Boots Randolph Collection
Scope and Contents
The Boots Randolph collection consists of two series. The Oversized Manuscripts series consists mostly of planners from the 1980-1990s. The Photographs series comprises promotional and backstage photographs of Boots Randolph.
Dates
- Creation: 1960 - 1990
Conditions Governing Access
The physical materials from this collection may be viewed only in the reading room of Vanderbilt’s Special Collections and University Archives. Materials should be requested two to three days in advance to facilitate easier access. Contact specialcollections@vanderbilt.edu to schedule an appointment.
Biographical / Historical
Homer Louis "Boots" Randolph III (1927 – 2007) was a celebrated American saxophone player. Randolph was born in Kentucky. During World War II, he played saxophone, trombone, and vibraphone as a member of the army band. After his military service, Randolph's musical career took him through performances in several states, including Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois, before he found his musical home in Nashville.
In the vibrant and influential music scene of Nashville, Boots Randolph emerged as a preeminent session musician. His exceptional skills contributed significantly to defining the famous Nashville Sound during the 1960s and 1970s. His musical versatility transcended genres, enabling him to collaborate with an impressive roster of artists across pop, rock, jazz, and country music. Among his notable musical partners were iconic figures such as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Al Hirt, Jerry Lee Lewis, Chet Atkins, and Brenda Lee.
As a solo recording artist, Boots Randolph achieved notable success with his most iconic single, "Yakety Sax." This composition remains a beloved and instantly recognizable piece in the realm of popular music, solidifying Randolph's lasting legacy in the music industry.
Full Extent
1.25 Linear Feet (1 Paige box)
Language of Materials
English
Abstract
The Boots Randolph collection is dedicated to a renowned American saxophonist Boots Randolph. It consists of photographs and other materials, notably planners, from the 1980-1990s.
Topical
- Title
- Finding Aid for the Boots Randolph Collection
- Status
- Unprocessed
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
Repository Details
Part of the Vanderbilt University Special Collections and University Archives Repository
Special Collections Library
1101 19th Ave. S.
Nashville TN 37212 United States
specialcollections@vanderbilt.edu
About this Site
This site contains collection guides, or finding aids, to the archival collections held by Vanderbilt University Special Collections and University Archives, the History of Medicine Collection, and the Scarritt Bennett Center. Finding aids describe the context, arrangement, and structure of archival materials, allowing users to identify and request materials relevant to their research.
Requesting Materials
Each finding aid contains a link to request materials from the collections. Collections can also be requested by emailing the repository directly through the library website. Each repository has its own location, hours, and contact information. Please consult the repository with questions about using the materials. Collections are non-circulating and must be used in the repository’s reading room. In many cases, the collections are stored off-site and require advance notice for retrieval.