Biography
Luther Kent, born Kent Rowell on June 23, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a celebrated American blues and R&B singer renowned for his powerful, soulful voice and dynamic stage presence[2][1]. Growing up in the vibrant musical environment of New Orleans, Kent was deeply influenced by the city's rich traditions and artists such as Bobby 'Blue' Bland, Etta James, and Ray Charles[2][6]. He began singing professionally at just 14, signing his first record deal with Montel Records and quickly establishing himself in local bands and venues[2][3][4][5].
Kent's career spanned over six decades, during which he became a fixture of the New Orleans music scene. He led the horn-driven group Luther Kent & Trick Bag, which blended swinging blues with New Orleans R&B and became a staple on Bourbon Street throughout the 1970s and 1980s[2][1]. Kent also joined Blood, Sweat & Tears as lead singer in 1974, touring with them though contractual obligations prevented him from recording with the group[2][1]. His collaborations included work with Charlie Brent, Allen Toussaint, Pete Fountain, and The Dukes of Dixieland, and he toured internationally, notably in Italy with Robi Zonca[2].
Kent's legacy is marked by his dedication to authentic rhythm and blues, his ability to bridge racial divides in music during the civil rights era, and his influence on the New Orleans sound. He released several solo and collaborative albums, contributed to television and advertising projects, and remained active in performance and radio until his passing from heart failure on August 16, 2024, at age 76[2][1].
Fun Facts
- Luther Kent performed as the voice of Joe Camel in R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company’s advertising campaigns during the 1990s, a role that ended when the character was retired in 1997 due to controversy[1].
- He had a cameo and solo musical number in the pilot episode of the short-lived TV series Cop Rock, portraying a corporate lobbyist attempting to bribe the mayor of Los Angeles[2].
- Kent's first band was called Dale Murray and The Barons, which he joined as a teenager[1].
- Despite being a White bandleader in a predominantly Black R&B scene during the civil rights era, Kent was able to win over audiences with his authentic musical style and dedication[1].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Bobby 'Blue' Bland - Major stylistic influence; Kent attended Bland's shows as a teenager and was deeply inspired by his performance and showmanship. (Live performances and revue shows) [1960s]
- Etta James - Influence on vocal style and emotional delivery. (Kent channeled her stylings into his own performances.) [1960s]
- Ray Charles - Influence through family and local band performances; Kent's brother played Charles' music. (New Orleans rhythm and blues standards) [1960s]
Key Collaborators
- Charlie Brent - Co-founded Luther Kent & Trick Bag, serving as musical director and arranger. (Trick Bag albums and live performances) [1978–1990s]
- Blood, Sweat & Tears - Lead singer for touring band; performed live but did not record due to contractual issues. (Live tours) [1974]
- Allen Toussaint - Featured on Kent's gospel album with John Lee & the Heralds of Christ. (Gospel album (1996)) [1996]
- Pete Fountain - Featured on Kent's gospel album. (Gospel album (1996)) [1996]
- The Dukes of Dixieland - Guest vocalist on recordings and selected live dates. (Albums: Christmas in New Orleans, Louisiana Legends, New Orleans Mardi Gras, Timeless) [2005–2006]
- Robi Zonca - International tour and live album collaboration. (Magic Box (2006)) [2006]
Artists Influenced
- New Orleans R&B and blues musicians - Kent's horn-driven style and soulful vocals inspired younger artists in the local scene. (Live performances, Trick Bag recordings) [1970s–2020s]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Legends | 2003 | Album |
| Luther | 2013-04-25 | Album |
| New Orleans Mardi Gras | 2006 | Album |
| Luther Kent's World Class / Bobby Bland Songbook Mixtape | 2023-02-07 | Album |
| Jazz Excursions: Live in New Orleans | 2016-01-14 | Album |
| Get You A Healin' Special Anniversary Re-Release | 2010-08-24 | Album |
| The Bobby Bland Songbook | 2008-12-18 | Album |
| Get You A Healin' | 1999-09-28 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Petit Fleur (Louisiana Legends)
- Gotta Make New Orleans (Luther)
- Third Degree (Luther)
- Blueberry Hill (Louisiana Legends)
- All on a Mardi Gras Day (New Orleans Mardi Gras)
- Mardi Gras Mambo (Iko Iko) (New Orleans Mardi Gras)
- Go to the Mardi Gras (New Orleans Mardi Gras)
- Go to the Mardi Gras (Louisiana Legends)
- Tin Roof Blues (Louisiana Legends)
- Sick and Tired (Louisiana Legends)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Luther Kent has been played 2 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 8, 2026 | 14:36 | I Wouldn`t Treat A Dogfrom The Bobby Bland Songbook | Bluesw/ DJ Giant | |
| Nov 13, 2025 | 14:58 | Gotta Make New Orleansfrom Luther Kent | Bluesw/ DJ Giant |