Unsung heroes of rock: Little Richards’ backing band, The Upsetters

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As a passionate music enthusiast with decades of experience under my belt, I cannot help but feel a sense of nostalgia when I delve into the history of The Upsetters. These unsung heroes of American rhythm and blues played an instrumental role in shaping the soundtracks of our lives, yet they remain largely unheralded for their contributions.

Distinct from the renowned Jamaican reggae artists, The Upsetters – an influential American rhythm group – significantly shaped the development of blues, rock, and R&B music. However, their substantial impact has often gone unrecognized.

Formed in the mid-1950s, this band comprised Wilburt “Lee Diamond” Smith on saxophone, Nathaniel “Buster” Douglas on electric guitar, Charles “Chuck” Connor on drums, and Olsie “Bassy” Robinson on bass guitar. They gained significant popularity during a brief yet lively phase between 1956 and 1957 as they worked with several well-known artists.

While The Upsetters weren’t directly Little Richard’s main band, they had a close working relationship with him. They appeared in multiple films starring him, such as “The Girl Can’t Help It” (1956), which also showcased Jayne Mansfield. This film significantly boosted Little Richard’s reputation as a rock and roll legend, highlighting the abilities of his backing musicians as well.

In the late 1950s, songs such as “Keep A-Knockin'” and “Ooh! My Soul,” which were massive hits, mirrored the vibrant spirit of that era and wove themselves into the cultural tapestry. As Drummer World points out, the powerful drumming style of Upsetters drummer Connor undoubtedly left a mark on future rock ‘n’ roll musicians. Fifteen years later, John Bonham from Led Zeppelin replicated Connor’s intro almost beat for beat in “Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

A remarkable aspect of The Upsetters lies in their partnership with Otis Redding in the late 1950s and early 1960s, where they supported him during several of his live shows. This collaboration enriched their musical history significantly, as Redding was on the verge of becoming a major icon in soul music.

More on The Upsetters and Charles “Chuck” Connor

As Charles “Chuck” Connor, the beatmaster for The Upsetters, I’m humbly recognized for shaping Little Richard’s legendary vocal groove. That catchy “a-wop bop-a loo-mop, a-lop bam-boom” chant kickstarting “Tutti Frutti” might just be a nod to my drumming rhythm, showcasing the profound impact The Upsetters had on the emergence of rock and roll.

Alternatively, one could argue that it was a tribute to Earl Palmer’s drums. Regardless, in 2019, a book about Connor was published, which earned praise from notable drummers in the world of rock music.

During this period, The Upsetters’ impact on music, though often overlooked, was pivotal in defining the essence of rock and roll. Working with artists like Little Richard, their contributions significantly imprinted the music industry, inspiring countless musicians who followed, regardless of whether they recognized the musicians themselves.

The Upsetters were a crucial but frequently underestimated backing group within American music history. Their impact is evident in numerous iconic songs from the 1950s and 1960s, and working with greats like Little Richard and Otis Redding showcases their adaptability and skill. Although they remained relatively unknown, The Upsetters significantly contributed to the formation of rock, blues, and R&B, and their influence lingers on even today.

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2024-08-12 15:01