Johnny Kidd started wearing his trademark eyepatch after a guitar string snapped mid-concert and injured him. His rockabilly-infused music inspired several British invasion bands, but Kidd could never match their success. Rock historian Ed Ward tells the story of his short career, and the legacy of his backing band, the Pirates.
Many listeners aren't familiar with the New Orleans pianist Professor Longhair, but his songs have had a profound influence on the current generation of Louisiana musicians. Rock historian has this profile.
The record producer is best known for propelling Elvis Presley to stardom; but Phillips founded his label in part to give African American musicians in the South a place to record their songs. Rock historian Ed Ward tells his story.