Alfonso Brown originally from Fairmont, West Virginia, formed his band the Tune Toppers in 1953.
Originating at Soller’s Point High School in Turner’s Station, the 9-piece band featured the Brown brothers Al Brown (tenor sax), Donald Brown (trumpet), and Charles Brown (alto sax, trumpet), as well as early members Nee Grafton Martin (guitar), Andrew Walker (bass), and Orney Pate (drums). The band played the Club Tijuana as well as most of the other Pennsylvania Avenue clubs. Also appeared at the Clover Club, Adams Lounge, Steve’s Lounge, and the Rail Inn – where they shared billing with the recording stars the Jolly Jax.
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The band’s 1960 recording of the Baltimore hit “The Madison” vaulted Al and his band into the national spotlight. The record featured vocalist Cookie Brown (no relation). The Tijuana Club that Al had been performing suddenly became known as “The Madison Club.” The Tune Toppers released several more good R&B records on the Amy label but never again reached the success of “The Madison.”
The group toured the “chitlin’ circuit” and embarked on many tours throughout the southern states.
Another Baltimore connection to “The Madison” was a hit version recorded by the Ray Bryant Trio (Columbia 4-41628). This version featured Baltimore Disc Jockey Eddie Morrison (WEBB) doing the dance calls.
The Tune Toppers continued performing in Baltimore clubs until the mid-’60s, including a long-time stint as house band at the Club Casino. They also frequented Carr’s Beach, and Beachwood Park… Retired from music in the ‘70s, Al Brown owned the Beef and Beer club on Monument and Chester streets, a small club that featured national artists as well as some of the best local musicians. Al’s brother Charles Brown later took over operation of the club.
Al Brown passed away March 19, 2009.
Record releases by Al Brown & his Tunetoppers include:
1960 Amy 804 The Madison / Mo’Madison
1960 Amy 806 Sweet Little Love / It’s True ‘Bout Love
1960 Amy 811 Mention Me / Take Me Back
1961 Amy 829 Shimmy Swing / Route 66
Extended play (EP) 7” by the Tunetoppers:
1960(EP) Amy A-1 The Tunetoppers at The Madison Dance Party
Album by the Tunetoppers:
1960(LP) Amy A-1 The Tunetoppers at The Madison Dance Party
