Charles Brown was a legendary performer. He began
as a contemporary of Nat King Cole and had a number of hits in
the 1940s. Never as well known by the general public as
he is by fellow musicians, his influence has been acknowledged
far and wide.
The major influence of ...
Ray Charles, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Fats Domino.
His mastery of so many styles of blues is staggering to those of
us lucky enough to have seen him.
-- Bonnie
Raitt
Although he appeared on the bill of the "Biggest Show of Stars of 1957," the truth was that Charles Brown's style of performing
was in eclipse. His career received a shot in the arm a few
years ago when his management was assumed by guitarist Danny
Caron and Bonnie Raitt began to sing his praises and share
the stage with him. Indeed, the picture shown below is from
the cover of a currently available CD that includes two numbers
with Miss Raitt.
Charles Brown was a remarkable performer with a charming and
magnetic personality that was simply irresistible. Your
humble scribe first saw the gentleman at the very show advertised
on the poster which brought you here. I had the pleasure of
spending time with him again aboard the S.S. Norway during the
inaugural Norwegian Cruise Lines "Blues Cruise" in December 1995.
I am sad to report that Mr. Brown passed away January 21,
1999, at the age of 76. Among honorary pallbearers at his
funeral were Blues giant Jimmy McCracklin, band leader/performer
Johnny Otis, and "Little Richard" Penniman. I am reminded
that "Dark Night" was one Charles Brown's biggest hits. Every night hereafter will be a little darker for those who had the opportunity to meet him and
to be touched by this great and gentle man.
Those seeking to enjoy the mastery of Charles Brown and his
style of rhythm and blues, touched with the class of a top-notch
jazz combo, should seek out one of his many CDs currently
available. For a representative sampling of the entire
breadth of his repertoire, I recommend the disc entitled "These Blues" (Verve 314 523 022-2) which includes 11 great numbers. Another CD of interest, "All of Me" (Bullseye Blues 9501)
includes one duet with Ruth Brown as well as another with Dr.
John.
Recordings by Charles Brown are not easy to find, but the
Internet's
leading music shop usually has them. Clicking on
the CD NOW image will take you directly to a list of available
Charles Brown recordings. And if you buy something, there
is a small rebate to yours truly that will help defray the
expense of maintaining this site.
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