Prince La La facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Prince La La
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Lawrence Nelson |
| Born | 1936 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Died | October 27, 1963 (age 27) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Rhythm and blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar |
| Years active | 1950s–1963 |
| Labels | A.F.O. |
Lawrence Nelson (born 1936 – died October 27, 1963) was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He was known by his stage name, Prince La La. He became famous for his rhythm and blues (R&B) music.
Contents
The Story of Prince La La
Early Life and Musical Family
Lawrence Nelson was born in 1936 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Music was a big part of his family. His father, Walter Nelson, was a jazz and R&B guitarist. He played with famous musicians like Smiley Lewis. Lawrence's older brother, Walter "Papoose" Nelson, also played guitar. He worked with stars like Fats Domino and Professor Longhair. Papoose was also a studio musician for producer Dave Bartholomew. Lawrence's sister, Dorothy, was married to singer and producer Jessie Hill.
Becoming a Recording Artist
Lawrence Nelson first started his career as a songwriter. In 1961, his brother-in-law, Jessie Hill, found a talented young singer named Barbara George. Hill brought her to AFO Records, a new music label started by Harold Battiste. Jessie Hill suggested that Barbara sing one of Nelson's songs, "She Put the Hurt on Me." He played Nelson's own demo (a practice recording) of the song for them.
Harold Battiste liked Nelson's voice so much that he decided Nelson should sing the song himself! In 1962, "She Put the Hurt on Me" became the very first song released by AFO Records. The other side of the record featured "Don’t You Know Little Girl (I'm In Love)." Other musicians on the song included saxophonist Red Tyler and drummer John Boudreaux.
Prince La La's Success
The record was released in mid-1962. It was credited to Prince La La, which was Nelson's nickname. The song became a hit, reaching number 28 on the Billboard R&B chart. To promote his music, Prince La La often wore exotic robes. This unique style was later adopted by another famous New Orleans musician, Dr. John.
Later in 1962, Nelson released a second single. It featured the song "Gettin' Married Soon" and "Come Back To Me."
His Legacy
Prince La La passed away on October 27, 1963, at the age of 27. After his passing, his friend Oliver Morgan wrote a song in his memory in 1964, called "Who Shot the La La?" Two more of Prince La La's recordings are known to exist: "Things Have Changed" and a song written by Jessie Hill called "Need You."
