Willie Jones & The Royal Jokers - Let's Groove (2023)

There is always room for argument when the birth of
rhythm & blues is discussed
When did the various musical forms join together to create
what became known as soul music?
But there is no argument that one of the places most important to this music is Detroit, and according to Bettye LaVette, "Willie Jones was the first person to sing r&b in Detroit". Willie and his group The Royal Jokers
were signed to Atlantic Records in the early 50's, and everyone in town came downand saw what they were doing and said "I can do that"
Willie’s singles barely made it out of Detroit, although they have kept high value on the collectors market over the years
He didn't get to make a full-length album until this decade, when Bettye LaVette was asked by Steve Cropper and producer Jon Tiven to sing on their album dedicated to the music of The 5 Royales. Bettye said "I'll do it if I can bring my friend Willie Jones". Willie and Tiven clicked immediately and subsequently made an album together exploring a wide variety of styles. The record features a duet with Frank Black of the Pixies, Bettye Lavette, and Chuck Mead. The album got very favorable reviews, including Rolling Stone Magazine.
With this r&b album, Willie looks forward to bringing the music worldwide.