Ernie Vincent

Biography

Ernie Vincent, born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, emerged as a pivotal figure in the city’s vibrant funk, R&B, and blues scenes beginning in the early 1960s. He started his musical journey as a teenager, forming his first band, Li’l Ernie and the Alpines, and quickly became known for his energetic guitar playing and knack for arranging tight, danceable grooves. Vincent’s breakthrough came in 1972 with the local hit 'Dap Walk,' recorded at Cosimo Matassa’s legendary J&M Recording Studio. This track, with its infectious rhythm and sharp guitar work, cemented Vincent’s reputation and led to decades of steady work in New Orleans’ clubs, often with his hand-picked band, the Top Notes[1][3][9].

Vincent’s career is marked by his versatility as a musician, arranger, and bandleader. He became a go-to collaborator for New Orleans royalty such as Ernie K-Doe, King Floyd, Jean Knight, Jessie Hill, and Eddie Bo, both in the studio and on stage. His band not only headlined their own shows but also backed touring stars like Joe Tex, Z.Z. Hill, and Solomon Burke. Vincent’s style blends the deep grooves of New Orleans funk with elements of blues, R&B, and zydeco, reflecting the city’s musical melting pot. Over the years, he also established himself as a producer and label owner, founding Kolab Records in the 1980s to promote his own work and that of other local artists[1][3][6].

A staple at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and a Louisiana Music Hall of Fame inductee, Vincent’s legacy lies in his ability to keep bands together, craft memorable arrangements, and mentor younger musicians. His influence extends beyond his recordings, as he helped shape the sound of New Orleans funk and inspired generations of local artists to pursue their own creative visions[2][3][4].

Fun Facts

• Ernie Vincent’s 'Dap Walk' is considered a classic of New Orleans funk and has become a sought-after collector’s item among vinyl enthusiasts[1][3].
• Vincent is known for his sharp sense of style—he and fellow musician Tommy Ridgley were reputedly the best-dressed bandleaders in New Orleans during their heyday[1].
• He founded the Kolab record label in 1984, handling everything from engineering to promotion himself[6].
• Vincent is a regular performer at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and has remained active on the local scene for over five decades[3][7].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Herlin Delpit - Early mentor and drummer who introduced Vincent to structured music and zydeco rhythms; played a crucial role in Vincent's development as a bandleader. (Early club gigs, foundational band experiences) [early 1960s]

Key Collaborators

• The Top Notes - Vincent’s long-running backing band, known for their tight arrangements and live performances. ('Dap Walk', numerous live shows and recordings) [1970s–present]
• Ernie K-Doe - Frequent collaborator; Vincent arranged, wrote, and performed with K-Doe. (Various New Orleans R&B revues, 'The Kolab Collection') [1970s–1990s]
• King Floyd - Collaborated on recordings and live performances; both were part of the Malaco Records sessions. (Malaco sessions, live shows) [early 1970s]
• Jean Knight - Worked together during the Malaco Records era; Vincent was considered for a joint tour and recording projects. (Malaco sessions, live performances) [early 1970s]
• Eddie Bo - Collaborated as arranger, writer, and performer. (Various studio sessions and live shows) [1970s–1980s]
• Solomon Burke - Vincent and his band backed Burke during New Orleans performances. (Live shows) [1970s–1980s]
• Jimbo Mathus - Recent collaborator; Mathus played keys and co-led recording sessions. (Recent albums and live performances) [2010s–2020s]

Artists Influenced

• Local New Orleans funk and blues musicians - Vincent’s bandleading, arranging, and guitar style have inspired younger generations of New Orleans musicians. (Influence evident in local funk and R&B bands, especially those performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival) [1980s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Midnight Rendezvous (Original Dap King)
2. We Do Funk (Louisiana Magic)
3. Honey Buns (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
4. Your Love's Haunting Me (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
5. I'm Your Snake Baby (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
6. Swamp Daddy (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
7. Christmas Blues (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
8. Pork Chop Alley (The Kolab Kollection (Ernie Vincent Presents))
9. Body Shop (Original Dap King)
10. Midnight Rendezvous (Original Dap King)

External Links

• Spotify