Lillian Boutte

Biography

Lillian Boutté was born on August 6, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She began her musical journey at a young age, winning a singing contest at 11 and later joining the Golden Voices Choir. Boutté studied opera performance and music therapy at Xavier University of Louisiana, where she earned a bachelor's degree. During the 1970s, she worked as a session musician in New Orleans, collaborating with notable artists like Allen Toussaint, James Booker, Patti LaBelle, and Dr. John. Her breakthrough came with the musical One Mo' Time, which she performed in from 1979 to 1983, touring internationally. After leaving the show, she formed a band and became a star in Europe, performing in various countries and recording with local groups. Her musical style blended New Orleans jazz, gospel, R&B, and swing, reflecting her diverse background and influences. Lillian Boutté was named New Orleans Musical Ambassador in 1986, a title previously held only by Louis Armstrong. She passed away on May 23, 2025, after a prolonged illness. Throughout her career, Boutté maintained strong ties to her hometown while achieving international recognition for her unique sound and performances. Her legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide with her eclectic blend of genres and her role as a cultural ambassador for New Orleans music.

Fun Facts

• Lillian Boutté was featured in the documentary Piano Players Rarely Play Together, alongside Professor Longhair and Toots Washington.
• She made a cameo appearance in the film Angel Heart and was featured on its soundtrack.
• Boutté was honored as the New Orleans Musical Ambassador in 1986, a title previously held only by Louis Armstrong.
• She performed frequently at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the French Quarter Festival.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Vernell Bagneris - molded her acting skills (One Mo' Time) [late 1970s to early 1980s]
• Allen Toussaint - mentor and collaborator (various recordings) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Allen Toussaint - session musician and collaborator (various recordings) [1970s]
• James Booker - collaborator and friend (performances and recordings) [1970s to early 1980s]
• Thomas L'Etienne - husband and musical partner (Music Friends ensemble) [1980s onwards]
• Olympia Brass Band - collaboration on gospel record (gospel album in 1980) [1980]

Artists Influenced

• Various New Orleans Musicians - inspired through her performances and legacy (various performances and recordings) [ongoing]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Am I Blue (Music is My Life)
2. Go Back Whree You Stayed Last Night (Music is My Life)
3. He Touched Me (Music is My Life)
4. Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton) (Having a Good Time)
5. All of Me (Music is My Life)
6. Tennesee Waltz (Tennesee Waltz)
7. His Eyes Is on the Sparrow (I Sing Because I'm Happy)
8. Down by the River (New Oreans Gospel in Molde Kirke with Lillian Boutté)
9. Take My Hand Precious Lord (New Oreans Gospel in Molde Kirke with Lillian Boutté)
10. Mama's Gone, Goodbye (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton) (Having a Good Time)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia