steady Again" (recorded on January 3, 1963) in April 1963 (RCA 47-8169) and "Look Inside Your Heart" ends up on the flip of "The Dreamer" (recorded on May 6, 1963) in July 1963 (RCA 47-8209). Overdubs supervised by Al Nevins and Don Kirshner in New York City.
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels and Bear Family.
Dik
OCTOBER 1962
October 1, 1962 : THE EVERLY BROTHERS record a seasonal album, "Christmas With the Everly Brothers" (Warner Bros W 1483, November), over pre-recorded tapes of The Boys Town Choir and backed by a church organ. Tracks : "Adeste Fideles", "Away In A Manger" (Boys Town Choir only), "The First Noel", "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen", "What Child Is This" (Don solo), "Silent Night", "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing", "Angels From the Realm of Glory" (Boys Town Choir only), "Deck the Halls With Boughs Of Holly", "Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella", "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" (Phil solo), "We Wish You A Merry Christmas". The location is Nashville, more details unknown.
October 2, 3, 5 : DUANE EDDY is in the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville on eleven (!) days in October 1962. His current hit, "Dance With the Guitar Man" will be complemented by 11 other tracks for an LP of the same name (RCA LPM 2648, February 1963). On October 2 he records "The Climb", on October 3 "Limbo Rock" and "Creamy Mashed Potatoes" and on October 5 "Wild Watusi", "The Scrape" and "New Hully Gully". Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Harold Bradley (Danelectro bass on "The Climb") ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Lee Hazlewood. See also October 8/9/11 and October 14-18.
Friday, October 5, 1962 : JERRY REED records material for his next two singles at the Columbia Studio in Nashville : "Overlooked and Underloved"/ "Too Old To Cut the Mustard" (Columbia 42639, November) and "I Want To Be Loved"/"I'll See You In My Dreams" (Columbia 42704, February 1963). Label credit goes to "Jerry Reed and the Hully Girlies". Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
October 8, 1962 : Drummer SANDY NELSON records the remaining six tracks for the LP "Teenage House Party" (Imperial LP 9215, November) : "Night Train", "Day Train", "Limbo Rock", "House Party Rock", "Junior Jive" and "Teenage House Party". "Day Train" and the title track will be coupled for single release on Imperial 5884 in late October. The other six tracks were recorded on September 25. Plas Johnson is the sax player, more details unknown. Produced by Eddie Ray and Sandy Nelson in Hollywood.
October 8, 1962 : NINO TEMPO AND APRIL STEVENS record five tracks in Los Angeles : their next single, "Paradise" (Atco 6248, December), the future chart topper "Deep Purple" (Atco 6273, August 1963), the LP tracks "One Dozen Roses" and "It's Pretty Funny" (Atco 33-156) and an unissued first attempt at "Tweedle Dee Dee". Personnel : Glen Campbell (guitar) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Earl Palmer (drums) ; plus a 4-piece female backing group. More details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Ahmet Ertegun.
October 8, 9, 11, 1962 : DUANE EDDY continues to work on the album
"Dance With the Guitar Man". On October 8 he lays down "Spanish
Twist" and "Loco-Locomotion", on October 9 "Waltz of the
Wind" and "The Last Dance" (not on the LP, unissued until 1980)
and on October 11 "Popeye (the Hitchhiker)" and "Nashville
Stomp". Personnel is the same as on October 2, 3, 5, minus Harold Bradley.
Boots Randolph replaces Jim Horn on sax on October 9. Floyd Cramer plays harpsichord
on "Spanish Twist".
October 9, 1962 : BOBBY VEE records one of his biggest hits, "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes"/"Anonymous Phone Call" (Liberty 55521, November). Will peak at # 3. "All You Gotta Do Is Touch Me" will be issued in the UK only, on the EP "Just For Fun" (Liberty LEP 2084, 1963), credited to Bobby Vee and the Crickets. "His Shadow" is first released in 1999, on the EMI double CD "The Essential And Collectable Bobby Vee". The drummer is Earl Palmer, more details unknown. Arranged and conducted by Ernie Freeman. Produced by Snuff Garrett at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood, California.
October 9 and 11, 1962 : CONWAY TWITTY pays another visit to the
Columbia Studio in Nashville. On the 9th he records two songs ("City
Lights" and "Faded Love") that are held in the can until 1969,
when they appear on the LP "You Can't Take the Country Out Of
Conway" (MGM SE 4650). Also on that album are "Don't Let the
Stars Get In Your Eyes" and "Ages and Ages Ago", recorded
on October 11. "The Pickup"/"I Hope, I Think, I
Wish" becomes the new single (MGM 13112, December). "Hound
Dog" does not see a release until 1972, on the LP "Conway Twitty
Sings the Blues" (MGM SE 4837). Personnel (probably) : Al Bruno, Ray
Edenton, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Lightnin' Chance (bass) ; Floyd Cramer
(piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums). Plus brass and a string section. Produced by
Jim Vienneau.
October 14-18, 1962 : Still in Nashville, DUANE EDDY records the LP "Twang A Country Song" (RCA LPM 2681, April 1963). Tracks : "Making Believe", "Weary Blues", "The Window Up Above", "Have You Ever Been Lonely", "Please Help Me I'm Falling", "Crazy Arms", "Fireball Mail", "Wildwood Flower", "A Satisfied Mind", "Peace In the Valley", "Precious Memories" and "Sugarfoot Rag". Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar) ; Ray Edenton (rhythm guitar) ; Buddy Emmons (steel guitar) ; Unidentified (bass) ; Tommy Jackson (fiddle) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Hargus 'Pig' Robbins (piano on some tracks) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Lee Hazlewood, who also contributes the "oldtimer" voice on "Fireball Mail".
October 15, 1962 : Guitarist RICHIE ALLEN (real name Richard Podolor) records three instrumentals in Los Angeles. "Kick-Off"/"Undercurrent" is released on Imperial 5885 in the first week of November. The B-side sounds suspiciously like "Rumble" by Link Wray. "Butterscotch" will appear in February 1963 on Imperial 5917, coupled with "Sunday Picnic" from a session on April 18, 1962. The sax player on "Kick-Off" is Jackie Kelso. More details unknown.
October 17, 1962 : SOLOMON BURKE does another session for Atlantic in New York City. "Go On Back To Him"/"I Said I Was Sorry" is selected as his next single (Atlantic 2170, December). "Words" is the subsequent 45, released in February 1963 (Atlantic 2180, c/w "Home In Your Heart" from a session on June 25, 1962). "Without Love" remains unissued. Personnel : Bill Suyker, Everett Barksdale (guitars) ; Jimmy Lewis (bass) ; Dick Hyman (organ) ; Paul Griffin (piano) ; Ernie Royal, Jimmy Maxwell (trumpets) ; Tom Pace (tenor sax) ; Jerome Richardson (baritone sax) ; Panama Francis (drums) ; Ted Sommer (percussion). Plus a mixed vocal group. Arranged by Claus Ogerman. Produced by Bert Berns and Jerry Wexler.
October 16, 1962 : THE MIRACLES record “You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me”,
which will be released on November 9 (Tamla 54073), originally as the B-side of
“Happy Landing” (from a different session). But deejays like “You’ve Really ..”
better and the song will peak at # 8 pop and # 1 R&B. The Beatles would
cover the song on their second LP, “With the Beatles”. Personnel : Edie Willis,
Marv Tarplin (guitars) ; more details unknown. Produced by Smokey Robinson, who
is also the lead vocalist. The studio is Motown Studio A in Detroit.
October 17, 1962 : Three-track session by THE CRICKETS at Pacific Enterprises Studio in Hollywood. Their next 45 is "My Little Girl"/"Teardrops Fall Like Rain" (Liberty 55540, January 25, 1963). "Lookin' All Over Town" will get its first release on the CD "Ravin' On From California To Clovis" (Rockstar RSRCD 002, UK) in 1991. Personnel : Jerry Naylor (lead vocals) ; Sonny Curtis (vocals / guitar) ; Glen D. Hardin (vocals / piano) ; Ernie Freeman (piano) ; Red Callender (bass) ; Jerry Allison (drums). Produced by Snuff Garrett. See also October 22.
October 17, 1962 : LLOYD GEORGE (who also recorded under the name Ken Marvin) cuts his second and last single for Imperial : "Come On Train"/ "Frog Hunt" (Imperial 5896, November). It will also appear on Imperial's Post subsidiary (10006). Unissued from this session are "Hold Me Close" and "Forever More". Location unknown.
October 17, 1962 : JOHNNY KIDD and the Pirates cover the Arthur
Alexander number "A Shot Of Rhythm and Blues" for their next single
(HMV POP 1088, November 9, a # 48 UK hit). The lower deck, "I Can
Tell", is also recorded on this day. The Pirates at this time are : Mick
Green (guitar), Johnny Spence (bass) and Frank Farley (drums).
October 17-19, 1962 : Three days of sessions by pianist FLOYD CRAMER, at
RCA Victor's Nashville studio. Two tracks ("Rockin' Rhapsody" and
"Floyd's Piano Blues") remain unissued. The remaining eight
numbers will all be included on the LP "Swing Along With Floyd
Cramer" (RCA LPM 2642, January 1963) : "A Swingin' Safari",
"Georgia On My Mind", "Moonlight Serenade", "Canadian
Sunset", "Melissa", "The Glory Of Love",
"Stranger On the Shore" and "A Taste Of Honey".
"Melissa" is first released as the B-side of "Java"
(recorded on April 24, 1962) on RCA 47-8116 in November. Arranged by Anita
Kerr. Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 18, 1962 : The instrumental group THE PILTDOWN MEN records their final single, "Night Surfin'"/"Tequila Bossa Nova", at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood (Capitol 4875, November 12). The session personnel is quite different from that on the earlier Piltdown Men recordings and includes Dave Burgess on guitar and Leon Russell on piano. Produced by Nik Venet.
October 18, 1962 is the date of the American Folk Blues Festival 1962 in
Hamburg, Germany. A 12-track selection from the event is released on an LP
(Polydor LP 46397, early 1963) and has been in print (on vinyl or CD) ever
since. Artists include MEMPHIS SLIM ("We're Gonna Rock",
"Stewball", "Bye Bye Baby"), JOHN LEE HOOKER
("Let's Make It Baby", "Shake It Baby", "The
Right Time"), T-BONE WALKER ("I Wanna See My Baby", "I'm In
Love"), SHAKEY JAKE, WILLIE DIXON, SONNY TERRY and BROWNIE
McGHEE.
October 19, 1962 : Three-track session by THE FALCONS. "Take This Love I've Got"/"Let's Kiss and Make Up" will be released on Atlantic 2179 in February 1963, while "Alabama Bound" is consigned to the vaults. The Falcons are : Wilson Pickett, Eddie Floyd, Mack Rice and Ornette Robinson. Personnel : Robert Ward, Lance Finnie (guitars) ; Marshall Jones (bass) ; Joe Hunter (piano / arranger) ; Ralph Middlebrook (alto sax) ; Clarence Satchell (tenor sax) ; Cornelius Johnson (drums). Probably recorded in Cincinnati, Ohio.
October 19, 1962 : TIPPIE AND THE CLOVERS record the original
version of "Bossa Nova Baby", which will be covered by Elvis
Presley in 1963. The other side is "My Heart Said (The Bossa
Nova)". Released in November on Tiger 201. Lead vocal by
Roosevelt "Tippie" Hubbard. The group also includes Harold Lucas from
the previous Clovers incarnation. Arranged by Alan Lorber. Produced by Jerry
Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
October 20, 1962 : OTIS REDDING records his first single for the Volt label : "These Arms Of Mine"/"Hey Hey Baby" (Volt 103, November). A # 20 R&B hit (# 85 pop). Personnel : Johnny Jenkins (guitar) ; Steve Cropper (guitar / piano) ; Lewis Steinberg (electric bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Al Jackson, Jr. (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart at the Stax studio in Memphis.
Sunday, October 21 : Also at the Stax Studio in Memphis, RUFUS THOMAS cuts his second single for Stax, "The Dog"/"Did You Ever Love A Woman" (Stax 130, December). It will give Thomas his first chart hit since "Bear Cat" (1953) : # 22 R&B, # 87 pop. Personnel : Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Lewis Steinberg (bass) ; Booker T. Jones (organ / piano) ; Gilbert Caple (tenor sax) ; Floyd Newman (baritone sax) ; Unknown (trumpet, trombone) ; Al Jackson, Jr. (drums). And an unknown male vocal group on the B-side. Produced by Jim Stewart.
October 22, 1962 : Second October session for THE CRICKETS. They record two tracks for the LP "Something Old, Something New, Something Blue, Something Else!!" (Liberty LRP 3272, January 1963) : "Pretty Blue Eyes" and "Love Is Strange". Personnel is the same as on October 17. Produced by Snuff Garrett at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
October 24, 1962 : MARV JOHNSON records four tracks for two singles. "Keep Tellin' Yourself"/"Everyone Who's Been In Love" is released on United Artists 556 on November 27. "Another Tear Falls"/"He's Got the Whole World In His Hands" will follow on April 22, 1963 (United Artists 590). Produced by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
October 25, 1962 : SONNY JAMES records his second and last Dot single : "On the Longest Day"/"The Only Cure" (Dot 16419, November). The location is the Gold Star Recording Studio in Hollywood. Personnel : Ray Pohlman (guitar) ; Melvin Pollan (bass) ; Al DeLory (piano) ; Herb Alpert, Virgil Evans (trumpets) ; Hal Blaine (drums). Produced by Randy Wood.
October 25, 1962 : In Los Angeles, JIMMY McCRACKLIN records "Bitter Pill" (aka "Take the Bitter Like the Sweet"), for release on Imperial 5892 in November. The reverse, "Head Over Flip", although credited to McCracklin, is by Don Wilson (recorded in 1961 and originally released on Gedison's 6156).
October 26, 1962 : BOB DYLAN records "Mixed Up Confusion" and "Corrina Corrina", which are coupled for release as his first single (Columbia 42656, December 14). Also laid down is the Arthur Crudup classic "That's All Right Mama", which is first released on the CD "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan Outtakes" (Vigotone VIGO 115) in 1993. Personnel : Bob Dylan (vocals / harmonica) ; Bruce Langhorne, Howie Collins (guitars) ; Leonard Gaskin (bass) ; Dick Wellstood (piano) ; Herb Lovelle (drums). Produced by John Hammond at New York's Columbia Studio A.
October 29, 1962 : At Nashville's RCA Victor Studio, DON GIBSON lays down four tracks for the LP "God Walks These Hills With Me" (RCA LPM 2878, April 1964) : "Old Ship Of Zion", "Then I Met the Master", "I'd Rather Have Jesus" and "Be Ready". (The other eight tracks will be recorded on November 21-22, 1963.) Personnel : Don Gibson (vocals / guitar) ; Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed (guitars) ; Roy Huskey (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Jordanaires and the Anita Kerr Singers (vocal backups, each 2 sides). Produced by Chet Atkins.
October 29, 1962 : BARRY MANN records the single "Teenage Has Been" for release in November on ABC-Paramount 10380. The reverse is "Bless You", recorded on August 24, 1961, and previously released on Mann's "Who Put the Bomp" LP. Unissued from this October session is "He Cried All the Way To the Bank". Produced by Barry Mann.
October 29 and 31, 1962 : WANDA JACKSON records six tracks for the album
"Love Me Forever" (Capitol T 1911, May 1963) : "Funny How Time Slips
Away", "These Empty Arms", "How Important Can It Be",
"I May Never Get To Heaven", "The Things I Might Have Been"
and "Little Things Mean A Lot". Also laid down (on October 29)
are the single tracks "But I Was Lying" (Capitol 4917, February
1963) and "We Haven't A Moment To Lose" (Capitol 4973, May 1963).
Personnel : Harold Bradley (guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; more details not
known. Produced by Ken Nelson at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
October 1962, unknown date : ARTHUR ALEXANDER records his next single, "Go Home Girl", for release on Dot 16425 in November. It will bubble under the Hot 100, peaking at # 102. The other side, "You're the Reason", is lifted from his first LP and was recorded in March. Produced by Noel Ball in Nashville.
October 1962, unknown date : DORSEY BURNETTE does a session at an
unknown Los Angeles studio, which results in the single "Darling
Jane"/"I'm Waiting For Ya' Baby" (Reprise 20121, late
October). Produced by Steve Venet.
October 1962, unknown date : The vocal group THE CASCADES records their first single, "Rhythm of the Rain"/"Let Me Be" (Valiant 6026, November). A # 3 hit in the USA, also a major hit in many other countries. The Cascades are : John Gummoe (lead vocals), Eddie Snyder, David Szabo, Dave Stevens and Dave Wilson. Personnel : Glen Campbell (guitar) ; Carol Kaye (bass) ; Hal Blaine (drums). More details unknown. Arranged by Perry Botkin, Jr. Produced by Barry De Vorzon at Gold Star studio in Hollywood.
(Circa) October 1962, unknown date : PAUL PEEK does his first session
for Mercury. "Young Hearts"/"A Miss Is As Good As A Mile"
is issued in November, on Mercury 72064. "Fire And Ice" is consigned
to the vaults. Backing vocals by the Merry Melody Singers. Arranged by Ray
Stevens. Produced by Jerry Kennedy at the Columbia Studio in Nashville.
October 1962, unknown date : RAY STEVENS records a Christmas
single, "Santa Claus Is Watching You" (Mercury 72058,
November). A # 45 hit. The other side is "Loved and Lost",
recorded on January 24, 1962. Also laid down is the LP track "Soap
Opera", which will be included on "This Is Ray Stevens" in
August 1963 (Mercury MG 20828). Unissued from this session is "Adults
Only". Backing vocals by the Merry Melody Singers. Produced by Shelby Singleton
at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
With thanks to Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels, Frank Frantik, Peter Stoller, Tony Watson and Bear Family.
Dik
NOVEMBER 1962
November 1-2, 1962 : Two afternoons of sessions by BOBBY BARE. "I'd Fight the World"/"Dear Wastebasket" is selected as his next single (RCA 47-8146, February 1963). "Heart Of Ice" will be used as the B-side of Bobby's big hit "Detroit City" (recorded on April 18, 1963 and released on RCA 47-8183 in May). "Is It Wrong (For Loving You)" and "The Gods Were Angry With Me" get a place on Bare's first album, "Detroit City And Other Hits" (RCA LPM 2776, August 1963). "Candy Coated Kisses" and "I'm Getting Lonely" end up on a later LP, "The Travelin' Bare" (RCA LPM 2955, September 1964). "Baby Don't Believe Him" stays in the vaults until the release of the Bear Family box-set "All American Boy" (BCD 15663) in 1994. Personnel : Grady Martin, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bill Justis, Cam Mullins (trumpets) ; Dana King (trombone) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Chet Atkins at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 1-2, 1962 : WANDA JACKSON continues her 4-day session at Columbia Studio in Nashville (see also October 1962). She records a further six songs for the LP "Love Me Forever" (Capitol T 1911, May 1963) : "Have You Ever Been Lonely", "Please Love Me Forever", "Since I Met You Baby", "May You Never Be Alone", "Pledging My Love" and "What Am I Living For". On the 2nd of November she also records two tracks that will be released as singles : "Whirlpool", which will become the B-side of her new single, "One Teardrop at A Time" (from a session on April 26, 1962, Capitol 4884) in December, and "Sympathy", released on February 11, 1963 (Capitol 4917, c/w "But I Was Lying", recorded on October 29, 1962). Personnel includes Harold Bradley (guitar) and Bob Moore (bass) ; further details unknown. Produced by Ken Nelson.
November 2-3, 8-10, 1962 : JOHN LEE HOOKER (vocals / guitar) records a live double album (20 tracks) at Sugar Hill in San Francisco. Released as "Live At Sugar Hill", first on Galaxy 8205 (December 1962), reissued on Fantasy LP 24706 (1972) and on CD as Ace CDCHD 938 in 1990. For the track listing see http://www.angelfire.com/mn/coasters/hook/livesuga.htm
November 2, 5, 7, 8, 11, 1962 : AMOS MILBURN is now contracted to Motown and records fourteen tracks on five different days. Most of these are re-recordings of his Aladdin hits, like "Chicken Shack Boogie", "Bewildered", "In the Middle Of the Night", "Bad Bad Whiskey" and "One Scotch, One Bourbon, One Beer". Five tracks were originally unissued, but became available in 1996 on the Motown CD "The Motown Sessions, 1962-1964". The other nine tracks are first released on the LP "Return Of the Blues Boss" (Motown LP 608) in July 1963. Only one track is released as a single, "I'll Make It Up To You Somehow" (Motown 1038, February 27, 1963, c/w "My Baby Gave Me Another Chance" from a session on October 13, 1962). Personnel varies from day to day and includes (apart from Amos Milburn on vocals and piano) Hank Cosby (tenor sax), Ralph Williams and Robert White (guitars), Clarence Isabell (bass), George Fowler (organ) and the vocal group The Andantes. A very young Stevie Wonder plays harmonica on "Chicken Shack Boogie". Produced by Clarence Paul in Detroit.
November 5-6, 1962 : TOMMY ROE records seven songs in two days, at the Columbia Studio in Nashville. First released are "Town Crier" and "Rainbow" on ABC-Paramount 10379 (last week of November), followed by "Gonna Take A Chance"/"Don't Cry Donna" in January 1963 (ABC-Paramount 10389). The other three tracks, "Sensations", "Standing Watch" and "You're My Happiness" will be included on the LP "Something For Everybody" (ABC-Paramount ABC 467) in early 1964. Produced by Felton Jarvis.
Tuesday, November 6, 1962 : In Los Angeles, JOHNNY OTIS records
material for two singles : "Somebody Call the
Station"/"Yes" (King 5707, January 1963) and "Bye Bye
Baby (I'm Leaving You)"/"The Hash" (King 5790, September
1963). "The Hash" is an instrumental track. The pianist on this
session is Ernie Freeman, further details unknown.
November 7, 1962 : THE SILHOUETTES, of "Get A Job" fame, record their only single for Imperial : "Which Way Did She Go"/"The Push" (Imperial 5899, late November). The lead singer is John Wilson. Arranged by Teacho Wiltshire. Produced by Jerry Ragavoy in New York City.
November 8, 1962 : STEVE ALAIMO records his biggest hit, "Every Day
I Have To Cry"/"Little Girl (Please Take A Chance On Me)" (Checker
1032). Peaks at # 46 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is the last Checker single to
be released in 1962, in mid-December.
Monday, November 12, 1962 : BOOKER T AND THE MG's record the follow-up single to their big hit "Green Onions" : "Jellybread"/"Aw' Mercy" (Stax 131, first week of December). A # 82 hit (pop). Personnel : Booker T. Jones (organ) ; Steve Cropper (guitar) ; Lewis Steinberg (electric bass) ; Al Jackson, Jr. (drums). Produced by Jim Stewart at the Stax studio in Memphis.
(Probably) November 13, 1962 : While "He's A Rebel" is still in the Top 5, THE CRYSTALS record the follow-up single, "He's Sure the Boy I Love", to be released on December 3 on Philles 109. A # 11 hit. As on "He's A Rebel", the Crystals do not actually sing on the record ; Darlene Love is the lead vocalist (again), assisted by her fellow Blossoms Fanita James and Gloria Jones. Phil Spector promised Darlene that this time the record would come out under her own name, but the promise was broken. The other side, the instrumental "Walkin' Along (La-La-La)" was recorded at a different session. Arranged by Jack Nitzsche. Produced by Phil Spector at Gold Star Studio in Hollywood.
November 14-15, 1962 : A two-day Nashville session by ETTA JAMES results in several singles : "Would It Make Any Difference To You" (Argo 5430, December), "Pushover"/"I Can't Hold It Anymore" (Argo 5437, March 1963), "Be Honest With Me" (Argo 5445, July 1963), "I Worry 'Bout You" (Argo 5452, September 1963), "Look Who's Blue" (Argo 5465, March 1964) and the album tracks "Flight 101" and "You Better Do Right" (Argo LP 4040, "Queen Of Soul", January 1965). Arranged by Bert Keyes and Cliff Parman.
November 15, 1962 : Four-track session by the DEL VIKINGS in New York City. Their new single is "An Angel Up In Heaven"/"The Fishing Chant (Te Manu Pakarua)", released on ABC-Paramount 10385 in December. "Too Many Miles" is the subsequent single (ABC-Paramount 10425, March 1963, c/w "Sorcerer's Apprentice", from a 1961 session). The title of the fourth track (unissued) is "A Sudden Attack Of Love". Arranged and conducted by Richard Wolf. "A Pyramid Production."
November 15, 1962 : RICK NELSON's final Imperial session yields only one song, "I Need You". It will be used as the B-side of the Top 10 hit "It's Up To You", which was recorded on June 13, 1962. Release on Imperial 5901 in early December. "I Need You" charts in its own right, peaking at # 83. Personnel : Rick Nelson (vocals / guitar) ; James Burton (lead guitar) ; Glen Campbell (guitar) ; Joe Osborn (bass) ; Ray Johnson (piano) ; Richie Frost (drums). Arranged and produced by Jimmie Haskell at Western Recorders in Hollywood.
November 16, 1962 : CLIFF RICHARD records "Bachelor Boy" for his new single (Columbia DB 4950, November 30). It is a double A-side, coupled with "The Next Time" (recorded on May 10, 1962). A # 1 hit in the UK. Also laid down is the LP track "Big News", for the album "Summer Holiday" (Columbia SX 1472, January 1963). The USA release of "Bachelor Boy" (Epic 9691) is an alternate mix and will spend one week at # 99 on the Billboard charts in August 1964. Backing by the Shadows : Hank Marvin (guitar / piano / backing vocals) ; Bruce Welch (guitar / backing vocals) ; Brian Locking (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio in London, England.
November 19, 1962 : Three-track session by JOHNNY TILLOTSON. "Out Of My Mind" becomes the A-side of his next single (Cadence 1437, February 1963, c/w "Empty Feeling" from a session on January 24, 1963). A # 24 hit. "Judy Judy Judy" ends up on the B-side of "You Can Never Stop Me Loving You" (recorded on July 1, 1963) in July 1963 (Cadence 1437). "Come Softly To Me" is a track for the LP "You Can Never Stop Me Loving You" (Cadence CLP 3067, October 1963). Produced by Archie Bleyer at the RCA Victor Studio in Nashville.
November 20, 1962 : At the same studio, JIMMY ELLEDGE records his next 45, "I Miss You Already"/"You Can Have Her" (RCA 47-8136, January 1963). Also laid down are "Please Love Me Forever", for release on RCA 47-8191 in June 1963 (c/w "Penny's Worth Of Happiness from a session in May 1962) and the unissued "Perhaps". Produced by Chet Atkins.
November 20, 1962 : BILLY GUY (of the Coasters) records four numbers in Detroit City : "It Doesn't Take Much", "The Deodorant Song", "The Prison Break" and "It Ain't Sanitary". The first song is released on ABC-Paramount 10397 in January 1963 (c/w "She's A Humdinger" from a later session). The other three songs are first released on the LP "Hungry" (Joy LP 189, UK) in 1971, which is credited to the Coasters. The ABC archives say "purchased from Double-L Records", so November 20 may be the date that ABC acquired the tracks, not the actual recording date. Arranged by Gil Askey. Produced by Robert Bateman (although the ABC single mentions Felton Jarvis on the label).
November 20, 1962 : JIM REEVES does an afternoon session at Nashville's RCA Victor Studio. "Is This Me?"/"Missing Angel" is chosen as his next single (RCA 47-8127), released on January 8, 1963. A # 3 country hit. "Good Morning Self" will end up on the B-side of the # 2 hit "Welcome To My World" (recorded exactly one year earlier), released in December 1963 (RCA 47-8289). A fourth track, "Teardrops On the Rocks" is posthumously released on the LP "Blue Side Of Lonesome" (RCA LPM 3793) in May 1967. Personnel : Jim Reeves (vocals / guitar) ; Leo Jackson, Velma Smith (guitars) ; Joe Zinkan (bass) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Marvin Hughes (vibes) ; Melvin Rogers (fiddle) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced - as always - by Chet Atkins.
November 20, 1962 is also the recording date of DEL SHANNON's new single, "Little Town Flirt"/"The Wamboo" (Bigtop 3131, December). A # 12 hit in the USA, # 4 in the UK. Personnel : Del Shannon (vocals / rhythm guitar) ; Bucky Pizzarelli (guitar) ; Bob Babbitt (bass) ; Bill Ramal (sax / arranger) ; Max Crook (piano) ; Osie Johnson (drums) ; The Young Sisters (vocal chorus). Produced by Harry Balk at Bell Sound Studio in New York City.
November 21, 1962 : In Los Angeles, THE VENTURES record the single “Skip To M’Limbo”/“El Cumbanchero” (Dolton 68, March 23, 1963). Also laid down is “Windy and Warm”, which will be included on the LP “Surfing With the Ventures” (Dolton BLP 2022, May 1963). The Ventures are : Don Wilson, Bob Bogle (guitars) ; Nokie Edwards (bass) ; Mel Taylor (drums). Produced by Bob Reisdorff and Don Wilson. With special thanks to Bill Daniels for the Cameo-Parkway and Liberty/Dolton info.
Monday, November 26, 1962 : THE BEATLES record their second
single, "Please Please Me"/"Ask Me Why" (Parlophone R
4983), issued on January 11, 1963. A # 2 hit in the UK. First US release
on Vee-Jay 498 on February 7, 1963. The record will reach the # 3 position
on the Billboard charts in March 1964. Also taped are a few attempts at
"Tip Of My Tongue", which the group never bothered to revive.
Produced by George Martin at EMI Studio 2 in London.
November 27, 1962 : CONNIE FRANCIS records five songs for her new album / movie "Follow the Boys" (MGM SE 4123, February 1963). The title song and "Waiting For Billy" are chosen for single release (MGM 13127, February 1963, a # 17 hit). The other three songs are : "Somewhere Near Someplace", "For Every Young Heart" and "On A Little Street in Venice". Arranged by Leroy Holmes. Produced by Danny Davis in New York City.
November 29, 1962 : SAM COOKE cuts his next single, "Send Me Some Lovin'" c/w "Baby Baby Baby" (RCA 47-8129, January 1963). Both sides will enter the Billboard pop charts, peaking at # 13 and # 66 respectively. The top side, previously recorded by Little Richard, reaches # 2 on the R&B charts. Orchestra conducted by Horace Ott. Produced by Hugo and Luigi at the RCA Victor Studio in Hollywood.
Friday, November 30, 1962 : IRMA THOMAS is at Cosimo Recording Studio in New Orleans to record her next two singles : "Two Winters Long"/"Somebody Told You" (Minit 660, December) and "Ruler Of My Heart"/"Hittin' On Nothing" (Minit 666, May 1963). Personnel includes Roy Montrell on guitar and Allen Toussaint on piano and organ. More details unknown. Arranged and produced by Allen Toussaint.
November 1962, unknown date : DAVID HOUSTON records at the Sam Phillips
Recording Studio in Nashville. The result is the single "Sherry's
Lips"/ "Miss Brown", released on Phillips International 3583 in
March 1963. Reissued on Sun 403 in 1966 and on Sun International 1127 in 1972.
Personnel : Jerry Kennedy, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ;
Hargus Robbins (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers
(vocal chorus). Produced by Bob Montgomery and Fred Carter, Jr.
November 1962, unknown date : In New York City, THE ISLEY BROTHERS record the single "Nobody But Me"/"I'm Laughing To Keep From Crying" (Wand 131, January 1963). No chart success, but "Nobody But Me" will reach # 7 (pop) in 1967 in a version by The Human Beinz. Produced by Bert Berns.
With thanks to Frank Frantik, Michel Ruppli, Bill Daniels and Bear Family.
Dik
DECEMBER 1962
December 3, 1962 : BOBBY DARIN records his second Capitol single, "You're the Reason I'm Living"/"Now You're Gone" (Capitol 4897, December 31). A # 3 hit. Also laid down is "If You Were the Only Girl In the World", which has never been issued. Arranged and conducted by Jimmie Haskell. Produced by Nik Venet at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 4, 1962 : JOHNNY "GUITAR" WATSON has a session in Los Angeles with the Johnny Otis Orchestra. Recorded are "Cold, Cold Heart"/"That's the Chance you've Got To Take" (King 5716, February 1963), "I Say I Love You"/"You Better Love Me" (King 5833, January 1964) and, as the fifth track, "In the Evenin'" (King 5774, August 1963, c/w "Gangster Of Love" from a later session).
Wednesday, December 5, 1962 : DUANE EDDY records his next single, "Boss Guitar" (RCA 47-8131, January 1963) in Phoenix, Arizona (Audio Recorders). The B-side, "The Desert Rat", is recorded the next day. "Boss Guitar" will peak at # 28 on the Billboard charts. Personnel : Duane Eddy (guitar, producer) ; James Gray (rhythm guitar) ; Donnie Owens (guitar) ; Jimmy Wilcox (bass) ; Al Simmons (string bass) ; Jim Horn (sax) ; Howard Crook (piano / organ / harmonica) ; Bob Taylor (drums). "Boss Guitar" will be overdubbed by the vocal group The Blossoms (Darlene Love, Fanita James, Gracia Nitzsche) in Hollywood. They are billed as the Rebelettes on the label.
December 6, 1962 : JACK CLEMENT records a single for the Hall-Way label in Houston, Texas : "My Voice Is Changing"/"Time After Time After Time". First released on Hall-Way 1912 in the third week of December, then on Smash / Hall-Way 1796. Produced by Bill Hall.
December 6, 1962 : BOB DYLAN (vocals / guitar / harmonica) records three tracks for the album "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" (Columbia CL 1986, May 27, 1963) : "A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall", "Oxford Town" and "I Shall Be Free". Two other songs, "Hero Blues" and "Whatcha Gonna Do" stay in the vaults until the release of "the 4 CD-set "The 50th Anniversary Collection" in December 2012. Produced by John Hammond in New York City.
December 6, 1962 : DR.
FEELGOOD and the Interns do another session for OKeh Records, in Nashville (Columbia Studio). Only "My Gal Jo"
(not the same song that Piano Red
recorded in 1950) has survived from this session and is released on OKeh 7167 in January 1963. The reverse is
"Bald-Headed Lena", from a session on
April 3, 1962. The other three tracks, "The Double Twist", "Rock Me" and "Jumping the Boogie" are
unissued and considered as lost. Personnel : Willie Perryman (aka Dr. Feelgood, aka Piano Red) (vocals
/ piano) ; Roy Lee Johnson,
Curtis Smith (guitars) ; Howard Hobbs (bass) ; Grady Martin (organ) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Bobby Lee Tuggle (drums). Produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.
December 8, 1962 : In New Orleans, TOMMY RIDGLEY records material for two singles : "Heavenly"/"I Love You Yes I Do" (Ric 993, February 1963) and "I've Heard That Story Before"/"Honest I Do" (Ric 994, May 1963). Personnel : Justin Adams (guitar) ; Chuck Badie (bass) ; Lee Allen (tenor sax) ; Red Tyler (baritone sax) ; Melvin Lastie (trumpet) ; Leo O'Neil (vibraphone) ; Mac Rebennack (piano) ; Cornelius Coleman (drums) ; Unknown (strings, female vocal chorus). Produced by Joe Ruffino.
December 8, 9, 12, 1962 : BRENDA LEE records eleven songs for the album "All Alone Am I" (Decca DL 4370, February 18, 1963) : "My Prayer", "By Myself", "I Hadn't Anyone Till You", "All By Myself", "It's All Right With Me", "I Left My Heart In San Francisco", "Lover", "My Coloring Book", "What Kind Of Fool Am I", "Come Rain Or Come Shine" and "Fly Me To the Moon". (The twelfth track is the title track, recorded on August 9, 1962). Also recorded (on December 8) is "She'll Never Know", which will be used as the B-side of "Your Used To Be" (also waxed on August 9), for release on Decca 31454 on January 28, 1963. Personnel : Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Ray Edenton (guitars) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Boots Randolph (sax) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Produced by Owen Bradley at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
December 10, 1962 : On this day THE SHADOWS record the LP version of "Foot Tapper", which will be included on the LP "Summer Holiday" by Cliff Richard and the Shadows (Columbia SX 3421, January 1963). The hit single version will be waxed on January 8, 1963. On December 13 the group records two tracks, the future # 2 hit "Atlantis" (Columbia DB 7047, May 31, 1963) and "Geronimo" (Columbia DB 7163, November 1963, a # 11 UK hit). A third session on December 21 yields the B-side (of "Shindig") "It's Been A Blue Day" (Columbia DB 7106, September 1963). Personnel on all three occasions : Hank Marvin (lead guitar) ; Bruce Welch (rhythm guitar) ; Brian Locking (bass) ; Brian Bennett (drums). Produced by Norrie Paramor at EMI's Abbey Road Studio.
December 11, 1962 Following the success of "Don't Go Near the Eskimos", MGM wants Sheb Wooley to record an entire LP of parodies, as his alter ego BEN COLDER. On this day he records eight tracks : "Ballad Of A Mean Ole Queen", "I Walk the Line No. 2", "Hello Wall [sic] No. 2" (also released as a single, MGM 13122, February 1963, a # 30 country hit), "Walking the Floor Over You No. 2", "Don't Take Your Cash To Town, John", "A Little Bitty Steer", "The Real Me" and "Devil Woman No. 2". All tracks are released on the album "Spoofing the Big Ones!" (MGM SE 4117, January 1963). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio in Nashville. See also December 14.
December 12, 1962 : One-track session by THE KINGSTON TRIO. "Greenback Dollar" will be released in January 1963 (Capitol 4898) and reaches # 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. The lower deck, "The New Frontier", comes from a session on September 24, 1962. An earlier version of "Greenback Dollar" was recorded on September 25 and issued as an LP track. Personnel : John Stewart (vocals / guitar / banjo) ; Nick Reynolds (vocals / guitar ) ; Bob Shane (vocals / guitar) ; Jack Marshall (guitar). Produced by Voyle Gilmore at the Capitol Tower in Hollywood.
December 12-14, 1962 : THE PLATTERS record the LP "The Platters Sing All Time Movie Hits" (Mercury MG 20782, June 1963). Only one of the twelve tracks is also released as a single : "Here Comes Heaven Again" (Mercury 72129, June 1963, c/w "Strangers" from a later session). The Platters are : Sonny Turner (lead vocals), David Lynch, Zola Taylor, Herb Reed and Paul Robi. Arranged and conducted by David Carroll. Produced by Buck at United Recording Corporation in Hollywood.
December 12, 15, 1962 : DION is now signed to Columbia Records and has his first recording session for the label on December 12. "Will Love Ever Come My Way" will be released on the Ruby Baby" LP in March 1963 (Columbia CL 8810). On December 15, Dion records his first single for the new company, "Ruby Baby"/"He'll Only Hurt You" (Columbia 42662, January 1963). A # 2 hit. Arranged, conducted and produced by Robert Mersey in New York City.
December 13, 1962 : The instrumental group THE CHAMPS records five tracks in Hollywood. Selected for the new single are "Mr. Cool" and "3/4 Mash" (Challenge 9180, January 1963). "Last Night" and "Honky Tonk" are first released on the CD "Tequila : The Very Best of the Champs" (Music Club MCCD 283) in 1996, "Peter Gunn" as a bonus track on "The Champs : The Album Collection" (One Way OW 34488, a double-CD) in 1997. Personnel unknown. Arranged and / or produced by Dave Burgess.
December 14, 1962 : BEN COLDER (Sheb Wooley) records the final three tracks for the album "Spoofing the Big Ones" : "Don't Worry No. 2", "Shudders And Screams" (also a single, MGM 13122, February 1963) and "Release Me No. 2". Wooley also cuts three tracks under his own name : "Little Bitty Bilbo Abernathy Nathan Allen Quincy Jones" (MGM 13125, February 1963), "Don't Talk To Strangers" (first released on the Sheb Wooley CD "Wild and Wooley, Big Unruly Me", Bear Family BCD 16150, in 1997) and "Good Time Charlie" (unissued). Produced by Jim Vienneau at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
December 14-16, 1962 : SAM COOKE records seven tracks for the LP "Mr. Soul" (RCA LPM 2673, February 1963) : "All the Way", "Cry Me A River", "Smoke Rings", "I Wish You Love", "Drifting Blues", "Little Girl" and "These Foolish Things". Orchestra conducted by Horace Ott. Produced by Hugo (Peretti) & Luigi (Creatore) at RCA Studio 1 in Hollywood.
December 15, 1962 : LOUIS JORDAN does a session with Chris Barber's Jazz Band in London, England, but the results stay in the vaults for years. "Is She Is Or Is She Ain't Your Baby"/"Fifty Cents" is released as a single in 1967 (Melodisc 1616, UK). These two tracks will also appear on an LP ("Louis Jordan Swings!", Black Lion 30175) in 1976, along with nine other tracks from the 1962 session : "A Man Ain't A Man", "No Chance Blues", "I'm Gonna Move To the Outskirts Of Town", "Jazz Lips", "Don't Worry 'Bout the Mule", "Choo Choo Ch' Boogie", "I Wish I Could Shimmy Like My Sister Kate", "Black And Tan Fantasy" and "Back Home In Indiana". One track was rejected : "T'ain't Nobody's Business". Personnel : Louis Jordan (vocals / alto sax) ; Eddie Smith (banjo) ; Dick Smith (bass) ; Ian Wheeler (clarinet / alto sax) ; Chris Barber (trombone) ; Pat Halcox (trumpet) ; Graham Burbidge (drums).
Saturday, December 15, 1962 : JACK SCOTT records four tracks which will be released on his next two singles : "Strangers"/"Laugh And the World Laughs With You" (Capitol 4903, January 1963) and "All I See Is Blue"/"Meo Myo" (Capitol 4955, April 1963). Produced by Nik Venet at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
December 17, 1962 : JAMES BROWN is at Bell Sound Studio in New York City. He records four tracks, which will be released on four different singles : "Prisoner Of Love" (King 5739, March 1963, # 6 R&B, # 18 pop), "These Foolish Things" (King 5767, June 1963, # 25 R&B, # 55 pop), "Again" (King 5876, April 1964) and "So Long" (King 5899, June 1964). The latter two songs are first released on the LP "Prisoner Of Love" (King LP 851) in August 1963. Personnel : Billy Butler, Walter Richardson (guitars) ; Lloyd Trotman (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano / organ) ; Panama Francis (drums / tympani). Plus 11 strings and 9 background vocalists. Arranged and conducted by Sammy Lowe. Produced by James Brown and Hal Neeley.
December 18, 1962 : BILL ANDERSON records his biggest hit, "Still"/"You Made It Easy" (Decca 31458, January 28, 1963). It reaches # 8 on the pop charts and # 1 on the country charts (for seven weeks). Also laid down is the LP track "I Wish It Was Mine". Personnel : Ray Edenton, Jerry Kennedy, Grady Martin (guitars) ; Pete Drake (steel guitar) ; Bob Moore (bass) ; Floyd Cramer (piano) ; Buddy Harman (drums) ; The Anita Kerr Singers (vocal chorus). Plus four violins. Produced by Owen Bradley at Columbia Studio in Nashville.
December 19, 1962 : Four-track
session by BOBBY VEE at United Recorders in Hollywood. "Bobby Tomorrow" will be used as the B-side of
"Charms" (Liberty 55530, March 1963),
which was recorded two days earlier. The other three tracks, "Lover's Goodbye", "Dry Your Eyes"
and "Silent Partner" will be included on the LP
"The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Liberty LRP 3285) in April 1963. Arranged by Ernie Freeman.
Produced by Snuff Garrett.
December 22, 1962 : BARBARA GREENE covers both sides of a Little Richard single from 1956 : "Long Tall Sally"/"Slippin' and Slidin'" (Atco 6250, January 1963). Her real name is Barbara Grossman. King Curtis plays the sax, more details unknown. The location is New York City.
December 27, 1962 : In New York City, TARHEEL SLIM & LITTLE ANN record the single "Goodnight Irene"/"Two-Time Loser" (Atco 6259, March 1963). A third track from this session , "Got You On My Mind", is still lingering in the vaults. Tarheel Slim is Alden/Allen Bunn, formerly with the Larks and the Wheels. Little Ann is his wife, Anna Sanford. Together they previously recorded as the Lovers. Personnel : Billy Butler, Napoleon Allen (guitars) ; Abie Baker (bass) ; Ernie Hayes (piano) ; Leroy Glover (organ) ; Buddy Lucas, Sam Taylor (tenor saxes) ; Dud Bascomb (trumpet) ; Panama Francis (drums). Plus an overdubbed 4-piece vocal chorus. Arranged and conducted by Doc Bagby.
December 31, 1962 : On New Year's Eve JOHNNY AND THE HURRICANES have a live session in Hamburg, Germany. Recorded are : "You Can't Sit Down", "Red River Rock”, "Mashed Potatoes”, "Ja Da", "Black & Blue", "The Sheik Of Araby", "Buckeye”, "The Kid", "The Paris Jam" plus seven vocal tracks. All 16 tracks will stay in the can for more than thirty years, until the release of the CD "Johnny and the Hurricanes Live, Volume 1" (Atila ACD 1034, 1995). Personnel : Johnny Paris (sax / vocals) ; Billy Marsh (guitar) ; Bobby Cantrell (bass) ; Eddie Waganfeald (organ) ; Jay Drake (drums). Arranged and produced by Johnny Paris. Engineered by Adrian Barber at the Starclub, Große Freiheit 39, Hamburg.
December 1962, unknown date : Former Sun artist ED BRUCE records material for two singles : "It's Coming To Me"/"The Greatest Man" (Wand 136, May 1963) and "See the Big Man Cry"/"I Won't Cry Anymore" (Wand 140, August 1963). Arranged and conducted by Bill Justis. Produced by Peter Paul at an unknown Nashville studio.
December 1962, unknown date :
The instrumental group THE CHANTAYS records the single "Pipeline"/"Move It" at Wenzel's Music
Town in Downey, California. Both songs were
previously recorded as demos in the summer of 1962. The single is first released on Downey 104 in the last week of December,
then leased to Dot Records, for release on Dot 16440 in January 1963. A #
4 hit and a surf classic. The Chantays are : Bob
Spickard (lead guitar) ; Brian Carman (guitar) ; Warren Waters (bass) ; Rob Marshall (piano) ; Bob Welch (drums). Produced by Bill Wenzel.
(Circa) December 1962, unknown date : JOHNNY CYMBAL records his biggest hit, "Mr. Bass Man"/"Sacred Lovers Vow" (Kapp 503, January 1963). Peak position in Billboard : # 16. "Mr. Bass Man" also features the voice of Ronnie Bright. The third track from this session will become the A-side of the subsequent single, "Teenage Heaven" (Kapp 524, April 1963, c/w "Cinderella Baby" from a later session). This one also enters the charts, peaking at # 58. Arranged by Alan Lorber. Produced by Allen Stanton at Mira Sound Studio in New York City.
Mid-December 1962, unknown
date : Saxophonist BOOTS RANDOLPH re-records "Yakety Sax", previously cut for RCA in 1958 under the name
Randy Randolph. That version didn't chart, but
this new one will, reaching # 35. The other side, "I Really Don't Want To Know", is laid down at the same
session. Released on Monument 804 in
January 1963. Personnel : Boots Randolph
(sax) ; Jimmy Wilkerson (guitar) ; Henry Strzelecki (bass) ; Bill Pursell (piano) ; Jack Greubel (bass). Produced by Fred Foster at the RCA Victor Studio in
Nashville.
With thanks to John Klompenhouwer, Michel Ruppli, Frank Frantik and Henk Gorter.
Dik
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