Big Joe Turner, the renowned blues singer and pianist, left an indelible mark on the music industry. His unique voice, versatility, and ability to craft timeless songs made him a beloved figure in the world of rhythm-and-blues. In this article, we'll delve into his fascinating journey from his early days at Piney Brown's Sunset Café to his rock 'n' roll stardom.

Early Days and Big Break

Turner's big break came when Pete Johnson, already a local favorite, gave him a regular gig at Piney Brown's Sunset Café in 1936. It was there that John Hammond, in town to sign the Count Basie band, heard the duo. Hammond, impressed by their performance, told jazz fans in New York about them, and soon they had a gig at the Famous Door on 52nd Street.

The Birth of Boogie-Woogie

In 1938, Hammond included Turner and Johnson in his famous Spirituals to Swing concert, which ignited the boogie-woogie craze. The duo went into the studio to record one of their most popular numbers, "Roll 'Em Pete." This song would become a staple of Turner's repertoire, featuring verses that would return in song after song.

A Library of Floating Verses

Turner was illiterate, but he possessed a library of what blues scholars call floating verses; his was second to none. These verses, which often featured vivid imagery and storytelling, became a hallmark of his music.

The Apollo Theater and Atlantic Records

In April 1951, Turner had an unfortunate gig at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, singing with Count Basie's band as a last-minute substitute for Jimmy Rushing. Ahmet Ertegun, co-founder of Atlantic Records, was in the audience and offered Turner $500 to record a session. Although they only recorded one number that time, it marked the beginning of Turner's association with Atlantic.

"Honey Hush" and "Shake, Rattle and Roll"

Two years later, Turner recorded a smash hit, "Honey Hush," which rocketed up the R&B charts. His next big hit came in 1954 with "Shake, Rattle and Roll." Recorded at Atlantic's offices with a hand-picked band of New York's best rhythm-and-blues musicians, this song made rock 'n' roll history.

Rock 'n' Roll Stardom

Turner's success led to him joining various rock 'n' roll revue tours and even appearing in the 1956 movie, Shake, Rattle and Rock. This was also the year he scored his last big hit with an old blues standard, "Corinne, Corrina."

Later Years and Legacy

Atlantic eventually parted ways with Turner, but he never stopped working. He continued to perform and record music until his passing in California in 1985.

Meeting Big Joe Turner

I had the privilege of meeting Turner in the early '80s when I saw him perform in New York. As we were headed back to my friend Brian's apartment building, where Turner lived, he was out front doing his daily exercises. He looked me straight in the eye and said, "Yes, it soitainly is." I gotta say: It soitainly was.

Turner's legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. His unique voice, versatility, and ability to craft timeless songs have left an indelible mark on the music industry.