Few of rock & roll's founding figures are as likable as Rufus Thomas. From the 1940s onward, he has personified Memphis music; his small but witty cameo role in Jim Jarmusch's Mystery Train, a film which satirizes and enshrines the city's role in popular culture, was entirely appropriate. As a recording artist, he wasn't a major innovator, but he could always be depended upon for some good, silly, and/or outrageous fun with his soul dance tunes. He was one of the few rock or soul stars to reach his commercial and artistic peak in middle age, and was a crucial mentor to many important Memphis blues, rock, and soul musicians. (AllMusic) Significant. File under: Memphis Movers & Shakers
Discography
In the music library: Atlantic Rhythm And Blues 1947-1974 Volume 5 (1962-1966): : Walkin' The Dog
The Complete Stax / Volt Soul Singles: 1959-1968: :'Cause I Love You (with Carla Thomas); Can't Ever Let You Go; The Dog Walking The Dog; Can Your Monkey Do The Dog; Somebody Stole My Dog; That's Really Some Good (with Carla Thomas); Night Time Is The Right Time (with Carla Thomas); Jump Back; Little Sally Walker; Willy Nilly; When You Move You Lose (with Carla Thomas); The World Is Round; Birds & Bees (with Carla Thomas); Sisters' Got A Boyfriend; Sophisticated Sissy; Down Ta My House; The Memphis Train; I Think I Made A Boo Boo;
Links: Wikipedia AllMusic Discogs 45cat Stax Records.free.fr Memphis Music Hall of Fame Ace Records
Mississippi Writers & Musicians Rock and Roll; Respect; Interview with Rufus Thomas The Mississippi Blues Trail