On December 15, 2001, Rufus Thomas, the legendary R&B, soul, and funk singer renowned for hits like “Do the Funky Chicken” and “Walking the Dog,” passed away at the age of 84 in Memphis, Tennessee. ?Stax Records

Rufus Thomas: A Legacy in Music

• Early Life: Born on March 26, 1917, in Cayce, Mississippi, Thomas moved to Memphis, Tennessee, at a young age. He began his entertainment career as a tap dancer and comedian before transitioning into music. ?

• Radio Career: In the early 1950s, Thomas became a prominent disc jockey at Memphis’s WDIA, one of the first Black-owned radio stations in the U.S., significantly influencing the local music scene. ?

• Recording Success: Thomas recorded for several labels, including Chess and Sun Records, before finding lasting success with Stax Records in the 1960s and 1970s. His dance-themed hits, such as “Walking the Dog” (1963) and “Do the Funky Chicken” (1969), became iconic, showcasing his energetic performance style and contributing to the evolution of R&B and funk music. ?

• Mentorship: Beyond his own performances, Thomas played a crucial role in nurturing young talent in Memphis, hosting talent shows that helped launch the careers of artists like B.B. King and Ike Turner. ?

Rufus Thomas’s enduring influence on the music industry is celebrated through numerous honors, including a marker on the Mississippi Blues Trail in Byhalia, Mississippi, recognizing his significant contributions to blues and soul music.