Warren Lee

Biography

Warren Lee Taylor, known professionally as Warren Lee, was born on May 11, 1938, in Vacherie, Louisiana, where he grew up on the Laura Plantation before moving to New Orleans at age 9. As a singer and guitarist immersed in the New Orleans R&B and soul scene, he became a regular performer at iconic venues like the Dew Drop Inn, Jessie's in Marrero, and the Sugar Bowl in Thibodaux, often booked alongside artists such as Chris Kenner, Joe Tex, and Ernie K-Doe. His career took off in 1961 when Eddie Bo scouted him for Joe Ruffino’s Ric and Ron label, leading to his debut single 'Unemployed,' recorded at Cosimo Matassa’s studio and released within a week.[1][4][6]

Lee's musical style blended funky R&B, soul, and blues, characterized by infectious dance grooves and humorous, street-smart lyrics, earning him cult status in northern soul circles. Key releases include 'Star Revue' and 'Climb the Ladder' produced by Allen Toussaint and Marshall Sehorn on the DeeSu label in 1965, 'Funky Belly,' 'Geraldine,' 'London Bridge,' 'Key To Your Door,' and later tracks like 'Direct From the Ghetto' in 1974. Despite critical acclaim and live popularity, many singles failed to chart due to limited promotion and radio play, with Lee supporting himself by repairing air conditioners while leading his band Past, Present and Future until a 1977 stroke halted his performances.[1][4][5][7]

Lee's legacy endures through reissues like the 1982 Charly Records anthology Sehorn’s Soul Farm, where his tracks overshadowed better-known artists, cementing his reputation for storming funk anthems in New Orleans music history. His work exemplifies the raw energy of 1960s NOLA R&B, influencing northern soul enthusiasts worldwide.[1][7]

Fun Facts

• Lee coined himself 'the Mighty King Lee' in his song 'Star Revue,' name-dropping stars like James Brown, Otis Redding, and Irma Thomas alongside himself.
• His 1961 debut 'Unemployed' was recorded at Cosimo Matassa’s studio on a Monday and released the following Saturday, showcasing the rapid pace of New Orleans indie labels.
• Radio stations refused to play 'Funky Belly' deeming it too vulgar, but Johnny 'Guitar' Watson's similar 'Ain’t It A Bitch' became a smash shortly after.
• A fabulous showman, Lee quipped, 'If you missed my show you only lived half a lifetime.'

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Eddie Bo - Scouted and produced his debut single ('Unemployed') [1961]
• Allen Toussaint - Producer who recognized his funk style and arranged key tracks after jamming with his band ('Star Revue', 'Climb the Ladder') [1965]

Key Collaborators

• Eddie Bo - Talent scout and recording collaborator ('Unemployed') [1961]
• Allen Toussaint - Producer and arranger ('Star Revue', 'Climb the Ladder') [1965]
• Marshall Sehorn - Co-producer with Toussaint (DeeSu label singles) [1965]
• Cosimo Matassa - Recording engineer (Early singles including 'Unemployed', later 'Direct From the Ghetto') [1961-1974]

External Links

• Spotify