Original Rhythm Kings
Scope and Contents
This collection covers .5 linear feet and spans 1953-2016. It is made up of audio CDs, digitized photos [CDs], photographs, correspondence, news clippings, and privately-published books.
Dates
- 1953-2016
Biographical / Historical
The Original Rhythm Kings Band (1953-1964) played rhythm and blues music throughout South Louisiana. An all-white group, the band played music first recorded by African American musicians, including Fats Domino, Ray Charles, Irma Thomas, and Little Richard. As rhythm and blues evolved into rock and roll, the Rhythm Kings continued to play those songs as soon as they were recorded by their original artists. Bands would record at Matassa’s Studio in New Orleans, then Martin St. Romain (guitar player) purchased the 45 rpm record at a record shop on South Rampart Street, then the band would learn the song that Friday and perform it at the band’s next engagement.
Although the band broke up in 1964, surviving members reunited in 2010. They also performed at a benefit concert for CASA in 2011 and another fundraiser in 2014.
Extent
.5 Cubic Feet
Language of Materials
English
- Author
- Lynn A. Cowles
- Date
- 01/22/2021`
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
Repository Details
Part of the Nicholls State University Archives and Special Collections Repository
Ellender Memorial Library
Nicholls State University
906 E 1st St.
Thibodaux Louisiana 70310 USA
985-448-4621
clifton.theriot@nicholls.edu