Irving Lee Dorsey (December 24, 1924 – December 1, 1986) was an American pop and R&B singer during the 1960s. His biggest hits were "Ya Ya" (1961) and "Working in the Coal Mine" (1966). Much of his work was produced by Allen Toussaint, with instrumental backing provided by the Meters.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dorsey was a childhood friend of Fats Domino. He moved to Portland, Oregon when he was ten years old. He served in the United States Navy in World War II and began a career in prizefighting. Boxing as a featherweight in Portland in the early 1950s, he fought under the name Kid Chocolate and was not successful, fighting only one time and being knocked out in the second round. He returned to New Orleans in 1955, where he opened an auto repair business as well as singing in clubs at night.
Links to Peel[]
Peel played tracks from the singer on his radio shows and had a copy of his 1970 album, 'Yes We Can', which was displayed as part of the Record Collection: V&A LPs, between 2016 and 2017 in London's Victoria & Albert Museum.
Shows Played[]
- 1972
- 04 February 1972: Freedom For The Stallion (single) Mojo
- 22 May 1980: ‘Working In A Coalmine (7 inch)' Stateside
- 11 June 1980: Can You Hear Me? (Charley Records Rhythm & Blues Series)
- 08 October 1980: Get Out Of My Life Woman (album - Gonh Be Funky) Charly R&B
- 14 October 1980: Everything I Do Gonh Be Funky (album - Gonh Be Funky) Charly R&B
- 1982
- 24 March 1982: Lover Of Love
- 1999
- 03 June 1999 (Radio Eins): Working In A Coalmine (album - Wheelin' and Dealin')
- 05 October 1999: ‘Working In A Coalmine (7 inch)' Stateside