Sammy Ridgley

Samuel Ridgley (born August 6, 1943 – August 27, 2016) was an American R&B artist associated with New Orleans. His recorded output was slight just two singles and an album but he was a regular on the New Orleans' music circuit for over 30 years. He was also a committed civil rights activist who represented his community of Jefferson Parish in New Orleans.

Career Ridgley was raised in the Shrewsbury section of Jefferson Parish on Andover Street. He started singing gospel at the First Zion Baptist Church. Ridgley's biggest early influence was Joe Tex.

In 1962, Ridgley joined a seven-piece band and the band got $100 a night while working during a day job at a funeral home. However, when Walker died unexpectedly in 1973, Ridgley's career slowed and he cut just one further single.

In 1981, Tommy Ridgley invited Ridgley to open his show with Rose Davis.

In 1998, Ridgley was working at the Treasure Chest Casino when he was approached by Donald Lang and guitarist Ernie Vincent, who operate Kolab Records, to record a compact disc. During this time, Ridgley was a supervisor for community action programs at the Harvey Center.

Sammy Ridgley died in New Orleans on August 27, 2016. He was 73.

Personal life Ridgley was the younger brother of recording artist Tommy Ridgley. Ridgley was active in the Shrewsbury community and belonged to the Young Men's Union Benevolent Association, which is one of the oldest organizations in Jefferson Parish dating from 1801.