Ep 4. Fats Domino

American Masters season 29, episode 4 is a tribute to the legendary rock and roll pianist and singer-songwriter Antoine "Fats" Domino. The episode examines the life and career of this New Orleans musician who became one of the most popular and influential artists in rock and roll history.

The episode begins by exploring Fats' early life, growing up in poverty in New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward. He was one of eight children and spent most of his childhood in his father's barbershop, where he first learned to play piano. Fats was heavily influenced by the jazz, blues, and boogie-woogie music he heard on the radio and in the local clubs.

As a teenager, Fats began playing in local bands and honing his unique piano style. In 1949, he was signed to Imperial Records and released his first single, "The Fat Man," which became a huge hit and marked the beginning of his successful career. Fats went on to record many more hit songs, including "Ain't That a Shame," "Blueberry Hill," and "I'm Walkin'."

Throughout his career, Fats was known for his warm, soulful voice and his infectious, rhythmic piano playing. He became one of the biggest-selling artists of the 1950s and was often referred to as the "Fat Man," a nickname he embraced and used as a stage name.

The episode features interviews with Fats' friends and fellow musicians, including Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and Irma Thomas, who share their memories of Fats and his music. They also discuss the influence he had on their own careers and on the music industry as a whole.

The episode also delves into Fats' personal life, including his marriage to his wife Rosemary and their eight children. Fats was known for his quiet, humble demeanor and his reluctance to leave New Orleans, where he lived for most of his life. Despite his fame and success, he remained grounded and dedicated to his family and his music.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to rare archival footage of Fats' performances and interviews, as well as photographs and other memorabilia from his life and career. The episode also explores the lasting impact of Fats' music, from its influence on other musicians to its enduring popularity among fans around the world.

Overall, American Masters season 29, episode 4 is a moving tribute to one of the most beloved figures in rock and roll history. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of Fats Domino, whose music continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.