Harry "Doc" Bagby (né Harry Camilus Bagby) was an American studio musician who played piano and organ, and backed many artists in pop and jazz. He played a major part in the music scene from the late 1940s to the late 1960s. He was also a bandleader and solo artist in his own right. He released many singles throughout his career. He is also the co-composer of the hit song "Rock the Joint" which has been recorded by Jimmy Preston and Bill Haley.
Background During the 1930s while still a teenager he played at many house parties and became a requested musician. During the 1940s he started up his own orchestra which lasted until he was drafted into military service. Post 1945, he managed a record store and soon after was working for Gotham Records.The Audiophile Man, 24th June 2016 - Doc Bagby and his smooth organ, groove organ: little known but immensely influential and wholly innovative The roles he had for the label were music adviser, talent scout and A&R man.AllMusic - Doc Bagby, Biography by Eugene Chadbourne As its music director he produced numerous records.The Audiophile Man, 24th June 2016 - Doc Bagby and his smooth organ, groove organ: little known but immensely influential and wholly innovative
Career 1950s Prior to coming on board as a staff member for Gotham Records, Bagby added his piano and organ to recording sessions for the label.The Melody Man: Joe Davis and the New York Music Scene, 1916-1978, By Bruce Bastin - page 293 One singer that Bagby and his group backed on a few recordings was Doris Browne. In 1953, Bagby and his group backed her on single "Oh Baby" bw Please Believe Me" which was released on Gotham G-290.Billboard, March 28, 1953 - Page 44 Rhythm & Blues He also backed her on her single, "Until The End Of Time" bw "Why Don't You Love Me Now, Now, Now?" Gotham G-296, and another recording "The Game Of Love" bw "My Cherie" which was released on Gotham G-7298 as a 45.45Cat - Doris Browne - Discography
In 1957, he released the album, Honky Tonk in Silk on the Epic label.Billboard, May 20, 1957 - Page 117 * Reviews and Ratings of New Popular Albums It was reported in Billboard that both the album and the single, "Dumplin's" b/w "Sylvia's Callin'" which was released on the Okeh label were standout sellers.Billboard, 19 August 1957 - Page 68 New & Newsworthy
1960s In 1964, his single "Rubberneck" bw "Cornbread" was released on the Vim label, cat#519. He released many other singles on an assortment of labels.Discogs - Doc Bagby Discography, Singles & EPs
Producer Among the recordings he produced were "I Got A Gal" bw "Bewitched" for The Mowhawks which was released on Val-Ue 211 in 1960,Discogs - The Mohawks (2) – I Got A Gal / Bewitched ( Bothered & Bewildered )Encyclopedia of Rhythm & Blues and Doo-Wop Vocal Groups, By Mitch Rosalsky - Page 400 Mohawks (Philadelphia) and Davenport Sisters with their single, "I Was Teasin'" bw "Our Summer Vacation Is Over", released on Vida DV 0108 in 1963.Discogs - Davenport Sisters – I Was Teasin' / Our Summer Vacation Is Over
Family He was married to Barbara Kemp (née; Barbara Ward; 1919–2009), who collaborated with him in songwriting.
Death Bagby died on September 3, 1970, following a short illness.Billboard, October 17, 1970 - Page 27 Talent, From The Music Capitals of the World, NEW YORK
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