Gene Louis O'Quin (or Oquin) (September 9, 1932 – November 27, 1978)[1] was an American country and western and honky tonk singer born in Dallas on September 9, 1932[2] He established himself professionally at Dallas' Big "D" Jamboree, a Grand Ole Opry-like radio showcase, becoming one of its most popular entertainers. O'Quin recorded his first song at the age of 15 and was signed by Capitol Records.[3]
He later relocated to California. His recording career reached its peak between 1950 and 1955.
O'Quin's voice was high and nasally and had a twang evocative of Little Jimmy Dickens. He cut many novelty songs and boogie-woogie records. The persona in his records was happy-go-lucky and well suited to hillbilly music.[4] Although he did not record any rockabilly songs in his career, rockabilly enthusiasts have embraced him. His career was eclipsed with the advent of rock and roll but he did not successfully make the transition as rockabilly artists did.
O'Quin died when his car was hit by a bus in Riverside, California on November 27, 1978.[5]
Discography edit
References edit
- ^ "Gene O'Quin - Music on Google Play". Play.google.com. Retrieved 2020-04-13.
- ^ Koffey, Keven (4 February 2011). "Bopping.org". Citing liner notes for 'Boogie Woogie Fever'. Bear Family. Retrieved 19 July 2011.
- ^ Bjorke, Matt. "Guys of the Big "D" Jamboree - Various Artists". About.com. Retrieved 26 January 2012.
- ^ Adams, Greg. "Boogie Woogie Fever: Gene O'Quin". All Music. Retrieved 26 January 2012.
- ^ Services set for singer, November 29, 1978, The San Bernardino Sun.
- ^ "Artist". Artistdirect.com. Retrieved 2020-04-13.
- ^ Southern Folklife Collection-SFC Recordings Admin Interface - Display Physical Item Search Results
External links edit
- Gene O'Quin
- YouTube Gene O'Quin performing "I'm Gonna Live the Life."
- Gene Louis Oquin at Find a Grave
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