Fats Domino had a long life and nearly as long a career, having recorded his first hit almost 70 years ago, 1949’s “The Fat Man”– the earliest Boomers were only three years old.
By the the mid-50’s everybody, certainly in the USA, knew him — he performed “Blueberry Hill” on Ed Sullivan’s show, sharing his incredible talent, his unassuming demeanor, his warm, welcoming smile and his joyful personality.
More hits followed, laying the groundwork for rock n’ roll history: “Ain’t That A Shame,” “I’m Walkin,” “Blue Monday,” My Blue Heaven.”
Fats’ success inspired singer Ernest Evans to change his name to Chubby (instead of Fats) and Checker (in place of Domino).
Fats died in his beloved New Orleans this past Tuesday, just four months shy of his 90th birthday.
His smile is etched into our collective memory and is a perfect reflection of the joy he brought to us through his remarkable songbook.
R.I.P Antoine “Fats” Domino, Jr.