Red Beans N Rice [PA]

Performer: Professor Longhair
Distributor: Redeye Music Distribution

Notes: Liner Note Author: Bill Dahl. Authors: Dr. John; Fats Domino; Allen Toussaint. An enigmatic pianist and vocalist whose hip-shaking, Caribbean-influenced sound in many ways is the archetype of the New Orleans R&B genre, Roy Byrd was the foundation upon which the careers of Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, and countless others were built. RED BEANS `N' RICE contains many of `Fess's best-known songs, including the Mardi Gras standards "Mardi Gras in New Orleans" and "Tipitina," as well as "Big Chief," a virtual Rosetta Stone of Big Easy 88's-tickling. That said, the versions included here are a bit of a mixed bag; about half the tracks appear to be from the same 1979 club date documented on Fuel 2000's BIG EASY STRUT release, while others are much earlier studio tracks also available on older compilations. While certainly not the most representative, best-sounding, or most complete introduction to Professor Longhair, RED BEANS `N' RICE is nevertheless a fine collection of music from an iconic artist.

New Orleans pianist Henry Byrd, known to the world at large as Professor Longhair, or just "'Fess," was a vital bridge between jazz, rock & roll, and rhythm & blues in the middle of the 20th century. An interpreter, stylist, and innovator, he's a prime figure in New Orleans's rich musical history. His whooping vocal style and percussive, highly rhythmic piano playing are hallmarks of the New Orleans R&B style, and many of his songs ("Big Chief," "Tipitina") have become standards of the genre.

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