United Records was the first successful black-owned record company. Operated by Leonard Allen, tailor, retired policeman and obviously one of exceptionally wide taste in music, the 2 labels (United and States) issued some of the best performances in the jazz, blues, gospel, R&B, Doo Wop, even country between 1951 & '57. Delmark is proud to release this important body of masters including many previously unissued, recorded in studios which pioneered high fidelity recording in the '50s. The United Records Story features many obscure & rare tracks: alternate takes by Jr Wells, Roosevelt Sykes, Jimmy Forrest; rarities by Leo Parker, Grant Jones, Tiny Grimes, The Pastels, Johnny Wicks; and more. 22 tracks(Previously deleted:1/1/11. Original release date:7/20/04)