Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – Sep 21, 2025
When one mentions the name Berry (spelled B.E.R.R.Y.) in music circles, the names Chuck Berry and Berry Gordy Jr. always come to the forefront. But there was another Berry who was also a pioneering figure in the 50s & 60s when it comes to Rock & Roll.
Born in Louisiana in 1935, this Berry grew up in Los Angeles in a vibrant musical environment where his deep voice and songwriting talent made him a cornerstone of the West Coast music scene in the 50s. Though he never became a household name, Berry’s work—both in front of the mic and behind the scenes—left an indelible mark on popular music.
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He began his career singing with doo-wop and R&B groups such as the Flairs and the Robins, the latter of which would eventually become the Coasters. He had a distinctive baritone voice and was in high demand as a backing vocalist for many groups in Los Angeles. Throughout the 50s, Berry contributed vocals to a number of hits, including Etta James’ “The Wallflower (Dance with Me, Henry)” and The Penguins’ “Earth Angel.”
Despite his talent and output, Berry’s most famous contribution to music remains “Louie Louie,” a song he wrote in 1955, recorded in 1956, and released in 1957. Inspired by Latin rhythms and a love-struck sailor’s lament, the song was later covered by the Kingsmen in 1963, turning into a cultural phenomenon and one of rock’s most enduring anthems. Berry sold the rights to the song for just $750 in 1959 to pay for his wedding.
In the mid-80s, Berry was living on welfare. Drinks company California Cooler wanted to use “Louie Louie” in a commercial but discovered it needed Berry’s consent because despite having sold the publishing rights, he still owned the radio and television performance rights. The company asked the Artists Rights Society to locate him, which led to Berry’s taking legal action to regain his rights to the song. The settlement made Berry a millionaire.
Unfortunately, his national profile never matched the influence he wielded. He remained more of a local legend in Los Angeles and among R&B aficionados.
Among his notable solo recordings is a heartfelt tune that resonated with many and remains a favorite among collectors of early R&B. Reminiscent of something Sam Cooke might sing, this beautiful ballad somewhat symbolizes Richard Berry’s career as “Everybody’s Got A Lover But Me,” and it’s this week’s Tom Locke moment in time … another first time play on Treasure Island Oldies.
YouTube listing of the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1_vfVHLqgo
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
