The Wheeler brothers— Diamond Jim , Bobby , and Don Washita Wheeler—were key figures in the Southeast Texas music scene.
Diamond Jim , a bassist and founder of Diamond Jim Records, collaborated with legends like Johnny and Edgar Winter, shaping local blues and rock. Bobby , a saxophonist, made his mark in the 1960s with several records, often working with his brothers. Don Washita , the youngest, added a playful touch with his track "Who'll Play Santa."
Together, their contributions helped define the sound of Texas blues and rock, leaving a lasting musical legacy.
The Wheeler Brothers: Pioneers of Southeast Texas 1960s Pop and Soul Music
-
Diamond Jim Records Company
16th Street
Port Arthur
Texas
Diamond Jim Wheeler (1939-2010) , a native of Port Arthur, Texas, was a well-known bass player and a key figure in the local music scene. As the eldest of three brothers, Jim was likely the founder of Diamond Jim Records, a label based out of Port Arthur that played a pivotal role in promoting local music talent.
Jim, often referred to as D.J. Wheeler , not only showcased his skills as a musician but also contributed significantly as a songwriter. He penned several songs for renowned musicians Johnny and Edgar Winter , both influential artists hailing from the same region.
Throughout his career, Jim released music under various names, including
"Diamond Jim and Bro. Bob"
, a project that involved his brother, Bob Wheeler. His influence extended from Port Arthur Texas, where he operated his label, Diamond Jim Records, which helped shape the sound of local blues and rock in Southeast Texas.
Diamond Jim Wheeler's legacy is remembered through his musical contributions, his work as a record label operator, and the recordings he left behind, serving as a testament to his influence in the Texas music scene.
Bobby Wheeler , a talented saxophonist from Beaumont, Texas, made a name for himself in the vibrant Texas music scene during the 1960s. As the brother of Diamond Jim Wheeler and Don Washita Wheeler , Bobby was part of a musically gifted family that contributed significantly to the local soundscape.
Throughout the 1960s, Bobby released several records, showcasing his skill as as singer and on the saxophone and his ability to capture the raw energy of the era.
Bobby often collaborated with his brothers, especially under the label Diamond Jim Records, which was founded by his older brother, Diamond Jim Wheeler . Together, they helped shape the sound of Texas blues and rock during this influential period.
Don Washita Wheeler , born in Nacogdoches, Texas in 1944, was the youngest of the Wheeler brothers, following in the footsteps of his musically talented siblings, Diamond Jim Wheeler and Bobby Wheeler . Known for his unique sense of humor and charm, Don recorded the memorable track
"Who'll Play Santa,"
a playful holiday song that added to his family's musical contributions.
Don’s birth was notable within the family, as he was named after a ship his father served on during World War II. Despite being intended to be a girl,
Don Washita Wheeler’s contribution, though perhaps less prolific than his brothers, remains a special part of the Wheeler family's musical history, marking him as a beloved figure in the Southeast Texas music community.
1952 Bobby And Don Wheeler Introduce Themselves
-
1952 Bobby And Don Wheeler Introduce Themselves
"ANGEL VOICES"
I am Bob Wheeler, born Port Arthur, Texas - March 30, 1941.
I am in the Seventh Grade and Boy! - is it hard? Yes, I like to sing and I hope you like my singing. I do "Angel Voices" and the harmony with my little brother, Don. He's a stinker.
Thank you for buying our record. Hope you like it.
Bob Wheeler
"WHO'LL PLAY SANTA"
I am Don Washita Wheeler, born Nacogdoches, Texas - August 7, 1944.
I was supposed to be a girl, so when I was me, they had no boy name, so they named me after the ship my Daddy was on in the war. Mom and Dad think I can sing. Hope you like me.
Thank you.
Don Wheeler
Diamond Jim Catalog-nr Scheme explained
-
The catalog number scheme for Diamond Jim vinyl singles seems to follow a simple sequential numbering system, often structured as a three digit number "2##" and "DR-###." For example:
1. "Falling in Love" by Freddy Nolan
- Catalog number: 205
- Song number: DR-009
### Observations on the Scheme:
- - 205 : This seems to be the number used for the records
- Prefix : The catalog numbers begin with DR , which likely stands for "Diamond Records" or something related to the label name.
- Numbers : The numbers following the prefix appear to be sequential. In this case, 009 and 010 for two consecutive releases.
### General Pattern:
- 2XX XX being a sequence number
- DR-XXX format:
- DR is consistent, possibly indicating the record label.
- ### is a three-digit sequential number identifying the release order.
Given this, the cataloging system seems to follow a straightforward numerical progression as more singles are released, which is typical for many small independent labels. IMHO the complete catalognr is the combination of 2XX DR-XXX
Index of Vinyl Records Released by Diamond Jim Records
-
1. Don and Bob Wheeler and the A.C.E. Ensemble
- "Angel Voices" / "Who’ll Play Santa" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: PN-1004
2. Bobby Wheeler and His B-Bops
- "You Know I Love You" / "Rock & Roll Baby" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: PN-1005
3. Bobby Wheeler
- "Thinking of You" / "Should I Stay or Go" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: A-101, Diamond Jim Production
4. Diamond Jim & Bro. Bob
- "I'll Make the Grade" / "Who" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: H-103, Diamond Jim Production
5. Coastaleers Combo
- "Don’t Cry On My Shoulder" / "Ernie’s Special" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: 201 DR-001, DR-002, Diamond Jim Enterprises
- "The Jokes On You" / "Stay Out Of My Dreams" - 7" Vinyl Record
- Catalog Number: 202 DR-003, Diamond Jim Enterprises
- Catalog Number: 209 DR-021, Diamond Jim Enterprises
Don And Bob Wheeler and the A.C.E. Ensemble: Angel Voices b/w Who'll Play Santa - 7" Vinyl Record
Who'll Play Santa
Music Genre:
1950-1960s Pop Music
Band-Name/Performers:
Don And Bob Wheeler and the A.C.E. Ensemble
Record Label Information
Diamond Recording Company: PN-1004
Angel Voices
Music Genre:
1950-1960s Pop Music
Band-Name/Performers:
Bob Wheeler and the A.C.E. Ensemble
Record Label Information
Diamond Recording Company: PN-1005
Bobby Wheeler And His B-Bops: You Know I Love You b/w Rock & Roll Baby 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: This record is a landmark piece and quite possibly the very first single produced by Diamond Records , setting the tone for the label's future. Released in January 1960, Bobby Wheeler and his B. Bops deliver two distinct tracks on this single: the A-side, "You Know I Love You," a smooth, heartfelt "Doo-Wop" ballad, and the B-side, "Rock and Roll Baby," a lively rocker that brings raw energy to the grooves.
Adding to its allure, this single features Johnny Winter on guitar and Edgar Winter on saxophone , both of whom went on to achieve legendary status in the music world. Their contributions on both tracks make this record a true collector's item. Given its historical significance, early recording date, and rarity, this single is an exceptional find that holds a pivotal place in rock and blues history.
You Know I Love You (B. Wheeler)
Music Genre:
Rockabilly, 1950-60s Rock and Roll
Band-Name/Performers:
Bobby Wheeler And His B-Bops
Record Label Information
A-101 A Diamond Jim Production
Rock & Roll Baby (B. Wheeler)
Music Genre:
Rockabilly, 1950-60s Rock and Roll
Band-Name/Performers:
Bobby Wheeler And His B-Bops
Record Label Information
B-101 A Diamond Jim Production
Bobby Wheeler: Thinking Of You b/w Should I Stay Or Go 7" Vinyl Record
Diamond Jim & Bro. Bob: I'll Make The Grade b/w Who 7" Vinyl Record
Description: The members of the band "Diamond Jim & Bro. Bob" are real-life brothers, Diamond Jim and Bob Wheeler.
I'll Make The Grade (Diamond Jim Wheeler)
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Diamond Jim & Bro. Bob
Record Label Information
Diamond: H-103
DIAMOND
Port Arthur, Texas
H-103
D.J.E. Pub.
BMI—2:00
A Diamond Jim Production
I'LL MAKE THE GRADE
(D. J. Wheeler)
DIAMOND JIM & BRO. BOB
Vocal Harmon with Orchestra
45 RPM
Who (Diamond Jim Wheeler)
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Diamond Jim & Bro. Bob
Record Label Information
Diamond: H-104
DIAMOND
Port Arthur, Texas
H-104
D.J.E. Pub.
BMI—2:30
A Diamond Jim Production
WHO
(D. J. Wheeler)
DIAMOND JIM & BRO. BOB
Vocal Harmon with Orchestra
45 RPM
Coastaleers Combo: Don’t Cry On My Shoulder b/w Ernie’s Special 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: An exceptionally rare release, Diamond Jim with the Coastaleers Combo stands as a fascinating piece of music history, recorded in March 1960. This single features Johnny Winter on "Don't Cry On My Shoulder," where he lends his guitar work and sings harmony alongside Bobby Mizzell, Diamond Jim Wheeler, and Bobby Wheeler —a vocal lineup that captures the depth and sentiment of early Texas blues-rock.
The B-side is a stripped-down instrumental, showcasing Johnny on rhythm guitar, although his presence is subtle, almost hidden within the mix, giving the recording a distinctive character. The combination of harmonized vocals, skilled instrumentalists, and Winter's early work makes this single an elusive treasure among collectors and a notable piece in the evolution of Texas rock and blues.
Don’t Cry On My Shoulder (D. J. Wheeler)
Notes: This is a 45 RPM record by the Coastaleers Combo, featuring the song “Don’t Cry on My Shoulder,” written by Diamond Jim Wheeler, released on Diamond Records, based in Port Arthur, Texas.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Coastaleers Combo
Record Label Information
201 DR 001
DIAMOND
PONT. ARTHUR, TEXAS
Don’t Cry On My Shoulder
(D. J. Wheeler)
COASTALEERS
Combo <
201
45 R.P.M.
DR 001
DIAMOND JIM ENTERPRISES
BMI - 2:30
Ernie’s Special
Notes: This is the other side of the Coastaleers’ 45 RPM record, featuring the track “Ernie’s Special,” written by Diamond Jim Wheeler, also released on Diamond Records.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Coastaleers Combo
Record Label Information
201 DR-002
DIAMOND
PONT. ARTHUR, TEXAS
Ernie’s Special
(D. J. Wheeler)
COASTALEERS
Combo
201
45 R.P.M.
DR-002
DIAMOND JIM ENTERPRISES
BMI - 2:30
COASTALEERS Combo: The Jokes On You b/w Stay Out Of My Dreams 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: This Diamond Jim 45 RPM 7" single , featuring "The Joke’s on You" on the A-side and "Stay Out of My Dreams" on the B-side, showcases The Coastaleers Combo and a young Steve Young alongside the likely presence of both Edgar and Johnny Winter . Released at a time when these artists were still carving their paths, this record offers a rare glimpse into the early, unrefined talent of two future legends, with Edgar and Johnny contributing their unique energy and sound.
The Jokes On You (Wheeler)
Notes: This is a 45 RPM record by the Coastaleers Combo, featuring the song “The Jokes on You,” written by Wheeler and featuring Steve Young. It was released on Diamond Jim Records from Port Arthur, Texas.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
COASTALEERS Combo Featuring Steve Young
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 202 DR-003
DIAMOND JIM
PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS
The Jokes On You
(Wheeler)
COASTALEERS
Combo
Featuring Steve Young
202
45 R.P.M.
DR-003
Diamond Jim Enterprises
BMI - 2:00
Stay Out Of My Dreams (Prejean-Wheeler-Provenzano)
Notes: This is a 45 RPM record by the Coastaleers Combo, featuring the song “Stay Out of My Dreams,” written by Prejean, Wheeler, and Provenzano, and featuring Steve Young. It was released on Diamond Jim Records from Port Arthur, Texas, as a promotional item.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
COASTALEERS Combo
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 202 DR-004
DIAMOND JIM
PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS
Stay Out Of My Dreams
(Prejean-Wheeler-Provenzano)
COASTALEERS
Combo
Featuring Steve Young
202
45 R.P.M.
DR-004
Diamond Jim Enterprises
Promo
BMI - 2:10
COASTALEERS Combo: Long Lonely Nights b/w Carl Caper 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: The Long Lonely Nights / Carl Caper single by Johnny Winter's band, the Coastaleers , is a rare gem and a must-have for dedicated collectors. This record, notable for both songs never having been released on any of Winter's CDs, captures a unique moment in Johnny's early career. Released initially with "Long Lonely Nights" on the A-side and "Coffee Pot" as the B-side, this first release presents the most "Doo-Wop" sound Johnny ever recorded, a departure from his later, more blues-centric style.
On the flip side, "Carl Caper" appears to pay tribute to rockabilly legend Carl Perkins . This instrumental track showcases Johnny’s signature playing style, albeit with a twist, as he brings a distinctive, almost experimental touch to his guitar work—a hallmark of his early creativity. This single’s rarity and stylistic departure make it an invaluable piece, particularly for those interested in Johnny Winter's evolution as a musician and his lesser-known forays into Doo-Wop and rockabilly tribute.
Long Lonely Nigths with Coffee Pot as B-side is the 1st release.
Long Lonely Nights (J. Winter)
Notes: This is a 45 RPM record by the Coastaleers Combo, featuring the song "Long Lonely Nights," written by J. Winter (likely Johnny Winter). It was released on Diamond Jim Records from Port Arthur, Texas.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
COASTALEERS Combo
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 203 DR-005
DIAMOND JIM
PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS
Long Lonely Nights
(J. Winter)
COASTALEERS Combo
203
45 R.P.M.
DR-005
Diamond Jim Enterprises
BMI - 2:00
Carl Caper (Johnny Roy)
Notes: This is a 45 RPM record by the Coastaleers Combo, featuring the song "Carl Caper," written by Johnny Roy. It was released on Diamond Jim Records from Port Arthur, Texas.
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
COASTALEERS Combo
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 203 DR-007
DIAMOND JIM
PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS
Carl Caper
(Johnny Roy)
COASTALEERS
Combo
203
45 R.P.M.
DR-007
D.J.E.
Publishing
BMI - 2:30
COASTALEERS Combo: Coffee Pot 7" Vinyl Record
Coffee Pot (Bolus-Wheeler)
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
COASTALEERS Combo
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 203 DR-006
Diamond
Port Arthur, Texas
Jim
Diamond Jim Enterprises
BMI—1:55
203
45 RPM DR-006
Coffee Pot
(Bolus-Wheeler)
COASTALEERS
Combo
Guitar Slim: Broke And Lonely b/w Crying In My Heart 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: The Guitar Slim single, "Broke and Lonely" b/w "Crying in My Heart," is a rare and invaluable piece from Johnny Winter’s 1960s band, Guitar Slim . Far from a tribute, this single represents Winter performing with one of his early ensembles, showcasing his authentic, hard-hitting blues style even before his later rise to fame.
On the A-side, "Broke and Lonely," Winter delivers raw blues with a gritty, powerful approach, reflecting the band's deep connection to Texas blues roots. The B-side, "Crying in My Heart," is a soulful blues ballad that underscores Winter’s expressive guitar playing and emotional depth, a taste of the style that would later define his career.
This single, an incredibly rare find, stands as a significant piece of Johnny Winter's early work, capturing the essence of his formative years with Guitar Slim . For collectors, it’s an essential artifact that reveals Winter’s early evolution and solid footing in the blues, long before he became a global blues icon.
Broke And Lonely (Johnny Otis - Johnny "Guitar" Watson)
Music Genre:
Rock and Roll, Acid/Psych, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Guitar Slim
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 204 DR-007
DIAMOND
Port Arthur, Texas
JIM JIM
BROKE AND LONELY
(J. Otis-J. Watson)
GUITAR SLIM
204
DR-007
O. Cal
BMI—2:50
Crying In My Heart (Elton Anderson)
Music Genre:
Rock and Roll, Acid/Psych, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Guitar Slim
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 204 DR-008
DIAMOND
Port Arthur, Texas
JIM JIM
Crying In My Heart
(Elton Anderson)
GUITAR SLIM
204
Wheeler-Win
Producers
DR-008
D.J.E. Publishing
BMI—2:48
Freddy Nolan: Falling In Love b/w Don't Cha Know 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: The Freddy Nolan single featuring Johnny Winter on guitar is a fascinating and rare artifact from the Winter brothers' early years. Here, Freddy Nolan —an alias or project name used by Edgar Winter—teams up with his brother Johnny, creating a unique collaboration that predates their individual fame. This record captures the brothers experimenting within the Texas blues and rock scene, blending Edgar's vocal and instrumental creativity with Johnny’s distinctive guitar style.
With Johnny on guitar, this single showcases the synergy between the two, with Edgar’s talent for arrangement complementing Johnny’s intense, blues-infused guitar lines. The record offers a rare glimpse into their early experimentation, exploring different sounds and styles that would later influence their careers.
For collectors, this single is a true rarity, representing the early artistic partnership of the Winter brothers under the Freddy Nolan name—a significant piece for anyone interested in the roots of Johnny and Edgar Winter’s legendary contributions to rock and blues.
Falling In Love (Johnny Watson)
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Freddy Nolan (Edgar Winter)
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 205 DR-009
Diamond Jim
205
Goth Music BMI—2:10 DR-009
Wheeler-Stout Producers
FALLING IN LOVE
(Johnny Watson)
FREDDY NOLAN
Don't Cha Know (Edgar Winter)
Music Genre:
Doo-Wop, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Freddy Nolan (Edgar Winter)
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 205 DR-010
Diamond Jim
205
Diamond Jim Enterprises
BMI—2:05
DR-010
DON'T CHA KNOW
(E. Winter)
FREDDY NOLAN
Bobby And Coastaleers: No Chance For Advancement b/w Heartbreaker 7" Vinyl Record
No Chance For Advancement (Mizzell-Harris)
Music Genre:
The song "No Chance for Advancement" by Bobby and the Coasteleers is a doo-wop track, a genre popular in the 1950s and 1960s characterized by vocal harmonies, often with romantic themes, and a strong emphasis on melody and rhythm.
Ray And Royals: Baby Please Don’t Go b/w Midnight Walk 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: Ray and Royals must have been Ray Solis and Royals. The "Baby Please Don’t Go" / "Midnight Walk" single by The Ray and The Royals (also known as Ray Solis ) is an exceptionally rare release under the Diamond Jim label, embodying a unique Texas music tradition. During this period, it was common for Texas musicians to release the same 45s under different band names, titles, and labels in hopes of catching the attention of DJs and gaining wider exposure. This release features Johnny Winter on guitar and Edgar Winter as well , showcasing both brothers’ talents in their formative years.
On the A-side, "Baby Please Don’t Go" is a high-energy rendition of the blues standard, with Johnny’s gritty guitar work lending intensity and flair. The B-side, "Midnight Walk," is a moody, instrumental piece that highlights Edgar’s melodic sense alongside Johnny’s rhythmic playing, creating a sound that’s both atmospheric and deeply rooted in blues tradition.
Having two versions of this single adds an additional layer of rarity, as each version reflects a different facet of the Winters’ early sound and Texas’ creative, DIY approach to promoting regional music. For collectors, this release is a valuable piece of Texas music history and an early example of Johnny and Edgar Winter’s impressive collaboration before their rise to fame.
Baby Please Don’t Go (R. Snils)
Music Genre:
1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Ray And Royals
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 207 DR-013
DIAMOND Jim
RAY AND ROYALS
Baby Please Don’t Go
(R. Snils)
Diamond Jim Production
207
DJE Pub.
BMI — 2:10
DR-013
Midnight Walk (Ray Solis)
Music Genre:
1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Ray And Royals
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 207 DR-014
DIAMOND Jim
RAY AND ROYALS
Midnight Walk
(R. Solis)
Diamond Jim Production
207
DJE Pub.
BMI — 2:00
DR-014
Ray Solis: Baby Please Don’t Go b/w Midnight Walk 7" Vinyl Record
Baby Please Don’t Go (Ray Solis)
Music Genre:
1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Ray Solis
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 207 DR-013
DIAMOND Jim
Baby Please Don’t Go
(R. Solis)
Ray Solis
207
DJE Pub.
BMI — 2:10
DR-013
Midnight Walk (Ray Solis)
>
Music Genre:
1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Ray Solis
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 207 DR-014
DIAMOND Jim
Midnight Walk
(R. Solis)
Ray Solis
207
DJE Pub.
BMI — 2:00
DR-014
Bobby And The Coastaleers: Flip & Flop b/w How Long 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: The "Flip & Flop" / "How Long" 7" single by Bobby Wheeler and the Coastaleers is an exceptional rarity from the Texas music scene, featuring Johnny Winter during his early days. This single captures Bobby Wheeler and his band, the Coastaleers, with Johnny Winter adding his signature guitar work , bringing a unique blend of rock and blues energy to each track.
"Flip & Flop" on the A-side is an upbeat, catchy number that showcases the band's tight rhythm section and Wheeler's lively vocals, while "How Long" on the original B-side delivers a slower, more soulful blues track that highlights Winter’s expressive guitar playing. Adding to its intrigue, this single was also released with an alternate B-side, "Tear Drops on Your Letter," a cover of the Hank Ballard classic. This alternate track adds a doo-wop-inspired dimension, making it a truly special variant for collectors.
This record is a prized find, not only for its scarcity but for the glimpse it offers into Johnny Winter’s early career, backing up Wheeler and experimenting with different blues and rock stylings. Its dual B-side release makes it even more unique, cementing its place as a significant collectible within Texas music history.
Party Timers: Opelousa Soul Man b/w Party Timers Express 7" Vinyl Record
Collector Notes: The Party Timers single, featuring guitarist Homer Simon —not Johnny Winter—is a unique and often misunderstood record in Texas music lore. While it may be mistaken for an early Johnny Winter track due to its stylistic elements and period, this release is distinct, showcasing Homer Simon’s own skillful guitar work that carries its own character and energy.
Opelousa Soul Man (I. D. Graeff - V. Palmer)
Music Genre:
Soul, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Party Timers
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 715 SH-1483
Flat Town Music
BMI 2:45
715
45 RPM
SH-1483
Party Timers Express (Party Timers)
Music Genre:
Soul, 1960s Texas Pop
Band-Name/Performers:
Party Timers
Record Label Information
Diamond Jim: 715 SH-1484
DIAMOND Jim
Party Timers Express
(Party Timers)
Party Timers
DJE Pub.
BMI 2:35
