Name: The Ivory Emperor 1954-1962 Sides
Brand: James Booker

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

806188

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Colour

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Collectors deluxe digipak presentation, updated liner notes

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2021-03-26

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Proper

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

8436559468039

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Total Cap

1 / CD / Extended format: No / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

Artist

James Booker

Genre GB

Funk / Soul

Label GB

Soul Jam

James Booker was a versatile American pianist, known for his wide range of musical styles. Born on December 17, 1939 in New Orleans, Louisiana, he recorded rhythm & blues in the 1950s but also ventured into pop songs and even classical renditions of Chopin waltzes. Despite his talent, Booker struggled with drug addiction throughout his life, leading to multiple prison sentences and the loss of his left eye in 1973.

Throughout his career, James Booker showcased his incredible skills as a pianist across various genres. His music encompassed not only traditional rhythm & blues but also popular tunes like the theme from The Godfather. Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility by interpreting classical compositions such as Chopin's waltzes.

Influenced by artists like Snooks Eaglin and Professor Longhair, James Booker became an integral part of the vibrant New Orleans music scene. His unique style and virtuosity on the piano set him apart from other performers of his time. Although plagued by personal struggles, including drug addiction that led to several stints in prison and ultimately cost him an eye, Booker's musical legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.

Soul Jam is a budget European public domain label that specializes in reissuing music from before 1962, with a particular focus on Spanish artists and performers. As the sister label of [l326434], Soul Jam is dedicated to bringing back timeless classics and forgotten gems from the past.

With an extensive catalog of vintage recordings, Soul Jam offers music lovers the opportunity to explore and discover the rich musical heritage of Spain and beyond. From soulful ballads to energetic dance tunes, their releases span various genres and styles, showcasing the diversity of pre-1962 music.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of vintage music, Soul Jam provides an affordable way to expand your collection and delve into the sounds of yesteryear. Their commitment to preserving and sharing these historic recordings makes them a trusted authority in the e-commerce market for classic tunes.

Known as the Piano Prince of New Orleans, the great James Booker was one of the cornerstones and most colourful characters in the Crescent City. He was a distinctive keyboardist who mixed R&amp;B, gospel, blues, boogie-woogie, and traditional &amp; modern jazz into a uniquely funky and breathtaking sound. This collectors release includes all of the singles Booker made as a leader in the beginning of his career, between 1954 and 1962, for different labels such as Imperial, Chess, Ace, and Peacock. The set also contains additional sides from other terrific artists featuring James Booker as a sideman. These wonderful numbers form the building blocks of Bookers legendary musical legacy. The best black, gay, one-eyed junkie piano genius New Orleans has ever produced. 

The Ivory Emperor 1954-1962 Sides

Music GB