 In 1974, they performed with Count Basie, and a few years later songwriter Doc Pomus helped them land their first record deal, and produced their debut with co-producer Joel Dorn.In 1977, Roomful of Blues’ self-titled debut album on Island Records (reissued on Hyena Records as "The First Album") brought them to national attention.Founding member Duke Robillard left the band in 1980, and guitarist Ronnie Earl replaced him.