Biography
Da Truth Brass Band is a New Orleans-based brass band specializing in jazz and second-line traditions, known for performing at weddings, corporate events, concerts, and second-line parades throughout the area. Emerging from the vibrant brass band scene of New Orleans, the group embodies the city's rich musical heritage, blending high-energy brass instrumentation with footwork and jazz elements, as reflected in their Spotify genres.[context] They have performed at prestigious venues like the New Orleans Jazz Museum and participated in collaborative second-line events with other prominent bands.
The band's career highlights include live performances at cultural landmarks, such as the Jazz Museum's Balcony Courtyard series in December 2022, and joint second-line bashes with groups like TBC Brass Band and Big Six Brass Band. Their repertoire features dynamic brass arrangements, often led by trumpet player 'Big Greg,' with a focus on engaging audiences in interactive, celebratory settings typical of New Orleans street music. Da Truth Brass Band has built a reputation for versatility, playing for diverse events while maintaining the energetic spirit of the local tradition.
While specific founding details remain limited in available sources, the band's legacy lies in preserving and energizing New Orleans' brass band culture, contributing to the ongoing second-line tradition and collaborating with fellow ensembles to keep the music alive in the community.
Fun Facts
- The band introduced themselves live at the New Orleans Jazz Museum with playful nicknames like 'Dolphins Marcus,' 'Mr. Bob Francis,' and 'Ronnie Rosie the real glasses' on snare drum.
- Da Truth Brass Band performed at the Jazz Museum's Balcony Courtyard series on December 13, 2022, inviting audiences to bring blankets for the outdoor show.
- They plan return performances around Mardi Gras time, tying into New Orleans' iconic carnival season.
- Band members include father-son duo Ronald Dixon (snare) and his 'firstborn son' Ronald Dixon Young.
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- TBC Brass Band - joint second-line performance and bash (Trombone Talk: Second Line Bash) [recent]
- Big Six Brass Band - joint second-line performance and bash with shared members (Trombone Talk: Second Line Bash; Men of Class Second-Line) [recent]
- Marc Francis - trombone player and band member (live performances) [ongoing]
- Nigel Brown - slide trombone player and band member (live performances) [ongoing]
- Ronald Dixon Young - snare drum player and band member (live performances) [ongoing]
- Big Greg - trumpet player and band leader (live performances) [ongoing]
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Da Truth Brass Band has been played 9 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.