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Tarpon Springs to honor 'Billy the Kid' for his music

 
"Billy the Kid" Emerson
"Billy the Kid" Emerson
Published March 30, 2017

TARPON SPRINGS — The Florida Folklife Program and the city will recognize 2017 Florida Folk Heritage Award recipient William "Billy the Kid" Emerson, at 3 p.m. Sunday in a ceremony at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Lane.

The event will recognize Emerson's lifelong contributions as a songwriter, performer, and producer. Emerson was born in Tarpon Springs in 1925 where he learned to play piano in church. Following in the footsteps of his uncle George Hannah, Emerson began performing publicly. He joined the Navy in 1943, and after the war, resumed performing with Tampa area acts including Ivory Mitchell, the Billy Battle Band, and Alfonso Brown Band. He acquired the nickname "Billy the Kid" while playing with a band that dressed like cowboys.

Emerson attended Florida A&M University on an athletic scholarship, but left to serve in the Air Force during the Korean War. He later met Ike Turner and joined Turner's Kings of Rhythm. In 1954, he signed a contract with Sam Phillips and wrote and recorded hits for Sun Records including When It Rains It Really Pours, later recorded by Elvis Presley, and Red Hot.

In 1955, he joined Vee-Jay Records, where he released Every Woman I know (Crazy 'Bout Automobiles). Shortly after, he joined Chess Records as their recording manager. Emerson later formed Tarpon Records, and continued to record and perform rhythm & blues. In 1978, Emerson rededicated himself to his faith and continues to compose sacred music.