About This Footage
The rare studio footage of Pee Wee Crayton's 1955 recording session at J and M Studio in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a treasure trove for blues and R&B enthusiasts. The clip, titled "I Must Go On," showcases the artist's unique guitar playing style and soulful vocals, making it an essential addition to any music collection.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this footage is its connection to Fats Domino, one of the most iconic figures in early rock 'n' roll history. According to the session details provided by Blues&Rhythm Magazine, Fats Domino was present at the recording studio on April 14, 1955, and allegedly played piano during Crayton's performance. However, there is some doubt surrounding this claim, with Michel Ruppli's "The Aladdin/Imperial Files" listing Salvador Doucette as the pianist instead.
Regardless of who played piano that day, the significance of this footage lies in its rarity and historical importance. The session was one of Fats Domino's 28 recording sessions at J and M Studio, which would eventually yield some of his most famous hits. The presence of other notable musicians, including Dave Bartholomew on trumpet and Wendell Duconge on saxophone, adds to the clip's value as a snapshot of New Orleans' vibrant musical scene in the mid-1950s.
The "I Must Go On" recording itself is also noteworthy for its inclusion on Fats Domino's 1975 album "Blues Guitarist." Although it failed to chart at the time of its release, the song has since become a sought-after collector's item among fans of early rock 'n' roll and blues music.
From an artistic perspective, Pee Wee Crayton's performance in this clip is characterized by his distinctive guitar playing style, which blends elements of blues, R&B, and country music. His vocals are equally impressive, conveying a sense of emotional intensity that was characteristic of many blues singers of the era.
In terms of its historical significance, this footage provides valuable insight into the recording practices and musical collaborations of the 1950s. The involvement of producers like Dave Bartholomew and engineers such as Cosimo Matassa helped shape the sound of early rock 'n' roll, and their contributions to this session are a testament to the innovative spirit of New Orleans' music scene during this period.
Overall, the "Pee Wee Crayton - (Fats Domino Session) - I Must Go On" clip is an essential addition to any archive of rare artists footage. Its historical importance, combined with its musical significance and rarity, make it a must-see for fans of blues, R&B, and early rock 'n' roll music.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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