Dr. John, born Malcolm John Rebennack Jr., was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his distinctive blend of blues, jazz, boogie-woogie, and rock and roll. He was born on November 20, 1941, in New Orleans, Louisiana, and passed away on June 6, 2019.
Dr. John was a highly influential figure in the New Orleans music scene and gained widespread recognition for his unique musical style and colorful persona. He began his career as a session musician and songwriter in the 1950s and 1960s, collaborating with artists such as Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, and Irma Thomas.
In the late 1960s, Dr. John adopted the persona of “Dr. John the Night Tripper,” a mystical and flamboyant character inspired by New Orleans voodoo traditions. Under this persona, he released his breakthrough album, “Gris-Gris,” in 1968, which featured a blend of psychedelic rock, funk, and rhythm and blues.
Throughout his career, Dr. John continued to explore a wide range of musical styles, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, soul, and pop into his music. He released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song “Right Place, Wrong Time” in 1973.
Dr. John was also known for his dynamic live performances and charismatic stage presence, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. He received multiple Grammy Awards over the course of his career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006.
Dr. John’s influence on American music is profound, and his contributions to the New Orleans music scene have left an indelible mark on the history of jazz, blues, and rock and roll. He is remembered as a pioneering artist and a true original, whose music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
1. (Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away
“(Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away” is a song by Dr. John, released in 1974 as part of his album “Desitively Bonnaroo.” The song was written by Dr. John himself and Alan Toussaint, who also produced the album.
“(Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away” is characterized by its funky rhythm, soulful vocals, and catchy horn section. Lyrically, the song explores themes of greed, materialism, and the pursuit of wealth, with Dr. John delivering a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the desire for financial success.
The song’s title reflects its central message: that everyone wants to get rich as quickly as possible. However, Dr. John’s lyrics also suggest that the pursuit of wealth can come at a cost, with references to “selling your soul” and the emptiness that can accompany material success.
“(Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away” showcases Dr. John’s distinctive blend of New Orleans funk, R&B, and blues, with his gravelly vocals and piano playing driving the song’s infectious groove. The song was well-received upon its release and remains a favorite among fans of Dr. John’s music, reflecting his enduring appeal as a master of American roots music.
2. Babylon
3. I Walk On Gilded Splinters
“I Walk on Gilded Splinters” is a song by Dr. John from his 1968 album “Gris-Gris.” The song was written by Dr. John (Mac Rebennack).
“I Walk on Gilded Splinters” is a psychedelic blues rock song with a hypnotic groove and eerie lyrics. The title refers to the practice of walking on gilded (gold-covered) splinters, which was believed to have magical or spiritual significance in some cultures. The song’s lyrics are cryptic and mystical, with references to voodoo and other occult themes.
Musically, “I Walk on Gilded Splinters” features a driving rhythm, swirling organ, and Dr. John’s distinctive vocals. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and mystical atmosphere have made it a favorite among fans of psychedelic and blues rock.
“I Walk on Gilded Splinters” has been covered by several artists and is considered one of Dr. John’s signature songs. Its unique sound and dark, mystical lyrics have contributed to its status as a classic of psychedelic rock.
4. Desitively Bonnaroo
“Desitively Bonnaroo” is the fifth studio album by Dr. John, released in 1974. The album’s title is a play on words, combining “definitely” with “bonnaroo,” a Creole slang term meaning “a good time” or “a party.” The term “bonnaroo” would later be adopted as the name of the popular music festival held annually in Manchester, Tennessee.
The album was produced by Allen Toussaint and features a blend of funk, R&B, soul, and New Orleans rhythms. It includes tracks like “(Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away,” “Quitters Never Win,” and “What Comes Around (Goes Around).”
“Desitively Bonnaroo” showcases Dr. John’s unique musical style and his ability to blend various genres seamlessly. The album received positive reviews from critics and has since become a cult favorite among fans of Dr. John’s music.
The album’s funky grooves, soulful vocals, and infectious rhythms reflect Dr. John’s roots in the New Orleans music scene while also incorporating elements of funk and R&B that were popular at the time. Overall, “Desitively Bonnaroo” is considered a standout album in Dr. John’s discography and a testament to his enduring influence on American music.
5. Such A Night
“Such a Night” is a song by Dr. John, released in 1973 as part of his album “In the Right Place.” The song was written by Mac Rebennack (Dr. John’s real name) himself.
“Such a Night” is characterized by its upbeat rhythm, lively piano, and soulful vocals. Lyrically, the song describes a memorable and passionate encounter between the narrator and a romantic interest. The narrator reminisces about the excitement and intensity of the night they spent together, reflecting on the magic and joy of the experience.
The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody made it a hit upon its release, and it remains one of Dr. John’s most beloved and enduring songs. “Such a Night” has been covered by various artists over the years and has been featured in films and television shows, further cementing its status as a classic of New Orleans R&B and soul music.
6. Right Place Wrong Time
“Right Place, Wrong Time” is a song by American musician Dr. John, released on his 1973 album “In the Right Place.” The song was written by Dr. John (Mac Rebennack) and produced by Allen Toussaint.
“Right Place, Wrong Time” is a funk rock song with a catchy groove and a memorable piano riff. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in the right place at the wrong time, a sentiment that many people can relate to. The chorus features the lines “I been in the right place, but it must have been the wrong time / I’d have said the right thing, but I must have used the wrong line.”
The song’s upbeat tempo, funky rhythm, and Dr. John’s soulful vocals helped make it a hit on the charts. “Right Place, Wrong Time” remains one of Dr. John’s most popular songs and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
7. Iko Iko
“Iko Iko” is a traditional New Orleans song that has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Dr. John. The song’s origins can be traced back to the Mardi Gras Indian tribes of New Orleans, who would chant it during their performances and parades.
The lyrics of “Iko Iko” are based on a call-and-response format, with the main verse typically sung by one person or group and the response sung by another. The song’s lyrics often reference the rivalry between different Mardi Gras Indian tribes, with phrases like “My flag boy and your flag boy, sitting by the fire” and “Talkin’ ’bout, hey now, hey now, Iko Iko un-day.”
Dr. John recorded a popular version of “Iko Iko” for his album “Dr. John’s Gumbo” in 1972. His rendition of the song features his signature blend of New Orleans R&B, funk, and blues, with lively piano playing, infectious rhythms, and soulful vocals.
“Iko Iko” has become a staple of New Orleans music and is often performed during Mardi Gras celebrations and other festivities. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, making it one of the most recognizable and enduring songs in the New Orleans music canon.
8. Same Old Same Old
“Same Old Same Old” is a song by American folk rock band The Civil Wars from their 2013 self-titled album. The duo, Joy Williams and John Paul White, wrote the song, which reflects on the monotony and frustration of a stagnant relationship.
In “Same Old Same Old,” the lyrics depict a couple caught in a cycle of repetition and disillusionment. The chorus repeats the phrase “It’s the same old, same old / Ain’t it, baby, yeah,” emphasizing the feeling of being stuck in a rut.
Musically, the song features The Civil Wars’ signature blend of folk, Americana, and acoustic elements, with Williams and White’s harmonious vocals at the forefront. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics create a melancholic yet captivating atmosphere.
“Same Old Same Old” showcases The Civil Wars’ ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that resonate with listeners. Despite the duo’s breakup in 2014, their music, including “Same Old Same Old,” continues to be celebrated for its beauty and depth.
9. New Orleans
“New Orleans” is a song by American musician Dr. John, from his 1974 album “Desitively Bonnaroo.” The song was written by Dr. John (Mac Rebennack) and Thomas Jefferson Kaye.
“New Orleans” is a funky, upbeat song that celebrates the city of New Orleans and its vibrant music scene. The lyrics pay homage to the city’s rich musical heritage, with references to jazz, blues, and rhythm and blues. The chorus features the lines “Hey la, hey la, New Orleans / Hey la, hey la, New Orleans.”
Musically, “New Orleans” features a driving rhythm, horn section, and Dr. John’s soulful vocals and piano playing. The song captures the infectious energy and spirit of New Orleans music, making it a favorite among fans of Dr. John and New Orleans music in general.
“New Orleans” is considered one of Dr. John’s signature songs and has become a classic of funk and New Orleans music. Its lively groove and celebratory lyrics continue to make it a popular choice for parties and events celebrating the music of New Orleans.
10. Season of the Witch
“Season of the Witch” is a song written by Donovan and Shawn Phillips. It was first released by Donovan on his 1966 album “Sunshine Superman.” The song is known for its haunting melody, psychedelic atmosphere, and cryptic lyrics.
“Season of the Witch” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Dr. John, who recorded a version for his 1974 album “Desitively Bonnaroo.” Dr. John’s rendition of the song features his distinctive blend of New Orleans funk, blues, and R&B, with his gravelly vocals and soulful piano playing adding a unique flavor to the song.
The lyrics of “Season of the Witch” evoke a sense of mystery and magic, with references to witches, sorcery, and otherworldly phenomena. The song’s title has been interpreted as a metaphor for a time of change or transformation, with the “witch” representing a powerful force of nature or cosmic energy.
Dr. John’s version of “Season of the Witch” remains a favorite among fans of his music and is often cited as one of the standout tracks on “Desitively Bonnaroo.” His interpretation of the song captures the spirit of the original while adding his own distinct style and flair, making it a classic of psychedelic blues and a testament to Dr. John’s enduring talent and creativity.