Doc Bagby

Harry "Doc" Bagby (né Harry Camilus Bagby; 1 August 1917 Philadelphia – 3 September 1970 Manhattan) was an American studio musician who played piano and organ, and backed many artists in pop and jazz. He played a major part in the music scene from the late 1940s to the late 1960s. He was also a bandleader and solo artist in his own right. He released many singles throughout his career. He is also the co-composer of the hit song "Rock the Joint" which has been recorded by Jimmy Preston and Bill Haley.

Background

During the 1930s while still a teenager he played at many house parties and became a requested musician. During the 1940s he started up his own orchestra which lasted until he was drafted into military service. Post 1945, he managed a record store and soon after was working for Gotham Records.[1] The roles he had for the label were music adviser, talent scout and A&R man.[2] As its music director he produced numerous records.[3]

Career

1950s

Prior to coming on board as a staff member for Gotham Records, Bagby added his piano and organ to recording sessions for the label.[4] One singer that Bagby and his group backed on a few recordings was Doris Browne. In 1953, Bagby and his group backed her on single "Oh Baby" bw Please Believe Me" which was released on Gotham G-290.[5] He also backed her on her single, "Until The End Of Time" bw "Why Don't You Love Me Now, Now, Now?" Gotham G-296, and another recording "The Game Of Love" bw "My Cherie" which was released on Gotham G-7298 as a 45.[6]

In 1957, he released the album, Honky Tonk in Silk on the Epic label.[7] It was reported in Billboard that both the album and the single, "Dumplin's" b/w "Sylvia's Callin'" which was released on the Okeh label were standout sellers.[8]

1960s

In 1964, his single "Rubberneck" bw "Cornbread" was released on the Vim label, cat#519. He released many other singles on an assortment of labels.[9]

Producer

Among the recordings he produced were "I Got A Gal" bw "Bewitched" for The Mowhawks which was released on Val-Ue 211 in 1960,[10][11] and Davenport Sisters with their single, "I Was Teasin'" bw "Our Summer Vacation Is Over", released on Vida DV 0108 in 1963.[12]

Family

He was married to Barbara Kemp (née; Barbara Ward; 1919–2009), who collaborated with him in songwriting.

Death

Bagby died on September 3, 1970, following a short illness.[13]

References
  1. The Audiophile Man, 24th June 2016 - Doc Bagby and his smooth organ, groove organ: little known but immensely influential and wholly innovative
  2. AllMusic - Doc Bagby, Biography by Eugene Chadbourne
  3. The Audiophile Man, 24th June 2016 - Doc Bagby and his smooth organ, groove organ: little known but immensely influential and wholly innovative
  4. The Melody Man: Joe Davis and the New York Music Scene, 1916-1978, By Bruce Bastin - page 293
  5. Billboard, March 28, 1953 - Page 44 Rhythm & Blues
  6. 45Cat - Doris Browne - Discography
  7. Billboard, May 20, 1957 - Page 117 * Reviews and Ratings of New Popular Albums
  8. Billboard, 19 August 1957 - Page 68 New & Newsworthy
  9. Discogs - Doc Bagby Discography, Singles & EPs
  10. Discogs - The Mohawks (2) – I Got A Gal / Bewitched ( Bothered & Bewildered )
  11. Encyclopedia of Rhythm & Blues and Doo-Wop Vocal Groups, By Mitch Rosalsky - Page 400 Mohawks (Philadelphia)
  12. Discogs - Davenport Sisters – I Was Teasin' / Our Summer Vacation Is Over
  13. Billboard, October 17, 1970 - Page 27 Talent, From The Music Capitals of the World, NEW YORK
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