Smokey Johnson, RIP

[jeffcrom]

Word comes from New Orleans that legendary drummer Smokey Johnson died yesterday at the age of 78. Johnson was a fine jazz drummer, but his real impact was on the New Orleans R & B scene. He was the drummer on many classic recordings, such as Earl King's "Trick Bag," Snooks Eaglin's early  Imperial sides, and many of Fats Domino's later recordings.

And if you don't know Smokey's 1966 local hit, "It Ain't My Fault," do yourself a favor and check it out. The tune, co-written with Wardell Quezergue, has taken on a life of its own in New Orleans. All the brass bands play it, and there's a phenomenal version from 2010, recorded to benefit the Gulf oil spill cleanup, with members of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Lenny Kravitz, Trombone Shorty, and Mos Def.

 

Edited October 8, 2015 by jeffcrom