Cyril Neville

Biography

Cyril Neville, born October 10, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a renowned percussionist, vocalist, and songwriter, best known as the youngest member of the legendary Neville Brothers. Growing up in a deeply musical family, Cyril was influenced early by his parents and older brothers, immersing himself in the vibrant New Orleans music scene. He began performing professionally in 1967, joining his brothers Art and Aaron in the Neville Sounds before forming Soul Machine with Aaron. His first solo single, 'Gossip,' was released in 1970, featuring backing from The Meters, a pioneering funk band led by his brother Art.

Cyril joined The Meters in the early 1970s, contributing vocals and percussion to seminal albums like 'Cabbage Alley' and 'Fire on the Bayou,' and touring with acts such as the Rolling Stones. After The Meters disbanded, Cyril and his brothers formed The Neville Brothers, blending funk, soul, R&B, and New Orleans traditions into a globally influential sound. Over the decades, Cyril has also led his own bands, launched a record label, and collaborated with artists across genres, including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Dr. John, and Galactic. His activism and cultural leadership have made him a key figure in preserving and advancing New Orleans’ musical heritage.

Cyril Neville's musical style fuses New Orleans funk, jazz, soul, and blues, often incorporating elements of Mardi Gras Indian chants and reggae. His legacy is marked by his role in shaping the sound of New Orleans funk, his advocacy for musicians’ rights, and his influence on generations of artists. He remains an active performer and recording artist, celebrated for his contributions to American music and culture.

Fun Facts

• Cyril Neville was instrumental in naming the Soul Rebels Brass Band during a gig at Tipitina’s in New Orleans.
• He became deeply interested in reggae after hearing Bob Marley’s 'Natty Dread' album, which influenced his later musical direction.
• Cyril founded the New Orleans Musicians Organized (NOMO) to help local musicians with business advice and support.
• He has appeared in major documentaries about New Orleans music, including 'Make It Funky!' and 'New Orleans Music in Exile.'

Associated Acts

• The Meters - lead vocals, percussion (1970–1977)
• Royal Southern Brotherhood - original, percussion (2011–present)
• Royal Southern Brotherhood - original, other vocals (2011–present)
• The Wild Tchoupitoulas
• The Neville Brothers - eponymous, original
• Cyril Neville & Tribe 13
• Sam & The Soul Machine
• Cyril Neville’s Swamp Funk - eponymous
• Life Is a Carnival

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Art Neville - Older brother and bandleader; introduced Cyril to professional music and New Orleans funk (The Meters, The Neville Brothers) [1960s–2019]
• George Landry (Big Chief Jolly) - Uncle; leader of the Wild Tchoupitoulas, introduced Cyril to Mardi Gras Indian music and culture (Wild Tchoupitoulas (1976 album)) [1970s]
• Bob Marley - Stylistic influence; inspired Cyril's interest in reggae (Natty Dread (album)) [mid-1970s]

Key Collaborators

• The Neville Brothers (Art, Aaron, Charles Neville) - Co-founding member and performer (Multiple albums and tours) [1976–2012]
• The Meters - Band member (vocals, percussion) (Cabbage Alley, Fire on the Bayou) [1970–1976]
• Royal Southern Brotherhood - Co-founder and performer in blues-rock supergroup (Royal Southern Brotherhood (2012 debut album)) [2012–present]
• Galactic - Touring and recording member (Live performances, collaborations) [2010–2012]
• Dr. John - Collaborator on recordings and Voice of the Wetlands Allstars (Voice of the Wetlands Allstars, guest appearances) [2000s]
• Soul Rebels Brass Band - Guest vocalist and inspiration for band name (Unlock Your Mind (2012))

Artists Influenced

• Ivan Neville - Nephew; inspired by Cyril’s work and collaborations in Dumpstaphunk and The Neville Brothers (Dumpstaphunk, Neville Brothers projects) [2000s–present]
• Soul Rebels Brass Band - Named by Cyril Neville and influenced by his approach to New Orleans funk and brass (Unlock Your Mind (2012)) [2012–present]
• Galactic - Younger New Orleans funk band influenced by Cyril’s style and collaborations (Collaborative performances, New Orleans funk repertoire) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Here Come The Girls (With You In Mind)
2. Don't Worry Be Happy (A Beautiful World)
3. All Along the Watchtower (Listen to the Music)
4. Allen Toussaint (A Beautiful World)
5. Gossip - Single Version; 2006 Remaster (Crate Diggers: Funk)
6. I Sold My Heart to the Junkman
7. Nervis (For True)
8. Magic Honey (Magic Honey)
9. Tell Me What's on Your Mind
10. Pearl River (Pearl River)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz