Written by: Liam O'Sullivan

Fats Domino: The Pioneering King of Rock and Roll

Fats Domino, the legendary American singer-songwriter and pianist, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unique style and contributions to the rock and roll genre. With over 65 million records sold, Domino is one of the most successful artists of all time, earning him the title of "The Real King of Rock and Roll."

Early Life and Career

Antoine Dominique Domino Jr. was born on February 26, 1928, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to a French Creole family. Growing up in a musical household, Domino began playing the piano at a young age and was heavily influenced by jazz and blues legends such as Jelly Roll Morton and Pinetop Perkins.

In 1949, Domino signed with Imperial Records, where he met his long-time collaborator and songwriting partner, Dave Bartholomew. The duo's first single, "The Fat Man," is often cited as the first rock and roll single and the first to sell over 1 million copies.

Rise to Fame

Domino's distinctive rolling piano style and soulful vocals propelled him to mainstream success in the mid-1950s. His hits, including "Ain't That a Shame," "Blueberry Hill," and "Walking to New Orleans," topped the charts and became staples of rock and roll.

Between 1955 and 1960, Domino had an impressive 11 Top 10 US pop hits, with five of his records selling over 1 million copies, earning them gold certification. His music transcended racial boundaries, appealing to a wide audience and paving the way for future rock and roll artists.

Influence and Legacy

Fats Domino's influence on rock and roll cannot be overstated. Elvis Presley, one of the most iconic figures in music, declared Domino a huge influence on him when he started out. The Beatles, another highly influential band, were heavily influenced by Domino's music.

Domino's contributions to the genre have been recognized with numerous accolades, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1986) and the Grammy Hall of Fame (four of his records). The Associated Press estimates that Domino sold over 110 million records during his career, cementing his status as a rock and roll legend.

Personal Life and Milestones

Despite his shy and modest nature, Domino made a significant impact on the music industry. He was married to Rosemary Domino for over 60 years, until his passing on October 24, 2017, at the age of 89.

Some of Domino's notable personal milestones include performing at the iconic Apollo Theater in Harlem, being named one of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time by Rolling Stone, and receiving a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987.

Controversies and Public Perception

Domino faced some controversy during his career, particularly in the 1950s, when his music was banned from some radio stations due to its perceived racial undertones. Despite this, his music continued to appeal to a broad audience, and he remained a beloved figure in the music industry.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

Domino's humility and down-to-earth nature shone through in his quotes and memorable sayings. When asked about his success, he once said, "I'm just a little ol' boy from New Orleans, trying to make good."

When queried about his influence on rock and roll, Domino humbly replied, "I don't know about being a legend, but I do know I've been making music for a long time, and people seem to like it."

Historical Context and Legacy

Fats Domino's impact on rock and roll extends far beyond his own music. He paved the way for future generations of rock and roll artists, breaking down racial barriers and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the genre.

Domino's legacy continues to inspire new artists, with his music remaining relevant and beloved to this day. His contributions to the rock and roll canon are undeniable, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.