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 - July

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JULY 1
1898	Late trombonist Charles Hartman was born in New Orleans in 1898. Hartman worked with Oliver Naylor, Tony Parenti, Johnny Bayersdorffer Orchestra, the Prima-Sharkey Orchestra, and others.
1935	Gospel vocalist Louis Jones (with The Zion Harmonizers and Southern Tone gospel group) was born in Thibodaux, LA in 1935. He passed away on February 28, 2007 at age 71.
1952	Noted percussionist, songwriter, producer and educator Ndugu Chancler was born (Leon Chancler) in Shreveport, LA in 1952; Chancler worked with Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Frank Sinatra, Santana, Michael Jackson (he played drums on the "Thriller" album), George Duke, and dozens of others (more). He passed away due to prostate cancer on February 3, 2018.
1957	"A Fallen Star" by Big Mamou native and Grand Ole Opry star Jimmy C. Newman entered the R&B Chart in 1957. The tune eventually reached #7, and went to #2 on the Country Chart and #23 on the Pop Chart.
1972	"Eleven Roses" by Shreveport, LA native Hank Williams Jr. hit #1 on the Country Chart in 1972.
1967	Zydeco accordionist and bandleader Chubby Carrier was born in Church Point, Louisiana in 1967. He is the son of late Zydeco legend Roy Carrier.
1977	Blues man Baby Boy Warren (born Robert Henry Warren in Lake Providence, LA) passed away from a heart attack in Detroit at the age of 57.
1990	Hank Williams Jr. married former Hawaiian Tropic model Mary Jane Thomas in Montana in 1990
1994	A Baton Rouge judge sentenced soul singer Percy Sledge to five years of probation and fined him $95,000 for tax evasion in 1994. Sledge (1941–2015), a native of Alabama, had been a long time resident of Baton Rouge.
Chart	"Let The Four Winds Blow" by Roy Brown entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1957 ... "Susie Q" by Dale Hawkins entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1957 ... "Make Me Yours" by Bettye Swan entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1967 (the tune eventually reached No. 21 on the Pop Chart and No. 1 on the R&B Chart) ... "Good" by Better Than Ezra entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1995.

JULY 2
1947	Sax man and vocalist Reggie Houston was born in New Orleans in 1947. His recording credits include appearances on albums by Peter Gabriel, Neville Brothers, Yockamo All-Stars, Charmaine Neville, plus his own solo efforts.
1927	Tenor sax legend, session player and bandleader Lee Allen was born in Pittsburgh, Kansas in 1927. He relocated to New Orleans in 1943, and became a member of Dave Bartholomew's famed session band recording at Cosimo's in the 1950's, wailing on tenor in tandem with Alvin "Red" Tyler on baritone. Allen helped create the New Orleans R&B sound on hits by Little Richard, Fats Domino, Smiley Lewis, Lloyd Price, and many others. He passed away on October 18, 1994 at his home in Los Angeles from lung cancer at age 67.
1955	Bass player, vocalist, and founding member of Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk Nick Daniels III was born in New Orleans in 1955. Prior to Dumpstaphunk, Daniels worked in bands backing legends like Etta James, The Neville Brothers, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and Boz Scaggs. He died on April 26, 2024 of complications from multiple myeloma at 68.
1958	Singer and pianist Martha Boswell passed away in Peekskill, NY in 1958. Martha was a member of the famed jazz vocal group The Boswell Sisters, along with sisters Helvetia and Connee Boswell.
1962	The Eureka Brass Band were recorded by Atlantc Records at Preservation Hall in New Orleans on July 2, 1962. The recordings can be found on the limited edition box set "The Atlantic New Orleans Jazz Sessions." Band members Percy Humphrey, George "Kid Sheik" Colar, Peter Bocage, Albert Warner, Oscar "Chicken" Henry, Willie Humphrey, Emmanuel Paul, Wilbert "Bird" Tillman, Josiah "Cie" Frazier and Robert "Son Fewclothes" Lewis.
1976	Mutemath singer, keyboardist and co-founder Paul Meany was born in New Orleans in 1976. He also led the NOLA-based band Earthsuit prior to forming Mutemath. He is best known for his work (co-producing and collaborating) with Twenty One Pilots.
1988	The Louis Armstrong classic "What A Wonderful World" hit #1 on the Australian pop chart in 1988.
1991	Noted guitarist and 1950's & 60's session player Justin Adams passed away in New Orleans in 1991 at age 68. Adams was a member of Dave Bartholomew's classic 50's session band. See credits.
2009	New Orleans musician and business owner (Campo Bros. Music Store, New Orleans Music Supply, Hall Drum Co.) Warren Campo Jr. passed away on July 2, 2009 at age 86.

JULY 3
1929	Legendary Texas blues and soul songstress "Miss" Lavelle White was born (Lillia Lavell White) in Amite, Louisiana in 1929.
1930	Clarinet legend Pete Fountain was born (Peter Dewey Fountain, Jr.) in New Orleans on July 3, 1930. Fountain studied under Johnny Wiggs at McDonough 28. He first recorded with the Basin Street Six (which also featured George Girard, Joe Rotis and Roy Zimmerman) in the early 50's, and later worked with the Dukes of Dixieland. Fountain came to national prominence when featured on The Lawrence Welk Show in the late 50's. He also appeared an amazing 58 times on NBC's "Tonight Show". He performed for 4 U.S. presidents and also for Pope John Paul II on his 1987 visit to New Orleans. Fountain passed away from heart failure on August 6, 2016 at age 86.
1950	New Orleans born bass and trombone player John Lindsay passed away in Chicago in 1950 at age 55. Lindsay worked with John Robichaux, Armand Piron, King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, Jimmie Noone, and many others.
1954	"Even Tho" by future Country Music Hall of Fame inductees Webb Pierce (born 8/8/21 in West Monroe, LA) topped the country charts in 1954.
1960	New Orleans born trumpet player and band leader Lee Collins passed away in Chicago in 1960 at age 58. Collins studied under Professor Jim Humphrey and began playing in brass bands as a teen. His lengthy career included stints with King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, Davey Jones (this duo co-led the classic Jones & Collins Astoria Hot Eight sessions in 1929), Johnny and Baby Dodds, and a host of others.
1971	"Mr. Big Stuff" by Jean Knight hit No. 1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1971. The tune, arranged by Wardell Quezergue, remained on top of the chart for 5 straight weeks.
1997	Blues guitar great Johnny Copeland passed away in New York City in 1997 at age 60. 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 after surgery to repair a defective valve in the new heart.

JULY 4
1895	Late clarinetist Steve Angrum was born in New Roads, LA in 1895. Angrum worked with Kid Thomas, Kid Sheik, Punch Miller, and others.
1902	Late church deacon (and drummer) Frank Lastie was born in New Orleans in 1902. He was the patriarch of the musical Lastie family. Offspring included sons Melvin, David, and Walter, daughter Betty Ann, and grandsons Herlin Riley and Joe Lastie.
1909	Late blues singer and pianist Champion Jack Dupree was born (William Thomas Dupree) in New Orleans on July 4, 1909. He died of cancer on January 21, 1992 in Hanover, Germany. Listen to Champion Jack Dupree music on YouTube.
1944	Blues harmonica great Chicago Bob Nelson was born (Robert Lee Nelson) in Bogalusa, LA in 1944. Nelson moved to Chicago in the early 1960's. There, he met and performed with Howlin’ Wolf, Earl Hooker, Buddy Guy, Junior Wells and Muddy Waters (Muddy gave Bob his nickname "Chicago Bob"). Over the years Bob toured with Luther "Snake Boy" Johnson, Tinsley Ellis, and he was in John Lee Hooker's touring band for the last years of Hooker's life. Nelson died on January 17, 2013 at age 68. Listen to Chicago Bob Nelson music on YouTube.
1951	Harmonica player and bandleader Smoky Greenwell was born in Michigan on July 4, 1951. He has been a resident of New Orleans since 1989.
1953	Award winning harmonica player Kirk "Jelly Roll" Johnson was born in Lake Charles, LA in 1953. Johnson is one of Nashville's top session musicians. He has recorded with Trisha Yearwood, Kathy Mattea, Etta James, Randy Travis, The Judds, and many others. Read more.
1969	New Orleans-based vocalist and businesswoman Sophie Lee Lowry (aka Miss Sophie Lee) was born in Chicago in 1969. She is co-owner of local music venue Three Muses.
1980	Trumpeter Shamarr Allen was born in New Orleans in 1980.
1992	Trumpeter and bandleader Joe Newman passed away in New York City in 1992 at age 70. The New Orleans native's career included stints with Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, Illinois Jacquet, and Benny Goodman. Apart from his 25+ albums as a leader, Newman can be heard on recordings by Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Aretha Franklin, among many others.
2000	Celebrations honoring the centennial of Louis Armstrong's birth begin in earnest around the world. Louis thought his birth date to be July 4, 1900, but a baptismal certificate, found after his death, purported the date of birth to be August 4, 1901. The consolation in this great debate is that we get to celebrate the Louis Armstrong centennial for 13 months!
2025	Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue and Lauren Daigle were among the performers on the annual PBS 4th of July special "A Capitol Fourth", whick took place in Washington D.C. on July 4, 2025. Watch their performances here.

JULY 5
1913	New Orleans R&B great Smiley Lewis was born (Overton Amos Lemons) in DeQuincy, Louisiana in 1913. Lewis is known for 1955 single "I Hear You Knocking" which reached #2 on the R&B Chart. He died of stomach cancer on October 7, 1966 at age 53.
1927	Music entrepreneur Stan "The Record Man" Lewis (Stanley Joseph Lewis) was born in Shreveport, LA in 1927. Lewis founded the Jewel, Paula, and Ronn record labels, and produced dozens of artists including John Fred & His Playboys, Ike & Tina Turner, The Soul Stirrers, and Mickey Gilley. Lewis co-wrote the hit song "Susie Q", with Stan's Record Shop employee Dale Hawkins. He passed away on July 15, 2018 at age 91.
1928	Long time Fats Domino band drummer Cornelius "Tenoo" Coleman was born in New Orleans on July 5, 1928. Coleman backed Fats Domino on many of his 50's hits. (see credits) and was an inspiration and teacher to Walter "Popee" Lastie. He died on February 20, 1973 at age 44.
1958	Honky tonk singer Webb Pierce recorded his Top 10 country hit "Falling Back to You" for the Decca label in 1958.
1980	"Hey Lover" by New Orleans funk group Chocolate Milk entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1980.
2001	R&B legend Ernie K-Doe (Ernest Kador Jr.) passed away in New Orleans in 2001 at age 65. See a K-Doe tribute from The Guardian.
2005	Noted New Orleans R&B singer Shirley Goodman passed away in Los Angeles in 2005 at age 69. Goodman was half of the popular 50's R&B duo, Shirley & Lee. They split in 1963, and Goodman moved to the West Coast, doing session work with the likes of the Rolling Stones and Dr. John (she appeared on the Stones LP "Exile on Main St." with fellow New Orleanians Dr. John. Merry Clayton and Tami Lynn). Goodman resurfaced in 1975 with the #1 R&B hit, "Shame, Shame, Shame" (as Shirley & Company).

JULY 6
1922	Gospel singer Bessie Griffin was born (Arlette B. Broil) in New Orleans in 1922. Griffin died from breast cancer in Culver City, California on April 10, 1989. Read more. Listen to Bessie Griffin music on YouTube.
1931	R&B great Danny White was born in New Orleans in 1931. White led the popular group Danny White and the Cavaliers and had local hits in the 1960's with "Loan Me Your Handkerchief" and "Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye" (produced by Wardell Quezergue for Frisco Records); he also recorded with Huey 'Piano' Smith & The Clowns (see Danny White discography). White died after suffering a stroke on January 5, 1996. He was 64. Read more.
1932	Tenor sax great Don Wilkerson was born (Donald A. Wilkerson) in Moreauville, Louisiana on July 6, 1932. Wilkerson played with Amos Milburn, Charles Brown, Dexter Gordon, Ray Charles, and others. His tenor sax can be heard on several of Ray Charles's 1950's hits, including "I Got a Woman" "This Little Girl of Mine", and "Hallelujah, I Love Her So". He released his first solo album, "Texas Twister", in 1960. Wilkerson passed away in Houston, TX on July 18, 1986. See recording credits. Listen to Don Wilkerson music on YouTube.
1951	Drummer Frank Oxley was born in New Orleans in 1951.
1953	Trad jazz trumpeter Gregg Stafford was born in New Orleans in 1953. Stafford can be heard regularly at Preservation Hall.
1955	Honky tonk singer Webb Pierce recorded "Love, Love, Love" for the Decca label in 1955. The tune went to No. 1 on the Country Charts in October of 1955, and held the top spot for 13 weeks.
1957	BeauSoleil guitarist and vocalist David Doucet was born in Scott, Louisiana in 1957. David is the younger brother of Beausoliel founder Michael Doucet.
1958	Louis Armstrong performed at the Newport Jazz Festival on July 6, 1958. Footage of the show was captured for the concert film, "Jazz on a Summer's Day" (watch Armstrong's performance), which also features a performance by Mahalia Jackson.
1971	Celebrated trumpeter, vocalist, songwriter, jazz innovator and international goodwill ambassador Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong died in his sleep at his Corona, New York home on July 6, 1971 at the age of 69. President Nixon and Duke Ellington were among those who payed tribute to the jazz legend in a New York Times obit, published on July 7, 1971.

JULY 7
1933	Singer and musician Raymond Lewis was born (Raymond Clemont Lewis) in New Orleans on July 7, 1933. Lewis worked with Huey "Piano" Smith & The Clowns, Earl King, Allen Toussaint, Joe Tex, and others. Solo work included the Toussaint produced, regional hit "I'm Gonna Put Some Hurt On You" (Instant 3242). Lewis passed away on June 1, 2020 at the age of 86.
1949	Trad jazz trumpeter Bunk Johnson (born William Geary Johnson) passed away in New Iberia, Louisiana in 1949 at the age of 59. Johnson worked with The Superior Orchestra and The Eagle Band from 1910-14. He left New Orleans and was in and out of music for several years. Bunk was "rediscovered" in the late 30's and made his first recordings in 1942. Many feel he was past his prime, but Johnson did contribute to the public's renewed interest in early jazz during this period. He continued to record and tour until retiring to New Iberia in 1948.
1956	"Come Back To Me" by Big Mamou, LA native Jimmy C. Newman entered the Billboard Country Chart in 1956.
1971	The New York Times and Newsday reported on the news of Louis Armstrong's death in 1971 (the jazz legend passed away on 07/06/71).

JULY 8
1929	Music legend Jelly Roll Morton recorded "Pep", "Seattle Hunch", "Frances", and "Freakish" for the Victor label in Camden, NJ in 1929.
1929	Jimmie Noone recorded "Birmingham Bertha", "Am I Blue?", and "My Daddy Rocks Me" for the Vocalion label in Chicago in 1929. Listen to the tracks on YouTube.
1952	Bluesman Larry Garner was born in New Orleans in 1952. Garner grew up in Baton Rouge where he was influenced by swamp blues players Clarence Edwards, Silas Hogan, Henry Gray and Lonesome Sundown. The critically acclaimed Garner tours extensively and is popular on the European blues circuit. (read more)
1958	Webb Pierce recorded "Tupelo County Jail" for the Decca label in 1958. The tune went to #7 on the Country chart.
1967	"I'll Do It For You" by Monroe, LA native Toussaint McCall entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1967.
1967	"Tip On In (Part 1)" by swamp blues legend Slim Harpo entered the R&B Chart in 1967.
1983	Rising rap artist Young Ready AKA "Racked Up Ready" was born (Shannen VE'Latrial Hudson) in Baton Rouge on July 8, 1983. Hudson was killed in a shooting on June 23, 2015 in Bogalusa, LA. He was 31 years old.

JULY 9
1906	Late clarinetist and bandleader Joe Darensbourg was born in Baton Rouge, LA on July 9, 1906. Darensbourg studied under Manuel Roque in Baton Rouge and Alphonse Picou in New Orleans. His lengthy career (1920's - 1980's) included stints with Mutt Carey, Kid Ory, Louis Armstrong's All Stars, and dozens of others. See this lengthy interview with Joe Darensbourg by Barry Martyn. Darensbourg died in Los Angeles on May 24, 1985. He was 78 and had suffered a stroke several weeks earlier.
1920	Late piano player and bandleader Duke Burrell (Alexander "Duke" Burrell) was born in New Orleans in 1920. Burrell worked with Louis Jordan, Johnny Otis, Barney Bigard, the Louisiana Shakers, and others. He passed away in Los Angeles in 1993 at age 73.
1971	Funeral services were held for jazz legend Louis Armstrong at Corona Congregational Church in New York in 1971; Satchmo was laid to rest in Flushing Cemetary in his hometown of Queens, NY.
1972	Percussionist extraordinaire Stanton Moore (Galactic, Stanton Moore Trio, Garage a Trois, and others) was born in New Orleans in 1972.
1979	Zydeco accordionist Andre Thierry was born in Richmond, California in 1979.
1982	Noted New Orleans-born trumpeter and vocalist Wingy Manone passed away in Las Vegas in 1982 at age 82

JULY 10
1929	Jelly Roll Morton recorded "Sweet Anita Mine" and "New Orleans Bump" for the Victor label in Camden, NJ in 1929.
1941	New Orleans born jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton passed away in Los Angeles on July 10, 1941. Morton is considered the crucial figure in bridging 19th century blues, vaudeville song and ragtime with the small jazz ensembles of the 1920's. The gifted pianist, arranger and composer penned many tunes that later became jazz standards, among them "King Porter Stomp", "Wolverine Blues", "Black Bottom Stomp", "Milneburg Joys", "Doctor Jazz" and "Shreveport Stomp".
1976	Hot 8 Brass Band co-founder and sousaphone player Bennie Pete was born (Bennie G. Pete Jr.) in New Orleans on July 10, 1976. Pete died from complications from sarcoidosis and Covid-19 on September 6, 2021 at age 45.
1998	Grammy-winning singer and songwriter Lucinda Williams appeared on NBC's "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" in 1998. Lucinda performed "Right In Time" from the crticially acclaimed "Car Wheels on a Gravel Road" album.
1982	Cajun fiddler and singer Courtney Granger was born (Courtney Wayne Granger) in Eunice, Louisiana on July 10, 1982. The grandnephew of Balfa Brothers member Dewey Balfa, Granger toured with the bands Balfa Toujours and Pine Leaf Boys before releasing an acclaimed solo country album in 2016. He died on September 18, 2021 from a suspected blood clot related to diabetes complications. He was only 39 years old. Listen to Courtney Granger music on YouTube.

JULY 11
1951	Noted guitarist and session player Cranston Clements was born in New Orleans in 1951. Cranston has played with Twangorama, Woodenhead, The Clements Brothers, and The Chilluns, among others. His recording credits include Maria Muldaur, Irma Thomas, Bobby Charles, and Amanda Shaw (see more). His daughter Annie Clements is bassist & backing vocalist with Sugarland, Maren Morris, and many others. Sons Austin and Tyler are also following in their dad's musical footsteps.
1953	"It's Been So Long", by Webb Pierce hit #1 on the Country Chart in 1953.
1957	Honky tonk singer Webb Pierce recorded "Holiday for Love" for the Decca label in 1957. The tune spent 17 weeks on the Country Chart, peaking at No. 3.
1958	Cajun accordionist and vocalist Bruce Daigrepont was born in New Orleans in 1958.
1960	"There's Something On Your Mind (Part 2)" by R&B singer Bobby Marchan hit #1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1960.
1973	Brass band trombone player Gregory Veals was born in New Orleans in 1973. Veals has played with Lil Rascals Brass Band, Rebirth Brass Band, Hot 8 Brass Band, and others. See recording credits.

JULY 12
1895	Late cornet player Alfred "Baby" Laine (also known as "Pantsy") was born in New Orleans in 1895. Laine played with the Reliance Brass Band (founded by his father Papa Jack Laine), and also led his own bands, including "Pantsy" Laine and his Wampus Cats. He recorded with Jimmy Durante's Jazz Band and the Louisiana Five. Laine passed away on March 1, 1957 at age 61.
1920	Late gospel vocalist Paul Foster (Rev. Paul Foster, Sr.) was born in Grand Cane, Louisiana in 1920. Foster recorded with The Golden Echoes in the late 40's, and was a long time member of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members, The Soul Stirrers (which also featured Sam Cooke). He passed away on August 20, 1995 at age 75.
1934	Celebrated classical pianist Van Cliburn was born (Harvey Lavan Cliburn) in Shreveport, LA on July 12, 1934. Cliburn (at age 23) skyrocketed to fame in 1958 during the height of the Cold War when he conquered the heart of the Russian people as winner of the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow. He received Kennedy Center Honors in 2001, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004, the Order of Friendship from President Vladimir Putin in 2004, and the National Medal of Arts in 2010.
1952	"Lawdy Miss Clawdy" by Lloyd Price and His Orchestra hit No. 1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1952. It held the top position for a total of 7 weeks!
1940	Blues, funk and soul man Ernie Vincent was born in New Orleans on on July 12, 1940. Read more here and here. Listen to Ernie Vincent music on YouTube.
1952	"That Heart Belongs To Me" by Webb Pierce hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Chart in 1952.
1994	The 1989 Neville Brothers album "Yellow Moon" was certified Gold by the RIAA in 1994.
2002	Traditional Cajun accordion player and vocalist Milton Adams passed away in 2002 at age 83. The Kaplan, Louisiana native was the leader of Milton Adams' Midnight Playboys.
2003	New Orleans-based musicians Susan Cowsill and Russ Broussard were married at Dockside Studio in Maurice, Louisiana on July 12, 2003.
2020	Swamp pop great Rod Bernard passed away on July 12, 2020 at age 79. Bernard was born in Opelousas, LA in 1940. His classic cover of King Karl's "This Should Go On Forever" made both the Pop (#20) and R&B (#12) charts in 1959.

JULY 13
1900	Legendary trad jazz clarinetist George Lewis was born (Joseph Lewis Francis Zenon) in New Orleans on July 13, 1900. Watch a rare TV performance by the George Lewis Ragtime Jazzband of New Orleans from November 1953.
1931	Blues guitarist and vocalist Long John Hunter was born (John Thurman Hunter Jr.) in Ringold, Louisiana on July 13, 1931. Hunter died at his home in Phoenix, Arizona on January 4, 2016 at age 84.
1939	Noted swamp pop vocalist Joe Barry was born (Joseph Barrios) in Cut Off, Louisiana on July 13, 1939. Barry's biggest hits came in 1961 with "I'm A Fool To Care" (went to No. 15 on the R&B Chart) and "Teardrops In My Heart". Barry passed away on August 31, 2004 at age 65.
1963	"River's Invitation" by R&B singer and songwriter Percy Mayfield entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1963.

JULY 14
1958	Gospel music great Raymond Anthony Myles was born in New Orleans in 1958. Myles was found murdered in New Orleans on October 11, 1998, the victim of an apparent carjacking.
1965	New Orleans born pianist and composer Spencer Williams passed away in Flushing, NY in 1965 at age 75; Williams co-wrote "Squeeze Me" with Fats Waller, and also collaborated with Clarence Williams (no relation) on many hits. Noted songs include "Basin Street Blues", "Royal Garden Blues", "I've Found a New Baby" and "Everybody Loves My Baby". He also recorded with Lonnie Johnson, Teddy Bunn, and others.
1975	Noted jazz drummer Arthur "Zutty" Singleton passed away in New York in 1975 at age 77. The Bunkie, LA native's extensive resume included stints with Jimmie Noone, Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, Jelly Roll Morton, and many others. Singleton was an important link from the New Orleans style to the swing drummers who came on the scene in the 1930's, and he was one of the first drummers to use wire brushes and the sock cymbal. He appeared in the films "Stormy Weather", "New Orleans", and "Turned-Up Toes", and also appeared on the 1950's "Timex All Stars" TV specials.
1975	Trombonist Corey Henry (with Lil' Rascals Brass Band, Treme Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers, Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet) was born in New Orleans in 1975.
1981	Sax player Devin Phillips was born in New Orleans in 1981.
1981	New Orleans based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sam Doores was born in San Francisco, California on July 14, 1986. Sam worked with Hurray for the Riff Raff in their early days in New Orleans. He formed Sam Doores & Riley Downing and the Tumbleweeds, which later became The Deslondes (named after Deslonde Street, where he lived in New Orleans).

JULY 15
1898	Late trad jazz reeds player Tats Alexander was born (Adolphe Alexander, Jr.) in New Orleans in 1898. Alexander played with the Tuxedo Brass Band in the early 1920's. His career also included long stints with Sidney Desvigne, and in later years, with Oscar "Papa" Celestin. His father, also a musician, worked in orchestras led by Gilbert "Bab" Frank and Manual Perez, and marched with the Excelsior and Onward Brass Bands. Alexander died on December 30, 1968.
1933	New Orleans born jazz man Freddie Keppard passed away in Chicago in 1933 at age 43. Keppard succeeded the legendary Buddy Bolden as cornet "king" of New Orleans. He worked with the Olympia Orchestra and the Eagle Band in the early 1900's, and moved to Los Angeles in 1912 to co-lead the Original Creole Orchestra. He later settled in Chicago and worked with King Oliver, Jimmie Noone, Doc Cook, Erskine Tate and Charlie Elgar. Keppard could have been the first jazz musician to record, but he turned the offer down for fear that others would "steal his ideas". The honor of the first recorded "jass" music subsequently went to the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, a group of white musicians.
1960	Jazz saxophonist Lance Ellis was born in Nerw Orleans on July 15, 1960.
1989	"In A Letter To You" by Lafayette, LA native Eddy Raven hit #1 on the Billboard Country Chart in 1989.
1998	Mahalia Jackson was one of four Gospel music legends honored by the U.S. Postal Service with commemorative stamps issued in ceremonies held at the Superdome in New Orleans in 1998.

JULY 16
1925	Long-time Louisiana Hayride announcer Frank Page was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1925.
1955	"I Don't Care" by honky tonker Webb Pierce hit #1 on the Country Charts in 1955. It held the top spot for 12 straight weeks.
1955	"Ain't It A Shame" (aka "Ain't That A Shame") by Fats Domino entered the Pop Chart on this day in 1955. It was Fats' first pop chart entry (his first R&B Chart entry was "The Fat Man" in 1950), and it peaked at #10; "Ain't It A Shame" later hit #1 on the R&B chart, holding the top spot for 11 weeks.
1977	"Turn This Mutha Out (Part 1)" by New Orleans born drummer Idris Muhammad (born Leo Morris) entered the Billboard R&B Chart in 1977. The tune remained on the chart for 12 weeks, peaking at #21.
1985	Singer and songwriter Sarah Quintana was born in New Orleans on July 16, 1985.

JULY 17
1911	Renowned trumpeter and vocalist Lionel Ferbos was born in New Orleans on July 17, 1911. Ferbos, who was still performing at 102 years old, passed away at home on July 19, 2014 at age 103.
1939	Blues singer and keyboard man Ironing Board Sam (née Sammie Moore) was born in Rockhill, South Carolina in 1939. Sam, aka The Human Jukebox, performed regularly in New Orleans from 1974 to 2003. read more.
1940	Blues singer, songwriter and music historian Margie Evans was born (Marjorie Ann Johnson) in Shreveport, LA on July 17, 1939. Evans passed away on March 19, 2021 at age 81.
1951	Legendary Cajun fiddler Harry Choates (of "Jole Blon" fame) died in jail in Austin, Texas on July 17, 1951. Circumstances surrounding his death are unclear, but he is believed to have died after suffering an epileptic fit.
1956	Trombone great Lucien Barbarin (with Harry Connick Jr., Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and others) was born in New Orleans on July 17, 1956. Barbarin died on January 30, 2020 after a battle with Stage IV prostate cancer. He was 63.
1983	Blues pianist and vocalist Roosevelt Sykes passed away at Charity Hospital in New Orleans on July 17, 1983 at age 77. His last public appearance had been on May 7th at the 1983 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
1991	A revamped version of Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd kicked off a national tour in Baton Rouge, LA on July 17, 1991. The original band was headed to Baton Rouge on October 20, 1977 when their plane crashed in Amite County, Mississippi killing six people, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Steve Gaines.
1991	Award winning hip-hop artist Alfred Banks was born in New Orleans on July 17, 1991. Banks is also half of the eclectic hip-hop duo SaxKixAve, with saxophonist/producer Albert Allenback (Tank and the Bangas).

JULY 18
1928	Late jazz trombonist Carl Fontana was born in Monroe, LA in 1928. Fontana's musical career includes stints with Woody Herman, Al Belletto, Lionel Hampton, Hal McIntyre, Stan Kenton and Kai Winding. (read more)
1932	Jazz legend Louis Armstrong wowed British music fans in his first overseas performance at the London Palladium in 1932.
1947	Singer, songwriter and pianist Linda Gail Lewis was born in Ferriday, Louisiana in 1947. Gail is the sister of late rock legend Jerry Lee Lewis.
1949	The first broadcast of the New Orleans Jazz Club's radio program took place in 1949. For many years it was broadcast over WWL-AM on Sunday nights at 10:00pm. The 50,000 watt station enabled the show to be heard over the entire USA and much of Canada.
1964	Trombonist Keith "Wolf" Anderson was born Chicago in 1964. Anderson moved to New Orleans in 1973. He worked with Rebirth Brass Band, Hot 8 Brass Band, and many others. He could also be found playing on the streets of the French Quarter. Anderson passed away on January 13, 2021.
1964	"People Say" by The Dixie Cups entered the R&B Chart in 1964. The tune peaked at the #12 position.
1985	Noted jazz bassist Stewart Davis passed away in New Orleans in 1985 at age 67
1986	Tenor sax great Don Wilkerson passed away in Houston, TX on July 18, 1986. The Moreauville, LA native played with Amos Milburn, Charles Brown, B.B. King, Ray Charles, and others before cutting his first solo album, "Texas Twister, in 1960. See entry for July 6th (above).
1995	Multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Hunter Burgamy was born on July 18, 1995. The NOCCA and Berklee College of Music grad has worked with Michael Cerveris, Bonnie Raitt, Fred Wesley, Harry Shearer, Allen Toussaint, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and others.

JULY 19
1894	Late trombonist Eddie Morris was born in New Orleans (Algiers) in 1894. Morris worked with Punch Miller, Kid Rena and Buddy Petit in the 1920's and 30's; he worked with Miller regularly from 1956 onward.
1894	Late trad jazz musician (violin, string bass, tuba) Sidney Brown was born on Deer Range Plantation (Plaquemines Parish) in 1894. Brown played with bands led by Isaiah and Sam Morgan, Chris Kelly, Oscar "Papa" Celestin, and others. He appeared on recordings with Celestin, Sam Morgan’s Jazz Band, Bunk Johnson, George Lewis, and others. His uncle was trombonist Jim Robinson.
1940	Noted local blues man Little Freddie King was born (Fread Eugene Martin) in McComb, MS in 1940. See littlefreddieking.com.
1957	Pianist, vocalist, producer, and songwriter John Autin was born in New Orleans. John is co-founder of Rabadash Records.
1969	"Hook and Sling - Part 1" (Scram 117) by Eddie Bo entered the R&B Chart in 1969. The tune, Bo's only solo chart entry, peaked at the #13 position.

JULY 20
1928	Clarence Williams recorded "My Woman Done Me Wrong (As Far As I Am Concerned)" and "Farm Hand Papa" for the Columbia label in New York in 1928.
1948	Vocalist Brazella Briscoe was born (Brazella Earl Briscoe Sr.) in New Orleans in 1948. Briscoe is the leader of famed Gospel group The Zion Harmonizers.
1959	"Sea of Love" by Phil Phillips entered the Top 40 chart in 1959. It went on to become a million seller, reaching #2 on the Pop Chart and #1 on the R&B Chart. The record was produced by Eddie Shuler, and featured backing from The Cupcakes and The Twilights. It was later a hit for both Del Shannon and The Honeydrippers.
1989	Saxophonist Clarence "Trixzey" Slaughter was born in Dayton, Ohio on July 20, 1989. Slaughter moved to New Orleans in 2007, where he worked Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Hot 8 Brass Band, Mario Abney Quintet, Corey Henry's Treme Funktet, and others. He also led his own band, Trixzey and the Funky People. He died unexpectedly on January 27, 2016 at the age of 26.
1998	Jazz trumpeter Samuel Alcorn passed away in New Orleans in 1998 at age 61. Sammy's career included work with Fats Domino, Duke Ellington, Jerry Butler, and others; he was the son of late New Orleans trumpet great Alvin Alcorn.
2000	Rap star Juvenile was arrested at his Mandeville home in 2000, and charged with 3 counts of simple battery and 5 counts of aggravated assault. The incident arose after the rapper allegedly manhandled five dancers he had picked up for his housewarming party. (read more).

JULY 21
1902	Noted clarinet and sax player Omer Simeon was born (Omer Victor Simeon) in New Orleans in 1902. Simeon's career included stints with King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, Earl Hines, the Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra and Wilbur DeParis. He died of throat cancer on September 17, 1959 at age 57. Listen to Omer Simeon music on YouTube. Read more.
1931	Tenor sax great Plas Johnson was born (John Johnson, Jr.) in Donaldsonville, Louisiana in 1931. The prolific session player has recorded with Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, B.B. King, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Rivers, Dr. John, Aaron Neville, and many others. You have probably heard Johnson dozens of times without knowing it ... he played the slinky sax intro on the "Pink Panther Theme", heard both in the "Pink Panther" film and in the cartoon series.
1935	Trad jazz trombonist Honore Dutrey passed away in Chicago on July 21, 1935 at age 41. The New Orleans native played with many local groups (Melrose Brass Band, John Robichaux's Orchestra, Silver Leaf Orchestra) before enlisting in the Navy in 1917. Dutrey settled in Chicago after his release. He worked and recorded with King Oliver, Johnny Dodds, Louis Armstrong, and others. Listen to Honoré Dutrey music on YouTube.
1958	"Just A Dream" by Raceland, LA native Jimmy Clanton entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1958. The song went on to reach the #4 position on the Pop Chart and #1 on the R&B Chart (August, 1958). The track was recorded at Cosimo Matassa's studio in New Orleans, with backing from Earl King, Huey "Piano" Smith, Lee Allen and Red Tyler.
1958	"Alone With You" by Shreveport native Faron Young hit #1 on the Country Chart in 1958. The tune, the second #1 for the "Hillbilly Heartthrob", topped the chart for 13 weeks. Young, who committed suicide in 1996, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame on October 4, 2000.
1965	Singer, songwriter and guitarist Sidney Cox (The Cox Family) was born in Homer, Louisiana in 1965.
1971	Country music singer Robert Mizzell was born in Shreveport, LA in 1971. He has resided in Ireland for over 20 years.

JULY 22
1881	Clarinet great George Baquet was born in New Orleans on July 22, 1881. Baquet played with the Onward Brass Band, Manuel Perez, John Robichaux, Freddie Keppard, The Original Creole Orchestra, and many others. Recording sessions included Jelly Roll Morton, Bessie Smith, Sidney Bechet, and George Baquet's Swingsters. His younger brother Achille Baquet was also a musician. Baquet passed away in Philadelphia, PA on January 14, 1949.
1929	Louis Armstrong and his Orchestra (Carroll Dickerson's band) recorded "(What Did I Do To Be So) Black And Blue", "That Rhythm Man", and "Sweet Savannah Sue" for the Okeh label in New York in 1929. These tunes, along with "Ain't Misbehavin'" (recorded on 6/19/29), were all from the popular all Black musical review "Hot Chocolates".
1953	Blues harmonica great Pat Ramsey was born in Shreveport, LA in 1953. He recorded with Johnny Winter and Coco Robicheaux, and also released several solo albums. Ramsey passed away in Florida in 2008 after a long battle with Hepatitis C.
1957	"A Fallen Star" by Big Mamou native and Grand Ole Opry star Jimmy C. Newman entered the Top 40 in 1957. It reached #23 on the Pop Chart, and cracked the Top 10 on both the R&B and Country Charts.
1967	"Make Me Yours" by Shreveport, LA native Bettye Swann hit #1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1967.
1980	Trumpeter, bandleader and producer Drew Baham (aka Da Phessah) was born (Andrew Baham) in New Orleans on July 22, 1980. Baham plays with Big Sam's Funky Nation, the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, and he's one of the founding members of the Stooges Brass Band.
1994	Sammy Kershaw's 1991 debut studio album "Don't Go Near the Water" was certified Platinum (sales of one million copies) by the RIAA on July 22, 1994.
1990	DJ and rapper Meaux Thug was born (Le'Shawn Paul Meaux) in Abbeville, LA on July 22, 1990. Meaux was shot and filled in Kaplan, LA on September 23, 2024. He was 34 years old.
1995	Trad jazz trumpeter Percy Humphrey passed away in New Orleans on July 22, 1995 at age 90. Percy's brothers Earl and Willie, his father (Willie Humphrey, Sr.), and his grandfather ("Professor" Jim Humphrey) were also noted jazz musicians. Percy had a long association with the Eureka Brass Band, and was a fixture at Preservation Hall from it's inception in 1961. Percy and Willie were honored with Big Easy Lifetime Achievement Awards in 1994. His last performance came as the closing act at the 1995 New Orleans Jazz Fest. Listen to Percy Humphrey music on YouTube.
2019	Singer, songwriter and keyboard player Art Neville (aka Poppa Funk) died at his home in New Orleans on July 22, 2019 (age 81). He was a founding member of legendary funk band The Meters (with Zigaboo Modeliste, George Porter Jr. and Leo Nocentelli). Art, along with his brothers Charles (1938-2018), Aaron, and Cyril, formed the Neville Brothers band in 1976.

JULY 23
1902	Blues man George Curly "Barefoot" Miller was born in New Orleans in 1902. The son of Barnum and Bailey Circus performers, Miller began his career shining shoes and tap-dancing on the streets of New Orleans. He settled in Dallas in the 60's where he became known for his flamboyant suits, racy jokes and shoeless tap-dancing. A throwback to the vaudville era, Miller's shows were a blend of stand-up comedy and blues, with a bit of vaudevillian sparkle thrown in for good measure. Miller performed regularly in the Dallas area until his death on May 2, 1999. (video)
1943	Swamp pop guitarist, singer and prolific songwriter Tony Joe White was born in the Goodwill community, just outside of Oak Grove, Louisiana on July 23, 1943. White had a Top 10 hit in 1969 with his self-penned "Polk Salad Annie". His songs have been covered by Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Brook Benton, Johnny Adams, Tina Turner (he wrote 4 tracks for Tina's "Foreign Affair" album), Joe Cocker, Waylon Jennings, and others. White's classic, "Rainy Night In Georgia", has been covered by over 100 different artists. White passed away (from a heart attack) at his home near Nashville on October 24, 2018. He was 75.
1943	New Orleans rapper Juvenile (Terius Gray) was arrested in a Jacksonville, Florida shopping mall in 1999. Juvenile was charged with resisting arrest and breach of peace after he and two of his associates got into a fracas with Regency Square mall security guards who had asked Juvenile to remove a tilted cap and bandanna, a breach of the mall's safety code.
2003	Classical pianist Van Cliburn received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush at the White House on July 23, 2003.

JULY 24
1884	Influential string bassist Eddie Dawson was born in New Orleans on July 24, 1884. He worked with Kid Rena, Percy Humphrey, Andrew Morgan, Albert Jiles, Peter Bocage, and others. Dawson recorded with Peter Bocage and also the Kid Howard band. Dawson passed away on August 12, 1972 at age 88.
1962	Sax player Byron Bernard was born in New Orleans in 1962. Bernard has worked with the Young Olympians, Rebirth Brass Band, Soul Rebels Brass Band, New Birth Brass Band, and others. Read more.
1986	Swamp blues guitarist Clarence Garlow passed away in Beaumont, Texas in 1986 at age 75. The Welsh, Louisiana native had a hit with his zydeco flavored "Bon Ton Roula" in 1950. Garlow later ran a club (Bon Ton Drive-In) and deejayed (KJET) in Beaumont, where he became a mentor to blues man Johnny Winter. Listen to Clarence Garlow music on YouTube.

JULY 25
1885	Late jazz trombonist Charles Christian was born in New Orleans in 1885. Charles was the brother of Emile Christian (trombone and string bass) and Frank Christian (trumpet). Christian worked with his brothers in bands led by Papa Jack and Alfred Laine.
1899	Late jazz cornetist Johnny Wiggs was born (Johnny Wigginton Hyman) in New Orleans in 1899. His early career included stints with Norman Brownlee and Tony Parenti. He later led his own band before leaving music in the early 30's to become an elementary school teacher (one of his students was Pete Fountain). He resumed playing in the late 40's and was a founder of the New Orleans Jazz Club. Wiggs died in New Orleans on October 9, 1977.
1969	Late poet, activist, and former New Orleans resident (and WWOZ DJ) John Sinclair was found guilty of possession of marijuana (2 reefers) by a jury in Detroit in 1969. Sinclair was subsequently (July 28, 1969) sentenced to a ten year jail term. He was released after serving 29 months, three days after a massive rally demanding his release (attended by John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Bobby Seale, Jerry Rubin, and Allen Ginsberg) in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
1995	Country music legend Charlie Rich died in his sleep at a Hammond, Louisiana motel in 1995 at age 62. "The Silver Fox" suffered a blood clot in the lungs while en route to Florida with his wife.

JULY 26
1932	Noted New Orleans session guitarist Walter "Papoose" Nelson was born in New Orleans in 1932. Nelson, recorded with Professor Longhair and Fats Domino among many others, and he was a mentor to a young Mac Rebennack (Dr. John). His brother was Lawrence "Prince La La" Nelson. He died (aged 29) of a drug overdose in New York City on February 28, 1962 while on tour with Fats Domino.
1941	Soul singer Brenton Wood (née Alfred Jesse Smith) was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1941. Wood first recorded with Little Freddy & The Rockets in 1958. His 1967 hits, "The Oogum Boogum Song" and "Gimme Little Sign" are soul music "greatest hits" staples. Wood passed away on January 3, 2025 in Moreno Valley, California of natural causes at the age of 83.
1955	Dirty Dozen Brass Band tenor sax man Kevin Harris was born in New Orleans in 1955.
1969	"Reconsider Me", by the late, great Johnny Adams, entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1969. It peaked at #28, and it was his only Top 40 song ("Reconsider Me" reached #8 on the R&B chart - Adams' only Top 10 R&B Hit). "Polk Salad Annie", by late swamp rocker Tony Joe White, entered the Billboard Top 40 in 1969. It peaked at the #8 spot, becoming White's biggest hit. Related: Johnny Adams covered Tony Joe White's "If I Ever Had a Good Thing" on his 1984 album "From the Heart".
1999	Drummer Albert "Lil' June" Gardner passed away in New Orleans in 1999 at age 48. Lil' June worked with many local musical luminaries, including The Neville Brothers, Raymond Myles, Professor Longhair, and Irma Thomas. He was the son of drummer Albert "June" Gardner.

JULY 27
1920	Guitarist Papa Cairo was born (Julius Angelle Lamperez) in Crowley, Louisiana on July 27, 1920. Papa Cairo wrote (and sang on) Chuck Guillory & His Rhythm Boys' 1949 hit, "Big Texas". He claimed that Hank Williams stole the "Big Texas" melody to write the classic tune known as "Jambalaya". Hank would probably lose a lawsuit today. Lamperez passed away in 1999 at age 79. Read more about Big Texas / Jambalaya.
1933	Master fiddler, fiddle maker, teacher and Cajun cultural ambassador Leo Abshire was born in Kaplan, LA in 1933. Abshire performed with Joe Bonsall and the Orange Playboys for 20 years, and also worked with August Broussard, Milton Adams, Horace Trahan, D.L. Menard, Eddie LeJeune, and Doug Kershaw. He performed for the Queen of England, Princess Di, and President Clinton. He appeared in the 1999 PBS special The Mississippi: River of Song, and he was the subject of the award winning documentary "It's In the Blood: Leo Abshire & the Cajun Tradition". Abshire died at his residence in Gueydan, LA on May 31, 2005. He was 71 years old.
1936	Miriam "Scubie" Hoyt (Miriam Jeanine Hoyt) was born on July 27, 1936. Hoyt was a piano player at Pat O'Brien’s Piano Bar in New Orleans for 32 unforgettable years. She passed away April 9, 2025 at age 88
1943	Trumpeter, composer, session player and influential music educator Clyde Kerr, Jr. was born in New Orleans in 1943; Kerr's students included Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Nicholas Payton, Terence Blanchard, Irvin Mayfield, Christian Scott and Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews. He passed away in New Orleans in 2010 at age 67.
1954	Vocalist (with Lil Queenie & the Percolators) Leigh "Little Queenie" Harris was born in New Orleans in 1954. Harris passed away on September 21, 2019 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
1958	New Orleans blues guitarist and bandleader Ed Wills (of Ed Wills & Blues 4 $ale) was born on July 27, 1958.
1973	Omnipresent drummer Kevin O'Day was born (Kevin Patrick O'Day) in Lafayette, LA in 1973. O'Day worked with All That, Royal Fingerbowl, Iris May Tango, Anders Osborne, Midnite Disturbers, Mardi Gras Indian Orchestra, Kirk Joseph's Backyard Groove, Walter "Wolfman" Washington, Kevin O’Day & Live Animals, and others. O'Day passed away on March 8, 2022 at age 48.
1974	Baton Rouge blues man Lightnin' Slim (born Otis Hicks in Good Pine, Louisiana - or St. Louis, Missouri - on March 13, 1913) passed away in Detroit on July 27, 1974 at the age of 61.
2001	Louis Armstrong earned his first Platinum record certification on July 27, 2001 for his 1968 album, "What A Wonderful World". Pops has also earned Gold Album status for "All Time Greatest Hits" and "Hello, Dolly!".

JULY 28
1907	Trumpeter Leon Prima was born in New Orleans in 1907. Prima worked with Tony Parenti, Leon Roppolo, Ray Bauduc, Jack Teagarden, Peck Kelley, Sharkey Bonano, and others. He also played with younger brother Louis Prima's big band in New York in the 40's. Leon ran several Bourbon Street night spots, including the Shim Sham Club and the 500 Club. He passed away on August 15, 1985.
1957	Rock legend Jerry Lee Lewis made his television debut on "The Steve Allen Show" in 1957 (performing "Crazy Arms" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On"). See video.
1958	"Just A Dream" by Jimmy Clanton and His Rockets entered the R&B Chart in 1958. The song went on to reach the #1 spot in August of 1958. The backing band on the track included Earl King, Huey "Piano" Smith, Lee Allen and Red Tyler.
1965	Trombonist, bandleader (Uptown Jazz Orchestra) and record producer Delfeayo Marsalis was born in New Orleans in 1965. He is the son of jazz legend Ellis Marsalis, Jr. (1934-2020), and the brother of musicians Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, and Jason Marsalis.
1969	Late blues scholar, ex-White Panther Party chairman, and ex WWOZ DJ John Sinclair was sentenced in a Detroit courtroom to nine-and-a-half to ten years in jail for possession of 2 marijuana cigarettes. He was later released after serving 29 months of the term.
1983	Record executive, songwriter, and rapper Mack Maine was born (Jermaine Anthony Preyan) in New Orleans, LA on July 28, 1982. He is the president of Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment record label.
1987	Trumpeter, composer and arranger Steve Lands was born in Baton Rouge, LA on July 28, 1987.

JULY 29
1907	Late jazz trombonist Albert Wynn was born in New Orleans in 1907. Wynn worked with Ma Rainey, Earl Hines. Sam Wooding Orchestra, Earl Hines Orchestra, Fletcher Henderson, Jimmie Noone, and others. He passed away on May 1, 1973. See Albert Wynn recording credits.
1919	Famed jazz bassist James "Beans" Richardson was born (James Hubert Richardson) on July 29, 1919. James, the brother of bassist Rodney Richardson, worked with Aretha Franklin, Miles Davis, Thad Jones, Kenny Burrell, and others. He passed away in Detroit on December 30, 2013 at age 94.
1952	Honky tonk singer Webb Pierce recorded his #1 country hit "Back Street Affair" for the Decca label in 1952.
1957	"Short Fat Fannie" by New Orleans native Larry Williams hit #1 on the Billboard R&B Chart in 1957.
1970	Louis Armstrong was a guest on TV's "The Dick Cavett Show" on July 29th, 1970. Watch the lengthy interview.
1979	Jazz saxophonist Aaron Fletcher was born in Thibodaux, LA on July 29, 1979.
1979	In demand saxophonist (and drummer) Aaron Narcisse was born in New Orleans on July 29, 1979.
1995	Legendary cajun fiddler Canray Fontenot passed away in Welsh, LA in 1995 at age 72. Fontenot was honored with a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1986.
1996	Trumpeter, singer, bandleader, composer, arranger and educator John Michael Bradford was born in New Orleans on July 29, 1996.
2006	Rock guitarist Luke Fauver (with Knever and others) passed away in Baton Rouge in 2006 at age 22.

JULY 30
1923	Clarence Williams' Blue Five (featuring clarinet legend Sidney Bechet) recorded "Wild Cat Blues" and "Kansas City Man Blues" for the Okeh label in New York in 1923.
1928	Noted jazz drummer Vernell Fournier was born in New Orleans in 1928. Fournier, who worked with Charlie Parker, Teddy Wilson, Ahmad Jamal, Clifford Jordan, Lester Young and others, passed away on November 4, 2000 at age 72.
1936	Blues guitar legend Buddy Guy was born in Lettsworth, LA on July 30, 1936.
1950	Former pastor of the Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church and Gospel singer Bishop Paul S. Morton was born in Windsor, Ontario in 1950. He is the father of Grammy winning musician PJ Morton.
1953	Honky tonker Webb Pierce recorded his Top 5 country hit "I'm Walking the Dog" for the Decca label in 1953. The tune was penned by brothers Cliff and Tex Grimsley.
1977	No Limit Records rapper Mac (McKinley J. Phipps Jr) was born in New Orleans on July 30, 1977.
1994	Tickets for Farm Aid 7 went on sale in New Orleans in 1994. The benefit concert was held at the Superdome on 09/18/94.

JULY 31
1887	Cornetist, violin player, trombonist, bandleader and composer Peter Bocage was born (Peter Edwin Bocage) in New Orleans (Algiers) on July 31, 1887. His lengthy career included work with Onward Brass Band, Tuxedo Orchestra, Excelsior Brass Band, Armand Piron's Orchestra, Sidney Bechet, and others, He was one of the initial performers at Preservation Hall in the 60's. Bocage, who passed away in 1967, was the cousin of late piano great Eddie Bo. Listen to Peter Bocage music on YouTube.
1964	Country Music Hall of Fame member Jim Reeves died when his private plane crashed outside of Nashville in 1964. Reeves was an announcer and performer on the Louisiana Hayride radio show at KWKH in Shreveport in the early 1950's. Reeves was "discovered" at the Hayride after performing as a last minute replacement for a missing Hank Williams.
1980	Jazz guitarist and educator Davy Mooney was born in New Orleans om July 31, 1980.
1998	Jazz bassist James Prevost passed away in New Orleans in 1998 at age 79. Prevost performed with many New Orleans artists including Sing Miller, Jim Robinson, Kid Thomas, Roy Brown and Eddie Bo. He also played with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band from 1970 until the time of his death.
1999	Local rapper Warren Mayes was murdered in New Orleans on July 31, 1999. Mayes was 33 years old. The popular rap artist, concert producer, and owner of Bomb Records was also a member of the Jolly Bunch, Money Wasters, and Tambourine and Fan SAPC's. Watch Warren Mayes videos on YouTube.
2008	Jazz drummer Lee Young passed away in Los Angeles on July 31, 2008 at age 94. The New Orleans native (nee Leonidas Raymond Young) was a prolific sideman, recording with Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Charlie Parker, Nat King Cole, and many others. In later years, Young was also a producer, working with the Vee-Jay, Motown and ABC/Dunhill labels. He was the brother of tenor sax great Lester Young.

Satchmo.com - On This Day in Louisiana Music History

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