Dean Beard

Dean Beard (August 31, 1935 - April 4, 1989) was an American rockabilly musician, known as the "West Texas Wild Man".^[1]

Early life

Beard was born in Santa Anna, Texas, and the son of Raymond and Opral (Baker) Beard. He lived in Coleman most of his life. In high school, he and his friends formed a band called the Crew Cats.

Career

He played at a night club with Elvis Presley. Beard's first record "Red Rover"/ "Wake Up Jacob" was released a week later for Fox Records. The record had very little success and so did the label. Months later, they released another single, "Time Is Hangin' Heavy On My Hands" /" Sing, Sing, Sing", to a little more success.

Sun Records

In 1956 and 1957, he recorded for Sun Records, and made many unreleased demos.

Rakin' and Scrapin'

In 1957, he recorded "Rakin' and Scrapin'" on Edmoral records, and another version a month later at Atlantic Records. He recorded it with the Crew Cats, featuring Jimmy Seals on Saxophone and drummer Dash Crofts. He kept making records for Atlantic such as "Party Party". Earlier that year, he teamed up with Slim Willet to write songs together.

Challenge Records

He recorded for Challenge Records in 1958, and recorded as a piano player with The Champs who also had a contract with that label.

In 1959, he got fired from the Champs because he was accused of taking part of the cut meant for Seals and Crofts, but made one more record for Challenge that year.

Later life

He kept recording for different labels, with less success.

His last single was in 1966 for Sims records. It was called "Are There Honkey Tonks In Heaven" / "Pocketfull Of Stardust". He achieved recognition in the 70s and 80s playing live music.

Death

He died in Coleman Hospital on April 4, 1989 from health problems.

Discography

References