Extra Large The Oversize Life of Gene Walker John Fraim John Fraim
[email protected] www.themidnightoilstudios.com 614-397-7559 © 2009 – John Fraim 1 “It is my gift from God to soothe many people of their troubles. This was not given to everyone, and so, it is my purpose in life to carry out just what God appointed me to do. It is an honor to be able to spread a joyful noise that heals and brings comfort to others.” Gene Walker ! 2 Dedicated To Civic leaders across the nation who attempt to bring life back into inner city neighborhoods through art, particularly the art form of jazz. And also, those few who were given the gift of music when they were young and give this gift back. ! ! 3 Table of Contents 1. Blackberry Patch!! ! ! 5! 2. Teachers!!!!!7!! 3. Clubs!!!!!!13 4. Outside World!!!!25 5. The Road!!!!!38 6. The Beatles Tour!! ! ! 45 7. Final New York Years!!!49 8. Return To Columbus!!!52!!! 9. Student Walker !!!!56 10. Professor Walker!!!65 11. Retirement & Recording!!69 12. Return of Music!! ! ! 72 Discography!!!!!85 Bibliography!!!!!87 Acknowledgments!!!!88 Appendix A – Musicians!!!89 Appendix B – Lincoln Theatre!!96 Appendix C – Neighborhood Clubs!97 Appendix D – Favorite Musicians!99 Appendix E – Favorite Music!!100 About John Fraim!!!!101 4 1. Blackberry Patch !At the turn of the century, African Americans moved to Columbus, Ohio from the South looking for a better life. This migration accelerated after World War I to take advantage of the industrial boom that was occurring in many Midwestern cities.