Speck Redd was the top Jazz pianist in Des Moines and had fans from near and far. He acquired his nickname because of his many freckles. He was known for his remarkable reach on the ivories with his large hands and long fingers. A talented and versatile player, Speck also played uptown R&B and down-home Blues.
Thanks to the forethought of someone in 1954, and the generosity of Ford Roberts, we have an 18-minute “aircheck” of “Speck Redd Entertains.” It was originally recorded onto a transcription disk.
By the way, the other voice on the aircheck is Gene Emerald, a major KRNT personality in the 1950’s,
Gene Emerald2004 Speck Redd induction into the Iowa Blues Hall of Fame
Excerpts"Speck Redd Entertains" - Excerpts from his 1954 radio program on KRNT.
Courtesy of Cal Bierman and the late Ford Roberts
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