Rufus Thomas
Rufus Thomas (1917-2001) was a beloved American R&B/soul singer, songwriter, comedian, and pioneering Memphis DJ, famous for hits like "Walking the Dog" and "Do the Funky Chicken," but equally known for his role as a mentor to many musicians and as the patriarch of a musical family (with daughter Carla Thomas), embodying the spirit of Memphis music from the Sun Records era through Stax Records' heyday. Known as the "World's Oldest Teenager," he started in minstrel shows, became a local star, then a radio personality at WDIA, and finally achieved national fame in his 40s and 50s with dance-focused hits.
Thomas began his career in the 1930s as a tap dancer, vaudeville performer, and master of ceremonies. His early experiences included performing as a comedian with the Rabbit Foot Minstrels, which helped him hone his skills in entertainment. By the 1940s, he had transitioned into recording music, showcasing his talents as a singer and dancer, as well as a comedian and radio DJ on station WDIA, one of the first radio stations to play African American music.
Throughout his career, Rufus Thomas became known for a wide array of musical styles, including soul, blues, and southern funk. He recorded numerous hits and is often credited with being one of the key figures in the development of Memphis Soul music. His infectious energy and charismatic performances made him a beloved figure in the music scene.
Thomas's legacy as a singer and entertainer was marked by his assertion that he was "the only one of its kind," reflecting his unique contributions to Memphis music over a span of four decades. He continued to perform and influence new generations of artists until his passing on December 15, 2001.
Overall, Rufus Thomas's enduring impact on the music industry and his multifaceted talents have secured his place as a legendary figure in American culture.
Crown Prince Of Dance
Written-By – Rufus Thomas
2:45
A2 I Know You Don't Want Me No More
Written-By – Barbara George
3:01
A3 Funkiest Man Alive
Backing Band [Rhythm] – The Kingpins
Rhythm Guitar – Cornell Dupree
Written-By – Don Dortch, Rufus Thomas
7:43
A4 Tutti Frutti
Written-By – Dorothy LaBostrie, Rich Penniman, Robert Blackwell
2:52
A5 Funky Robot
Written-By – Don Dortch, Rufus Thomas
4:21
B1 I Wanna Sang
Written-By – Rufus Thomas
5:10
B2 Baby It's Real
Written-By – J. W. Alexander
4:40
B3 Steal A Little
Backing Band [Rhythm] – Hi Rhythm
Written-By – Calvin Arnold
3:33
B4 I'm Still In Love With You
Backing Band [Rhythm] – The Kingpins
Rhythm Guitar – Cornell Dupree
Written-By – Mack Rice, Rufus Thomas
2:58
B5 The Funky Bird
Written-By – Jo Bridges, Tom Nison
3:24
Label: Stax – STS-3008
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk
Rufus Thomas's 1973 album, Crown Prince of Dance, is a funky, dance-oriented soul record for Stax Records, showcasing his charismatic vocals and signature stage persona with tracks like the guitar-driven "Git On Up And Do It" and his funky take on "Tutti Frutti". The album, his last for Stax, features high-energy funk, Southern soul, and Memphis soul, with memorable dance tunes such as "Funky Robot," solidifying his "Crown Prince" title with its infectious grooves and dance instructions, making it a staple for sampling artists later.
It is full of lively, funky energy, with Thomas urging listeners to "Git On Up And Do It". Key Tracks: "Funky Robot," "Git On Up And Do It," "Funkiest Man Alive," and his spirited cover of "Tutti Frutti".
Highly influential, with its tracks sampled by hip-hop artists like Public Enemy and Big Daddy Kane, it features Thomas in dynamic dance poses, reflecting his nickname and energetic music.
Released by Stax Records, it was Thomas's final album for the label, cementing his status as a dance and soul legend.
In essence, Crown Prince of Dance is a joyful, funky celebration of rhythm and movement, perfectly capturing Rufus Thomas's vibrant personality and enduring appeal.
That Woman Is Poison!
A2 I Just Got To Know 3:20
A3 Big Fine Hunk Of Woman 5:47
A4 Blues In The Basement 4:14
B1 Somebody's Got To Go 6:01
B2 Breaking My Back 6:02
B3 The Walk 2:57
B4 All Night Worker 3:25
Label: Alligator Records – AL 4769
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1988
Genre: R&B Soul, Blues
Style: Soul, Funk
Rufus Thomas's That Woman Is Poison! (1988) is widely praised as a masterful blues/soul comeback, showcasing the veteran's enduring wit and energy with strutting vocals, a strong sense of humor, and fiery horn arrangements, proving he still had plenty of swagger and could deliver blistering tracks with sophisticated musicianship and raw, live-sounding spontaneity, making it a standout for both longtime fans and new listeners.
Many critics saw it as a brilliant return, demonstrating Thomas was far from retirement, notes Wikipedia. Reviewers highlighted his "sweaty crunch," "wicked sense of humor," and "charismatic smirk," with his voice still rich and full of comic timing.
The album successfully blended polished musicianship with the raw feel of a live jam session, creating an uninhibited atmosphere.
The horn work and arrangements received high praise, with standout support from musicians like Kenny Neal and Lucky Peterson.
The album featured blistering original tracks that captured Thomas's classic Memphis blues and soul style.
Overall Vibe: Think of it as a spirited nightclub performance by a seasoned pro, full of strut, swagger, and soulful grit, says Wikipedia and Chicago Reader.
It's considered a defining album for Thomas, being his only all-blues recording and a testament to his lasting impact as the Funky Godfather of R&B.