Fats Domino dead: 5 of the legend's best songs, from 'Ain't That a Shame' to 'Blueberry Hill'
The artist influenced the likes of Elvis Presley, John Lennon, and Paul Mccartney
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Fats Domino — the legendary Rhythm and Blues player — has died age 89 surrounded by family following a longtime illness.
The singer and piano player was one of the most influential artists of a generation, the likes of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Tom Petty citing Domino as an influence. Here are five of Domino’s most influential and covered tracks.
"Ain't That a Shame"
Probably Domino’s best known original composition, the track was famously covered by John Lennon for the album Rock 'n' Roll, as well as fellow Beatle Paul McCartney during live shows. Others to have taken on the song include Pat Boone, The Four Seasons and Cheap Trick.
"Blueberry Hill"
While “Blueberry Hill” was already a well known song, only after Domino recorded a version in 1956 would the song become a rock and roll standard. The likes of Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Led Zeppelin re-recorded the song.
"I’m In Love Again"
Domino’s third R&B number one, the song was another collaboration between the singer and Dave Bartholomew — who also helped write "Ain't That a Shame”, "Goin' Home”, and "I'm Walkin’”. The Animals famously recorded a version of “I’m In Love Again” for their debut album.
"I’m Walkin’"
Thanks to The Blues Brothers, “I’m Walkin’” won a special place in every film lover’s heart. The song peaked twice at number four on the pop chart, once for Domino’s version and the other for Ricky Nelson’s.
"Blue Monday"
Written by Bartholomew and originally recorded by Smiley Lewis, the song was popularised after Domino took on the track. “Blue Monday” soon became a huge crossover hit — one of the first to feature on both the R&B and Pop charts. Buddy Holly, Cat Stevens, Gene Summers, and Dr. John all covered the song.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments