Allen Toussaint
Allen Toussaint: A Legendary New Orleans Musician
Full Name and Common Aliases
Allen Toussaint was born Allen Burrell Roussel on January 14, 1938, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is often referred to as "The Professor" or simply "Toussaint."
Birth and Death Dates
January 14, 1938 – November 10, 2015
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Musician, Singer-Songwriter, Record Producer, Arranger
Allen Toussaint was a true master of New Orleans music. His contributions to the city's unique sound have left an indelible mark on the world.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in the heart of New Orleans, Toussaint was exposed to the rich musical heritage of his hometown from an early age. He began playing piano at the age of four and quickly developed a passion for jazz and rhythm and blues. After graduating from Paul Robeson High School, he formed his first band, The J & J's, with friend Jessie Hill.
Major Accomplishments
Toussaint's remarkable career spanned over five decades, earning him numerous accolades and recognition as one of the most influential musicians of his time. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Writing hit songs like "Mother in Law," "Ride a Windy Day," and "Play It Back Again (Ain't No Use)"
Producing records for legendary artists such as Ernie K-Doe, Lee Dorsey, and The Meters
Collaborating with fellow New Orleans musicians to create some of the city's most iconic soundsNotable Works or Actions
Toussaint was a prolific songwriter and producer, penning hits that have become synonymous with New Orleans music. His work has been covered by countless artists, cementing his legacy as one of the city's greatest musical exports.
Some of his notable works include:
The song "Mother in Law," which became an instant classic and earned Toussaint a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song
His production work on Lee Dorsey's "Ride a Windy Day" and Ernie K-Doe's "A Certain Girl"
Collaborations with The Meters, which resulted in the hit song "It Ain't No Use"
Impact and Legacy
Allen Toussaint's impact on New Orleans music is immeasurable. He played a significant role in shaping the city's unique sound, combining elements of jazz, blues, and rhythm and blues to create something entirely new.
Toussaint's legacy extends far beyond his own music. His influence can be heard in countless artists who have followed in his footsteps, from The Neville Brothers to Dr. John. He remains an integral part of New Orleans' musical heritage, a testament to the city's enduring spirit and creativity.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Allen Toussaint is widely quoted and remembered for his contributions to New Orleans music. His songs have become an integral part of the city's cultural identity, reflecting its unique blend of jazz, blues, and rhythm and blues.
Toussaint's legacy extends beyond his music, however. He was a true ambassador for New Orleans, sharing its rich musical heritage with the world. His passing in 2015 left a void in the city's music scene, but his influence continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
As a quote from Toussaint himself puts it: "Music is life itself... I want to make people feel good." This sentiment captures the essence of his work and legacy, reminding us why he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in New Orleans music.
Quotes by Allen Toussaint
Whenever I wrote songs – particularly back then – it would always be for a particular artist.
The mother-in-laws themselves weren’t natural jokes but most comedians used to use that.
My music is homegrown from the garden of New Orleans. Music is everything to me short of breathing. Music also has a role to lift you up – not to be escapist but to take you out of misery.
As a young child, I thought that all pianists played everything. I mean, I thought anything on piano – any piano music, all pianists played it.
When you’re playing live, those people who you’re trying to please and reach, they’re right there giving you feedback. And you don’t get that feedback in the studio.
To get to New Orleans you don’t pass through anywhere else. That geographical location, being aloof, lets it hold onto the ritual of its own pace more than other places that have to keep up with the progress.
This is quite a time. Maybe the most unique time ever for me. But I can't thank everyone enough for what they've done for New Orleans. We have really gotten a chance to find out who we are at a time like this. And where we are. We're in the greatest country in the world.
It was the real thing ... When we were recording, sometimes we'd make a 'human fade' - we would just play softer and softer. We didnt have any overdubbing. When one guy took a solo, the other guys would stand up and snap their fingers and dance around the studio. We were having a wonderful time.