Original Rhythm Kings Band Papers
Scope and Contents
This collection covers .5 linear feet and spans 1953-2016. It contains audio CDs, digitized photos [CDs], photographs, correspondence, news clippings, and two privately-published books which document the bands 50th year reunion in 2010. The history file contains band history, member rosters and other important documents realted to the band. Correspondence files include correspondence related to the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Lafourche charity benefit and the Relay for Life Auction. Additionally, there is a file of correspondence related to their reunion in 2010.
Dates
- 1953-2016
Conditions Governing Use
Physical rights are retained by Nicholls State University. Copyright is retained in accordance with U.S. copyright laws.
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
Sensitive Materials Statement
This collection may contain material(s) with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Researchers are advised that the disclosure of certain information pertaining to identifiable living individuals represented in this collection without the consent of those individuals may have legal ramifications (e.g., a cause of action under common law for invasion of privacy may arise if facts concerning an individual's private life are published that would be deemed highly offensive to a reasonable person) for which Ellender Memorial Library and Nicholls State University assume no responsibility.
- 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