Black Oak Arkansas was a successful Southern Rock group during the 1970's - their best known hit was "Jim Dandy (to the Rescue)" co-sung with the sensational Miss Ruby Starr. They were even more successful on the touring circuit as their performances and Jim Dandy's image were both highly influential. Black Oak's live energy was often complimented when joined by Ruby Starr both in concert, and on many television appearances. Black Oak Arkansas was also the starting point for drummer Tommy Aldridge who later went on to fame with the likes of Ozzy, and Whitesnake. By the late 1970s, Black Oak faded away after several line-up and musical changes. Jim Dandy had also suffered a heart attack in 1980.
During the mid-1980s hair-metal era, Jim Dandy was back with younger and heavier lineups. Several albums and lineups continued to present day, but like many of their peers, the success they enjoyed during the 1970s eluded them. And sadly in 1995, the fondly remembered honorary member Ruby Starr passed away.
Black Oak's music is bizarrely interesting, unique, and very entertaining. Black Oak Arkansas to the uninitiated may come down to Jim Dandy's voice, a "love it or hate it" scenario. The man's voice lashes out like the guttural scream of a hungover cougar. If you ever wondered what Satan would sound like singing Southern Rock, this is it!
