Fats Domino, Walking To New Orleans | Throwback Vibez

In the 73^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we reflect on “Walking To New Orleans” by rock and roll pioneer Fats Domino. 

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”C” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]an you feel those vibes, those surefire Throwback Vibez?! Throwback Vibez is a recurring column devoted to celebrating incredible songs from the past. There is truly nothing like a classic oldie to get you energized and in a great mood! The selections featured in this column highlight musical gems from the 20^th century, though there are occasional exceptions. All genres of music are welcome, ensuring something for every musical taste. In the 73^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2026), we reflect on “Walking To New Orleans” performed by Fats Domino.[/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

[nx_pullquote]“This time I’m walkin’ to New Orleans /…I’m gonna need two pair of shoes / When I get through walkin’ these blues / When I get back to New Orleans.”[/nx_pullquote] I have no doubt you will need new shoes, Fats Domino (1928 – 2017)! The R&B/rock and roll pioneer delivered an unforgettable hit with “Walking To New Orleans”, the seventh track from his 1960 album, A Lot of Dominos.  One of four top 10 hits, “Walking To New Orleans” peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was written by Domino, Bobby Charles (Robert Guidry, 1938 – 2010), and Dave Bartholomew (1918 – 2019).  Bartholomew produced and arranged this once-in-a-lifetime gem.

Although it is brief, running just under two minutes, “Walking To New Orleans” is nothing short of iconic.  It packs a mean punch, just as the famous city does with all of its history and culture.  Following an instrumental intro that features plucked and bowed, lush strings, Fats impresses us with his beautiful and incredibly sincere vocals.  Every lyric he sings, you believe it because he sells it like a champ.  “You used to be my honey / ‘Til you spent all my money / No use for you to cry,” he sings in the third verse, and continues, “I’ll see you by and by / ‘Cause I’m walkin’ to New Orleans.” Something that I love about the arrangement is the use of call and response. Domino sings a line, with the strings responding similarly.  No need to overanalyze “Walking To New Orleans”.  This old-school R&B classic speaks for itself.  It never grows old.