The Dig Record label was originally called Ultra Records. Ultra Records was formed in late 1955 by Frank Gallo, Eddie Mesner, Leo Mesner and Johnny Otis in Los Angeles California. Almost immediately, in February 1956, the name of the label was changed to Dig Records, probably because of the existence of another California record company called Ultra. Dig Records was affiliated with the Mesner Brothers' Aladdin Record label.

In 1957, Johnny Otis acquired sole ownership of the Dig Record Label. Johnny Otis was a legendary figure in early rhythm and blues. Although white, Otis grew up in the black section of Los Angeles and totally embraced rhythm and blues music, and was one of the first to realize its potential. In the 1940s, he formed a big band and traveled the country with a rhythm and blues revue. His band had several singers, including Little Esther (Phillips), Arthur Lee Maye, and Mel Williams.

Otis himself released just one album on the Dig label [LP-104], Rock and Roll Hit Parade, Volume 1. The album, originally intended to be the first in a series of albums with the Johnny Otis Orchestra playing rock and roll standards, was the only one of the series released. It is very much in demand by collectors, and was issued with two different covers, the first gold, the second yellow. Johnny Otis was also a very prolific songwriter, writing "Double Crossing Blues" for Little Esther and the Robins (a hit in 1950), "Every Beat of My Heart" for the Royals in 1952 (nine years later a hit in a remake by Gladys Knight and the Pips), and "Wallflower (Dance With Me Henry)" for Etta James (a hit in 1955). Johnny Otis started recording for Capitol Records in 1958, where he had a moderate hit with "Willie and the Hand Jive" and a minor followup, "Castin' My Spell.".

The Dig catalog has been largely reissued in the 1990s on compact disc, thanks to the Ace label in England.

The Dig Record label is light pink with black printing. "DIG" is above the center hole, each letter is in a black box. To the left of the logo is "LONG PLAYING" and to the right is "records". The albums were issued in mono only.

We would appreciate any additions or corrections to this discography. Just send them to us via e-mail. Both Sides Now Publications is an information web page. We are not a catalog, nor can we provide the records listed below. We have no association with Dig Records. Should you be interested in acquiring albums listed in this discography (which are all out of print), we suggest you see our Frequently Asked Questions page and follow the instructions found there. This story and discography are copyright 1998 by Mike Callahan.