Strange song indeed.
Tragedy Strikes R&B Field; Johnny Ace Dies in Russian Roulette Game HOUSTON, Jan. 1, 1955 -
Rhythm and blues recording star Johnny Ace accidentally killed himself while playing Russian roulette at a holiday dance here on Saturday (25). The shooting occurred at a show featuring the popular singer and his band. Ace had gone backstage for a five-minute break and had been fooling around with a revolver with one bullet in the chamber. Ace, whose real name was John Alexander, was one of the brightest stars in the r&b field. He rose to fame on Duke Records, coming thru with his first hit, "My Song," in 1952. Since then he has had eight hits in a row, including "Cross My Heart," "Please Forgive Me," "The Clock," "Yes, Baby" and the current "Never Let Me Go." The news of the singer's death caused a big demand for his past record hits. Peacock Records, which owns the Duke label, is rushing out an LP of Ace's sides to meet this demand. In addition, the label is releasing another new single, "Pledging My Love." The label will also release other sides made by Ace recently. Ace was 25 years old.
This really is an interesting song. I could only hear up the point of 1954, then I read snippy`s post and see he died in 1955. I will try to see if I can find and listen to this off site.
In reading that write-up, my mind went back to the movie `Deer Hunter.`
You are really finding some old music. I know you are having fun.
I have a neighbor friend who just purchased over two hundred 78`s for his victrola. It will be fun to see what he has discovered. He is in his eighties and lives a very busy life. He was in the service for 35 years. He shares his travel stories from around the globe and no matter the subject, he knows something about it. He is an avid reader. I always learn something new every time we speak.