Checker, Chubby (1941-…), an American performer of rock music, created a sensation with his recording of “The Twist” in 1960. The record sold more than 3 million copies and started a national craze for the twist, a dance featuring swiveling hips and strong swinging movements from side to side.
Checker was born on Oct. 3, 1941, in Philadelphia. His real name was Ernest Evans. He received his stage name from his resemblance to the rhythm and blues performer Fats Domino. Checker first performed “The Twist” on the popular television show “American Bandstand.” The song quickly became the number-one recording in the United States. Checker recorded several other “twist” numbers, including “Let’s Twist Again” (1961), “The Fly” (1961), “Pony Time” (1961), and “Slow Twistin'” (1962). Checker also recorded the hit “Limbo Rock” (1962), based on a popular Caribbean dance.
Checker starred in two motion pictures that featured twist music and dancing, Twist Around the Clock (1961) and Don’t Knock the Twist (1962). The twist faded in popularity after the early 1960’s. Checker continues to perform in concerts.
