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An Arkansas Legend Turns 100: The Centennial of Louis Jordan |
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Louis Jordan Tribute Poster
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Jordan and the Sax
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Louis Jordan Portrait
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Jordan as Bandleader
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May 15, 2008
Kimberly J. Williams, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
A son of the Arkansas Delta, he would become world famous and his music blared from jukeboxes and radios throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Known as the "King of the Jukebox" and the "Father of Rhythm & Blues," Louis Jordan, born in Brinkley, Ark., became a world-renowned bandleader, songwriter, musician and performer.
The Eureka Springs Blues Weekend, slated for May 29-June 1, will feature a tribute to Jordan. The four-day musical extravaganza will feature 70 performances at 15 different venues. Headliners include Koko Taylor, Michael Burks and Deborah Coleman. Held in historic Eureka Springs, Ark., the musical weekend also gives visitors the opportunity to explore the town’s unique shops, restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfasts.
Two museums in the Arkansas Delta pay homage to Jordan and his musical impact. The Central Delta Depot Museum, located in Jordan’s hometown of Brinkley in a restored train depot, pays homage to the musical great in their exhibits. Items include a bronze bust of Jordan, his sheet music and records. To learn more, visit www.cddm.org. The Delta Cultural Center in Helena-West Helena is currently displaying the temporary exhibit entitled Jazzin’ Jammin’ & Jivin’: The History of Jazz on Film. The exhibit includes four original posters from Jordan films. The museum offers Jordan memorabilia including his saxophone, sheet music and lobby cards. Visit www.DeltaCulturalCenter.com or call 800-358-0972. The Arkansas Delta has a strong musical heritage celebrated at festivals throughout the year.
In the early 1930s, Jordan moved to Philadelphia and later to New York, playing with the leading bands and orchestras of the period. It was during this time that Jordan played and sang with performers that would become legends – Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby.
Louis Jordan and his band, the Tympany Five, claimed over 50 hit singles. They changed the sound of popular music, introducing a jazzy, bluesy sound that appealed to all ages and races, offering music tinged with fun and frivolity.
Rolling Stone listed Jordan as #59 on their 100 top artists of all time. Billboard Magazine named Jordan as one of the most successful African American recording artists in history. Jordan died in California in 1975 but his influence can still be felt today. The United States Postal Service will unveil a postage stamp featuring the poster from Jordan’s film "Caldonia."
For more information, visit www.eurekaspringsblues.com.
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Submitted by the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
One Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201, 501-682-7606
E-mail: info@arkansas.com
May be used without permission. Credit line is appreciated:
"Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism"
