James Booker |
James Booker's unrelenting piano style made him an important figure in New Orleans music, acting as a major influence on Harry Connick Jr. and Dr. John, among others. Booker was a balanced and versatile pianist and organist -- his repetitive right hand sparkles complemented his awe-inspiring left hand's foundation. In terms of singing, he was no Pavarotti, but his quirky ego and raw, gritty style covered any infirmities. His succinct incorporation of Gospel, R&B and jazz made for a dynamic, personal sound that could make even the same song sound entirely different when Booker reinterpreted himself. In addition to creating his own material, Booker valuably backed Freddy King, Aretha Franklin, T-Bone Walker, Ringo Starr and B.B. King, to name a few. His troubles with the law left us with fewer recordings than we might wish for, but enough to fall in love with his funky, soulful sound.Find James Booker cds and James Booker records on DJM Records. |
