calsfoundation@cals.org
November 14, 2007
Upon the advice of Elvis Presley, Sonny Burgess of Newport (Jackson County) and his bar band traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, and were able to secure a recording contract with Sun Records. Renamed Sonny Burgess and the Pacers, the band became one of Sun’s original rock and roll recording artists. As of 2007, Burgess, who is shown here in the black suit, and the Pacers continue to tour.