Rufus Thomas Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Check out these new and used Rufus Thomas vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Rufus Thomas vinyl collection with the essential albums Walking The Dog, Crown Prince Of Dance and If There Were No Music. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from soul r&b musicians.

Rufus Thomas: A Pioneering Force in Soul and Rhythm & Blues

Rufus Thomas Vinyl: The Early Days and Rise to Fame

Rufus Thomas, an iconic figure in the world of soul and rhythm & blues, left an indelible mark on the music scene, earning a reputation as a dynamic performer and influential artist. Born on March 27, 1917, in Cayce, Mississippi, Thomas began his musical journey at an early age, showcasing his talents as a singer, dancer, and entertainer. His early exposure to the vibrant blues scene of Memphis laid the foundation for his distinctive style. Here are the Rufus Thomas Tracks and Albums.

Thomas gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, a period marked by the emergence of soul music. His energetic and charismatic stage presence, coupled with his soulful vocals, set him apart from his contemporaries. Thomas’s breakthrough came with hits like “Bear Cat,” a response to Big Mama Thornton’s “Hound Dog,” which showcased his ability to infuse humor into his music.

As Thomas’s popularity grew, he became a staple at Stax Records, a powerhouse label in Memphis that played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Southern soul. His collaboration with the label paved the way for the release of several groundbreaking albums that solidified his status as a soul and R&B legend.

Rufus Thomas Vinyl Albums: A Discography

1. Walking the Dog (1963) Walking the Dog, Thomas’s debut album, is a cornerstone of his discography. Released in 1963, the album features the titular track, a hit single that reached the Billboard Hot 100. The infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics showcased Thomas’s ability to create danceable, soulful music. Tracks like “Can Your Monkey Do the Dog” further exemplify his unique blend of rhythm & blues and humor.
2. Do the Funky Chicken (1970) Building on the success of his earlier releases, Do the Funky Chicken is another standout album in Thomas’s career. The title track became a signature song for Thomas, known for its funky groove and Thomas’s animated dance moves during live performances. The album captures the essence of the funk era, with tracks like “Sixty Minute Man” and “Funky Mississippi.”
3. Crown Prince of Dance (1973) Released in 1973, Crown Prince of Dance further solidifies Rufus Thomas’s reputation as a master of danceable soul. The album features tracks like “Do the Push and Pull” and “The Breakdown,” showcasing Thomas’s ability to create music that not only entertains but also keeps audiences on their feet.
4. Rufus Raps (1980) In the 1980s, Thomas continued to evolve with the times, embracing the burgeoning rap genre. Rufus Raps reflects this transition, blending elements of funk, soul, and rap. The album features tracks like “Rap and Soul” and “Itch and Scratch,” demonstrating Thomas’s adaptability and willingness to experiment with new musical styles.

Influence and Legacy: The Rufus Thomas Sound

Rufus Thomas’s impact on the world of soul and rhythm & blues extends beyond his own discography. His infectious energy and innovative approach to music have influenced numerous artists across genres. The following bands have drawn inspiration from Thomas’s distinctive style:

1. The Isley Brothers The Isley Brothers, known for their soulful vocals and energetic performances, cite Rufus Thomas as a significant influence. Thomas’s ability to infuse humor into his music resonated with the Isley Brothers, who incorporated similar elements into their own soul and R&B compositions.
2. James Brown and the Famous Flames James Brown, often referred to as the “Godfather of Soul,” admired Rufus Thomas’s stage presence and showmanship. Brown’s electrifying performances and dynamic stage persona reflect the influence of Thomas, who set the stage for performers to engage and entertain audiences beyond the music itself.
3. Otis Redding Otis Redding, another legendary figure associated with Stax Records, was influenced by Rufus Thomas’s soulful delivery and stage charisma. Thomas’s impact on Redding is evident in the emotional depth and authenticity that characterize Redding’s performances.

Bridging Generations: Rufus Thomas in Contemporary Music

Rufus Thomas’s influence extends into contemporary music, with artists from various genres acknowledging his contributions to the evolving landscape of popular music. His impact is particularly evident in the work of the following artists:

1. OutKast The hip-hop duo OutKast, comprised of André 3000 and Big Boi, pays homage to Rufus Thomas in their music. Sampling Thomas’s iconic track “Do the Funky Chicken” in their hit single “Rosa Parks,” OutKast blends soul, funk, and hip-hop, creating a fusion that mirrors Thomas’s genre-defying approach.
2. Amy Winehouse The late Amy Winehouse, known for her soulful voice and vintage-inspired sound, drew inspiration from Rufus Thomas’s era. Thomas’s influence on Winehouse is evident in her revival of classic soul and R&B elements, contributing to the neo-soul movement that gained popularity in the early 2000s.
3. Mark Ronson Producer and musician Mark Ronson, celebrated for his eclectic approach to music, has cited Rufus Thomas as a source of inspiration. Ronson’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and eras echoes Thomas’s innovative spirit, showcasing the enduring relevance of Thomas’s influence.

Conclusion: Rufus Thomas Vinyl – A Timeless Legacy

Rufus Thomas’s enduring legacy in the realms of soul, rhythm & blues, and beyond is a testament to his versatility, creativity, and impact on the music industry. From his early days at Stax Records to his later ventures into rap, Thomas consistently pushed boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the evolving landscape of popular music.

As we explore his diverse discography, it becomes clear that Rufus Thomas Vinyl is not merely a collection of albums; it represents a journey through the evolution of American music. His influence on contemporaries and subsequent generations highlights the timelessness of his sound and the lasting impact of a true musical pioneer.