November 20, 1941 – June 6, 2019
A young Malcolm J. “Mac” Rebennack, Jr. circa 1957, known later professionally as Dr. John. Growing up in New Orleans his idols were Fats Domino, Professor Longhair, among other New Orleans greats. Mac grew up in New Orleans’ 3rd Ward. As a teenager he won a talent show at Jesuit High School. He later dropped out of school in the 11th grade at Jesuit to concentrate on his music, much to his father’s disapproval. Malcolm Rebennack Sr., ran Rebennack’s Appliance Company on Gentilly Boulevard. In August during the early 1960’s, a big break, Mac and his Skyliner’s Band played performances at WTIX Appreciation Nights at Pontchartrain Beach, with nationally known recording acts. The rest is history.
In the early years he worked with Allen Toussaint, The Meters, Neville’s and later as an in-demand sideman, with Levon Helm, Gregg Allman, Van Morrison, Harry Connick Jr., Ringo Starr and B.B. King, among others. He was also a Disney Darling composing and performing in several of their motion pictures.
The Krewe of TIX was at Dr. John’s final show. Photo of Dr. John and Pal Al backstage in the green room at Tips. Dr. John, the flamboyant soul of New Orleans passed away at 77. His spirit and music lives on worldwide!
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