Robert Ealey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Ealey
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Robert Ealey performs in Fort Worth, Texas in June 1985
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Robert Daniel Ealey |
| Born | December 6, 1925 Texarkana, Texas, United States |
| Died | March 8, 2001 (aged 75) Fort Worth, Texas, United States |
| Genres | Texas blues, electric blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, drummer |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Years active | 1940s–2000 |
| Labels | Black Top, various |
Robert Daniel Ealey (born December 6, 1925 – died March 8, 2001) was an American electric blues singer. He was known for his Texas blues style. Robert Ealey recorded several albums, including some for Black Top Records in the 1990s. He also worked with other musicians like U.P. Wilson, Tone Sommer, and Mike Morgan.
Some of Ealey's most famous songs include "One Love One Kiss" and "Turn Out the Lights". He performed with groups such as the Boogie Chillun Boys, the Juke Jumpers, and the Five Careless Lovers.
Robert Ealey's Musical Journey
Robert Ealey was born in Texarkana, Texas. As a teenager, he sang in a church quartet.
After serving in the Army during World War II, Ealey moved to Dallas in 1951. He had been singing professionally since he was 20 years old. In Fort Worth, he formed a duo called the Boogie Chillun Boys. He played with guitarist U. P. Wilson. This duo inspired another Texas musician, Ray Sharpe.
The Bluebird Club in Fort Worth was Ealey's main music spot for over thirty years. He even co-owned the club from 1977 to 1989. His 1973 live album, Live at the New Bluebird Nightclub, featured Robert Ealey and the Five Careless Lovers. The album included contributions from drummer Mike Buck. It was also co-produced by T-Bone Burnett.
In the 1990s, Ealey and guitarist Tone Sommer began touring more. Their authentic Texas blues music became popular in the United States and Europe. Robert Ealey's music also gained recognition through television advertisements. His 1996 album, Turn Out the Lights, was released by Black Top Records. On this album, Ealey worked with blues musicians like Mike Morgan and Sommer on guitar. His next album in 1997, I Like Music When I Party, was also very successful.
Robert Ealey passed away in Fort Worth on March 8, 2001. He was 75 years old. He was buried with military honors at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery.
In 2003, a collection of his songs called Robert Ealey: Blues That Time Forgot was released. Robert Ealey is also the subject of a 2020 book by Joe Nick Patoski, titled Robert Ealey and His Five Careless Lovers.
Robert Ealey's Albums
| Year | Title | Record label |
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| 1973 | Live at the New Bluebird Nightclub | Blue Royal |
| 1981 | Bluebird Open | Amazing |
| 1995 | If You Need Me | Topcat |
| 1996 | Turn Out the Lights | Black Top |
| 1997 | I Like Music When I Party | Black Top |
See also
- List of electric blues musicians
- List of Texas blues musicians
- Texas Roadhouse Music
