Chris Kenner was a key figure in the New Orleans R&B scene during the 1950s and 1960s. He wrote and recorded songs that influenced generations of musicians. Though he only had a few hits of his own, his compositions gained greater fame through covers by artists like Wilson Pickett, Fats Domino, and The Dave Clark Five.
His best-known songs, “I Like It Like That” and “Land of 1000 Dances,” remain iconic pieces of American music history.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Christophe Kenner |
| Born | December 25, 1929 |
| Died | January 25, 1976 |
| Origin | Kenner, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | R&B, New Orleans R&B |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter |
| Years Active | 1955–1976 |
| Labels | Baton, Imperial, Ron, Instant, Atlantic |
| Notable Songs | “I Like It Like That”, “Land of 1000 Dances”, “Sick and Tired” |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kenner was born on December 25, 1929, in Kenner, Louisiana. Raised in nearby New Orleans, he developed his musical skills by singing in church choirs. He worked odd jobs while chasing his dream of becoming a recording artist.
In 1955, he recorded his first single with Baton Records. While it didn’t gain much traction, it marked the start of a career that would shape R&B music.
Breakthrough with “Sick and Tired”
In 1957, Kenner signed with Imperial Records. He released “Sick and Tired,” a track that showcased his rough-edged voice and streetwise lyrics. Although his version did moderately well, it was Fats Domino’s 1958 cover that became a hit. This helped boost Kenner’s profile in the music industry.
Partnership with Allen Toussaint and Instant Records
By 1961, Kenner had moved to Instant Records. There, he teamed up with pianist and arranger Allen Toussaint, a rising talent in New Orleans music. Their collaboration led to Kenner’s biggest success.
That same year, they released “I Like It Like That.” The song quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the R&B chart. It sold over a million copies and earned a gold disc from the RIAA.
The follow-up singles, such as “A Very True Story” and “I Don’t Like It Like That,” didn’t match the success of the original but showed Kenner’s playful songwriting style.
“Land of 1000 Dances” and Legacy
View this post on Instagram
In 1962, Kenner released “Land of 1000 Dances,” a song that listed popular dances of the time like the Pony, the Mashed Potato, and the Twist. Although his version peaked at only No. 77 on the Billboard chart, it became his most covered song.
Cannibal & the Headhunters recorded a version in 1965 that introduced the now-famous “na-na-na-na” chant. In 1966, Wilson Pickett’s powerful rendition turned the song into a massive hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Other notable covers came from Patti Smith, Ted Nugent, Thee Midniters, and The Electric Indian. The song has also been sampled and referenced in numerous movies and advertisements.
Kenner released a full-length album titled Land of 1000 Dances under Atlantic Records in 1966. This album was later reissued on CD in 2007.
Other Contributions and Influence
Kenner wasn’t just known for his own recordings. He also wrote songs that other artists made famous.
-
“Something You Got” was covered by Wilson Pickett, Chuck Jackson, and Alvin Robinson.
-
“I Like It Like That” became a Top 10 hit again when The Dave Clark Five released their version in 1965.
-
His lyrics were later used in Ini Kamoze’s 1994 hit “Here Comes the Hotstepper,” showing the lasting impact of his work.
Though Kenner never achieved consistent commercial success, his songwriting influenced many and earned him a respected place in music history.
Decline and Legal Trouble
Unfortunately, Kenner’s career faltered in the late 1960s. In 1968, he was convicted of statutory rape and sentenced to three years in prison. After his release in 1973, he tried to make a comeback but found little success.
He continued to record occasionally but never charted again. Personal struggles and the changing music scene made it difficult for him to return to the spotlight.
Death and Posthumous Recognition
Chris Kenner died on January 25, 1976, from a heart attack. He was only 46 years old.
Although his life ended early, his songs have endured. They’ve become part of American musical heritage, thanks to countless covers, samples, and reinterpretations by other artists.
Conclusion
Chris Kenner may not be a household name today, but his music helped shape the sound of R&B and early rock and roll. His songs bridged the gap between gospel-influenced roots and pop accessibility. With hits like “I Like It Like That” and “Land of 1000 Dances,” his influence continues to be heard and felt, proving that even short-lived fame can leave a lasting legacy.