Bill Doggett - Honky Tonk

Year Released: 1956
Genre: Rhythm & Blues / Early Rock ’n’ Roll

Description:

“Honky Tonk” is Bill Doggett’s defining 1956 hit, issued on King Records and split over two sides of the original 7″ single. The track’s relaxed, blues-based groove — anchored by Doggett’s Hammond organ and Clifford Scott’s saxophone — made it an unexpected crossover smash, reaching #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the biggest R&B instrumentals of the decade.

Its rolling rhythm and open drum breaks later became part of early funk and breakbeat culture. “Honky Tonk” was sampled by The Beastie Boys on “Shadrach” (1989) and used by EPMD on “Let the Funk Flow.” The tune also appears in several films evoking the 1950s club era, including American Hot Wax (1978) and Blues Brothers 2000 (1998).

With its instantly recognizable groove and enduring influence, “Honky Tonk” bridges R&B, jazz, and the roots of funk — a true cornerstone of instrumental popular music.