National Post (National Edition)
Beatles, Elvis and the real king of rock ’n’ roll
The end of the 1960s represented a transitional period for rock ’n’ roll, a shift into another new era. In 1969, The Beatles performed live for the final time atop Apple Records in London, while Led Zeppelin released their first studio album. It was as if there was a silent, unbeknownst passing of the rock-gods-torch from one band to another.
There were many monumental moments in rock history throughout the calendar year, including Neil Young’s debut album and the beginning of a union between John Lennon and Yoko Ono. But perhaps the most important among these occasions was a small moment of recognition that occurred during a 1969 press conference promoting Elvis Presley’s return to live performing.
What I’m referring to, of course, is Presley’s deflection of the title of “King of Rock And Roll” onto Fats Domino, the legendary FrenchCreole blues/rock musician who passed away on Oct. 24.
Surrounded by the Las Vegas press, Elvis was asked a question by a reporter who referred to him by his common moniker: “the king.” Rather than accept the title, Elvis alerted the media of Domino’s presence in the room.
“No, that’s the real King of Rock and Roll,” said Elvis.
Elvis admired Fats Domino dearly. As detailed in James L. Neibaur’s biographical novel on Presley, The Elvis Movies, Elvis never thought he measured up to Domino in terms of ability or influence. “A lot of people seem to think I started this business,” said Elvis. “But rock ’n’ roll was here a long time before I came along. Let’s face it: I can’t sing like Fats Domino can. I know that.” On another occasion, Elvis introduced Fats at a concert by saying, “This gentleman was a huge influence on me when I started out.”
Domino was also one of Elvis’s biggest competitors during the ’50s. During that time, the Ain’t That A Shame singer sold over 65 million records, second only to Elvis for a rock ’n’ roll act. He also inspired the likes Bob Marley, who once claimed that reggae started with Fats Domino.
But perhaps the most famous to recognize Domino for his impact on their music was The Beatles. Before the band’s legendary New Orleans concert in 1964, McCartney and Lennon asked to meet the local musician who influenced them so heavily. They hung out together prior to the show, playing songs and taking some photographs.
Later, Domino was asked by a journalist if he got to meet the Beatles while they were in New Orleans. The great musician corrected the reporter, “No, they got to meet me.”