Farewell, Mr. Personality
It was nearly six years ago that I had the pleasure and honor of interviewing a rock’n’roll legend. Lloyd Price scored many hits: nearly 30 of his songs made it onto the charts. And even as he moved into the twilight of his years, he continued to tour. He also wrote a fascinating, lively and provocative memoir, titled Sumdumhonky. And it was in connection with that project that I found myself on the phone with “Mr. Personality” in 2015.
Lloyd Price passed away two days ago, having recently celebrated his 88th birthday. The finest honor one can pay to the man is to listen to his music and share it with others. And if you’re so inclined, reading my interview feature – and then his book – will fill in some of the spaces.
Godspeed, Mr. Personality.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4500-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he taught a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.