Donald "Duck" Porter (Finding Aid)

Donald "Duck" Porter

1936 -

Favorite Color: Brown, blue and tan

Interview Length: 113 minutes

Interview Date(s): May 5, 2003

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Donald Porter discusses his family background, detailing his relationships with his father, mother, and grandmother. Porter also describes growing up in Chicago and his subsequent move to Gary, Indiana, where he graduated high school. He recalls being a nondescript student who enjoyed English classes and foreign languages. Donald Porter recites lines from some of his favorite poetry, an interest he developed as a child with his father. Porter then describes his high school years in Gary, Indiana, explaining how he was recruited to sing in the R&B group the Spaniels. Porter details the group's struggle with the recording industry, explaining how white groups and songwriters took credit and royalties away from black artists, including the Spaniels. Donald Porter describes the court case in which he and other members of the Spaniels sued for the right to collect royalties. He explains how the record industry exploited many black artists, and how many groups never received due credit for their achivements. Porter also talks about the Spaniels's breakup and subsequent reunion, as well as describing his life after retiring from the Spaniels. Donald Porter discusses the differences between the current hip-hop music industry and the R&B music industry, focusing on the differences in record distribution. Porter also explains how gospel music and old spirituals formed the backbone for R&B and rock 'n roll. He considers his legacy and shares some of his own personal philosophy and faith. Porter then describes a series of photos depicting his life, family, and career.

63 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)