Jackie Brenston

Jackie Brenston ( born August 15, 1930 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, † December 15, 1979 in Memphis, Tennessee) was an American rhythm and blues musician. His most famous hit Rocket 88 is considered one of the earliest rock and roll recordings.

Life and career

After the end of his military service in 1947 Brenston learned to play the saxophone. He played in the band of Ike Turner, the " Kings Of Rhythm". On the 3rd or March 5, 1951 they took Rocket 88 at Memphis Recording Service, the forerunner of Sun Records on. Turner had written the piece, yet Brenston was named as the author. And although it had been recorded by the Kings Of Rhythm, it appeared under the name "Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats " on Chess Records # 1458th "Rocket 88 " was the brand name of the latest cars from Oldsmobile.

Rocket 88 was upon its release in April 1951 for five weeks on the first rank of the R & B singles chart and became the recognized prototype of many future rock and roll tracks. Bill Haley took the piece also on - some refer to this version as the first rock and roll recording - Little Richard used the piano intro unchanged for his hit Good Golly Miss Molly.

Brenston was unable to repeat the success of Rocket 88. After attempting a solo career, he played in the band from Lowell Fulson, later at Ike Turner. In the 1960s, it fell into disrepair the alcohol. He died of a heart attack.

Discography

The Discography leads only publications with Brenston on vocals.

Rocket 88 cover versions

• James Cotton
• Bill Haley
• Mike Sanchez
• Charlie Watts
• Sven Zetterberg
• Mitch Woods & His Rocket 88 's
• Bernard Allison
• Nappy Brown
• Commander Cody
• Nine Below Zero
• Jerry Lee Lewis
• Buster Poindexter
• Supercharge
• Rufus Thomas
• Ike Turner
• Muddy Waters