Fats Domino

Dave Bartholomew is a noted bandleader, trumpeter, and songwriter who captured a pioneering sound known as the “big beat” of rock and roll. His uncanny ability to provide the perfect musical expression to the words of his band mate Fats Domino resulted in a long list of classic recordings. Together the team wrote “I’m Walkin’,” ”Ain’t that a Shame,” “I’m in Love Again,” “Blue Monday,” and “Valley of Tears.” Equally impressive are his talents as arranger and bandleader. Over the years, he has cultivated the talents of legendary musicians including his drummer and life long friend Earl Palmer.
 

Earl Palmer may be the most recorded jazz and rock drummer in history! He performed with just about every recording artist from Little Richard and Fats Domino to Ricky Nelson and Frank Sinatra. Earl created a recognizable style, often imitated, that led to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000, the very first year the induction category of “sideman” was created. What our interview revealed, in addition to his fascinating stories, was that the man behind that drum kit is one of the true gentlemen of American popular music!