ARC-1379
Level of description
collection
Title
Andy Chudd/Imperial Management Contract Between Fats Domino and Motown
Date
1972
Size
0.07 (Linear feet)
Inductee
x
Biography / Administrative History
Antoine "Fats" Domino (1928–2017) was an American rhythm and blues pianist, singer, and songwriter, widely recognized as a foundational figure in the development of rock and roll music. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Domino's musical style was strongly influenced by the city's cultural traditions and contributed significantly to the emergence of the distinctive "New Orleans sound." Domino was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
Motown Records was an American record label founded by Berry Gordy Jr. on January 12, 1959, under the name Tamla Records. The company was incorporated as Motown Records Corporation on April 14, 1960. As an African American–owned record label, Motown played a significant role in the integration of popular music in the United States. During the 1960s, the label developed what became known as the “Motown Sound,” a style of soul music characterized by pop influences. This sound contributed to the commercial success of the label and enabled many Black artists to reach mainstream, predominantly white audiences.
Scope and Contents
The Andy Chudd/Imperial Management Contract Between Fats Domino and Motown details the negotiation between Fats Domino and Motown during 1972. Four copies of the twenty-four page contract are featured in this collection, with two with hand-written annotations and one with red line edits. A telegram granting Imperial Management permission to negotiate the contract for Domino, as well as correspondence throughout the negotiation process are also featured. The deal ultimately fell through, resulting in a settlement agreement releasing Motown from claims made during the negotiation process that is included in this collection. The materials are arranged chronologically. The Andy Chudd/Imperial Management Contract Between Fats Domino and Motown uncovers the crucial involvement of managers in shaping artists' careers. Additionally, it also reveals a link between Fats Domino and Motown Records that is often forgotten.
Notes
Acquisition Note: The Andy Chudd/Imperial Management Contract Between Fats Domino and Motown was received by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as gift from Andy Chudd on November 5, 2025.
Citation: [Identification of Item], Andy Chudd/Imperial Management Contract Between Fats Domino and Motown, Library and Archives, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
General Note: Contains restricted material.
Language Note: Materials are in English.
Processing Information: Processed by Miriam Saab, volunteer. Completed January 5, 2026. Descriptive sources and standards used to create this inventory: DACS and local processing manual.
Access
Collection is open for research. Patrons must sign the Acknowledgment of Legal Responsibilities and Privacy Rights statement on the Researcher Registration Form before using this collection. Consult the Library and Archives in advance of your visit to ensure access to these materials is available.
Use
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Inc. owns right, title, and interest in the works of authorship embodied in the materials in this collection. The transfer of Donor's literary and other property rights does not include works of other individuals and organizations contained in the gift. For more information, please consult the staff of the Library and Archives.
Associated Persons
Associated Subjects
Creator
