He received six Grammy awards during his lifetime and was known as pioneer within the music industry as he blended different music styles to create a unique sound. Based in New Orleans, he recorded over 20 albums and blended music styles of blues, jazz, boogie boogie and rock and roll. His family announced his death in a statement released on social media.
He received six Grammy awards during his lifetime and was known as a pioneer within the music industry as he blended different music styles to create a unique sound.
Based in New Orleans, he recorded over 20 albums and blended music styles of blues, jazz, boogie boogie and rock and roll.
His family announced his death in a statement released on social media.
It read: “Towards the break of day June 6, iconic music legend Malcolm John Rebennack, Jr, known as Dr John, passed away of a heart attack.
“The family thanks all whom shared his unique musical journey & requests privacy at this time.
“Memorial arrangements will be announced in due course.”
He was born on November 20 1941 and got his big break in the sixties delighting fans with his unique style.
The pinnacle of his career, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by singer John Legend in 2011.
However, he had not been seen in public since the end of 2017 after he cancelled several of his concerts.
His passion for music flourished after dropping out of school, but he soon fell in with the wrong crowd.
In a horrific shooting incident, he lost his left hand ring finger in 1961 and he left New Orleans.
He gained recognition with his 193 solo hit Right Place, Wrong Time.
The musician was also well-known for his extravagant style and carnival-style concerts.
The New Orleans Jazz Fest, at which he performed, has tweeted: “Rest in Peace Dr. John. You were such a huge part of New Orleans music and the history of Jazz Fest. We love you and will celebrate all that you gave us.”
While Beatles legend Ringo Starr tweeted: “God bless Dr. John peace and love to all his family I love the doctor peace and love.”
Debbie Harry, the lead singer of Blondie, shared a picture of the two together and wrote: “RIP Mac Rebennack, Dr John.”
Music critic Ted Gioia also reflected on his loss.
He tweeted: “We have lost Dr John, one of the greatest exponents of the New Orleans piano tradition. He kept the flame alive over long decades, and leaves a hole in our musical culture that can’t be filled.”
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said: “Dr John was a true Louisiana legend. He showed the world Louisiana’s rich musical heritage, and his passion for music has left a mark on the industry unlike any other.
He revealed in an interview with the New York Times in 2010 that he struggled to keep up with the modern world.
“I don’t feel like I can trust anybody, anywhere.
“I can text on the phone, and even then I know it’s being monitored somewhere by someone.”