New Orleans has lost one of its most recognizable voices as six-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dr. John has passed away following a heart attack. New Orleans actor Harry Shearer remembers Dr. John as one of the area’s legendary piano players.
“He fits right in that honor roll of guys whose names that we all know. In years to come, I think that’s going to be one of the major ways that we remember him as for just carrying on that tradition so gloriously,” said Shearer.
Fellow Big Easy musician Irma Thomas, who recorded several songs written by Dr. John, says she had heard of his recent illness, but his death still comes as a surprise, adding he’ll be greatly missed by the city.
“As most of the entertainers who make it to the caliber of the stardom that he has, it brought attention to the city, so I’m sure he meant a lot to New Orleans,” said Thomas.
Shearer says the music of Dr. John has impacted his life dating back to his first album.
“I knew nothing about New Orleans. I grew up in Los Angeles. It was like a message from another place, it certainly had something had something to do for me living here, credit or blame goes to Mac for that,” said Shearer.
Dr. John was 77.
