Sam Phillips: An Influential Force in Rock ‘n Roll and Rockabilly

While Samuel Cornelius Phillips (5 January 1923 – 30 July 2003) may not have been as famous as the rock stars of the 1950s through the 1970s, he was certainly one of the most instrumental persons in the development of both rock ‘n roll and rockabilly as the dominant forms of music in the 1950s. He was, after all, a recognized musician, music producer, record executive, and disc jockey in the United States’ industry.

Phillips was not just any record executive because he was the founder of two of the budding music industry’s foremost record labels – Sun Records and Sun Studio, both located in Memphis, Tennessee. He discovered legendary musicians like Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Howlin’ Wolf through his Sun labels. His most crowning glory, furthermore, was the launching of The King’s – Elvis Presley – career in 1954, an achievement that cemented his place in the music industry.

His music industry-related achievements also include the launching of several country, rhythm and blues, and rock ‘n roll musicians. He was such a prolific discoverer of talents that his Sun labels were sought after by aspiring musicians. He sold Sun, however, in 1969.

Phillips is also known in the music industry for being one of the strongest advocates for racial equality. This was at a time when black musicians were encountering challenges entering the music industry, much less becoming known for their music, due to the strong racial discrimination. His efforts significantly contributed to the breaking down of racial barriers in the industry.

Aside from his contributions to the music industry, Phillips was a savvy investor and businessman as well. He was among the first investors of Holiday In, Roy Scott’s new motel chain on the verge of its national launching. He also founded several other companies including Holiday Inn Records, Phillips International, Sun Studio Café, and Big River Broadcasting.

Phillips has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Rockabilly Hall of Fame, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, the Blues Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. He also received a Grammy Trustees Award.