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Jackie Brenston

American R&B singer and saxophonist. Best known for his 1951 recording of the pioneering song "Rocket 88", often referred to as the 'first' Rock & Roll song. Recorded in Memphis by [a=Sam Phillips (2)] by [a=Ike Turner]'s band, Brenston sang the lead vocals and was credited with authorship. Chess Records in Chicago released the song as by [a=Jackie Brenston & His Delta Cats] and it was #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart for over a month. He passed away from a fatal heart attack at age 51. Born: 15 (or) 24 August 1930 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Died: 15 November 1979 in Memphis, Tennessee (or) 15 December 1979 in Memphis (DeSoto County), Mississippi.