On This Day in Louisiana Music History

New Orleans and Louisiana musician birthdays, deaths, awards, music charts, trivia, and more

Satchmo.com - On This Day in Louisiana Music History - March

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MARCH 1
1930	Jazz trombonist Benny Powell was born (Benjamin Gordon Powell Jr.) in New Orleans on March 1, 1930. Powell was noted for his work with Count Basie and other jazz greats. Benny Powell died in Manhattan on June 26, 2010 following back surgery. He was 80 years old. Read more here and here. Listen to Benny Powell music on YouTube.
1932	Swamp blues guitarist and vocalist Leroy Washington was born in Palmetto, LA in 1932. Washington recorded for J.D. Miller's Excello and Zynn labels in the early 1960's. He passed away on June 30, 1962, shortly after a club performance in Leeville, Louisiana. He was 30 years old. Listen to Leroy Washington music on YouTube.
1944	Swamp pop singer and musician Willie Tee Trahan was born in Lafayette, LA on on March 1, 1944. He has worked with The Fabulous Boogie Kings, Tommy McLain, Cypress Band (with Warren Storm), and many others. Willie Tee was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2012. Listen to Willie Tee music on YouTube.
1949	Louis Armstrong reigned as King Zulu (photo) on Mardi Gras Day in 1949. Accompanying Louis on the King's float were All Stars Velma Middleton and Big Sid Catlett. That evening, Louis and His All Stars performed at Booker T. Washington Auditorium. Armstrong later reflected "I remember the year I was king of the Zulus". "The Mayor said to me, 'Louie, I read in Time magazine that all you want to do is be king of the Zulus and then you'll be ready to die.' "Yeah, man,' I said. "But I don't want the Lord to take me too literally".
1962	Cajun musician John Trahan was born in Abbeville, Louisiana on March 1, 1962. Trahan played with Janie Fricke, Hadley Castille, Mamou, Filé, and others before forming his own band John Trahan avec le Group Acadiana with Merlin Fontenot and Jimmy Domengeaux. After a long layoff, he released the solo album "My Louisiana" in 2010. Read more here. Listen to John Trahan music on YouTube
1995	The 37th Annual Grammy Awards were presented on March 1, 1995 in Los Angeles. Winners included Aaron Neville and Trisha Yearwood (for their remake of Patsy Cline's "I Fall To Pieces") and Alison Krauss with The Cox Family (for their album "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow").

MARCH 2
1897	Jazz drummer Minor Hall (aka Ram Hall) was born in Sellers, LA on March 2, 1897. Hall was the younger brother of drummer Alfred "Tubby" Hall. He was a long time member of Kid Ory's band (1945-56) until ill health forced him to retire.
1902	New Orleans jazz trumpeter Jimmy "Kid" Clayton was born in Jasper County, MS on March 2, 1902. Clayton relocated from Mississippi to New Orleans at an early age. He played with several bands before formin his own group, Kid Clayton and His Happy Pals. Clayton died on December 17, 1963. Listen to Kid Clayton music on YouTube.
1909	Banjo player, bassist and vocalist Narvin Kimball was born (Narvin Henry Kimball) in New Orleans on March 2, 1909. Kimball first recorded in the 1924 with Fate Marable, and he was an original member of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band (formed in 1966). Kimball, a longtime U.S. Postal Service employee, released the appropriately titled "Ninety and Still Delivering" in 1999. He passed away on March 17, 2006 at age 97. See videos from his jazz funeral. Watch Narvin Kimball videos on YouTube. Read more here and here.
1924	Harmonica player and vocalist Alexander "Papa George" Lightfoot was born in Natchez, Mississippi on March 2, 1924. Papa Lightfoot moved to New Orleans in the 40's and occasionally sat in with Fats Domino, Tommy Ridgley and Shirley & Lee. He recorded with Edgar Blanchard and the Gondoliers, Champion Jack Dupree, and on his own for the Aladdin, Imperial, Savoy, and Excello labels. Lightfoot passed away on November 28, 1971 at age 47. Listen to Papa George Lightfoot on YouTube.
1970	Noted trad jazz clarinetist Emile Barnes passed away in New Orleans in 1970 at age 78. He worked with Chris Kelly, Wooden Joe Nicholas, Kid Howard, Lawrence Toca, the Superior and Olympia Brass Bands, and Peter Bocage. Barnes performed at Preservation Hall in the early 1960s with Billie and DeDe Pierce, and as a leader of his own ensemble. His brother Paul "Polo" Barnes was also a jazz clarinetist. Listen to Emile Barnes music on YouTube.
1988	30th Annual Grammy Awards were held in New York City on March 2, 1988. Winners included Professor Longhair (posthumously, for the compilation "House Party New Orleans Style") and Wynton Marsalis (for his album "Marsalis Standard Time, Vol. 1").
1999	Kane & Abel's No Limit Records album "Am I My Brother's Keeper" was certified Gold by the RIAA on March 2, 1999.
2002	Blues drummer, vocalist, and label owner (Ivory Records) Ivory Lee Semien (aka "King Ivory") passed away in 2002 at age 70. The Washington, LA native worked with noted Texas steel guitarist Hop Wilson. They first recorded together for Eddie Shuler's Goldband Records ("Chicken Stuff") (Goldband 1071) in 1958. A later session included King Ivory Lee's "Rockin' In The Coconut Top" (Trey 1003). Read more here.
2011	Pianist and music educator Van Cliburn was honored with a National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama on March 2, 2011.

MARCH 3
1906	Late bandleader, composer and clarinet legend Barney Bigard was born (Albany Leon Bigard) in New Orleans on March 3, 1906. Bigard played with King Oliver and Louis Armstrong in the 20's before becoming a fixture in Duke Ellington's Orchestra (from 1927-42). In later years he worked with Kid Ory's band and Louis Armstrong & His All Stars. Bigard passed away in Culver City, CA in 1980 at age 74. See recording credits. Watch Barney Bigard videos on YouTube.
1913	Trad jazz drummer Chester Jones was born in New Orleans in 1913. Jones worked with George Lewis, Eureka Brass Band, Onward Brass Band, and many others. He was the grandfather of trombonist Corey Henry and the father of Tremé Brass Band founder Benny Jones Sr. Jones died in September 1984.
1925	Tenor sax legend Herb Hardesty was born (Herbert Hardesty) in New Orleans on March 3, 1925. Hardesty was a prolific session player and also a long time member of Fats Domino's band. He died from cancer in Las Vegas on December 3, 2016, at the age of 91 (see obits). Read more on Herb. Watch Herb Hardesty videos on YouTube.
1933	Award winning Cajun fiddler and songwriter Hadley J. Castille was born in Leonville, LA in 1933. He passed away in Opelousas on October 25, 2012. His son Blake Castille and granddaughter Sarah Jayde Williams are also musicians. Read more here.
1979	Zydeco accordionist Dwayne Dopsie was born (Dwayne Rubin) in Lafayette, LA on March 3, 1979. He has led his own band, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, since 1999. Dwayne is the son of late Zydeco legend Rockin' Dopsie (Alton Jay Rubin). Read more about the Dopsie (Ruben) family here.
1999	The Neville Brothers (with Wyclef Jean) performed "Mona Lisa" on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 1999.
1999	Pop queen Britney Spears underwent arthroscopic surgery in New Orleans in 1999 to remove a piece of torn cartilage suffered when she twisted her knee while rehearsing for her video "Sometimes". The injury forced Spears to cancel a number of promo appearances, including MTV's Spring Break, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Live with Regis and Kathie Lee.
2009	Pop star Britney Spears kicked off her "The Circus Starring Britney Spears" world tour at the New Orleans Arena in 2009. Britney's "comeback tour" - with stops in the US, Canada, Europe and Australia - grossed more than $130 million. See story and photos.

MARCH 4
1895	Trad jazz clarinetist Israel Gorman was born in New Orleans on March 4, 1895. Gorman worked George Jones, Camelia Band, Toots Johnson, Louis Dumaine, WPA Band, Punch Miller, Charlie Love, Kid Howard, and others. In his latter years, he played regularly at Preservation Hall. Gorman died on September 21, 1965. Listen to Israel Gorman music on YouTube.
1925	Louis Armstrong recorded "Castaway" and "Papa-De-Da-Da" with the Clarence Williams Blue Five in New York in 1925.
1950	"3 x 7 = 21" by Jewel King entered the R&B Chart in 1950. The tune, written and produced by Dave Bartholomew, reached the #4 spot.
1967	"Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" by Larry Williams (with Johnny "Guitar" Watson) entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1967.
1989	The Dixie Cups appeared on the PBS concert special "Let's Rock Tonight" in 1989. The show also featured Mitch Ryder, Gary 'US' Bonds, Ben E King, Mary Wells, Del Shannon, and others.

MARCH 5
1929	Louis Armstrong & His Savoy Ballroom Five recorded the classics "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" and "Mahogany Hall Stomp" for the Okeh label in New York in 1929.
1967	Sousaphone and bass player (Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Preservation Brass) Julius McKee was born in New Orleans in 1967. See Julius McKee recording credits.
1968	Dixieland drummer and occasional brass player Monk Hazel (Arthur Frank Hazel) passed away in New Orleans on March 5, 1968 at age 64. Hazel, a native of Harvey, LA, led the Bienville Roof Orchestrain the 1920's. In his later years, he worked with Sharkey Bonano, George Girard, Santa Pecora, and many others. Listen to Monk Hazel music on YouTube.
1996	Noted reeds player Herb Hall passed away in San Antonio, TX on March 5, 1996 at age 88. A native of Reserve, Louisiana, Hall played with Don Albert, Doc Cheatham, and many others. He was the brother of clarinet great Edmond Hall.

MARCH 6
1948	"Shuffle Woogie" by Joe Lutcher's Jump Band entered the R&B Chart in 1948. Joe was the sax playing brother of R&B and jazz singer Nellie Lutcher.
1961	"But I Do" by Clarence "Frogman" Henry entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1961. The tune, written by Bobby Charles, peaked at #9 (it reached #4 on the Pop Chart) and remained in the chart for 11 weeks.
2000	Legendary drummer and session man Earl Palmer (1924-2008) was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.
2006	Soul singer King Floyd (of "Groove Me" fame) passed away Los Angeles in 2006 at age 61.
2011	Noted New Orleans drummer Herman "Roscoe" Ernest passed away in 2011 at age 59. Ernest was the longtime beat keeper for Dr. John. His extensive recording credits include LaBelle's 1974 #1 hit "Lady Marmalade." Ernest was also featured in the instructional video "New Orleans Drumming" with Earl Palmer, Herlin Riley and Johnny Vidacovich.

MARCH 7
1888	Late upright bass player Alcide Pavageau was born in New Orleans on March 7, 1888. Pavageau spent several years with George Lewis. He and George were also with Bunk Johnson's band in New York in 1945. In his latter years, Pavageau was a fixture at Preservation Hall and served as Grand Marshal of many second-line parades.
1891	Early jazz trombone player Alvin "Zue" Robertson was born in New Orleans on March 7, 1891. Robertson led his own group in Storyville before heading to Chicago. He worked with Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, W.C. Handy, and others. He later took up piano, working in New York and on vaudeville tours before retiring circa 1930.
1914	Jazz drummer Lee Young was born (Leonidas Raymond Young) in New Orleans on March 7, 1914. Young, the brother of sax great Lester Young, was a prolific sideman, recording with Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Charlie Parker, Nat King Cole, and many others. In later years, he was also a producer, working with the Vee-Jay, Motown and ABC/Dunhill labels. Young passed away in Los Angeles in 2008 at age 94.
1968	Pianist, songwriter, video director, and record producer Isadar was born (Fabian Isadore Thibodeaux) in Church Point, Louisiana in 1968.
1989	Rapper Hurricane Chris (Christopher Jerrod Dooley) was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on March 7, 1989. He is known for his rap chart hits "A Bay Bay" and "Halle Berry (She's Fine)".

MARCH 8
1900	Jazz and R&B pianist Joe Robichaux was born (Joseph Antoine Robichaux) in New Orleans on March 8, 1900. Joe, the nephew of noted bandleader John Robichaux, worked with Papa Celestin, Lee Collins, Kid Rena, and others early in his career. Robichaux led the New Orleans Rhythm Boys in the 30's, worked as a solo pianist in the 40's, and played with George Lewis in the 50's and early 60's. Robichaux died of a heart attack on January 17, 1965 at age 64. Read more here and here. Listen to Joe Robichaux music on YouTube.
2000	Noted piano player and bandleader Leon Kelner passed away in 2000 at age 77. Kelner performed at the Roosevelt Hotel (now The Fairmont) from 1942 to 1971, working in the Fountain Lounge and later in the Blue Room. In later years he was based at the Broadwater Beach Hotel in Biloxi. Listen to Leon Kelner music on YouTube.

MARCH 9
1933	R&B singer Lloyd Price was born in Kenner, LA on March 9, 1933. Price had a string of hits in the late 50s including "Stagger Lee," "Where Were You (On Our Wedding Day?)," "Personality," and "I'm Gonna Get Married." He died on May 3, 2021 from complications of diabetes (age 88). Price was inducted into hte Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 and the National R&B Hall of Fame in 2019. He was honored with an Rhythm & Blues Foundation Pioneer Award in 1995.
1936	Country music great Mickey Gilley was born in Natchez, MS in 1936. He grew up across the river in Ferriday, Louisiana, playing music with his cousins Jerry Lee Lewis and Jimmy Swaggart. Gilley died in Springfield, Missouri on May 7, 2022 of complications from bone cancer.
1987	Long time Preservation Hall manager, owner and musician Allan Jaffe passed away in New Orleans in 1987 at age 51.
1990	Singer, songwriter and musician Dylan LeBlanc was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on March 9, 1990. He is the son of noted Fame Recording Studios songwriter James LeBlanc.

MARCH 10
1929	Music producer, manager, publisher, and convicted sex offender Huey P. Meaux was born in Wright, LA on March 10, 1929. Meaux, known as "The Crazy Cajun", was instrumental in the careers of Barbara Lynn, Sir Douglas Quintet, Freddie Fender, and many others. Meaux also produced Rockin' Sidney's Grammy winning classic, "My Toot Toot". Read more here and here.
1938	Swamp pop historian and musician Johnnie Allan was born (John Allen Guillot) in Rayne, LA on March 10, 1938. Read more here and here. Listen to Johnnie Allan music on YouTube.
1938	West Coast blues and R&B piano man Omar Shariff (aka Omar Hakim Khayam) was born (Dave Alexander Elam) in Shreveport, Louisiana on March 10, 1938. Shariff died on January 8, 2012 of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound. He reportedly had been living in severe pain from cardiac and circulation problems. Listen to Omar Shariff music on YouTube.
1967	Zydeco accordionist and bandleader Jeffery Broussard was born in Lafayette, LA on March 10, 1967. Broussard was 8 years old when he debuted on drums in his father's band, Delton Broussard and the Lawtell Playboys. He co-founded the band Zydeco Force in the late 1980s, and later started his own band Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys in 2005. His current project, Jeffery Broussard and The Nighttime Syndicate, released their debut album in 2025. Listen to Jeffery Broussard music on YouTube. See creolecowboys.com.
1975	Late saxophone player Charles "Alto" Taylor (with Lil' Rascals Brass Band) was born in New Orleans in 1975.
1992	Sax man Branford Marsalis was named music director of The Tonight Show in 1992. He replaced Doc Severinsen when Jay Leno took over hosting duties from Johnny Carson.

MARCH 11
1897	Late trad jazz drummer Joseph Rena was born in New Orleans in 1897. Ee worked regularly with his brother, trumpeter Henry "Kid" Rena.
1897	Trad jazz trombonist Charlie Miller was born in New Orleans in 1915. Miller worked with Irving Fazola, Leon Prima, and the WWL's Dawn Busters Orchestra.
1898	Accordionist and Cajun music pioneer Amede Ardoin was born near Basile, Louisiana in 1898. His complete recording career, consisting of only 34 tracks, is available on the compilation "Mama, I'll Be Long Gone: The Complete Recordings of Amédé Ardoin."
1943	Blues harp player Latelle Barton was born in Marksville, LA in 1943. He is the cousin of harmonica legend Little Walter. Listen to Latelle Barton music on YouTube.
1970	The 12th Annual Grammy Awards were held on March 11, 1970. Winners included Simmesport, LA native Joe Simon, for his single "The Chokin' Kind".
1970	Noted drummer Terence Higgins (Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Swampgrease, John Scofield, Warren Haynes Band, and many others) was born in New Orleans in 1970.
1997	Jazz and gospel vocalist Linda "Lady Linda" Lacen (born Linda Young) dies of cancer on March 11, 1997 at the age of 40. Lady Linda was the wife of late tuba great Anthony "Tuba Fats" Lacen, with whom she performed locally and internationally. Listen to Lady Linda Young music on YouTube.

MARCH 12
1949	Vocalist Robert Overstreet was born in De Quincy, LA in 1949. He was the son of Gospel great Rev. Louis Overstreet.
1955	"My Babe" by blues harp legend Little Walter entered the R&B Chart in 1955. The tune was written by blues great Willie Dixon and was based on the spiritual "This Train". It went on to top the chart for 5 weeks.
1969	The 11th Annual Grammy Awards were held on March 12, 1969. Nominees Joe Simon and O.C. Smith (both Louisiana natives) lost to others, but Smith's "Little Green Apples" did win the "Song of the Year" Grammy for Nashville songwriter Bobby Russel. Smith performed "Little Green Apples" at the event.
2010	R&B guitarist and vocalist Rockie Charles (Alfred Charles Merrick, aka The President of Soul) died of cancer on March 12, 2010 at age 67. Read more here. Listen to Rockie Charles music on YouTube.

MARCH 13
1901	Clarinet and sax player Andrew Morgan was born near Pensacola, FL on March 13, 1901. He was the brother of New Orleans jazz musicians Isaiah, Al and Sam Morgan. In the 1920's Andrew played with the Young Superior Band, and with his brothers Sam and Isaiah. In later years he worked with Kid Rena, Herb Morand, Kid Clayton, and others. He passed away on September 19, 1972.
1909	Noted West Coast R&B and blues guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Saunders King was born (Saunders Samuel King) in Caddo Parish, Louisiana on March 13, 1909. King scored a hit in 1942 with "S.K. Blues", and charted in 1949 with "Empty Bedroom Blues" and "Stay Gone Blues". He came out of retirement in 1979 to record with Carlos Santana (his son-in-law). King passed away on August 31, 2000 at age 91.
1913	Legendary swamp blues guitarist and vocalist Lightnin' Slim was born (Otis Verries Hicks) in Good Pine, Louisiana on March 13, 1913. Hicks died of stomach cancer in Detroit on July 27, 1974 at the age of 61. Read more here and here. Listen to Lightnin' Slim music on YouTube.
1948	"Fine Brown Frame" by Lake Charles, LA native Nellie Lutcher entered the R&B Chart in 1948; the tune reached the No. 2 spot and remained on the chart for 17 weeks.
1957	Late pianist, conductor and arranger Moses Hogan was born in New Orleans in 1957. Hogan passed away in New Orleans on February 11, 2003 at age 45. Read more here and here. Listen to music on YouTube.
1962	Award winning trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard was born in New Orleans in 1962. The 7 time Grammy winner (through 2025) was selected as National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master in 2024. See terenceblanchard.com.
1994	Jazz musician (banjo & guitar), vocalist, composer and jazz historian Danny Barker passed away in New Orleans in 1994 at age 85. His lengthy carrer included working with Albert Nicholas, Lucky Millinder, Benny Carter, Cab Calloway, and his wife Blue Lu Barker . He later became an assistant to the curator of the Louisiana Jazz Museum, and founded the Fairview Baptist Church Brass Band. Fairview band members included future jazz greats such as Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Leroy Jones, Kirk Joseph, Nicholas Payton, Shannon Powell, Lucien Barbarin, and Dr. Michael White. The annual Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival is held in his honor. Watch Danny Barker videos on YouTube. See Danny Barker recording credits.

MARCH 14
1914	Noted rural blues artist Robert Pete Williams was born in Zachary, LA in 1914. He was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2014. Williams passed away in Rosedale, LA on December 31, 1980 at age 66. Read more here and here. Listen to Robert Pete Williams music on YouTube.
1926	Swamp pop singer Phil Phillips was born (John Phillip Baptiste) in Lake Charles, LA on March 14, 1926. Phillips' 1959 hit "Sea of Love" reached #1 on the R&B Chart and #2 on the Pop Chart. He died on March 14, 2020, his 94th birthday. Read more here.
1954	Louis Armstrong appeared on the TV quiz show "What's My Line?" on March 14, 1954. Watch the entire episode here. Read more about the appearance here.
2005	Blues legend and Louisiana native Buddy Guy was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on March 14, 2005. Watch Buddy's induction by B.B. King and Eric Clapton, his acceptance speech, and his performance of "Damn Right, I've Got the Blues" from the event.

MARCH 15
1931	Influential rock drummer D.J. Fontana was born (Dominic Joseph Fontana) in Shreveport, LA on March 15, 1931. D.J. played in Elvis Presley's original backing band, The Blue Moons, along with Scotty Moore and Bill Black. He worked with Elvis from 1955 to 1969. Fontana was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2009. He died at home in Nashville on June 13, 2018 (aged 87). See this tribute from the Shreveport Times.
1935	Famed televangelist (and gospel music artist) Jimmy Swaggart was born (Jimmy Lee Swaggart) in Ferriday, Louisiana on March 15, 1935. He died in Baton Rouge on July 1, 2025, at the age of 90. Swaggart was the cousin of music legends Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley. Read more here and here. Watch Jimmy Swaggart videos on YouTube.
1940	Legendary Swamp Pop vocalist and musician Tommy McLain was born in Jonesville, LA in 1940. McLain had a No. 15 pop hit in 1966 with the million seller, "Sweet Dreams". He was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame on October 27, 2007. He released his first album in 40 years, "I Ran Down Every Dream", on August 26, 2022. Watch McLain perform the title track (with C.C. Adcock, Jon Cleary, Dave Ranson, Tiff Lamson, Kelli Jones and Mike Dillon) on The Late Late Show with James Corden (November 2, 2022). McLain passed away on July 24, 2025 at age 85.
1945	Noted Cajun music accordionist Sheryl Cormier was born (Sheryl Guidreau) in Grand Coteau on March 15, 1945. Cormier, known as Queen of the Cajun Accordion, leads her band Sheryl Cormier and Cajun Sounds. Watch Sheryl Cormier videos on YouTube. Read more here.
1955	While on tour in 1955, Fats Domino records at Master Recorders studio in Hollywood. Songs recorded included "Ain't That A Shame" aka "Ain't It A Shame" (Imperial 5348) and "All By Myself" (Imperial 5357). Both songs were future #1 R&B hits for Fats. Backing up Fats on the sessions were Walter "Papoose" Nelson, Billy Diamond, Herb Hardesty, Robert "Buddy" Hagans, Samuel Lee and Cornelius Coleman. See Story Behind The Song: Fats Domino’s Ain't That A Shame.

MARCH 16
1891	Late trombonist and guitarist Isaiah "Ike" Robinson (aka Big Ike, aka Trombone Ike) was born in Thibodeaux, LA in 1891. Robinson worked with trumpeters Chris Kelly, Buddie Petit, Wooden Joe Nicholas, Olympia Brass Band, Kid Rena, and others.
1902	Late reeds player Leon Roppolo was born in Lutcher, LA in 1902. Roppolo worked with the Brunis brothers, the Halfway House Orchestra, the New Orleans Rhythm Kings, and many others. He co-wrote the trad jazz classics "Farewell Blues" and "Milenberg Joys". He passed away on October 5, 1943 at age 41. Read more here and here. Listen to Leon Roppolo music on YouTube.
1938	Trumpeter, composer, arranger, and Dr. John colleague Charlie Miller was born in New Orleans in 1938.
1943	Blues guitar great Bryan Lee was born (Brian Leroy Kumbalek) in Two Rivers, Wisconsin on March 16, 1943. The longtime New Orleans resident, aka Braille Blues Daddy, passed away on August 21, 2020 at age 77. Read more here and here. Watch Bryan Lee videos on YouTube.
1944	Guitarist and vocalist Robert Whitstein was born (Robert Carroll Whitstine) in Pineville, Louisiana on March 16, 1944. He was half of the Grammy-nominated country & bluegrass duo, The Whitstein Brothers (with brother Charles on mandolin). They were earlier known as The Whitstine Boys. Robert Whitstein died of a heart attack on November 14, 2001. He was 57. Listen to The Whitstein Brothers music on YouTube.
1960	Baton Rouge bluesman Lil' Ray Neal (Raful Neal III) was born in Erwinville, LA in 1960. He is the son of late Louisiana blues legend Raful Neal, and the brother of award winning guitarist and singer Kenny Neal.
1968	"The Son of Hickory Holler's Tramp" by O.C. Smith entered the R&B Chart in 1968. It was the first of 17 chart entries over a 20 year span for the late Mansfield, LA native.
1999	Roosevelt Sykes and Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown were inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in ceremonies held at the JFK Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. in 1999. Gatemouth and Bobby Rush were among the performers at the event.

MARCH 17
1884	Jazz clarinetist Alcide "Yellow" Nunez was born (Alcide Patrick Nunez) in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana on March 17, 1884. He played with Papa Jack Laine, Original Dixieland Jass Band, Tom Brown. Bert Kelly, the Louisiana Five, and others. Nunez died of a heart attack on September 2, 1934.
1938	Guitarist, soul & gospel singer, and songwriter Eddy Giles was born (Elbert Wiggins Giles) in Frierson, LA on March 17, 1938. He cut several soul music singles in the 60's and 70's. In his latter years, Giles was pastor in Shreveport, and was also a gospel DJ on the local station KOKA. Giles passed away on February 5, 2019 at age 80. Read more here. Listen to Eddy Giles music on YouTube.
1942	Rockabilly Hall of Fame member Jim Oertling was born (Walter James Oertling, Jr.) in New Orleans on March 17, 1942. Oertling had a regional hit in 1963 with "Old Moss Back." He passed away at his home in Slidell on July 10, 2020 at age 78. Listen to Jim Oertling music on YouTube
1963	Blues songstress Lizzie Miles passed away in New Orleans on March 17, 1963 at age 67. Listen to Lizzie Miles music on YouTube.
1978	The film "American Hot Wax" premiered in New York City on March 17, 1978. The film bio of pioneering disc jockey Alan Freed featured performances by Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Frankie Ford and Screamin' Jay Hawkins.
1989	R&B vocalist Bobby Mitchell passed away in New Orleans on March 17, 1989 at age 53. The Algiers native was known for his hits "I'm Gonna Be a Wheel Someday" and "Try Rock and Roll" (the latter reached #14 on the R&B chart in 1956). Listen to Bobby Mitchell music on YouTube
1984	"I Got Mexico" by Eddy Raven entered the Country charts in 1984. It went on to become Raven's first #1 single.
1999	Legendary piano man Eddie Bo lost all of his possessions in a fire that destroyed his Tulane Avenue home in 1999.

MARCH 18
1934	R&B vocalist Neal Kimble (aka Bobby Kimble) was born in New Orleans on March 18, 1934. Kimble hit the R&B Chart in 1968 with "I've Made A Reservation (In My Life For You)" (Venture 607). Listen to Neal Kimble music on YouTube.
1935	Rockabilly crooner Maylon Humphries was born (Maylon Dewitt Humphries) in Kelly, Louisiana in 1935. Noted recordings include the tracks "Worried About You Baby" (with James Burton on guitar; multiple versions were recorded), and "Weep No More" (backed by Dale Hawkins' band). Humphries passed away on November 3, 2019 in Shreveport. Read more here. Listen to Maylon Humphries music on YouTube.
1940	Gospel vocalist and keyboards player Joseph Warrick (Joseph B. Warrick) was born in New Orleans in 1940. Warrick was a longtime member of The Zion Harmonizers. He passed away on January 8, 2017 at age 76.
1955	Piano player, songwriter and pioneer of the "Uptown Sound" Gerald Tillman (aka "Professor Shorthair") was born in New Orleans in 1955. Gerald played piano with several New Orleans bands including The Bold Souls, the Neville Brothers, BlackMale, the original Uptown Allstars (which he cofounded) and his own band, G.T. and The Trustees. Gerald passed away on 09/15/86 at age 31. See recording credits. See a rare solo video clip.
1967	"Nothing Takes the Place of You" by Monroe, LA native Toussaint McCall entered the R&B Chart in 1967. It went on to reach the No. 5 spot during it's 15 week run on the chart.
1996	Crooner Aaron Neville performed for inmates at the Louisiana State Prison at Angola in 1996.
2000	Musician, actor, educator and music activist Layton Martin passed away in New Orleans in 2000 at the age of 57. Martin worked with the New Orleans Civic Symphony Orchestra, the New Leviathan Oriental Fox-Trot Orchestra, the Spirit of New Orleans String Quartet, and the Spirit of New Orleans Brass Band.
2002	New Orleans jazz musician (sax, clarinet) Manny Crusto (Manuel Mitchell Crusto) passed away in New Orleans in 2002 at age 83. He worked with a who's who of local jazz artists, including Harold Dejan, Fats Pichon (on the SS Capitol riverboat), Wardell Quezergue, Teddy Riley, and Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
2004	Jazz trumpeter Wallace Davenport passed away in New Orleans in 2004 at age 78. Davenport worked with Young Tuxedo Brass Band, Oscar "Papa" Celestin, Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, Ray Charles, Lloyd Price, and many others.
2009	Pianist, composer, producer, and session man Eddie Bo (nee Edwin Joseph Bocage) passed way in New Orleans in 2009 at age 79.. Bo's prolific recording output included "Tell It Like It Is," "Every Dog Has His Day," "Check Mr. Popeye," "Pass The Hatchet" and "Hook and Sling" (a Top 20 R&B hit in 1969). Writing credits included "I'm Wise" (made famous by Little Richard as "Slippin' and Slidin'"), "My Dearest Darling" (a Top 10 R&B hit for Etta James), and the Oliver Morgan classic "Who Shot The LaLa." See EddieBo.com.

MARCH 19
1896	Piano player and composer Steve Lewis was born in New Orleans in 1896. Lewis worked with the Silver Leaf Orchestra and Armand Piron. He played with Piron and Peter Bocage for several years at Tranchina's Restaurant. Listen to Lela Bolden sing "Southern Woman Blues" backed by Piron on violin and Lewis on piano (recorded March 14, 1924). Listen to Lewis with Armand Piron's New Orleans Orchestra on YouTube.
1937	R&B vocalist Clarence "Frogman" Henry was born in New Orleans on March 19, 1937. He was known for his 50s and 60s hits "Ain't Got No Home," "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do" and "You Always Hurt the One You Love", and Henry was an opening act for The Beatles on their 1964 North American tour. Frogman passed away in New Orleans on April 7, 2024, at the age of 87. Watch Clarence "Frogman" Henry videos on YouTube. Read more here and here.
1977	Levon Helm, Dr. John and The Meters were musical guests on NBC's 'Saturday Night Live' on March 19, 1977. Dr. John performed "Sing Sing Sing". The Meters performed "I Got To Get My Name Up In Lights". Levon Helm performed "Ain't That A Lot Of Love".
1977	Jazz pianist Armand Hug passed away in New Orleans in 1977 at age 66. Hug was known as a solo pianist, and also played with Harry Shields, the New Orleans Owls, Sharkey Bonano, and Johnny DeDroit, among others. He was often recorded, both as a sideman and leader. Listen to Armand Hug music on YouTube.
2001	Legendary guitarist and session player James Burton was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in ceremonies held in New York City on March 19, 2001. Watch Keith Richards inducting James Burton. Watch James Burton's acceptance speech.

MARCH 20
1902	Late jazz drummer Abbey "Chinee" Foster was born in New Orleans in on March 20, 1902. Foster worked with the Tuxedo Orchestra, Buddy Petit, and others before illness forced him to retire in the early 30's. He later returned to music, playing regularly at Preservation Hall (clips of Foster are availabe on the video, "Baby Dodds New Orleans Drumming"). Foster passed away on September 12, 1962.
1927	Fiddler and Cajun music pioneer Dewey Balfa was born near Mamou, LA on March 20, 1927. Balfa appeared in the films Southern Comfort (1981) and The Big Easy (1986). He was featured in the documentaries "Les Blues De Balfa" (1983), "J'ai Ete Au Bal" (1989), and "Cajun Country: Lache Pas la Patate!" (1991). In 1982, Balfa was honored with a National Heritage Fellowship, the highest award given to folk artists by the National Endowment of the Arts. Balfa passed away in Eunice, Louisiana on June 17, 1992 at age 65. Read more here and here. Listen to Dewey Balfa music on YouTube.
1948	R&B and blues singer Marva Wright was born (Marva Maria Williams) in New Orleans on March 20, 1948. Wright died of complications from a stroke on March 23, 2010. She was 62. See marvawright.com. Watch Marva Wright videos on YouTube.
1949	Swamp boogie piano player and vocalist Marcia Ball was born in Orange, TX in 1949. She was raised in Vinton, Louisiana, and first started playing in public while attending Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. On October 28, 2025 Ball announced she would be retiring from touring and performing, due to an ALS diagnosis. Read more here.
1949	Jazz clarinetist Irving Fazola (Irving Henry Prestopnik) died of a heart attack in New Orleans on March 20, 1949 at the age of 36. Fazola got his start with Louis Prima and Candy Candido in New Orleans in 1927. He later migrated north and played with Ben Pollack, Glenn Miller, Bob Crosby, Muggsy Spanier, and others. Illness forced him to return to New Orleans in the early 1940's, but he later resumed playing with Pinky Vidacovich, Louis Prima, and others. Listen to Irving Fazola music on YouTube. Read more here.
1997	New Orleans-born keyboard player, vocalist, songwriter, and actor Ronnie Barron passed away in Los Angeles on March 20, 1997 at age 53. Barron was a longtime protege of Dr. John. (check out "Talk That Talk" by Drits and Dravy, aka Ronnie Barron & Dr. John). He also worked with Paul Butterfield, John Mayall, Canned Heat, Eric Burdon, and others. Barron also appeared in several films. Visit the Remembering Ronnie Barron! group on Facebook. Listen to Ronnie Barron music on YouTube.
2000	Faron Young's 1961 classic single "Hello Walls" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2000.

MARCH 21
1902	Bandleader and trombone player Santo Pecora was born (Santo Joseph Pecoraro) in New Orleans in 1902. Pecora's long career included stints with Johnny De Droit, Bea Palmer, the New Orleans Rhythm Kings, Charley Barnet, Wingy Manone, and Sharkey Bonano. In his latter years, he played at the Swing Club, The Dream Room, and The Famous Door. Pecora died on May 29, 1984 at age 82. Read more here and here. Listen to Santo Pecora music on YouTube.
1936	Shreveport blues man and slide guitar pioneer Oscar Woods (1903-1955) recorded "Lone Wolf Blues" for the Decca label in New Orleans in 1936.
1981	Clarinet and tenor sax player Oliver Alcorn passed away in New Orleans in 1981 at age 70. Oliver was the brother of noted trumpeter Alvin Alcorn. He recorded with the Original Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra, the State Street Swingers, Little Brother Montgomery, blues man Little Walter, and others.
1988	Hank Williams Jr. was named Entertainer of the Year at the 23rd Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM Awards) held on March 21, 1988.
2009	Music club Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse (at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon Street) opened to the public in 2009. Mayfield's last performance there was on October 31, 2016. The club name was changed to simply The Jazz Playhouse.

MARCH 22
1925	New Orleans trio The Boswell Sisters recorded for the first time on March 22, 1925. The session, at Werlein's music store on Canal Street for the Victor label, produced three songs "You Can Call Me Baby All The Time", "I'm Gonna Cry (Cryin' Blues)" and "(Meet Me Tonight Dear Old) Pal O' Mine". Only "I'm Gonna Cry" was released.
1929	Chicago based avant garde jazz saxophonist, club owner, and co-founder of the AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians) Fred Anderson was born in Monroe, LA on March 22, 1929. He died on June 24, 2010, at the age of 81. Read more here and here. Watch Fred Anderson videos on YouTube.
1934	Dixieland jazz trumpeter Connie Jones was born (Conrad Rodman Jones III) in New Orleans on March 22, 1934. Jones played with the Basin Street Six (with Pete Fountain), Santa Pecora, Jack Teagarden, Freddie Kohlman, and the Dukes of Dixieland. He led his own Crescent City Jazz Band, and later was band leader for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. Jones passed away on February 14, 2019 at age 84. Read more here. Watch Connie Jones videos on YouTube.
1951	Zydeco bass player Alonzo Johnson, Jr. (with Clifton Chenier, Fernest Arceneaux, Zydeco Hurricanes, Rockin' Dopsie Jr, Benny Turner, and others) was born on March 22, 1951. He passed away in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on December 9, 2021 at the age of 70.
1962	Bass player and singer Rob Savoy was born in Lafayette, LA in 1962. Rob has played with Cowboy Mouth, The Bluerunners, Creole String Beans, and others
1964	Louis Armstrong appeared on the TV quiz show "What's My Line?" on March 22, 1964. Pops even sang a few bars of "Hello, Dolly" on the show. Watch the entire episode here. Read more about the appearance here.
1969	"Don't Touch Me" by Shreveport, LA native Bettye Swann entered the R&B Chart in 1969. The tune remained on the chart for 10 weeks, reaching the #14 position.
1976	Award winning actress Reese Witherspoon was born (Laura Jeanne Reese Witherspoon) in New Orleans on March 22, 1976. Witherspoon won a Best Actress Oscar for playing June Carter Cash in the 2005 Johnny Cash biopic "Walk The Line." She also performed on the Grammy nominated soundtrack (watch video).

MARCH 23
1957	"I'm Walkin'" by Fats Domino hit No. 1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1957. The early rock classic, which featured tenor sax great Herb Hardesty, remained at No. 1 for 6 weeks. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Pop Chart. "I'm Walkin'" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019.
1959	"Where Were You (On Our Wedding Day)?" by Kenner, LA native Lloyd Price entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1959. The tune ultimately reached the No. 4 position.
1996	Record producer, musician and songwriter J. D. Miller (Joseph Denton Miller) passed away in Lafayette, LA on March 23, 1996 at age 73. Miller produced and recorded many Cajun and swamp blues legends at Cosimo Matassa's studio in New Orleans, and later at his own studio in Crowley, Louisiana. His writing credits include the country classic "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels", a #1 hit for country singer Kitty Wells in 1952. Read more about J. D. Miller here and here, Watch "How J.D. Miller Took Cajun and Blues to the World" on YouTube.
2010	R&B and blues singer Marva Wright died of complications from a stroke in New Orleans on March 23, 2010. Wright performed around the globe and was a regular at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. She appeared in the film "Crazy in Alabama" and the documentary "Hurricane on the Bayou".

MARCH 24
1924	Blues guitarist, singer and songwriter Boogie Bill Webb was born in Jackson, Mississippi on March 24, 1924. He passed away in New Orleans on August 22, 1990 at age 66. Read more here. Listen to Boogie Bill Webb music on YouTube.
1956	"Later Alligator" by Bobby Charles (nee Robert Charles Guidry) entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1956.The rock classic, written by Charles, was also a pop hit for Bill Haley & His Comets (as "See You Later, Alligator").
1956	"Try Rock and Roll" by Bobby Mitchell entered the Billboard R&B Chart on this day in 1956. It was the only chart entry for the popular Algiers born vocalist
1963	Zydeco accordionist Nathan Williams was born in St. Martinville, LA on March 24, 1963. Williams is the leader of the Grammy-nominated band Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas. Watch Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas videos on YouTube.
1999	Shreveport born blues guitarist and vocalist Mighty Joe Young passed away in Chicago on March 24, 1999 at age 71. An operation for a pinched nerve in his neck in 1986 robbed Young of the feeling in his hand and made it impossible to play guitar. The blues legend died from complications after spinal surgery which he hoped would restore feeling to his finger. Read more here and here. The Mighty Joe Young Band appeared in the 1981 James Caan film "Thief". Listen to Mighty Joe Young music on YouTube.

MARCH 25
1897	Jazz pianist and singer "Sweet" Emma Barrett was born in New Orleans on March 25, 1897. She joined Oscar Celestin's Original Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra in the early 1920's and later played with Bebe Ridgeley's Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra. She made her recording debut in 1961, joined by Percy Humphrey, Jim Robinson, Willie Humphrey, Emanuel Sayles, McNeal Breaux and Josiah Frasier. In 1963, Sweet Emma led the first traveling Preservation Hall Jazz Band ensemble on a US tour. In 1967, she suffered a stroke that paralyzed her left side. She recovered and continued to perform until her passing on January 28, 1983. Read more here. Watch Sweet Emma Barrett videos on YouTube.
1902	Trad jazz clarinetist and vocalist Albert Burbank was born in New Orleans on March 25, 1902. Burbank studied under Lorenzo Tio, Jr. and first played professionally in the 1920's. He worked with Paul Barbain and Kid Ory in the 50's, and in latter years, Burbank was a regular at the Paddock Lounge, Dixieland Hall and Preservation Hall. He recorded with Wooden Joe Nicholas, Percy Humphrey, Paul Barbarin, Kid Thomas Valentine, Kid Ory, and others. Burbank passed away in New Orleans on August 15, 1976 at age 74. Listen to Albert Burbank music on YouTube.
1917	Noted R&B drummer, band leader, songwriter and label owner Armand "Jump" Jackson was born in New Orleans on March 25, 1917. Based in Chicago, Jackson worked with Roosevelt Sykes, Sonny Boy Williamson, Big Joe Williams, John Lee Hooker, and many others. He passed away in Chicago on January 31, 1985 at age 67. Listen to Jump Jackson music on YouTube.
1925	New Orleans trio The Boswell Sisters recorded "Nights When I Am Lonely" for the Victor label at Werlein's music store on Canal Street on March 25, 1925.
1933	Swamp blues guitarist and singer Clarence Edwards was born in Lindsay, Louisiana on March 25, 1933. Edwards passed away in Scotlandville, LA (Baton Rouge) on May 20, 1993 at age 60. Listen to Clarence Edwards music on YouTube.
1953	Honky tonk legend Webb Pierce recorded his Top 10 hits "There Stands the Glass" and "Don't Throw Your Life Away" for the Decca label at Castle Studio in Nashville on March 25, 1953.
1958	Trad jazz trombonist and bassist Tom Brown passed away in New Orleans on March 25, 1958 at age 69. Brown played with Papa Jack Laine before forming his own band and moving to Chicago in 1915 to perform at Lamb's Cafe. Back in Louisiana in the 20's, Brown continued to work regularly, often playing string bass. He recorded with Johnny Bayersdorffer, Norman Brownlee, Johnny Wiggs, and others. Listen to Tom Brown music on YouTube.
1998	The Master P single "Make 'Em Say Uhh!" was certified Gold (sales of 500,000) by the RIAA on March 25, 1998. It would go on to reach Platinum status on September 4, 1998. The track featured No Limit Records stable mates Fiend, Silkk The Shocker, Mia X and Mystikal.
1999	Dwayne Dopsie (son of late zydeco legend Rockin' Dopsie, Sr.) was named America's Hottest Accordionist in a competition held in Branson, Missouri on March 25, 1999.

MARCH 26
1975	Multi-platinum selling rapper Juvenile was born (Terius Gray) in New Orleans on March 26, 1975.
1991	New Orleans born pianist, vocalist, songwriter, producer and label owner Paul Gayten passed away in Los Angeles on March 26, 1991 at the age of 71. Gayten was a seminal figure in New Orleans R&B. His early bands backed up Roy Brown, Chubby Newsome, Larry Darnell and others, producing R&B hits on the DeLuxe and Regal labels. After a stint in New York, Gayten formed a band in New Orleans that included tenor sax legend Lee Allen. This group played at the Brass Rail on Canal Street for 5 years in the early 50's He later moved to Los Angeles, working for Chess Records in a variety of capacities. Gayten died in Los Angeles on March 26, 1991 at age 71. Listen to Paul Gayten music on YouTube.
1991	The Harry Connick Jr. & His Orchestra concert video "Swinging Out Live" was certified Gold by the RIAA on March 26, 1991. The concert, taped for PBS's "Great Performances" series, aired nationally in November 1990.
1999	New Orleans Christian music group Trin-i-tee 5:7 were guest presenters at the Soul Train Music Awards held in Los Angeles on March 26, 1999. The trio was nominated in the Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist category but lost out to Kelly Price.
2010	Musician, composer and educator Irvin Mayfield was sworn in as the newest member of The National Council on the Arts on March 26, 2010. Mayfield was nominated by President Barack Obama and confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve on the National Council on the Arts for a full six-year term (until 2016).

MARCH 27
1926	Longtime Orleans Parish District Attorney (and singer) Harry Connick, Sr. was born (Joseph Harry Fowler Connick) in Mobile, Alabama on March 27, 1926. The New Orleans icon and dad of Harry Connick, Jr., passed away at home on January 25, 2024 at age 97.
1937	Blues guitarist & vocalist Johnny Copeland was born (John Clyde Copeland) in Haynesville, LA in 1937. Copeland's commercial breakthrough came in 1985 with "Showdown!", a collaboration with Albert Collins and Robert Cray that won a Grammy Award for best trad blues album. The Haynesville, LA native was born with a congenital heart defect which ultimately led to a transplant in 1997. He passed away New York City on July 3, 1997 after surgery to repair a defective valve in the new heart. He was the father of blues singer Shemekia Copeland.
1971	"Baby Let Me Kiss You" by New Orleans soul singer King Floyd entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1971. It eventually reached the No. 5 position.
1972	Trumpet player and bandleader Sharkey Bonano (nee Joseph Gustaf Bonano) passed away in New Orleans on March 27, 1972. Bonano worked with Jean Goldkette, Jimmy Durante, Original Dixieland Jazz Band, the Melody Masters (with Leon Prima), his own Sharks of Rhythm, and others. Read more here and here. Watch Sharkey Bonano videos on YouTube.

MARCH 28
1907	Late clarinetist Herb Hall was born in Reserve, LA in 1907. The brother of musician Edmond Hall, Herb worked with Sidney Desvigne, Don Albert, Doc Cheatham, Sammy Price, and others. He passed away on March 5, 1996 at age 88.
1932	Acclaimed jazz chanteuse Germaine Bazzle was born in New Orleans on March 28, 1932. Read more here and here. Watch Germaine Bazzle videos on YouTube.
1935	Trad jazz musicians Billie Pierce (Wilhelmina Madison Goodson) and De De Pierce (DeDe Pierce) were married at St. Peter Claver Church in New Orleans on March 28, 1935. Read more.
1964	"Wish Someone Would Care" by Soul Queen Irma Thomas entered the R&B Chart in 1964. It later reached the #17 spot and remained on the chart for 12 weeks.
1966	Trumpet player and bandleader Avery "Kid" Howard passed away in New Orleans on March 28, 1966 at the age of 57. Howard played with the Eureka, Henry Allen, and Tuxedo brass bands. He later had a long association with George Lewis, and played at Preservation Hall until shortly before his death. Read more here. Watch Kid Howard videos on YouTube.
1972	Grammy winning singer Ledisi was born (Ledisi Anibade Young) in New Orleans on March 28, 1972. See www.ledisi.com.
1981	"Texas Women" by Shreveport native Hank Williams Jr. hit #1 on the Country Chart in 1981. It was the first of three No. 1 hits for Hank, Jr. in 1981.
1987	Trumpeter Wynton Marsalis was the musical guest on NBC's 'Saturday Night Live' in 1987. Wynton and band performed "J Mood" and "One Mustaad".
1987	New Orleans rap star Juvenile (Terius Gray) was arrested in Miami, FL on March 28, 2001 after konking a guy in the head with a champagne bottle in an altercation outside of a comedy club. Juve was charged with aggravated battery with a bottle, battery on a law enforcement officer, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest without violence. (read more)
2001	Jazz pianist and vocalist Jeanette Kimball (née Jeanette Salvant) passed away in Charleston, S.C. in 2001 at age 94. Kimball recorded with Papa Celestin's Original Tuxedo Orchestra as early as April 13, 1926. In later years, Kimball was a regular at Preservation Hall. Listen to Jeanette Kimball music on YouTube.

MARCH 29
1901	Late clarinetist and composer Sidney Arodin was born in Westwego, LA on March 29, 1901. Arodin co-wrote "(Up A) Lazy River" with Hoagy Carmichael. He recorded with the Jones & Collins Astoria Hot Eight, Abbie Brunies and his Halfway House Orchestra, Wingy Manone, Louis Prima, and others. Arodin passed away on February 6, 1948. Listen to Sidney Arodin music on YouTube.
1937	Musician and vocalist Van Broussard, aka the "King of Swamp Pop", was born (Van Buren Broussard, Jr.) in Prairieville, LA on March 29th, 1937. He passed away on November 17th, 2020 at the age of 83. Van was the brother of Grace Broussard (of Dale & Grace fame). Read more here. Watch Van Broussard videos on YouTube.
1947	Vocalist and keyboard player Bobby Kimball was born in Orange, Texas on March 29, 1947. Kimball, raised in nearby Vinton, Louisiana, played in several New Orleans bands before moving to Los Angeles in 1974. In L.A., he formed a band (SS Fools) with former members of 3 Dog Night. He went on to become a founding member of Grammy winning rock band Toto. Sadly, Kimball was diagnosed with diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2019. See bobbykimball.com. Watch Bobby Kimball videos on YouTube.
1975	"Lady Marmalade" by vocal group LaBelle hit #1 on the Billboard Pop Chart in 1975. The song was produced by Allen Toussaint at Sea Saint Studios in New Orleans. It featured backing by members of The Meters, along with other notable NOLA music luminaries.
1981	Singer, songwriter and producer PJ Morton was born (Paul Sylvester Morton Jr.) in New Orleans on March 29, 1981. The son of Bishop Paul S. Morton, he became full time keyboard player for Maroon 5 in 2015. As a solo artist, he has won Grammy Awards in both R&B and Gospel categories. See pjmortonmusic.com. Watch PJ Morton videos on YouTube.
2001	Trumpeter and long-time Olympia Brass Band leader Milton Batiste Jr. (of the musical Batiste family) passed away in New Orleans in 2001 at age 66. Read more here. Listen to Milton Batiste music on YouTube.
2003	Trad jazz bassist and drummer Placide Adams passed away in New Orleans on March 29, 2003 at age 73. Adams was the longtime leader of the Onward Brass Band, and also worked with many R&B legends (Roy Brown, Clyde McPhatter, B.B. King, etc). His mother (Dolly Douroux) and brothers Jerry and Justin Adams were also musicians. Read more here.

MARCH 30
1955	Fats Domino recorded "La-La" and "Blue Monday" at Master Recorders studio in Hollywood on March 30, 1955. "Blue Monday" would go on to reach #1 on the R&B Chart (for eight weeks), and #5 on the Pop Chart. The tune was featured in the 1956 film "The Girl Can't Help It." Backing Fats on the session were Walter "Papoose" Nelson, Billy Diamond, Cornelius "Tenoo" Coleman, Buddy Hagans and Herb Hardesty.
1988	Multi-platinum, award-winning country music singer and songwriter Jordan Davis was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on March 30, 1988. Brother Jacob Davis is also a singer and songwriter. The pair won Song of the Year honors at the 2022 CMA Awards for "Buy Dirt". Watch Jordan Davis videos on YouTube. See jordandavisofficial.com.
1999	The Neville Brothers appeared on TV's "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" on March 30, 1999. The band performed "Over Africa", from their album, "Valence Street".

MARCH 31
1895	Late blues songstress Lizzie Miles was born in New Orleans on March 31, 1895.
1938	Guitar legend Lonnie Johnson recorded "Mr. Johnson's Swing" for the Decca label in New York in 1938.
1945	"I Wonder" by Louis Armstrong and His Orchestra entered the R&B (Race) Jukebox Chart in 1945.
1956	R&B, funk and jazz vocalist Charmaine Neville was born in New Orleans on March 31, 1956. Charmaine is the daughter of Charles Neville (1938-2018) of the Neville Brothers.
1961	Instant Records released the Chris Kenner single "I Like It Like That, Part 1" (backed with "Part 2") on this day in 1961. The song eventually reached No. 2 on both the R&B and Pop Charts.
1983	Jazz trumpeter, bandleader, composer and producer Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah was born (Christian Scott) in New Orleans on March 31, 1983. See chiefadjuah.com.
2001	Cajun and country star Jimmy C. Newman appeared on TNN's "Grand Ole Opry Live" in 2001.
2001	New Orleans rap star Silkk the Shocker (born Vyshonne Miller) was among the musical guests on the syndicated series "Soul Train" in 2001.

Satchmo.com - On This Day in Louisiana Music History

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