On this day 100 years ago, Sam Phillips was born. Best known as the founder of Sun Records, Phillips played a major role in the development of rock and roll during the 1950s. Along with launching the career of Elvis Presley, he also produced recordings by Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, and Howlin' Wolf. Having started his career in radio, Phillips was also the owner and operator of radio stations in Memphis, Alabama, and Florida. In 1986, Phillips was part of the first group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his pioneering contribution to the genre has been recognized by the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.

Let’s celebrate the life and legacy of one of the most important producers in rock history by highlighting the artists he amplified through his work. For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs produced at Sun Records do you want to hear?  

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played:
Elvis Presley – That’s All Right
Carl Perkins – Blue Suede Shoes
Bill Justis and His Orchestra – Raunchy
Rufus Thomas – Bear Cat
Harold Jenkins – Give Me Some Love
Johnny Cash – I Walk The Line
Roy Orbison and the Teen Kings – Ooby Dooby
Rosco Gordon – The Chicken Dance with You
Jerry Lee Lewis – Great Balls of Fire
Robbie Fulks and Linda Gail Lewis – Wild Wild Wild (Bonus Track!)