Biography
Leigh 'Little Queenie' Harris (1954–2019) was a celebrated New Orleans singer-songwriter whose career spanned over four decades and who became a vital force in the city’s vibrant music scene. Born on July 27, 1954, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Harris grew up immersed in the city’s rich musical traditions. She began performing professionally in her teens and quickly gained a reputation for her dynamic stage presence and powerful, genre-defying voice, which could move effortlessly from earthy blues to gospel exuberance.
Harris first rose to prominence as the frontwoman of Little Queenie & the Percolators, a band that became a fixture in New Orleans clubs and festivals during the late 1970s and 1980s. Her musical style blended blues, rock, R&B, and jazz, reflecting the eclectic influences of her hometown. Over her career, she collaborated with a wide array of musicians and contributed to numerous recordings, both as a lead artist and as a sought-after collaborator. Harris was also known for her songwriting, mentorship, and her ability to inspire and nurture younger musicians. Her legacy endures not only in her recordings but also in the deep respect and affection she garnered within the musical community of New Orleans and beyond.
Fun Facts
- Leigh Harris’s nickname, 'Little Queenie,' was inspired by the Chuck Berry song of the same name.
- Her personal archive, including stagewear, instruments, and handwritten lyrics, is preserved at The Historic New Orleans Collection.
- Harris appeared as a singer in the film 'Eight Men Out' (1988) and performed on the soundtrack for the HBO series 'Treme.'
- She was remembered for her 'tough, earthy, blues-ish voice' that could rise to gospel abandon, making her a beloved figure in New Orleans music.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- New Orleans music community - Harris was deeply influenced by the musical traditions and veteran musicians of New Orleans, absorbing elements of blues, jazz, and R&B from the local scene. (General influence on her work with Little Queenie & the Percolators and solo projects) [1970s–2010s]
Key Collaborators
- Little Queenie & the Percolators - Harris was the lead singer and central figure of this influential New Orleans band. (Live performances, recordings, and local club residencies) [Late 1970s–1980s]
- John Magnie, Alison Young, Ricky Sebastian, Paul Clement, John Meunier, Jimmy Robinson, Joe Cabral, Alex Harris MacDonald, Darcy Malone, Lenny Zenith - These musicians performed with Harris in various bands and tribute concerts, reflecting her broad collaborative network. (Tribute concerts, live performances, and studio sessions) [1980s–2019]
Artists Influenced
- Younger New Orleans musicians - Harris mentored and inspired many emerging artists in the New Orleans scene, shaping the next generation of musicians. (Mentorship and collaborative performances) [1990s–2019]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Heart | 2018-12-07 | Album |
| Qball | 2019-11-30 | Album |
Top Tracks
- My Darlin' New Orleans (Purple Heart)
- If Ever I Cease to Love (Purple Heart)
- Whatever You Had (Purple Heart)
- Come Inside (Purple Heart)
- Down Home Girl (Purple Heart)
- Lost My Mind (Purple Heart)
- Shoulda Kept on Walkin' (Purple Heart)
- He Knows His Way Around (Purple Heart)
- Lost and Lookin' (Purple Heart)
- Slingshots and Boomerangs (Purple Heart)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
little queenie has been played 17 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.