Rock and roll's rise in popularity during the 1950s helped create an exciting -- if confusing -- time for musicians, as they tried to find their place in the midst of all that was going on. Many of those with a country background began to gradually move away from the music of the heartland, looking … Continue reading Two Sides Of Smooth – Jerry Wallace
Tag: rockabilly
Bobby Fuller And The Law
There is probably more than a touch of irony in the story of Bobby Fuller, the early rocker who is now mostly remembered for "I Fought The Law (And The Law Won)." After all, the circumstances surrounding the rising young star's death in 1966 have always been the subject of speculation, and there are many … Continue reading Bobby Fuller And The Law
Eddie Cochran – Shooting Star
In a recent piece about the late Hank Cochran, I mentioned that the veteran singer/songwriter had once formed a rockabilly singing duo with another young performer, Eddie Cochran. Although the two were not related they billed themselves as the 'Cochran Brothers' and did well for a while before going on to separate careers. In Eddie's … Continue reading Eddie Cochran – Shooting Star
Reconsidering Roy Head
It probably isn't that unusual for someone to turn in outstanding performances in several types of music and still fall short of sustained stardom. But it is a little surprising that someone as talented as Roy Head, who conquered everything from rock to traditional country to blue-eyed soul, topping the charts with his unforgettable "Treat … Continue reading Reconsidering Roy Head
Buddy Knox vs Buddy Holly
At one time, I thought that Buddy Knox's 1957 chart-topping "Party Doll" was reminiscent of something Elvis might perform. But my opinion changed through the years, and I eventually decided that Knox was probably a little more like his fellow West Texas native Buddy Holly. In addition to sharing a similar background, both wrote a … Continue reading Buddy Knox vs Buddy Holly
Johnny Burnette Mirrored Elvis
It's tempting to wonder what would have become of Johnny Burnette if he hadn't gone fishing that night in 1964. After all, by the time that speedboat came along, he was at a point in his career where he'd managed to pull off the transition from raw rockabilly singer to genuine teen idol, hitting the … Continue reading Johnny Burnette Mirrored Elvis
Puttin’ My Cat Clothes On
One of the things I enjoy about digging through old pictures is how I inevitably stumble onto surprises, in some cases jaw-dropping ones. That would be a good description of how I reacted when I recently found a picture of myself from the Fifties, when I was a teenager and obviously fashion-challenged. I think I … Continue reading Puttin’ My Cat Clothes On
Charlie Feathers – Rockabilly’s Cranky Pioneer
The 1950s must have been a heady time for musicians, especially those in what was then considered the cutting edge of country music. Performers like Bill Haley, the Maddox Brothers, and Carl Perkins were beginning to attract some attention with a sound that had its roots in a variety of styles. Those included Western Swing … Continue reading Charlie Feathers – Rockabilly’s Cranky Pioneer
Johnny Duncan’s ‘Skiffle’ Inspired The Beatles
If you were to ask current music fans what they know about Johnny Duncan, most would either not recognize the name or would think of the country music star who first rose to prominence in the 1970s. But there was an earlier Johnny Duncan and his story makes for a fascinating tale, one that involves … Continue reading Johnny Duncan’s ‘Skiffle’ Inspired The Beatles
Geezer Music Club 