Domino, Fats (1928-2017), was a pianist, songwriter, and singer who became one of the most popular and influential personalities in the history of rhythm and blues and rock music. Domino’s music is a cheerful combination of jazz, blues, and gospel. He blended these elements into a fresh style that led to a remarkable string of hit recordings during the 1950’s.
Antoine Dominique Domino, Jr., was born on Feb. 26, 1928, in New Orleans. He got the nickname “Fats” from his early hit song “The Fat Man” (1950). He was performing in a New Orleans bar in 1949 when he was discovered and signed to a recording contract. Domino was hired as a pianist by New Orleans bandleader Dave Bartholomew. The two formed a songwriting team, collaborating on such hits as “Ain’t That a Shame” (1955) and “Blue Monday” (1956).
In 1951, Domino recorded the hits “Rockin’ Chair,” “How Long,” and “Goin’ Home.” He had five top-10 records in 1953, including “Goin’ to the River” and “Rose Mary.” Domino’s reputation spread beyond the primarily African American rhythm and blues audience to a wider pop music audience in the mid-1950’s. His major hits included “I’m in Love Again” (1956), “Blueberry Hill” (1956), “I’m Walkin'” (1957), “Whole Lotta Lovin'” (1958), “I Want to Walk You Home” (1959), “I’m Ready” (1959), “Walkin’ to New Orleans” (1960), and “Jambalaya” (1961).
Domino’s string of hits ended after 1961, but he remained a popular concert performer, appearing regularly in Las Vegas nightclubs for long runs. He reduced his touring beginning in the mid-1980’s, but his recordings continued to have steady sales. Domino was elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. He died on Oct. 24, 2017.
