The Future “Killer” Performs in Neville High School Auditorium

Back in 1950, the nationally known “Ted Mack Amateur Hour” came to Monroe. Think “American Idol” but kinder. It is said Ted Mack’s show originated the idea for talent shows on air! Anyway, a fourteen year old kid named Jerry Lee Lewis from Ferriday performed on the piano in the show. I have never heard how he did! The world wouldn’t know what hit them for another six or seven years!

Just for fun, I found the ads for Jerry Lee Lewis’ performances in Monroe. I know this isn’t all of them. Here are some more I found:

The West Monroe Fairgrounds: He was a regular performer at the Ouachita Valley Jamboree in 1952. He also performed solo there March 3, 1959.

Blackie’s Club: Oct. 17, 1959 (I have done a post about this performance before)

West Monroe High School: March 12, 1962

The Rendezvous Lounge: Oct. 22-24, 1962

Mom’s Rainbow Inn: February 4, 1967

The Monroe Civic Center: Feb. 5, 1971, January 7, 1972 and October 24, 1981

The Red Dog Ballroom: July 27, 1974

The Eastside Club: June 14, 1968