Armand "Jump" Jackson facts for kids

Armand "Jump" Jackson (born March 25, 1917 – died January 31, 1985) was an American musician. He was a drummer, bandleader, songwriter, and even owned a record label. He also helped other musicians find gigs.

Jackson is famous for creating a strong "sock" rhythm. This special drum beat was heard on many blues songs. These songs were recorded in Chicago, Illinois, during the late 1940s and 1950s. He also wrote popular songs, like his own instrumental tune called "Midnight Shuffle". In 1958, Jackson started his own record company, La Salle Records. Later, in 1962, he was the drummer for the first European tour of the American Folk Blues Festival.

Life and Music Career

Armand Jackson was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the United States. He later moved to Chicago, Illinois. By 1941, he was playing drums and leading his own band. They often played at clubs like the 308 Club and the Sky Club. From 1943 to 1945, Jackson led the house band at Martin's Corner.

Early Recordings and "Jump" Style

Jackson also started playing drums on recordings. For example, he played on songs by Sonny Boy Williamson I. In 1946, Jackson formed a more permanent band. This band played a style of music called "jump blues." This is how he got his nickname, "Jump." His band became regular musicians for recording sessions. They recorded for big labels like RCA Victor and Columbia.

On September 13, 1946, Jackson recorded four of his own songs for Columbia. A singer named St. Louis Jimmy Oden sang on three of them. Jackson's band also played for six months at the Blue Heaven Lounge. He recorded many more songs for Specialty that same year. He also recorded with other famous musicians like Tampa Red. In 1947, Jackson's band recorded for Aristocrat.

Developing His Unique Sound

Jackson kept working on his special "fat, greasy sock rhythm." This unique drum beat became a key part of many blues records. These were made in Chicago in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He led the band and played drums on many recordings for Columbia, Specialty, and Aristocrat. He played drums for singers like St. Louis Jimmy Oden, Roosevelt Sykes, Sunnyland Slim, and Leonard Caston. He also played on many urban blues albums by artists like John Lee Hooker and Robert Nighthawk.

Starting a Business

In 1949, Jackson started helping other musicians find jobs. This became a successful side business for him. During the 1950s, Jackson continued to tour with his band. He also worked in many clubs in Chicago.

In 1958, Jackson wanted more control over his music. So, he started his own record company called La Salle Records. The name came from his business address on South LaSalle Street in Chicago. This street was named after Robert de La Salle, an early explorer of Illinois.

In 1960, Jackson held a "Blues Party" at his studio. Many famous blues musicians attended. These included Eddy Clearwater, Little Brother Montgomery, and Shakey Jake Harris. Jackson even gave Eddie Clearwater his nickname because it sounded like Muddy Waters.

Songwriting and Later Years

Jackson also started writing many songs. His song "Hey Big Momma" was recorded by Roosevelt Sykes in 1960. Jackson also played drums on that album. His instrumental song, "Midnight Shuffle," was released as a single in 1961. He also wrote "Angry Lover" for Shakey Jake Harris and "Cry Cry Baby" for Little Brother Montgomery. Jackson also helped write seven songs for Otis "Big Smokey" Smothers's 1962 album. Other musicians who recorded for La Salle Records included Eddie Boyd and Little Mack Simmons.

In 1962, Jackson was chosen to play drums for the first American Folk Blues Festival tour in Europe. Even though his drumming style was changing, he continued to perform. Armand "Jump" Jackson passed away in Chicago on January 31, 1985.

Legacy

A compilation album called Blues from Up the Country was released in 2003. It features many songs with Jackson's drumming.