Big Joe Turner Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Big Joe Turner was born in 1911 in Kansas City, Missouri. He grew up singing in his church choir as a child, and became known as a singing bartender later in life. John Hammond, a renowned jazz critic, discovered Turner and was impressed with his deep baritone voice. Turner’s big break was being involved in the Spirituals to Swing concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 1938. After that, became a popular attraction singing with boogie-woogie piano accompaniment in New York City nightclubs. Turner recorded a top-selling single called Chains of Love in 1951. Some of Turner’s follow-up singles were recorded by upcoming white rock n’ roll musicians, most notably Bill Haley. These songs included Shake, Rattle and Roll and Flip, Flop and Fly. Joe was featured in several films including the documentary Last of the Blue Devils in 1979. Turner died of heart failure in 1985 at the age of 74, and he had been suffering from arthritis, diabetes, and a stroke. We recommend starting your big Joe Turner vinyl collection with the excellent Big Joe Rides Again. Our inventory is usually changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl from blues musicians.

Big Joe Turner, the larger-than-life figure of rhythm and blues and early rock and roll, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Born on May 18, 1911, in Kansas City, Missouri, Turner’s life and career were a journey through the heart of American music, earning him the moniker “Boss of the Blues.”

Growing up in a family deeply connected to the vibrant Kansas City jazz and blues scene, Turner was exposed to music from a young age. His family ran a local church, and gospel music was a significant influence on his early years. However, his interests quickly expanded to include the blues, jazz, and boogie-woogie that thrived in the city during the 1920s and 1930s.

Turner began his career as a singer in the mid-1920s, performing in local clubs and sharing the stage with luminaries like Count Basie and Bennie Moten. It was during these early years that he developed the powerful, raspy voice that would become his signature. His deep, booming voice had an unmatched ability to convey raw emotion, making him one of the most compelling vocalists of his time.

In the 1930s, Turner joined the Count Basie Orchestra, a move that would prove pivotal in his career. His work with the band allowed him to refine his vocal style and become an influential figure in the emerging world of big band and swing music. His recordings with Basie, such as “Cherry Red” and “Roll ‘Em Pete,” are now considered classics of the era.

The 1940s saw a shift in the music industry, with the rise of smaller rhythm and blues bands and the emergence of rock and roll. Big Joe Turner adapted to this changing landscape with remarkable ease. He started recording for various labels and found success with songs like “I Want a Little Girl” and “Lucille.” His 1951 hit, “Chains of Love,” became a chart-topping success and solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the R&B world.

One of Turner’s most iconic songs came in 1954 when he recorded “Shake, Rattle and Roll.” This song would later be covered by Bill Haley & His Comets, helping to bridge the gap between R&B and the burgeoning rock and roll genre. “Shake, Rattle and Roll” is now considered a classic and is an enduring part of the rock and roll canon.

Throughout his career, Turner was a captivating live performer. His dynamic stage presence and electrifying energy made him a favorite at music festivals and venues around the world. He was a trailblazer in the integration of black and white audiences, as his music appealed to a diverse range of listeners during a time of racial segregation.

In the 1960s, Turner’s career experienced a resurgence when he signed with Atlantic Records. He recorded a series of albums and singles that once again showcased his vocal prowess and adaptability. His work during this period includes notable tracks like “Roll ‘Em Pete” and “Lipstick, Powder, and Paint.”

Big Joe Turner’s influence reached far and wide, touching countless musicians who would go on to shape the future of music. His impact on early rock and roll, R&B, and blues is immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and style of artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Jerry Lee Lewis, all of whom drew inspiration from Turner’s electrifying performances and unforgettable voice.

In recognition of his contributions to music, Big Joe Turner received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime, including inductions into the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His legacy endures through his recordings, which continue to inspire musicians and entertain audiences worldwide.

Big Joe Turner’s life and career were a testament to the enduring power of music. His powerful voice, charismatic presence, and ability to connect with audiences transcended genres and generations. His legacy lives on in the hearts of music lovers, ensuring that the “Boss of the Blues” will forever be remembered as one of the true legends of American music. Big Joe Turner’s story is a testament to the enduring power of the blues and the transformative influence of a truly remarkable artist.