From a Facebook post seen today (08 January 2024). Hi, this is Larissa, Larry's daughter. It is with a very broken heart that I tell you my father passed away Friday, January 5, 2024. He was surrounded by family and went peacefully of natural causes. Thank you so much for all the love and support you've given him throughout the years. It meant the world to him. We're all so proud of him - his amazing talent and his generous heart. We'll miss him terribly.
I can't believe I never heard of Larry and Lorrie until about 10 or so years ago. I got a chance to see Larry in a small venue before Covid. I was saddened at both of their passings. Condolences to you and your family.
The fact that he could dance that frantically while still playing with such accuracy , is a testament to his skill level. Knew exactly how to have a musical conversation with seasoned players. Instincts were spot on.
he is very well known, it just depends on who you are and the kind of music you isolate yourself to hear. he also co wrote two songs that are two of the most well known in country music, Delta Dawn and You're The Reason God Made Oklahoma. he and his sister Lorrie were regulars on the tv show town hall party in the 50s, performed and toured with some of the great stars before they were famous, johnny cash, marty robbins, patsy cline, jerry lee lewis and many more. its well worth the time to look up their story and read about their early years and what it was like to tour the country the way it was done back then.
Not only is the kid spot on with his playing, but as someone mentioned he’s absolutely going crazy with his legs! I never really heard of him either and I’m 74 years old. Thanks for this great video !
Joe Maphis was Larrys idol and mentor. That is why Larry played a doubleneck Guitar because Joe did. Great job on this one Fil. Just think about this fellow Guitar players. Larry played without no effects completley clean. Any muted string you would hear. Just amazing playing and he was only 11 Wow. He's still playing today in his mid 70's.
Yes, Joe Maphis was a master on any stringed instrument and tutored young Larry Collins. Joe's perfectionism often had Larry in tears during practice, but it paid off and Larry truly loved him.
I am blown away by Larry's incredible guitar playing, but adding Elvis and Chuck Barry's leg moves is ludicrous! At 73, I honestly have never heard of him or the brothers of whom you spoke. I will have to do some research. I grew up in Northeast Tennessee, and the only radio station we could get at night was WOWO in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Thank you for an enjoyable session.
@elizabethloyd3713, He and his sister started playing on stage in 1954 so he was at the same time as Elvis and before Chuck Berry. I'm 72 and I heard of him but we had 11 radio stations and 2 TV stations in 1954 in New Orleans. But I was only 3 so I think 1955 or 56 when I remember hearing of them.
Unbelievable!! And when I played guitar on a talent show on TV at age 6, I was told I was a ham! I was nothing like this wild man!! My brother played Hawaiian guitar so we did two Hawaiian tunes: Drifting and Dreaming and Song of the islands. Watching this takes me back 50 years plus thanks, Fil! PS that kid was more talented than me at his age, WOW! My dad did not want to going into show business, So it didn’t go anywhere. We got a carload of hostess Twinkies and other pastries for getting into the finals 😂
Yeah, the supposed "Chuck Berry guitar-walk moves" are actually totally 12 yr old Larry Collins" guitar-walk moves. Others "borrowed" his showmanship, too, like Elvis.
Little Larry's tearin' it up and no mistake! His dancing reminds me of Joe Bennett (who also was my guitar teacher in the mid 70's. Thanks Joe, & rest easy) dancing during his solo in "Black Slacks" by the Sparkletones. And is nobody else gonna mention Joe floggin' that Gibby Violin Bass like it owes him money lol? Great one Fil, thanks! Cheers!
Holy Smokes !! This kid could get by with his personality alone… but then there’s the rest 😂 He is an actual musician. He feels it… not even thinking about it ! Thanks Fil. You are the best ✌🏼 ROCK
As you know Larry Collins continue to perform after being part of the Collins Kids with his sister Lorrie and went on to write and produce hits for many well known country music stars, and is most notable for co-writing the 1972 hit "Delta Dawn" for those who may wounder Larry Collins is still living.
@@brendencarlson5220 The first notable recording of the song "Delta Dawn" was in 1971 by American singer and actress Bette Midler for her debut album. However, it is best known as a 1972 top ten country hit for Tanya Tucker and a 1973 US number one hit for Helen Reddy.
Every time I see him as a kid playing the guitar I feel like I just had a three shot cāfe Cubano with a Red bull Chaser. "It gives me wings".;-) Great video Phil!!
As somebody who was there in the fifties this was so much fun to watch. I don't remember this kid but again I was only 3. Kid could really Rock though. Really enjoyed this.
I then looked up Joe Maphis and it's clear to see how he would have been a mentor to young Larry Collins, that precise fast playing is really astounding especially in someone so young.
Holy cow!! This kid was fabulous. Joe probably wondered what the heck was going on. His stage presence at his age, the dancing, and his amazing talent on the guitar is astounding. Bravo Larry❤
Oh my goodness, I loved this! What talent, but what joy also! I love the way he bounces around, it doesn't seem like some contrived "act" it just seems very natural and true to himself and the music. Great find!
That's what its all about. It makes you smile and just enjoy the music. Kinda sounds like this you tube channel, not just the video performance.😂 Thanks Fil that made my day. Let's see if I can jump around like that at 65 let alone play a guitar! Lol
Really supernatural performance. Technically, musically, rhythmically outstanding, with great dance moves. I love when Fil watches and starts to smile because he can't help himself. I'm doing the same thing. It's called enjoying music. We as a society would be happier and less angry if we simply allowed ourselves to enjoy excellence when we see or hear it. This is why choosing carefully what we watch is so important. Thanks, Fil, for being one of the good guys.
I had heard about the Collins Kids way back before RUclips was a thing. I think one of first things I looked up was their TV appearances and was not disappointed. Lorrie was every bit the incredible stage presence that I had heard. Larry was described as "little firecracker"... definitely an understatement!
my mom told me about them in the 70's. mom and dad, both gone now, were married in 54' i guess she saw them and was shocked. when YT came out i pulled them up for her to see. she flipped out. . .we kept pulling up videos till we had seen them all. there more now, but moms gone. at least she got to see most of them. that was a fun afternoon with both of them over the house. i was pilling up mose allisson for dad. they both couldn't believe all this could be seen when ever you wanted. in a way. it does kind of lesson it.
@@kbtube8125 Thanks to RUclips I've gotten to listen to stuff that I've always heard about, but never thought I'd actually hear. I've also discovered just as much music that I had no idea was out there.
How tight this performance was is what struck me right away. Secondly, the playing of these Tex Ritter looking adults surprised me as well. The ability to cross over in styles is a mark of a real musician.
I remember you did a video about him earlier, but I'll have to do some research about his career. I miss that part of your analyses since you really made sure we knew about the history of the artists. I'm not complaining, your videos are always appreciated. It's just amazing what your videos encompass. You do the best eulogy videos by far. Sadly they are becoming more frequent.
And the kid is dancing around like that with a Mosrite doubleneck! I have a 1965 Mosrite bass, and it is a boat anchor. I can't imagine hopping around with a doubleneck, even if the body has some chambering. Davie Allan still has back problems from performing with a Mosrite doubleneck for many years. Joe Maphis was the big name for Mosrite guitars until the Ventures.
Yes like you explained that’s what makes it more amazing and highly entertaining. Also like what somebody else explained it’s done by a 100 pound kid carrying a 20 pound guitar!! While he’s jumping around like that with genius leg moves, sliding and running at the exact same time right along with great guitar playing ‘not’ missing a beat, ‘not’ messing up a string, and tuned into the other musicians on the stage. Musical talent, timing, moves, energy, cheerful happy attitude, confident, charisma, stage presence, maturity on an adult level, done by a 14 or 15 year old kid, a great song choice...with the whole entire package it is totally awesome and very enjoyable!!
What a gem! Pure fun and energy with a kid leading the band. 1959! And he co-wrote 'Delta Dawn' ! Can you imagine him jamming on that song in a more rock version?
Hi Fil, What a fabulous performance by this talented young man. Very impressive on so many levels. He has great showmanship, command over his instrument and an overall passion to play and perform this song! You are right that He has a natural musical ability he has worked at to sound this good. This was a fun video to look at today and love when you demonstrate on guitar! Awesome analysis… You Are Amazing! Debbie ☮️
I used to watch Larry and his sister on “Town Hall Party” , The Collins Kids they were known as. I love it, the piano player is on a folding chair. Talk about production values!
Thanks for another look back at the times of the incredible Collins Kids. Larry was a superb guitarist with great stage presence. His 2 year older sister, Lorrie had an incredible voice, very mature at her young age, and a confident, secure stage presence. Each was a solid entertainer on their own. But together onstage, their talent and stage presence quadrupled. Larry and Lorrie could sing the Big Bopper's "Chantilly Lace" or Jerry Lee Lewis' " Great Balls of Fire" and make those songs even more entertaining with the male/female interaction of their magic brother-sister dynamic! Cannot watch the old videos of them without a big smile.
You did a good job presenting the "magic" of the Collins Kids. I loved their "Shortnin' Bread Rock". Imagine the heartbreak for Larry when he was in school and heard that Lorrie had run far away and eloped with Johnny Cash's booking agent [twice Lorrie's age]. Larry ran out of the school, down an alley, sat down, and just cried his eyes out.
@@pouglwaw5932 Thank you for the kind words. I discovered the Collins Kids roughly two years ago and was blown away at their talent. I lucked into acquiring copies of Bear Family Records "The Collins Kids at Town Hall Party", Volumes 1,2 & 3. From their THP performances, it is obvious that Lorrie and Larry were very close to each other, so it's no surprise that young 14 year old Larry was devastated by Lorrie's eloped marriage in early January, 1959 to Stu Carnell, Johnny Cash's (And the Collins Kids!) manager. The interesting aspect to the elopement is that Stu took Lorrie home later that day in January 1959, and for the next two months, Lorrie lived with her family, not revealing the marriage. Stu finally went to a Los Angeles newspaper, revealed the marriage and then in early March 1959, the word was out and all hell broke loose. In the notes on the Bear Family Records DVD’s Larry talks of ditching school and walking back streets by himself to try and figure it all out in his young mind. In later interviews Lorrie said she was most sorry about hurting Larry so much, and that had she known in 1959, the devastating effect her elopement would have, she would never have married Stu. She made the interesting statement that “Over time, she learned to love Stu”, also saying that the reason she’d eloped was “because she must have lost her mind”. I think the real reason for eloping with Stu Carnell, was that Lorrie was a 16 year old woman with a lot of pressure on her. For starters, she and Larry were the breadwinners for the Collins family. On the road Lorrie was also the Big Sister taking care of her little brother and herself. Stu Carnell had booked the Collins Kids to extensively tour with Johnny Cash between TV appearances, in 1957 and 1958. Cash had come out in 1957 for several THP appearances and had met the Collins family. Arkansas-born Cash instantly bonded with the Collins family from Oklahoma, and became fast friends with them. And Johnny Cash became the extra source of pressure on Lorrie, that pushed her into the elopement. Cash became infatuated with Lorrie, 15 in 1957, and was pressuring her to have an affair with him throughout 1957 and 1958. Lorrie, wisely and with a surprising maturity at ages 15 to 16, refused. However Lorrie could not just brush Cash off, because touring with him was making necessary income for the Collins Family, so Lorrie had to tread very carefully for almost two years, keeping Cash at arm’s length, without angering him. That’s a heck of a lot of pressure for a 16 year old girl. This is all detailed in JOHNNY CASH: THE LIFE (2013) Robert Hilburn, starting in Chapter 6. I’m a fan of Cash, but his behavior toward Lorrie and the pressure he put her under, was the push that totally derailed the Collins Kids success trajectory, and was reprehensible and inexcusable. Especially for a man married with young children, as was Cash. Larry said that the Collins Kids had offers for movie appearances and TV shows, and that all those offers were instantly pulled upon news of 16-year-old Lorrie’s marriage. I can just see a “Lorrie and Larry” TV show that would have happened about 15 years earlier than the “Donny & Marie” show. Lorrie and Larry had such a dynamic stage presence together, that such a show would have happened easily. Lorrie and Larry were natural talents, with a unique brother-sister dynamic stage presence that captivated audiences. It is very intriguing and fascinating to think of “What might have been”. But the thoughts also trigger a twinge of sadness at “what will never be”.
I always loved to see his antics on stage with his sister worried he would trip her while buzzing around. He was a natural who learned from the best. Thanks Fil!
Larry's timing and coordination were perfect, or there would have been guitar cord disasters, or worse. In a 2005 interview, Lorrie laughingly said she honestly never knew what Larry would do during a performance and she learned to watch and pick up her feet when that guitar cord got too close to hog-tying her and tripping her up.
Remarkable the stage presence and coordination on display in the performance. But liked hearing the confirmation from a guitar teacher of the advanced level of the "Kid" on guitar.
I’m 76 yo and I watched Larry, Lorrie and Joe Maphis on Town Hall Party in Los Angeles. That guy could really play a mean rockabilly guitar. I was sad to hear he passed in January.
That performance was at the Town Hall Party, located in Compton, Calif, which was predominantly "white" and rural at the time. Many famous musicians preformed at that venue including, Johnny Cash, Pasty Cline, Gene Vincent, Tex Ritter, Carl Perkins, Marty Robbins, as many other famous performers.
I am aghast!!! I am blown away by this kid's amazing guitar playing and incredible moves!!! As far as I can remember, I don't think I remember him. I was 15 in 1959. I will definately research him. Thank you, Fil for this fun analysis!!
Hey, Larry Collins was 15 in 1959, too. I was 10. I only saw Larry and Lorrie on TV once in the 50's, but that was enough to engrave their energetic performance in my memory forever.
Un-effin-believable! You have once again bowled me over with an artist who was previously unknown to me! After I have watched this video maybe four times my mind might finally slow down but I wouldn't bet the farm on it. Your analyses are always welcome sources of info but, this time, you didn't have a chance to outdo your subject. I thank you, good Sir. Well done indeed!
Thank you Fil. I had this on as I was doing some admin. Immediately I was sucked into the performance. What an entertainer! Never heard of these guys. I'll have to check them out. The kid showed class and maturity when showcasing the other players.
Fil, I've told you before but by God the contribution you make to helping folks' understanding of musical art is unique. And to showcase the Collins Kids, especially Larry, is just...WOW... all that at like ten years old in the 1950's. AMAZING! Keep the great vids coming, Fil. You're one of a kind.
All I can say is WOW! Not familiar with Larry, but he is a little dynamo, with an abundance of talent. Backround musicians are Super talented also. Thanks Fil for sharing this and analyzing.
RIP Larry. You were sensational and you did it with incredible enthusiasm and dedication. One of the best concerts I saw was the Collins Kids back in 2006.
Wow that is amazing! I was 3 years old during this time . I never heard of this . Thank you FIL for another great analysis! I learn so much from you . Stay awesome 🤘
Until this video appeared in my feed, I had never heard of the Collins kids. Clearly, I was missing a lot! The kid’s confidence alone is unbelievable, but what really pulled it all together was the pure joy they all seemed to feel just playing music together the way things were done before rock stars were born. Wonderful performance and a perfect mix of instruments, composition and sound. I could listen all day.
Holly Smoke! EVERYONE is at the top of their game, and still the kid outshines! Never heard of Larry Collins (and his sister) before. What a discovery! One more reason to follow your channel… 👍
Hold up folks. This guy was a member of the Collins kids that were making SERIOUS money in the 1950s. Child actors and musicians were a HUGE deal way before the internet, and there were nationwide broadcast in America of child prodigy Pianist. The 40s had a three year old SUGAR CHILE ROBINSON playing newsreels on a regular basis. The bottom line is THESE GUYS AND GALS WERE PROFESSIONAL musicians that made a living off of showing their talent. Not getting into it, but remember the Jacksons?
I was 2 years old when this was new. I learned of Larry, and his sister Lorrie, when his passing was announced on a music appreciation group to which I subscribe. What a phenom.
Just woke up and watched this and it has put a big smile on my face and put me in a great mood to start my day in a wet and cold Lancashire! Thanks mate, I love your work and always look forward to your videos.
Larry Collins has died at age 79 (Born: October 4, 1944, Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States Died: January 5, 2024) - his sister, Lawrencine May "Lorrie" Collins (May 7, 1942 - August 4, 2018). They were both inducted into The Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
This is what makes it even more amazing and highly entertaining. Like what somebody else explained it’s done by a 100 pound kid carrying a 20 pound (Mosrite doubleneck) guitar!! That strength while he’s jumping around like that with genius leg moves, dancing, hopping, sliding, bouncing, running, with all of this is done at the exact same time along with great guitar playing ‘not’ missing a beat, ‘not’ messing up a string, and tuned into the other musicians on the stage. Musical talent, timing, moves, energy, passionate, cheerful happy attitude, confident, charisma, stage presence, maturity on an adult level, done by a 14 or 15 year old kid, a great song choice...with the whole entire package it is totally awesome and very enjoyable!!
Larry Collins was lauded for his skills at playing a double-neck Mosrite guitar. The guitar was a gift from his mentor, the legendary, Joe Maphis (the man playing the bass here). Larry most notably co-wrote the hit songs "Delta Dawn" and " You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma" RIP Larry (1944 - 2024)🎸
Both he and he sister were very mature for their young ages. She had a very strong voice. Double neck from way back then. The bass almost looks like a Hofner , violin body. I wonder if Larry discovered coffee at an early age.
Larry Collins should be a household name to all us old geezers who grew up with R&R ~ in fact, had he come to nationwide prominence he could have been known today as "The American Clapton" ~ a full decade BEFORE Eric came to our attention. Larry was a young guitar prodigy 40 years before Joe Bonamassa ~ thanks Fil for this ~ not just a good episode, but an important one.
I remember watching this live on TV back in the day ... this may have been on RANCH PARTY ... was fascinated at the time ... still impressed with his ability to jump around and move while playing ... and with a double neck guitar ... where did he get guitar lessons ??? ... he had to learn somewhere ... we are about the same age ...
From a Facebook post seen today (08 January 2024). Hi, this is Larissa, Larry's daughter. It is with a very broken heart that I tell you my father passed away Friday, January 5, 2024.
He was surrounded by family and went peacefully of natural causes. Thank you so much for all the love and support you've given him throughout the years. It meant the world to him.
We're all so proud of him - his amazing talent and his generous heart. We'll miss him terribly.
Oh, that's sad, I guess thats why videos of him suddenly appeared on my homepage, but no mention of his passing........strange😢
Big star in Los Angeles.
I can't believe I never heard of Larry and Lorrie until about 10 or so years ago. I got a chance to see Larry in a small venue before Covid. I was saddened at both of their passings. Condolences to you and your family.
Larissa my condolences on your Fathers passing. He was a absolute master on the Guitar. Rest in Peace Larry Collins
🌹🌹🌹
Rest in Peace Larry Collins.
The Collins Kids are an overlooked act in the history of Rock and Roll. Larry Collins guitar work was way ahead of its time for 1959. He rocked hard!
I don't remember this; but hey, I will now.
Indeed 🙏🏻🎸
The fact that he could dance that frantically while still playing with such accuracy , is a testament to his skill level. Knew exactly how to have a musical conversation with seasoned players. Instincts were spot on.
Never heard of this child before,but what a total entertainer!
Glad to see Larry Collins getting some recognition. Very talented man
Larry was all like, keep up if you can boys.
Larry Collins is an UNDISPUTED LEGEND. Ferocious and fierce, even to this day! WAYYYYY overlooked... What a legacy!!
How come nobody's heard of this guy?! Wth happened seriously? This kid is a beast ! Full stop
He shoulda been a rock n roll legend! Took the country and rockabilly route instead.
he is very well known, it just depends on who you are and the kind of music you isolate yourself to hear. he also co wrote two songs that are two of the most well known in country music, Delta Dawn and You're The Reason God Made Oklahoma. he and his sister Lorrie were regulars on the tv show town hall party in the 50s, performed and toured with some of the great stars before they were famous, johnny cash, marty robbins, patsy cline, jerry lee lewis and many more. its well worth the time to look up their story and read about their early years and what it was like to tour the country the way it was done back then.
Not only is the kid spot on with his playing, but as someone mentioned he’s absolutely going crazy with his legs! I never really heard of him either and I’m 74 years old. Thanks for this great video !
Few candy bars n cokes?letter rip.....Larry was top Notch showman n had alot fun..
To use Mark Knofler's words, "he got the action, he got the motion, oh yeah, the boy can play".
He plays like that and dances at the same time? 😀
Amazing! 😊
Joe Maphis was Larrys idol and mentor. That is why Larry played a doubleneck Guitar because Joe did. Great job on this one Fil. Just think about this fellow Guitar players. Larry played without no effects completley clean. Any muted string you would hear. Just amazing playing and he was only 11 Wow. He's still playing today in his mid 70's.
Yes, Joe Maphis was a master on any stringed instrument and tutored young Larry Collins. Joe's perfectionism often had Larry in tears during practice, but it paid off and Larry truly loved him.
Joe played the first Mosrite double neck guitar. He had Semi Moseley build the second for Larry.
I am blown away by Larry's incredible guitar playing, but adding Elvis and Chuck Barry's leg moves is ludicrous! At 73, I honestly have never heard of him or the brothers of whom you spoke. I will have to do some research. I grew up in Northeast Tennessee, and the only radio station we could get at night was WOWO in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Thank you for an enjoyable session.
I used to listen to WOWO. Great memories
His sister dated Ricky Nelson, but Ozzie and Harriet didn't like their relationship from what I understand, so they broke up.
65 never heard of him either.
@elizabethloyd3713, He and his sister started playing on stage in 1954 so he was at the same time as Elvis and before Chuck Berry. I'm 72 and I heard of him but we had 11 radio stations and 2 TV stations in 1954 in New Orleans. But I was only 3 so I think 1955 or 56 when I remember hearing of them.
@@randyc5650 Thank you @
Unbelievable!! And when I played guitar on a talent show on TV at age 6, I was told I was a ham! I was nothing like this wild man!! My brother played Hawaiian guitar so we did two Hawaiian tunes: Drifting and Dreaming and Song of the islands. Watching this takes me back 50 years plus thanks, Fil! PS that kid was more talented than me at his age, WOW! My dad did not want to going into show business, So it didn’t go anywhere. We got a carload of hostess Twinkies and other pastries for getting into the finals 😂
Very cool. Any footage of your performance?
It's about durn time we saw Larry Collins up in here. Kudos, brother. Also, the kid got moves.
wonder who the drummer is loved him
Yeah, the supposed "Chuck Berry guitar-walk moves" are actually totally 12 yr old Larry Collins" guitar-walk moves. Others "borrowed" his showmanship, too, like Elvis.
@@pouglwaw5932 Chuck used to do that stuff on the Chitlin circuit years before ol Larry could even talk. Elvis got his moves from Wynonie Harris.
You also cannot dismiss his overall performance. This kid is a natural born Entertainer. He's Buddy Holly and Eddie Cochran rolled into one!
This kid is incredible, he reminded me of a young Justin Beiber with his stage presence...except this guy has amazing talent ! Lol
And Jimmy Page
And maybe Elvis?
@@axis8838 ...maybe a bridge too far.
Elvis is thangyewvurrymuch.
@@boogathon Peanut butter and nanna samiches for everyone!
Rockabilly doesn’t get much love but it is such an important part of rock and roll. Glad to see it.
A natural born performer. And not a bit phased by the sound hitch at the beginning. Thanks for introducing me to a talented kid!
It’s as if it’s part of the tease and bulit into the stage act. U see Larry playing right along with it.
Little Larry's tearin' it up and no mistake! His dancing reminds me of Joe Bennett (who also was my guitar teacher in the mid 70's. Thanks Joe, & rest easy) dancing during his solo in "Black Slacks" by the Sparkletones. And is nobody else gonna mention Joe floggin' that Gibby Violin Bass like it owes him money lol?
Great one Fil, thanks! Cheers!
Musical talent, moves, charisma, stage presence... How did I live almost a half century without ever hearing of this kid?
Holy Smokes !! This kid could get by with his personality alone… but then there’s the rest 😂 He is an actual musician. He feels it… not even thinking about it ! Thanks Fil. You are the best ✌🏼 ROCK
As you know Larry Collins continue to perform after being part of the Collins Kids with his sister Lorrie and went on to write and produce hits for many well known country music stars, and is most notable for co-writing the 1972 hit "Delta Dawn" for those who may wounder Larry Collins is still living.
Now, I have an earworm of Helen Reddy. Thx, a lot!
"Buy, Mennan!"
@@ignatzmuskrat3000 Wasn’t Delta Dawn a Tanya Tucker tune? I was a little kid but I remember being, ahem, “excited” by Tanya Tucker…lol…
@@brendencarlson5220 The first notable recording of the song "Delta Dawn" was in 1971 by American singer and actress Bette Midler for her debut album. However, it is best known as a 1972 top ten country hit for Tanya Tucker and a 1973 US number one hit for Helen Reddy.
@@drewpall2598 I probably found Tanya Tucker far more memorable at that age…
@@brendencarlson5220 oh. That may be right. They both hit around the same time. Anyway, the earworm is gone. Was gone.... Buy Mennan!
What an adorable showman shredder! 🎸🤩
Goodness! Looks like he was born to be a showman! Thanks Fil
True ! Some said he had nervous energy- No, that was pure showmanship.
Plain and simple, this kid is great. An entertaining, enthusiastic, exciting and fun person whose love and passion for music is infectious!
Every time I see him as a kid playing the guitar I feel like I just had a three shot cāfe Cubano with a Red bull Chaser. "It gives me wings".;-) Great video Phil!!
What an amazing talent-the moves and the guitar! That kid was born for the stage!
Taking into consideration,the era,and how music was evolving,this kid was terrific!'Thank you fil,for reacting to this. ❤❤❤
As somebody who was there in the fifties this was so much fun to watch. I don't remember this kid but again I was only 3. Kid could really Rock though. Really enjoyed this.
I then looked up Joe Maphis and it's clear to see how he would have been a mentor to young Larry Collins, that precise fast playing is really astounding especially in someone so young.
Holy cow!! This kid was fabulous. Joe probably wondered what the heck was going on. His stage presence at his age, the dancing, and his amazing talent on the guitar is astounding. Bravo Larry❤
I love that kid’s moves and enthusiasm! On fire 🔥
Love the Collins Kids! Great clip😄
Oh my goodness, I loved this! What talent, but what joy also! I love the way he bounces around, it doesn't seem like some contrived "act" it just seems very natural and true to himself and the music. Great find!
Thank you for posting this about Larry. He was a very kind soul. He is very missed
That's what its all about. It makes you smile and just enjoy the music. Kinda sounds like this you tube channel, not just the video performance.😂 Thanks Fil that made my day. Let's see if I can jump around like that at 65 let alone play a guitar! Lol
Really supernatural performance. Technically, musically, rhythmically outstanding, with great dance moves. I love when Fil watches and starts to smile because he can't help himself. I'm doing the same thing. It's called enjoying music. We as a society would be happier and less angry if we simply allowed ourselves to enjoy excellence when we see or hear it. This is why choosing carefully what we watch is so important. Thanks, Fil, for being one of the good guys.
I had heard about the Collins Kids way back before RUclips was a thing. I think one of first things I looked up was their TV appearances and was not disappointed. Lorrie was every bit the incredible stage presence that I had heard. Larry was described as "little firecracker"... definitely an understatement!
my mom told me about them in the 70's. mom and dad, both gone now, were married in 54' i guess she saw them and was shocked. when YT came out i pulled them up for her to see. she flipped out. . .we kept pulling up videos till we had seen them all. there more now, but moms gone. at least she got to see most of them. that was a fun afternoon with both of them over the house. i was pilling up mose allisson for dad. they both couldn't believe all this could be seen when ever you wanted. in a way. it does kind of lesson it.
@@kbtube8125 Thanks to RUclips I've gotten to listen to stuff that I've always heard about, but never thought I'd actually hear. I've also discovered just as much music that I had no idea was out there.
How tight this performance was is what struck me right away. Secondly, the playing of these Tex Ritter looking adults surprised me as well. The ability to cross over in styles is a mark of a real musician.
"Melting faces" - so true - brilliant! Thank you for that, Fil!
I remember you did a video about him earlier, but I'll have to do some research about his career. I miss that part of your analyses since you really made sure we knew about the history of the artists.
I'm not complaining, your videos are always appreciated. It's just amazing what your videos encompass. You do the best eulogy videos by far. Sadly they are becoming more frequent.
What a talent!
So much talent I never heard of.
And such a young lad with great legwork.
Impressive indeed. 😊
And the kid is dancing around like that with a Mosrite doubleneck! I have a 1965 Mosrite bass, and it is a boat anchor. I can't imagine hopping around with a doubleneck, even if the body has some chambering. Davie Allan still has back problems from performing with a Mosrite doubleneck for many years. Joe Maphis was the big name for Mosrite guitars until the Ventures.
Yes like you explained that’s what makes it more amazing and highly entertaining. Also like what somebody else explained it’s done by a 100 pound kid carrying a 20 pound guitar!! While he’s jumping around like that with genius leg moves, sliding and running at the exact same time right along with great guitar playing ‘not’ missing a beat, ‘not’ messing up a string, and tuned into the other musicians on the stage. Musical talent, timing, moves, energy, cheerful happy attitude, confident, charisma, stage presence, maturity on an adult level, done by a 14 or 15 year old kid, a great song choice...with the whole entire package it is totally awesome and very enjoyable!!
What a gem! Pure fun and energy with a kid leading the band. 1959! And he co-wrote 'Delta Dawn' ! Can you imagine him jamming on that song in a more rock version?
Larry Collins passed away aged 79 , Jan 4, 2024… his sister Lorrie passed away in 2018
Hi Fil,
What a fabulous performance by this talented young man. Very impressive on so many levels. He has great showmanship, command over his instrument and an overall passion to play and perform this song! You are right that He has a natural musical ability he has worked at to sound this good. This was a fun video to look at today and love when you demonstrate on guitar! Awesome analysis… You Are Amazing! Debbie ☮️
Watching this clip affected you like it affected me- that big grin on your face. Good stuff!👍🎸🥁❤️
I used to watch Larry and his sister on “Town Hall Party” , The Collins Kids they were known as. I love it, the piano player is on a folding chair. Talk about production values!
🌴🌴< < < THAT KID WAS ON FIRE > > > 🌴🌴
Thanks for another look back at the times of the incredible Collins Kids. Larry was a superb guitarist with great stage presence. His 2 year older sister, Lorrie had an incredible voice, very mature at her young age, and a confident, secure stage presence. Each was a solid entertainer on their own. But together onstage, their talent and stage presence quadrupled. Larry and Lorrie could sing the Big Bopper's "Chantilly Lace" or Jerry Lee Lewis' " Great Balls of Fire" and make those songs even more entertaining with the male/female interaction of their magic brother-sister dynamic! Cannot watch the old videos of them without a big smile.
You did a good job presenting the "magic" of the Collins Kids. I loved their "Shortnin' Bread Rock". Imagine the heartbreak for Larry when he was in school and heard that Lorrie had run far away and eloped with Johnny Cash's booking agent [twice Lorrie's age]. Larry ran out of the school, down an alley, sat down, and just cried his eyes out.
@@pouglwaw5932 Thank you for the kind words. I discovered the Collins Kids roughly two years ago and was blown away at their talent. I lucked into acquiring copies of Bear Family Records "The Collins Kids at Town Hall Party", Volumes 1,2 & 3.
From their THP performances, it is obvious that Lorrie and Larry were very close to each other, so it's no surprise that young 14 year old Larry was devastated by Lorrie's eloped marriage in early January, 1959 to Stu Carnell, Johnny Cash's (And the Collins Kids!) manager.
The interesting aspect to the elopement is that Stu took Lorrie home later that day in January 1959, and for the next two months, Lorrie lived with her family, not revealing the marriage. Stu finally went to a Los Angeles newspaper, revealed the marriage and then in early March 1959, the word was out and all hell broke loose.
In the notes on the Bear Family Records DVD’s Larry talks of ditching school and walking back streets by himself to try and figure it all out in his young mind. In later interviews Lorrie said she was most sorry about hurting Larry so much, and that had she known in 1959, the devastating effect her elopement would have, she would never have married Stu. She made the interesting statement that “Over time, she learned to love Stu”, also saying that the reason she’d eloped was “because she must have lost her mind”.
I think the real reason for eloping with Stu Carnell, was that Lorrie was a 16 year old woman with a lot of pressure on her. For starters, she and Larry were the breadwinners for the Collins family. On the road Lorrie was also the Big Sister taking care of her little brother and herself. Stu Carnell had booked the Collins Kids to extensively tour with Johnny Cash between TV appearances, in 1957 and 1958. Cash had come out in 1957 for several THP appearances and had met the Collins family. Arkansas-born Cash instantly bonded with the Collins family from Oklahoma, and became fast friends with them. And Johnny Cash became the extra source of pressure on Lorrie, that pushed her into the elopement.
Cash became infatuated with Lorrie, 15 in 1957, and was pressuring her to have an affair with him throughout 1957 and 1958. Lorrie, wisely and with a surprising maturity at ages 15 to 16, refused. However Lorrie could not just brush Cash off, because touring with him was making necessary income for the Collins Family, so Lorrie had to tread very carefully for almost two years, keeping Cash at arm’s length, without angering him. That’s a heck of a lot of pressure for a 16 year old girl.
This is all detailed in JOHNNY CASH: THE LIFE (2013) Robert Hilburn, starting in Chapter 6. I’m a fan of Cash, but his behavior toward Lorrie and the pressure he put her under, was the push that totally derailed the Collins Kids success trajectory, and was reprehensible and inexcusable. Especially for a man married with young children, as was Cash.
Larry said that the Collins Kids had offers for movie appearances and TV shows, and that all those offers were instantly pulled upon news of 16-year-old Lorrie’s marriage. I can just see a “Lorrie and Larry” TV show that would have happened about 15 years earlier than the “Donny & Marie” show. Lorrie and Larry had such a dynamic stage presence together, that such a show would have happened easily.
Lorrie and Larry were natural talents, with a unique brother-sister dynamic stage presence that captivated audiences. It is very intriguing and fascinating to think of “What might have been”. But the thoughts also trigger a twinge of sadness at “what will never be”.
Thank you for giving this guitar hero his due! The Collins Kids were special. You can get lost watching them on RUclips.
Oh my, Larry had some serious playing and footwork! Thanks for sharing this gem. Your analysis is both informative and entertaining!
I always loved to see his antics on stage with his sister worried he would trip her while buzzing around. He was a natural who learned from the best. Thanks Fil!
Larry's timing and coordination were perfect, or there would have been guitar cord disasters, or worse. In a 2005 interview, Lorrie laughingly said she honestly never knew what Larry would do during a performance and she learned to watch and pick up her feet when that guitar cord got too close to hog-tying her and tripping her up.
Remarkable the stage presence and coordination on display in the performance. But liked hearing the confirmation from a guitar teacher of the advanced level of the "Kid" on guitar.
Fil turns on the recording and cannot help but smile. That's a great performance.
Now this is rock and roll!
Wow this kid plays and dances! Loved it!
I’m 76 yo and I watched Larry, Lorrie and Joe Maphis on Town Hall Party in Los Angeles. That guy could really play a mean rockabilly guitar. I was sad to hear he passed in January.
Wow! What an energetic performance that was! Very impressive and professional at the same time! Great analysis and definitely keeps you smiling 😊🎸🎵
R.I.P. Larry you are a LEGEND!
That performance was at the Town Hall Party, located in Compton, Calif, which was predominantly "white" and rural at the time.
Many famous musicians preformed at that venue including, Johnny Cash, Pasty Cline, Gene Vincent, Tex Ritter, Carl Perkins, Marty Robbins, as many other famous performers.
This was so fun to watch. And to hear your analysis was great. Thanks. Reminds me of how excited we used to get playing church music.
Glad to be back and see a Collins Kids Joe Maphis video
Clapping at home after that performance.
This is my favorite video of his. He is such a natural performer 👍🏼 he's talented and funny 😂
RIP Larry Collins... You were one of the greatest ever!
??
I am aghast!!! I am blown away by this kid's amazing guitar playing and incredible moves!!! As far as I can remember, I don't think I remember him. I was 15 in 1959. I will definately research him. Thank you, Fil for this fun analysis!!
Hey, Larry Collins was 15 in 1959, too. I was 10. I only saw Larry and Lorrie on TV once in the 50's, but that was enough to engrave their energetic performance in my memory forever.
Un-effin-believable! You have once again bowled me over with an artist who was previously unknown to me! After I have watched this video maybe four times my mind might finally slow down but I wouldn't bet the farm on it. Your analyses are always welcome sources of info but, this time, you didn't have a chance to outdo your subject. I thank you, good Sir. Well done indeed!
It would be so cool if you could interview him. You would do a bang up job!
Thank you Fil. I had this on as I was doing some admin. Immediately I was sucked into the performance. What an entertainer! Never heard of these guys. I'll have to check them out. The kid showed class and maturity when showcasing the other players.
Fil, I've told you before but by God the contribution you make to helping folks' understanding of musical art is unique. And to showcase the Collins Kids, especially Larry, is just...WOW... all that at like ten years old in the 1950's. AMAZING! Keep the great vids coming, Fil. You're one of a kind.
I'm sad to say I never heard of Larry Collins before this video. Thank you for bringing him to our attention.
All I can say is WOW! Not familiar with Larry, but he is a little dynamo, with an abundance of talent. Backround musicians are
Super talented also. Thanks Fil for sharing this and analyzing.
RIP Larry. You were sensational and you did it with incredible enthusiasm and dedication. One of the best concerts I saw was the Collins Kids back in 2006.
Wow that is amazing! I was 3 years old during this time . I never heard of this . Thank you FIL for another great analysis! I learn so much from you . Stay awesome 🤘
Until this video appeared in my feed, I had never heard of the Collins kids. Clearly, I was missing a lot! The kid’s confidence alone is unbelievable, but what really pulled it all together was the pure joy they all seemed to feel just playing music together the way things were done before rock stars were born. Wonderful performance and a perfect mix of instruments, composition and sound. I could listen all day.
Holly Smoke! EVERYONE is at the top of their game, and still the kid outshines! Never heard of Larry Collins (and his sister) before. What a discovery! One more reason to follow your channel… 👍
I saw the Collins Kids two or three times at the Hemsby rockabilly weekenders in the late 90s. Absolutely brilliant shows every time.
Hold up folks. This guy was a member of the Collins kids that were making SERIOUS money in the 1950s. Child actors and musicians were a HUGE deal way before the internet, and there were nationwide broadcast in America of child prodigy Pianist. The 40s had a three year old SUGAR CHILE ROBINSON playing newsreels on a regular basis. The bottom line is THESE GUYS AND GALS WERE PROFESSIONAL musicians that made a living off of showing their talent. Not getting into it, but remember the Jacksons?
Or the Osmonds....
@@charleswood2182 Good point.
@@thiosemicarbizidebenzoylal2921 But not the Partridge Family!!!
@@charleswood2182 Dont even get me started on Hollywood and child actors.
@@charleswood2182😂
This was amazing. I'd never heard of any of these before, thanks Fil.
I was 2 years old when this was new.
I learned of Larry, and his sister Lorrie, when his passing was announced on a music appreciation group to which I subscribe.
What a phenom.
superb performance, full of life
Marvelous! I really didn't appreciate all he was doing without your analysis.
That kid has got to be in the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame. Everyone else that moved like that with a guitar, basically came after him.
That is what I say, Larry Collin started it all or at least most of it, all the others came after him were copying him.
How have I never seen this before? Drummer was great too!!
What ever happens to that talented kid?! Bring him back!
Outstanding 😀
Still playing.
@@tomhayes4782in heaven.
Just woke up and watched this and it has put a big smile on my face and put me in a great mood to start my day in a wet and cold Lancashire! Thanks mate, I love your work and always look forward to your videos.
Larry Collins has died at age 79 (Born: October 4, 1944, Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States Died: January 5, 2024) - his sister, Lawrencine May "Lorrie" Collins (May 7, 1942 - August 4, 2018). They were both inducted into The Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
This is what makes it even more amazing and highly entertaining. Like what somebody else explained it’s done by a 100 pound kid carrying a 20 pound (Mosrite doubleneck) guitar!! That strength while he’s jumping around like that with genius leg moves, dancing, hopping, sliding, bouncing, running, with all of this is done at the exact same time along with great guitar playing ‘not’ missing a beat, ‘not’ messing up a string, and tuned into the other musicians on the stage. Musical talent, timing, moves, energy, passionate, cheerful happy attitude, confident, charisma, stage presence, maturity on an adult level, done by a 14 or 15 year old kid, a great song choice...with the whole entire package it is totally awesome and very enjoyable!!
Larry Collins was lauded for his skills at playing a double-neck Mosrite guitar.
The guitar was a gift from his mentor, the legendary, Joe Maphis (the man playing the bass here).
Larry most notably co-wrote the hit songs "Delta Dawn" and " You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma"
RIP Larry (1944 - 2024)🎸
The legwork alone is exceptional, let alone the guitar skills
RIP Larry - 1/5/24. You really need to google all his stuff - incredible.
Both he and he sister were very mature for their young ages. She had a very strong voice. Double neck from way back then. The bass almost looks like a Hofner , violin body. I wonder if Larry discovered coffee at an early age.
It's a Tutmarc, which precedes the Precision Bass.
@@richsackett3423 Any history that you can share ? Thanks
do you know who the drummer is
@@oldermusiclover I don't. But maybe Google the name of the TV show. It might list the band ( piano , drums , bass ). The show was HOUSE PARTY
Joe Maphis on bass. Larry played a double neck built by the man who started MOSRITE Guitars ( made famous by The Ventures). That's from Google .
Absolutely Outstanding performance 👍👍👍 yeah three thumbs up 👍
They all seem pretty well ahead of their time.awesome..
Larry Collins should be a household name to all us old geezers who grew up with R&R ~ in fact, had he come to nationwide prominence he could have been known today as "The American Clapton" ~ a full decade BEFORE Eric came to our attention. Larry was a young guitar prodigy 40 years before Joe Bonamassa ~ thanks Fil for this ~ not just a good episode, but an important one.
Wonderful analysis. Wow!!!
I remember watching this live on TV back in the day ... this may have been on RANCH PARTY ... was fascinated at the time ... still impressed with his ability to jump around and move while playing ... and with a double neck guitar ... where did he get guitar lessons ??? ... he had to learn somewhere ... we are about the same age ...