Fats Domino has an unparalleled reputation as a rhythm and blues phenomenon. He brought in fans of all races in a way no other artist had before him. His songs were innovative yet smooth enough to draw in the masses. His inspiration came from the musical culture of New Orleans, where he was born on February 26, 1928 as Antoine Domino, Jr. His much-older brother-in-law taught him about music and his passion took root.He played with numerous bands as a youth and instead of finishing school he chose to pursue music. He released his first hit in 1949 with "The Fat Man." Rock and Roll was just picking up steam at this point and Domino was coming into his own at the perfect moment. He had numerous successful tracks during the mid 1950s like "Goin' Home," "Ain't That a Shame" and "Blueberry Love." "Ain't That a Shame" was an incredible hit for Domino and brought him to the status of stardom.Near the end of the 1950s, Domino went on tour with other hitmakers like Chuck Berry, LaVern Baker, Clyde McPhatter, Bill Doggett and the Moonglows. He added to his number one hits in 1957 with "I'm Walkin'" and again in 1960 with "Walking to New Orleans." He switched labels for the first time in his career from Imperial to ABC-Paramount in 1963. He didn't find the same success in the 1960s that he had in the decade prior, but his mark on the genre was undeniable.He was recognized in 1986 by being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and again in 1987 when he was given a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys. In 2005, Domino's house was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, and he and his family had to be rescued by boat. He has played concerts to help other victims of the hurricane.
