Biography
Detroit Brooks is a renowned guitarist and banjo player from New Orleans, Louisiana, born into a deeply musical family with roots in Southern gospel traditions. Raised alongside his siblings in a household where music and church singing were central, Brooks began performing at an early age, often touring with his family, including his celebrated sister Juanita Brooks of 'Juanita's Gospel Express.' His early immersion in both sacred and secular music laid the foundation for a career that would span genres and generations.[1][3][6]
Brooks developed his craft as a session and touring musician, becoming a fixture in the New Orleans music scene. He is recognized for his mastery of both traditional and modern jazz, as well as his versatility on the guitar and banjo. Over the years, he has recorded and performed with a diverse array of artists, establishing himself as one of the city's top session players. Brooks is also known for his dedication to preserving New Orleans' musical heritage, notably through organizing festivals and tributes, such as those honoring jazz legend Danny Barker.[2][5]
Musically, Brooks is celebrated for his ability to blend jazz, gospel, and blues influences, often serving as the rhythmic backbone in ensembles and bringing historical repertoire to life. His style is marked by technical skill, deep respect for tradition, and a commitment to community, making him both a guardian of New Orleans' musical legacy and a bridge to future generations.[2][5]
Fun Facts
- Detroit Brooks' given name was intended to be 'Detroy' after his mother's uncle, but a clerical error at birth resulted in the name 'Detroit.'[2]
- He is known for stepping in as the rhythmic anchor in ensembles, often playing backup guitar or banjo in the absence of a drummer or bassist.[2]
- After Hurricane Katrina, fellow guitarist Henry Johnson gifted Brooks an expensive guitar to help him recover from the loss of his instruments.[2]
- Brooks is recognized for his volunteer work and community involvement, especially supporting medical benefits for ill musicians in New Orleans.[2]
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Danny_Barker - Major influence and inspiration; Brooks organizes festivals and tributes in his honor and draws from Barker's banjo and jazz legacy. (Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival (organizer/participant)) [2010s-present]
Key Collaborators
- Juanita Brooks - Sister and frequent collaborator in gospel and jazz performances; toured together in early years. (Juanita's Gospel Express (band), various live performances) [1980s-2000s]
- Mark Brooks - Brother and bassist; performed together in family and local jazz ensembles. (Local jazz and gospel performances) [1980s-present]
- Ed Perkins - Recorded and performed together in jazz settings. (Collaborative jazz recordings) [1990s-2000s]
- Charmaine Neville Band - Touring and recording guitarist/banjoist. (Charmaine Neville Band (live and studio work)) [2000s-present]
Artists Influenced
- Younger New Orleans jazz and banjo musicians - Mentor and inspiration through festival organization and community outreach. (Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival (mentorship, workshops)) [2010s-present]
Source: Wikipedia
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Let Us Have a Very Merry Christmas This Year (Only At Christmas Time)
- Only At Christmas Time (Only At Christmas Time)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Detroit Brooks has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 17, 2025 | 11:48 | Broken Pieces Shattered Dreamsfrom On My Way Back Home | New Orleans Music Showw/ Missy Bowen |