Music is often an outlet for songwriters to express their political and personal frustrations. That was the case with the New Orleans singer-songwriter Earnest Jackson, who in 1975 composed the song “Inflation” in response to being adversely affected by the high cost of living. He collaborated with the instrumental funk band Sugar Daddy and the Gumbo Roux, to record the topical tune, but it remained unreleased until recently.
The origin of the recording’s long-awaited release was when the group’s keyboardist Kinny Landrum sent an email to NPR’s Planet Money. He was in possession of a demo cassette of the song, and due to the renewed timeliness of the subject matter, he reached out to inquire if Planet Money could do something with the tune. Planet Money ended up forming a record label for the sole purpose of distributing the song and giving it the long-overdue exposure that it deserves.
Several members of the band went on to have careers in the music industry, most notably music executive and former American Idol judge Randy Jackson (no relation to Earnest Jackson). For Earnest success mostly eluded him. He did have a #22 US Billboard Hot 100 hit in 1973 with a cover of Al Green’s “Love and Happiness”, but he missed out on royalties, only receiving a one-time fee of $150. Feeling exploited and discarded by the music industry, he pursued a different path working as a waiter for 30 years. Thankfully he is now receiving another opportunity to share his music with the world.
The lyric “inflation is in the nation and it’s about to put us all away” is just as relevant now. Just like in the 70s folks are now being crushed by low wages and rising prices. This 47-year-old ditty is the perfect anthem for our current times.
You have written the most concise and accurate history of this song. And I know, because I was there. Good job and thanks
Good story. Earnest is due some respect as a songwriter and singer.