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Roots of R&B: Johnny Otis & Etta James by NPR

Roots of R&B: Johnny Otis & Etta James

from Fresh Air

by NPR

Published: Wed Aug 27 2025

Show Notes

All week we're revisiting archival interviews with key figures in early rock and roll, rockabilly and R&B. Singer, songwriter, producer and talent scout Johnny Otis got his start leading a big band that had the 1945hit “Harlem Nocturne.” Later, as a talent scout, he discovered such performers as Big Mama Thornton, Esther Phillips and Etta James. James' career took off in the '60s with hits including “At Last," “A Sunday Kind of Love” and “I’d Rather Go Blind."

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