Bobby Charles

Born in Abbeville, Louisiana, on February 21, 1938, Robert Charles Guidry alias Bobby Charles followed the musical evolution of his native region, from rock'n'roll to R&B. He grew up with Cajun music, before discovering rock'n'roll and rhythm'n'blues. He joins The Cardinals and writes the classic "See You Later, Alligator", which reaches the ears of Leonard Chess (founder of Chess Records). The single, released in 1955, became a worldwide hit thanks to Bill Haley & the Comets' cover version. Charles produced other songs for Imperial, including "Walking to New Orleans", performed by Fats Domino, and "(I Don't Know Why I Love You) But I Do", covered by Clarence "Frogman" Henry. In 1972, he returned to the Bearsville Records label with a first solo album of the same name, produced by Rick Danko and featuring contributions from the musicians of The Band, in addition to Dr. John, David Sanborn and Amos Garrett. After several years on the sidelines, the songwriter went on to record six more albums, culminating in Timeless (2010). On January 14, 2010, Bobby Charles died at home at the age of 71. His songs, covered by numerous artists, are featured on several compilations, including Walking to New Orleans: The Jewel and Paula Recordings 1964-1965 (2000), An Introduction to Bobby Charles (2006), Better Days (2011), What a Party: The Complete Recordings 1955-56 (2023) and Bearsville Studio Sessions (2025).