Dave Bartholomew, a New Orleans musical legend, died on Sunday at the age of 100. Bartholomew was well known as a musical pioneer, known for his collaborations with Fats Domino, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and co-writing of the hit, Ain’t That a Shame.
Bartholomew was a trumpet player, bandleader, composer, producer, arranger and overall musical visionary. He inspired the development of rock and roll when it emerged in the early 1960s, and worked with a range of artists like Smiley Lewis, Shirley & Lee, Lloyd Price, and Domino.
Bartholomew’s partnership with Fats Domino gave birth to The Fat Man, I’m in Love Again, I’m Walkin, and Ain’t That a Shame.
As an indication of the extent of Bartholomew’s musical influence, Ain’t That a Shame and Blueberry Hill were included in the Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. He wrote Chuck Berry’s first number one hit My Ding-A-Ling, and would also write songs performed by Smiley Lewis, Elvis, John Lennon, and countless others.
Bartholomew’s son, Dave Bartholomew Jr., confirmed his father’s death to The Associated Press: “His body simply broke down. Daddy was 100 years and six months old. It was just that time”.
This is a tough month for New Orleans music legends, as we also acknowledge the recent passing of Dr.John.
