Biography
Kyle Roussel is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, and performer whose artistry embodies the spirit and diversity of New Orleans music. Born in Boutte, Louisiana, Roussel began playing piano at age nine, initially studying classical music before immersing himself in church performances and later exploring jazz during his teenage years. He is a graduate of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and the University of New Orleans, institutions that further shaped his musical foundation and exposed him to a wide array of genres and mentors.
Roussel's career has flourished through his versatility across jazz, classical, funk, gospel, rhythm and blues, and rock. He is recognized for his work on piano, organ, keyboard, and drums, both as a solo artist and as a sought-after collaborator. Roussel has toured globally, performing at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, Montreux Jazz Festival, and Madison Square Garden. He is a regular member of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and The Headhunters, and has shared the stage or studio with luminaries including Jon Batiste, Dave Grohl, Paul McCartney, Terrence Blanchard, and Chance the Rapper. His 2023 album 'NOLA A La Mode' showcases his solo piano prowess, blending original compositions and covers that highlight his deep connection to New Orleans' musical heritage.
Roussel's impact extends beyond performance; he is an accomplished producer, having led projects for bands like The Headhunters and contributed to film and television, notably portraying Jelly Roll Morton in HBO's 'Interview with the Vampire.' As an ambassador for New Orleans music, Roussel continues to innovate, with forthcoming projects including a jazz-funk organ record and a vocal debut, ensuring his influence on the city's evolving soundscape.
Fun Facts
- Kyle Roussel portrayed jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton in HBO's 2022 series 'Interview with the Vampire.'
- He has performed in over 40 countries, gracing stages from Coachella to Carnegie Hall and Montreux Jazz Festival.
- Roussel is proficient not only in piano but also organ, keyboard, and drums, and has produced, mixed, and mastered projects for other artists.
- He is working on both a jazz-funk organ record and his first vocal album, expanding his artistic range.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Allen Toussaint - Stylistic influence; Roussel's approach to piano and New Orleans music is reminiscent of Toussaint's legacy. (General influence on Roussel's playing and production style) [Ongoing]
- Dr. John - Inspirational figure in New Orleans piano tradition; Roussel cites him as a key influence. (General influence on Roussel's genre-blending style) [Ongoing]
- James Booker - Influence on Roussel's piano technique and improvisational approach. (General influence) [Ongoing]
Key Collaborators
- Preservation Hall Jazz Band - Regular touring and recording member; live and studio performances. (Multiple tours and performances) [2010s–present]
- The Headhunters - Band member and lead producer on projects; studio and live work. (Production and performance on recent albums) [2010s–present]
- Jon Batiste - Collaborator in live and studio settings. (Live performances) [2010s–present]
- Irma Thomas - Performance collaborator; part of Newvelle Records' 'The New Orleans Collection.' (The New Orleans Collection (2021)) [2020–2021]
- Terrence Blanchard - Performance collaborator. (Live and studio performances) [2010s–present]
- Dave Grohl, Paul McCartney, Dave Matthews Band, Chance the Rapper - Shared stage or studio in high-profile collaborations. (Various live performances) [2010s–present]
Artists Influenced
- No widely documented individual students or proteges as of 2024 - Roussel's teaching and online lessons (e.g., PianoGroove) have inspired a new generation of pianists, particularly in gospel and jazz. (PianoGroove instructional videos) [2020s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires (Original Soundtrack) | 2025-07-11 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Don't Mess With Us - From "ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires" (Don't Mess With Us (From "ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires"))
- Flesh & Bone (ZOMBIES 2 (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- Like the Zombies Do (ZOMBIES 2 (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- BAMM (ZOMBIES (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- One for All (ZOMBIES 2 (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- We Got This (ZOMBIES 2 (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- I'm Winning (ZOMBIES 2 (Original TV Movie Soundtrack))
- Like the Zombies Do/Chillin' Like a Villain Mashup (Like the Zombies Do/Chillin' Like a Villain Mashup)
- Flesh & Bone/Someday Mashup (Flesh & Bone/Someday Mashup)
- Flesh & Bone/Come on Out Mashup (Flesh & Bone/Come on Out Mashup)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Kyle Roussel has been played 24 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.