A Guide to Recognizing Toussaint

Last week, I had a great conversation with New Orleans pianist Allen Toussaint, for the cover story of tomorrow's paper. Among other things — discussing the art of songwriting, returning to New Orleans post-Katrina, collaborating with Elvis Costello, etc. — my chat with the legendary songwriter confirmed something I've long suspected: that when I grow up, I want to be an old, black piano player from New Orleans. Dude is just one smooth cat, even at 72.

Anyway, here's an older clip from a British TV show that sort of illustrates what I mean. In it, Toussaint describes how his mentor, Professor Longhair, subtly helped shape the course of N'awlins jazz piano.   

Comments

[Bryan Dondero]

You got to talk to Toussaint?! Very jealous I am. Lee Dorsey, Yes We Can....good lawd - Bama shoulda went this direction: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsx_pnZf12E