John Broven’s iconic, critically-acclaimed book Walking To New Orleans, subtitled The Story Of New Orleans Rhythm & Blues, was published in August 1974 as a spinoff of Blues Unlimited. It was, in Broven’s own words: “An original study of New Orleans R&B, chronicling the exciting rise and dramatic fall of the city’s R&B era, from the 1940s through the 1960s, focusing mainly on the artists’ history, on records. The story is enhanced by first-hand interviews with many of the leading exponents of the local music scene, including musicians, producers, songwriters, disc jockeys, jukebox operators, and studio and record-label owners.” To celebrate its 50th Anniversary, John has compiled a belated “aural accompaniment” to his fine book. Not a typical “New Orleans’ Greatest Hits” set, as there are already plenty on the market, but largely a collection of less readily known recordings by the featured artists. A massive 66 tracks - featuring Fats Domino, Roy Brown, Jewel King, Lloyd Price, Guitar Slim, Smiley Lewis, Papa Lightfoot, Little Richard, Paul Gayten, Amos Milburn, Sugar Boy Crawford, Dave Bartholomew, Professor Longhair, Earl King, Eddie Bo and many many more!
