Robert Alexander Blackwell
Robert Alexander "Bumps" Blackwell (May 23, 1918 – March 9, 1985) was a prominent American bandleader, songwriter, arranger, and record producer, renowned for his significant contributions to the development of rock and roll and pop music. Born in Seattle, Washington, Blackwell initially led a jazz group in the late 1940s, which included notable musicians such as Ray Charles and Quincy Jones. He later moved to Hollywood, California, where he became an arranger and producer at Art Rupe's Specialty Records.
Blackwell is best known for his work with Little Richard, producing and co-writing several of his major hits, including "Tutti Frutti," "Long Tall Sally," "Good Golly Miss Molly," "Ready Teddy," and "Rip It Up." These songs became rock and roll standards, covered by many artists such as Elvis Presley and the Beatles. He also produced Sam Cooke's hit "You Send Me" and worked with other artists like Larry Williams and Guitar Slim.
In the late 1950s, Blackwell left Specialty Records and continued his career at Keen Records and Mercury Records, where he served as the West Coast A&R director. He managed Little Richard and produced some of his gospel recordings. In the 1980s, Blackwell collaborated with Bob Dylan on the album "Shot of Love."
Blackwell passed away in 1985 in Hacienda Heights, California, due to pneumonia. His legacy remains influential in the music industry, having mentored and shaped the careers of several legendary artists.
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