Cornbread Harris facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cornbread Harris
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Harris in 2018
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| Born |
James Samuel Harris Jr.
April 23, 1927 (age 98) Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
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| Occupation | Musician |
| Years active | 1955-present |
| Children | James Harris III |
| Parent(s) | James Samuel Harris Sr. Alberta Jones Nelson |
James Samuel "Cornbread" Harris Jr. (born April 23, 1927) is a talented American musician. He is a well-known singer and pianist who performs in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Cornbread Harris played on Minnesota's very first rock 'n' roll record! He is also the father of famous record producer Jimmy Jam.
Early Life and Family
Cornbread Harris was born James Samuel Harris Jr. on April 23, 1927, in Chicago. When he was just three years old, his parents passed away. He lived with foster families for a few years. When he was about 11 or 12, he and his sister moved to Saint Paul, Minnesota, to live with their grandparents.
Music was important to Cornbread from a young age. He especially loved country music. Some of his early favorite musicians were Hank Williams and Gene Autry.
Cornbread Harris is the father of Jimmy Jam. Jimmy Jam is a very successful record producer. He has produced hit songs for many famous artists like Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Usher.
Musical Journey
Cornbread Harris helped write a song called "Hi Yo Silver" in 1955. This song, by Augie Garcia, was the first rock 'n' roll recording ever made in Minnesota! Cornbread also performed on the record. Even though it was a "one-hit wonder," Augie Garcia is remembered as a very important figure in Minnesota rock 'n' roll history.
Cornbread Harris served in the U.S. military. Later, he worked for a company called American Hoist & Derrick for about 25 years. But he always kept his passion for music alive.
His music style includes blues and jazz. Even in his nineties, Cornbread Harris continues to play music in Minneapolis nightclubs. You can find him performing at places like the Loring Pasta Bar, Clubhouse Jäger, Palmer's Bar, and the Nomad World Pub.
Cornbread Harris is also a mentor to other musicians, like Cadillac Kolstad. People enjoy watching them perform together, especially their "dueling-piano act."
Awards and Recognition
Cornbread Harris has received special awards for his amazing contributions to music:
- The "Blues Legend Award" (2012)
- The Sally Awards (2013)
