Tommy Ridgley

October 30, 1925, New Orleans, Louisiana – August 11, 1999

 

Tommy Ridgley was a R&B singer and bandleader in New Orleans, Louisiana, active during 50 years (1949–1999).

As a premier New Orleans’ songwriter and performer, Tommy Ridgley’s career began in 1949, when he was hired as a vocalist by Dave Bartholomew to record for Imperial Records. He later went on to record for Atlantic, Decca, Herald and several independent labels. His first recording, a 78 rpm record, Shrewsbury Blues, in 1949 for Imperial Records, a tribute to his local neighborhood, was a big local hit.

Tommy Ridgley – Shrewsbury Blues

In the 1950s he formed his group the Untouchables. They have shared the spotlight with numerous well-known performers such as Little Willie John, Solomon Burke, Irma Thomas, Eddie Bo, Ernie K-Doe, Sam Cooke, Little Richard, Frankie Ford, Snooks Eaglin, George Porter, Jr., Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Ray Charles and The Blues Brothers.

Tommy Ridgley – Jam Up Twist

A Rhythm & Blues legend, Tommy continued to work making music a pleasurable experience for his audience. His passion and dedication to his musical endeavors communicated his love for his profession.

Tommy Ridgley – I’ve Heard That Story Before

In the 1990s, he released three newly recorded albums. How Long? came out on the Sound of New Orleans label in 1990, and She Turns Me On followed two years later on Modern Blues Recordings. He was supported by musicians such as George Porter, Jr. and Raymond Weber on 1995 album Since The Blues Began from Black Top Records. It also featured guest guitarist Snooks Eaglin and turned out to be one of the most solid efforts in his career, but this became his last recorded album.

Tommy Ridgley – She Turns Me On

He suffered from kidney failure in his last few years, and died from lung cancer in 1999.

More on: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tommy_Ridgley

 

Tommy Ridgley – Did You Tell Him (1967)

 

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