Sam Theard

Lovin' Sam Theard served most of his lengthy professional existence as an actor and a comedian in theaters, movies, and television. Those who study and specialize in old-time hokum, dirty blues, and novelty swing records associate his name with delectable ditties like "She Skuffles That Ruff," "You Can't Get That Stuff No More," "Rubbin' on That Darned Old Thing," and "I Wonder Who's Boogiein' My Woogie Now." Here in the glorious information glut of the 21st century, Sam Theard is likely to be remembered and referenced now and then as the man who wrote "(I'll Be Glad When You're Dead) You Rascal You," a rambunctious number made famous by Louis Armstrong. Most importantly, any search engine armed with his name will uncover multiple references to his magnum opus, "Let the Good Times Roll," which was one of Louis Jordan's major hits as well as a primary staple of rhythm & blues and early rock & roll. Born in New Orleans, LA on October 10, 1904, he began working with a circus in 1923 and spent many years on the road, performing in theaters and nightclubs. Most of his recordings were made in or near Chicago. In 1929 and 1930 he recorded as Lovin' Sam from Down in 'Bam for the Brunswick record company under the supervision of A&R director Mayo Williams. Focusing almost exclusively upon human sexuality, Theard sang bawdily humorous songs backed by guitarist Tampa Red and pianists Cow Cow Davenport and H. Benton Overstreet. After a brief dalliance with the Gennett label in 1930 using the name Sam Tarpley, Theard engaged in a bit of label hopping. He cut records for Decca in 1934 (backed by pianist Albert Ammons), for Vocalion in 1937 and Victor's budget line Bluebird series in 1938. His voice can also be heard on records issued under the names of pianist Tiny Parham and...