Dr. John, or Mac Rebennack as known to friends and family, is universally celebrated as the
living embodiment of the rich musical heritage exclusive to New Orleans. His very colorful
musical career began in the 1950s when he wrote and played guitar on some of the greatest
records to come out of the Crescent City, including recordings by Professor Longhair, Art
Neville, Joe Tex and Frankie Ford. A notorious gun incident forced the artist to give up the
guitar and concentrate on organ and piano. Further trouble at home sent Dr. John west in the
1960s, where he continued to be in demand as a session musician, playing on records by
Sonny and Cher, Van Morrison, Aretha Franklin and The Rolling Stones infamous Exile On
Main St. to name a few. During that time he also launched his solo career, developing the
charismatic persona of Dr. John The Nite Tripper. Adorned with voodoo charms and regalia,
a legend was born with his breakthrough 1968 album Gris-gris, which established his unique
blend of voodoo mysticism, funk, rhythm & blues, psychedelic rock and Creole roots.