the radiators

Biography

The Radiators, often referred to as the New Orleans Radiators, are a seminal roots rock band formed in 1978 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The group originated from informal jam sessions in keyboardist Ed Volker’s garage, bringing together musicians from two local bands: Ed Volker, Frank Bua Jr., and Camile Baudoin from Rhapsodizers, and Dave Malone and Reggie Scanlan from Roadapple. Their chemistry was immediate, and the members quickly committed to the new project, quitting their previous bands to focus on The Radiators full-time[2][4][5].

The band became a cornerstone of the New Orleans music scene, helping to revive local venues and festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Tipitina’s. Their sound, dubbed “Fish Head Music,” is a rich blend of blues, R&B, jazz, country, zydeco, soul, swing, and gospel, all filtered through the lens of New Orleans rock and roll[5][6]. The Radiators are known for their energetic live performances and extensive touring, which helped them build a devoted fanbase. Over more than four decades, they have played with and backed up legends like Professor Longhair, Jessie Hill, Ernie K-Doe, and Earl King, further cementing their legacy as one of the city’s most influential bands[2][4][5].

Their longevity and eclectic style have made them a vital link between generations of New Orleans musicians, and their “Fish Head Music” continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists. The Radiators’ contribution to the city’s musical heritage is celebrated through their induction into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame and their enduring presence on the local and national touring circuit[5][6].

Fun Facts

• The Radiators coined the term 'Fish Head Music' to describe their unique blend of New Orleans styles[5].
• Their first jam session lasted five hours, after which all members quit their previous bands to form The Radiators[5].
• They were instrumental in the revival of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the birth of Tipitina’s music club[2][4].
• The band has played with or backed up New Orleans legends like Professor Longhair, Jessie Hill, and Ernie K-Doe[2][5].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Professor Longhair - New Orleans R&B legend and spiritual embodiment of Crescent City Soul; the band performed with him and drew inspiration from his style. (Live performances, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival) [late 1970s-1980]
• The Meters - Premier New Orleans funk band; their rhythmic innovations influenced The Radiators’ eclectic sound. (General influence, local scene) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Earl King - The Radiators served as his regular backup band for many years. (Live performances) [1980s]
• Professor Longhair - Shared stage and collaborated in live settings. (Live performances) [late 1970s-1980]
• Jessie Hill - Performed together in various New Orleans venues. (Live performances) [1980s]
• Ernie K-Doe - Collaborated and performed together in New Orleans. (Live performances) [1980s]

Artists Influenced

• Local New Orleans musicians - Inspired a new generation of roots rock and 'Fish Head Music' practitioners in New Orleans. (Numerous local acts and festival performers) [1980s-present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. This Wagon's Gonna Roll (Law Of The Fish)
2. Like Dreamers Do
3. Like Dreamers Do (Law Of The Fish)
4. Zigzagging Through Ghostland (Zig-Zaggin' Through Ghostland)
5. Law Of The Fish (Law Of The Fish)
6. Never Let Your Fire Go Out (Total Evaporation)
7. Suck The Head (Law Of The Fish)
8. Party 'Till The Money Runs Out (Total Evaporation)
9. Holiday (Law Of The Fish)
10. Meet Me Down In Birdland (Zig-Zaggin' Through Ghostland)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia