Search - Various Artists :: The Champions Of R&B

Today, Nashville, TN is known to most people around the world as the capital of country music. But in the 1940 s and 1950 s (and on through the 1960 s) it was a thriving centre of rhythm & blues musical activity. Like most urban areas right after World War II, Nashville had its predominantly black area of the city, with its own Main Street. In this case, Jefferson Street, just North of the state capital. It was a bustling thoroughfare featuring shops, theatres, restaurants, hotels and more than a few music night clubs. These night spots varied from the funky jive joint/ gambling den to the upper scale supper club and everything in between. The entertainment showcased local, regional and national acts, everything from down home blues to uptown jazz. Ted Jarrett started his own Champion imprint, in partnership with former Tennessee label owners the Bubis brothers. This label boasted the cream of the crop of local Nashville blues singers. Gene Allison, Larry Birdsong, Earl Gaines, Al Murfreesboro Garner, Christine Kittrell, The Kingletts and Charles Walker, all recorded for the small but mighty Champion Record Company.

This CD brings together some of these artists, featuring more contemporary recordings and there are plans for a touring package revue by these legendary artists in 2008, these are the REAL THING, long live the Champions Of R&B!