An Arkansas Legend Turns 100: The Centennial Of Louis Jordan

LITTLE ROCK, ARK. (Top40 Charts/ Arkansas Department Of Parks & Tourism) - The Eureka Blues Weekend, May 29 - June 1, features a tribute to Arkansas native Louis Jordan. The four-day musical extravaganza features 70 performances at 15 different venues. Headliners include Koko Taylor, Michael Burks and Deborah Coleman. The musical weekend also gives visitors the opportunity to explore the town's unique shops, restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfasts. https://arkansas.com/calendar/calendar.aspx?id=35224

Louis Jordan: Father of Rhythm and Blues

Born in Brinkley, Arkansas in the Arkansas Delta, Jordan became world famous as his music blared from jukeboxes and radios throughout the 1940's and 1950's. Known as the "King of the Jukebox" and the "Father of Rhythm & Blues," he was a world-renowned bandleader, songwriter, musician and performer. In the early 1930's, Jordan moved to Philadelphia and later to New York, playing with the leading bands and orchestras of the period. It was during this time that he played and sang with other performers that would become legends - Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby. Learn more at https://www.arkansas.com/things-to-do/famous/arts.aspx

From Rolling Stone Magazine to U.S. Postage Stamp

He and his band, the Tympany Five, claimed over 50 hit singles. They changed the sound of popular music, introducing a jazzy, bluesy sound that appealed to all ages and races. Rolling Stone listed Jordan as No 59 on their 100 top artists of all time. Billboard Magazine named Jordan as one of the most successful African American recording artists in history. Jordan died in California in 1975 but his influence can still be felt. The United States Postal Service will soon unveil a postage stamp featuring the poster from Jordan's film "Caldonia."

Two museums in the Arkansas Delta will also pay homage to Jordan. The Central Delta Depot Museum, located in Brinkley in a restored train depot, will exhibit such items as a bronze bust of Jordan, his sheet music and records. (To learn more, visit https://www.cddm.org.)

The Delta Cultural Center in Helena-West Helena which has a strong musical heritage celebrated at festivals throughout the year, is currently displaying the exhibit entitled Jazzin' Jammin' & Jivin': The History of Jazz on Film. The exhibit includes four original posters from Jordan films, and other Jordan memorabilia including his saxophone, sheet music and lobby cards. (Visit https://www.DeltaCulturalCenter.com or call 800-358-0972.)
For more information on the tribute visit https://www.eurekaspringsblues.com.