Yemi Oyediran Spotlights Iconic Cincinnati Sound With ‘King Of Them All: The Story of King Records’

Did you know that the first rock ‘n roll song may have originated from King Records, a legendary but underrated music label in Cincinnati? For instance, are you familiar with the music of Little Willie John or Hank Ballard? And how much are your familiar with James Brown’s early work? Director Yemi Oyediran’s immersive and value added documentary King of Them All: The Story of King Records answers all those questions with insight and panache. Debuting tonight on local PBS stations nationwide (including PBS.org and the PBS app), this documentary showcases a diverse array of music and delivers a healthy share of memorable stories. Oyediran talked to Deepest Dream about his years in the making passion project!

Founded in 1943 by Syd Nathan, King Records served as the launching ground of James Brown and its diverse music would include the likes of Hank Ballard, The Stanley Brothers, and Little Willie John.

Director Yemi Oyediran presents a wide array of incredible moments in King of them All: The Story of King Records. Several minutes are devoted to the creation of “Good Rocking Tonight” (performed by Wynonie Harris), a jump blues song that some argue is the first rock ‘n roll track ever.

Watch the documentary below!

Firstly, Cincinnati was a perfect location for a diverse set of musicianship. “If you’re living in Appalachia or if you’re in the South, it’s the cheapest kind of city to get to by the railroads,” said Oyediran. “It allows for these populations who are living under Jim Crow to actually be in society together. It led them to have purchasing power, which opened up marketplaces for both of them. This allowed for this combination of African American sand Appalachian styles to be merged and starts developing into what we now know as rock and roll.”

As for working with PBS, Oyediran sings their praises. “PBS has been absolutely incredible,” added the filmmaker. They are a wonderful and terrific bunch of people. Right now, they’re going through some historic challenges.  Despite those challenges, I have been blessed with their professionalism (and) passion for (the documentary). (They) are people who really care about (the public) having access to information.”

Check out our full interview with Yemi Oyediran:

I review King of Them All: The Story of King Records on CinemAddicts: