Name: The Lost Paramount Tapes
Brand: James Booker

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

GENGEN001

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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

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2018-11-16

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

The Orchard

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

Total Cap

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

Artist

James Booker

Genre GB

Jazz

Label GB

Thirty Tigers

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.

Thirty Tigers is a label services company that specializes in marketing, distribution, and management for artists. With years of experience in the music industry, they have established themselves as a trusted partner for musicians looking to reach a wider audience. From promoting albums to securing distribution deals, Thirty Tigers offers comprehensive support to help artists succeed in today's competitive market.

As experts in their field, Thirty Tigers understands the importance of effective marketing strategies. They work closely with artists to develop tailored campaigns that resonate with fans and attract new listeners. Their team utilizes various platforms and channels to maximize exposure and generate buzz around each release.

In addition to marketing, Thirty Tigers provides top-notch distribution services. Leveraging their extensive network of partners and retailers, they ensure that music reaches all major digital platforms as well as physical stores worldwide. This broad reach enables artists to connect with audiences globally and expand their fanbase.

This album features James Booker leading a band comprised of New Orleans’ greatest underground monster musicians recording overnight in a studio after playing a gig. In Los Angeles. In 1973. And just to make this scenario even more bizarre, Booker is playing tack piano, which used metal tacks to strike the piano strings instead of the usual hammers. Imagine the sound of a piano in a honky tonk in the Wild West and you’ll get a pretty close approximation. 

Then after recording what could and probably should go down in history as one of New Orleans’ finest albums, Booker take the masters, disappears for a while, show up later in New Orleans minus both the master tapes and his right eye. Welcome to the wild world of James Booker.

James Booker was one of America’s most stunning piano players. He was born, and died, in New Orleans, and in his 43 short years created an approach to the piano that has not been matched before or since. His music defies classification. It’s not exactly the blues, it’s not exactly jazz, it’s not R&amp;B, it’s not classical; it’s a synthesis of all those.

The Lost Paramount Tapes

Music GB