| Birth: | Mar. 12, 1917 | | Death: | Oct. 16, 1969 | 
Record Producer, Executive. Real name Lazer Shmuel Chez. A native of Motol, Poland, Chess was the co-founder of the legendary Chess Record Label Company, which was responsible for signing and starting the careers of some of music's biggest stars. The label's many talents included Jimmy Reed, Bo Diddley, John Lee Hooker, Robert Nighthawk, Muddy Waters, Gene Ammons, Jimmy Rogers, Howlin Wolf, Willie Dixon, Sonny Boy Williamson, Fontella Bass, Little Milton Campbell, Little Walter, Tommy Tucker, Etta James, Laura Lee, Koko Taylor, Elmore James, Buddy Guy, and the legendary Chuck Berry. The company also issued hits for such early rhythm and blues groups as the Moonglows and the Flamingos. Some of their best known chart toppers were "Rollin Stone", "My Foolish Heart", "That's All Right", "Walking By Myself", "Sloppy Drunk", "Johnny B. Goode", "Juke", and several others. Together with his brother Phillip, Chess began his career by becoming involved in the black nighclub scene on the south side of Chicago. The two brothers eventually joined the Aristocrat Records Label in 1947, and renamed it Chess in 1950. He also became involved in the broadcasting business and became a part owner of several radio stations including WVON-AM Radio (and it's affiliate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin), and WSDM-FM Radio, both in Chicago. The last ten years of his life were spent as the President of the L and P Broadcasting Company (1959 to 1969). After his death, from a heart attack at 52, his company passed through many hands until MCA acquired it in the 1990s. He was inducted into the Independent Music Hall of Fame. (bio by: K)
Search Amazon for Leonard Chess | | | Burial:
Westlawn Cemetery
Norridge
Cook County
Illinois, USA |
Maintained by: Find A Grave
Originally Created by: K
Record added: May 23, 2007
Find A Grave Memorial# 19497237 |
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