Oral history interview with Fred Foster; 2000 November 15; interview conducted by John W. Rumble. 2000 Nov. 15.

ArchivalResource

Foster, Fred, 1931- ;. Oral history interview with Fred Foster; 2000 November 15; interview conducted by John W. Rumble.

Oral history interview with Fred Foster; 2000 November 15; interview conducted by John W. Rumble. 2000 Nov. 15.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/58841005

Fred Foster, founder of Monument Records, recalls highlights from his career. Discussion includes his family history and childhood; memories of early country radio and attending a performance by Arthur Smith; early musical interests and influences; his start in the music business and his role in Jimmy Dean's career; his early work as a record promoter for Schwartz Brothers; joining Mercury Records as a promoter and memories from a Patti Page promotion; his move from Mercury to J&F Distributors; the story behind Monument's first hit, "Gotta Travel On" as recorded by Billy Grammer; experiences working in country promotion for Mercury during the mid-1950s; joining ABC Paramount as a record promoter; handling the distribution of "A Rose and a Baby Ruth"; signing Roy Orbison to Monument and recording some of his biggest hits, including "Only the Lonely" and "Running Scared"; and comments on issues related to getting records pressed and distributed.

3 sound cassettes (2 hours, 53 minutes)

Country Music Foundation, Library & Media Center