Clarence "Frogman" Henry Biography
19 March 1937, Algiers, Louisiana, USA. Henry began performing during the 50s with a New Orleans-based R&B group led by Bobby Mitchell. The singer later began work with band leader Paul Gayten who accompanied him on his 1957 smash "Ain't Got No Home". However, it was not until 1961 that "But I Do" provided a follow-up to this novelty song, earning Henry a US number 4 and UK number 3 hit. Co-written by Bobby Charles, the song featured several seasoned New Orleans musicians, including the young Allen Toussaint, and relaunched Henry's career. The same year a further international success, "You Always Hurt The One You Love" - previously a hit for the Mills Brothers in 1944 - echoed the same effortless style. The following single fared better in the UK, with "Lonely Street"/"Why Can't You" narrowly missing the Top 40, but it was the artist's last substantial hit. He continued to record for a variety of companies, and a 1969 collection, Is Alive And Well And Living In New Orleans, was acclaimed as a fine example of the "Crescent City" style. Since then, Henry has remained a popular live attraction especially in his adopted city.
Source: The Encyclopedia of Popular Music by Colin Larkin. Licensed from Muze.
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