I guess he always had a thing for cards and music. Here's his obituary:

http://www.struveandlaporte.com/obituary/Luther-McDaniels/Salinas-California/1773375

And another article of his musical career, apparently a decent one, albeit with a lack of royalties - which mentions his night club in Salinas:

http://www.montereybaymusic.com/LordLuther.html