The Heartfelt Lyrics of Fats Domino’s ‘Ain’t That A Shame’

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1. Background:

• “Ain’t That a Shame” is often considered one of the pioneering rock and roll songs of the 1950s.
• It was co-written by Fats Domino, a New Orleans-based pianist, and bandleader, and his longtime collaborator Dave Bartholomew, who was a prominent figure in the rhythm and blues scene.
• The song was recorded in 1955 and released as a single on the Imperial Records label.

2. Musical Style:

• The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Domino’s distinctive piano playing.
• Fats Domino’s warm and charismatic vocal delivery adds to the song’s appeal.

3. Chart Success:

• “Ain’t That a Shame” was a major success on the Billboard R&B charts, reaching No. 1 in 1955.
• It also made it to the Billboard Pop chart, peaking at No. 10, making it one of the first rock and roll songs to cross over from R&B to mainstream pop.

4. Influence:

• The song had a profound influence on the development of rock and roll music, as it was one of the early hits that helped bring the genre to a wider audience.
• Its success paved the way for Domino’s future rock and roll hits and contributed to the rise of rock and roll as a popular music genre.

5. Cover Versions:

• “Ain’t That a Shame” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Pat Boone, Cheap Trick, and many others.
• Pat Boone’s version was also a hit and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Pop chart, further demonstrating the song’s crossover appeal.

6. Legacy:

• The song remains a timeless classic in the rock and roll genre and is often included in various compilations and “best of” lists.
• Fats Domino’s contribution to rock and roll music, particularly with songs like “Ain’t That a Shame,” has solidified his status as a rock and roll legend.

In conclusion, “Ain’t That a Shame” by Fats Domino is a pivotal rock and roll song that helped shape the genre’s early development. With its catchy melody and influential sound, it has left an enduring mark on the world of music.

Video

Lyrics

“Ain’t That A Shame”