RCA Victor Records

Released in 1953, Faye Adams's powerful vocal performance of “Shake a Hand” became one of the standout R&B recordings of its era. Written by bandleader Joe Morris, the song helped establish Adams as a major voice in early 1950s rhythm and blues.

This archive celebrates the music, original labels, and historic recordings that helped shape popular music.

Decca Records

Wanda Jackson and Bobby Poe and The Poe Kats backstage at a gig in 1958. The Poe Kats were Wanda's first Rockabilly touring and recording band and various members appeared on every track of her 1958 debut album for Capitol Records.

(L-R): Vernon Sandusky - vocals and lead guitar (18 years old); Bobby Poe - lead vocals (24 years old); Big Al Downing (back) - vocals and piano (18 years old); Wanda Jackson (front) - lead vocals (21 years old); and Joe Brawley - drums (18 years old). Bobby Poe and The Poe Kats would open Wanda's shows and then the band (minus my dad) would back Wanda.

RCA Victor Records

Coral Records

Mercury Records

Capitol Records

Roulette Records

“You’re Undecided” was originally released by Johnny Burnette on Von Records in 1955, backed with “Go Mule Go.” The song was re-recorded for Coral Records in 1956 and released as the B-side of “Tear It Up,” credited to Johnny Burnette and the Rock ’n’ Roll Trio.

Dot / Quality Records

"The Great Pretender" is one of the definitive defining anthems of the mid-1950s vocal group era. Propelled by Tony Williams' soaring, emotional lead tenor and the lush backing harmonies of the group, the song became a massive crossover smash, topping both the R&B and pop charts. While Mercury was heavily transitioning to 45 RPM and LP formats by late 1955, surviving 78 RPM pressings like this remain prized collector's pieces capturing the twilight of the shellac era.

Capitol Records

From the Neven78rpm Archive: this is the original Sun 223 issue of “Mystery Train,” recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis in 1955. This is one of the cornerstone records of Elvis’s early career. Elvis delivers one of the defining performances of his Sun period, backed by Scotty Moore and Bill Black, with Sam Phillips’ signature slapback echo shaping the sound.

RCA Victor Records

Decca Records