Dirty Dozen Brass Band

Biography

The Dirty Dozen Brass Band was formed in 1977 in New Orleans, emerging from an outreach youth music program initiated by guitarist Danny Barker at Fairview Baptist Church. Initially, the band consisted of musicians who had played in the church's marching band, including Gregory Davis, Anthony Lacen, Charles Joseph, and Kevin Harris. They were later joined by Efrem Townes, Roger Lewis, Benny Jones, and Jenell Marshall. The band's early years were marked by a blend of traditional brass band music with modern jazz, R&B, and funk, creating a unique sound that would become known as a 'musical gumbo.' This innovative approach helped revitalize the brass band tradition in New Orleans and attracted a global audience. Over the years, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band has toured extensively across five continents and collaborated with artists such as Dr. John, Widespread Panic, and Norah Jones. Their legacy includes twelve studio albums and numerous live performances that have cemented their status as pioneers in American music. The band's sound has been pivotal in shaping the contemporary brass band genre, incorporating elements from bebop jazz and soul into their performances. Kirk Joseph's revolutionary sousaphone playing has been particularly influential, often likened to Jimi Hendrix's impact on the guitar. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band continues to perform with high energy, maintaining their position as a leading force in New Orleans music.

Fun Facts

• The band's name comes from the Dirty Dozen Social Aid and Pleasure Club, where they first performed.
• Kirk Joseph is often referred to as the 'Jimi Hendrix of the sousaphone' due to his innovative playing style.
• The Dirty Dozen Brass Band has toured over thirty countries and five continents.
• Their music is described as a 'musical gumbo,' reflecting the blend of genres they incorporate.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Danny_Barker - Guitarist and teacher who initiated the youth music program at Fairview Baptist Church (Fairview Baptist Church Marching Band) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Dr. John - Collaboration in live performances (Various live shows) [1980s-1990s]
• Widespread Panic - Live performances and recordings (Live collaborations) [1990s-2000s]
• Norah_Jones - Recording collaborations (Studio albums) [2000s]
• Modest Mouse - Live performances and recordings (Live collaborations) [2000s]

Artists Influenced

• Various New Orleans Brass Bands - Influence on the revival and evolution of brass band music (Contemporary brass band scene) [1980s-present]

Source: Wikipedia

Top Tracks

1. My Feet Can't Fail Me Now (Our New Orleans (Expanded Edition))

Discography

Top Tracks

1. My Feet Can't Fail Me Now (Our New Orleans (Expanded Edition))

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia