Music is often thought of as a magic and mystical labor of love by those who do not create it. Musicians and singers pour their hearts and souls into their creations for all to enjoy. But it is a result of labor just as building a house is. Many musical artists and Black artists in particular have not been fairly compensated for their labor and their many stories are not usually documented. The Tom & Ethel Bradley Center has undertaken the Black Entertainment Archives project to document the oral histories of the musical superheroes whose names you might not know but songs you have sung and danced along to. Songs they either performed, wrote, or produced. These oral histories celebrate their love for their craft and the labor it commands to create words and sounds out of thin air that will be heard, enjoyed, and celebrated in perpetuity.
The interviews were conducted by Dr. Keith Rice.
Bobby Watson is a bass player and producer who played for the bands Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, René and Angela, High Voltage, among others. In this oral history interview, Watson discusses his childhood growing up in West Memphis, Arkansas, moving to Los Angeles and meeting fellow Rufus bandmate Tony Maiden, and his musical career.
André Fischer is a renowned drummer, producer, arranger, and music executive, best known for his work with the influential funk band Rufus. Born into a musical family, Fischer's early exposure to music came from his father, a music professor and trumpet player, and his uncle, the acclaimed jazz composer and pianist Clare Fischer.
With Rufus, Fischer contributed dynamic drumming and production skills that helped propel Rufus featuring Chaka Khan to commercial success. Beyond his work with Rufus, Fischer has had a prolific career as a producer and arranger. He is particularly noted for his work on Natalie Cole's "Unforgettable" album, which won seven Grammy Awards. Fischer has also held executive positions at major record labels, including MCA/Universal and Warner Bros.
Fischer has shared his extensive industry knowledge and experience by serving on advisory committees and lecturing at universities in California and Minnesota. His legacy in the music industry is marked by his versatility, creativity, and dedication to nurturing talent.
Al McKay is the former guitar player of the bands Earth, Wind & Fire and The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. He is currently the leader of The Al McKay All Stars. Al McKay is also a producer of many hit records, working with artists such as The Emotions and The Temptations.
Maxayn Lewis, prolific musician who had worked alongside artists such as Ike and Tina Turner and Bobby "Blue" Bland, shares her family history and experiences growing up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city with a rich African American culture. She discusses her family's roots in Oklahoma, Ethiopia, and her great grandfather’s run in with night riders. Maxayn recounts her father's career as a butcher and real estate broker, and her mother's musical talent which had influenced her own decision to pursue music. She describes the segregated environment of Tulsa, where black-owned businesses thrived, and the impact of integration. Maxayn also recalls her early musical performances, setting up her first gig at the age of six, and her early influences including Nat King Cole and Nina Simone.