Chubby Checker

Ernest Evans (popularly known as Chubby Checker) (born October 3, 1941) is a U.S. singer best known for popularizing the dance The Twist with his 1960 song The Twist.

His pseudonym was given to him by the wife of Dick Clark as a play on the name of Fats Domino.

The Twist was so popular that his public did not allow him to sing any other style of music.

Checker later lamented:

...in a way, The Twist really ruined my life. I was on my way to becoming a big nightclub performer, and The Twist just wiped it out. It got so out of proportion. No one ever believes I have talent.

He attended South Philadelphia High School with Frankie Avalon and Fabian. In 1964, he married Catharina Lodders, who had been Miss World in 1962.

His hit songs include:

• The Twist
• Slow Twistin'
• Pony Time
• Let's Twist Again...
• Dancin' Party

Reference

• History of Jazz and Rock