Fats Domino’S Little-Known Interest In Classic Cars

March 20, 2025

Fats Domino was a name that rang out like the sweet melody of his songs, echoing through the streets of New Orleans. With his unmistakable voice and catchy tunes, he captivated audiences and became one of the pioneers of rock and roll. But there was another passion that lived in his heart, one that very few people knew about—classic cars. Fats had an undeniable love for these beautiful machines, and just as he poured his soul into music, he also found a symphony in the roar of an engine.

His interest in classic cars began when he was a young boy, watching the vibrant colors of Cadillacs and Chevrolets flash by on the streets of the Big Easy. The shiny chrome and polished paint captivated him as much as the rhythm of a good song. Fats dreamed of owning one of these magnificent vehicles. To him, a classic car wasn’t just a mode of transportation; it was a way to express himself, a piece of art that came alive with every turn of the road. As he grew older and his music career took off, he finally had the means to turn that dream into a reality.

One of his proudest moments came when he purchased a stunning 1956 Cadillac Eldorado. This car was more than just a set of wheels; it was a statement of style and success. Fats would often take his beloved Cadillac out for late-night drives, the moonlight reflecting off its gleaming surface. It was during these rides that he found inspiration, humming melodies that would later become hits. The freedom of the open road and the smooth hum of the car’s engine reminded him of the joy he felt when performing on stage. Music and cars seemed to fuel each other in his life, intertwining in a way that made both passions flourish.

However, life wasn’t always smooth for Fats. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans, devastating the city and leaving a deep impact on its inhabitants. Fats, like many others, lost a lot of what mattered most to him. His house was damaged, and many of his beloved possessions were destroyed, including his cherished Cadillac. But even in the face of such loss, Fats refused to let despair take hold. Instead, he found strength in the support of his community and the love of his fans. He used his music to uplift those around him, throwing benefit concerts to help rebuild New Orleans.

Through it all, Fats Domino remained a symbol of resilience. His love for classic cars was a thread that connected him to the joyful memories of the past and the promise of the future. He often spoke about how music and cars, both symbols of freedom and creativity, kept him grounded. As he continued to create music that resonated with people’s hearts, he also started to rebuild his car collection, finding solace and joy in restoring classic vehicles, even after losing so much.

Fats Domino’s passion for classic cars was more than just a hobby; it was part of his very identity. Just as he transformed the world of music with his unique sound, he embraced the artistry of automobiles. Each car he owned felt like a piece of his journey, reminding him of where he came from and inspiring him to keep pushing forward. Fats taught us that no matter how many bumps we hit along the road, it’s important to keep the music playing and the engines roaring, celebrating life with all the joy we can muster.