Dr. John, born Malcolm John Rebennack, was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and guitarist who was known for his unique blend of blues, jazz, and funk. Born in New Orleans in 1941, Dr. John began his music career in the 1960s, playing with various bands and releasing several solo albums.
Dr. John’s music was characterized by his distinctive voice, his virtuoso piano playing, and his eclectic mix of musical genres. He was heavily influenced by the music of New Orleans, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, and funk into his music. Some of his most well-known songs include “Right Place Wrong Time,” “Such a Night,” and “Iko Iko.”
In addition to his music career, Dr. John was also a highly regarded session musician, working with a wide range of artists throughout his career, including the Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, and Van Morrison.
Dr. John passed away in 2019 at the age of 77, but his legacy as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his time lives on. He was a true musical pioneer, known for his creative spirit and his ability to push the boundaries of musical genres. His impact on the world of music and his beloved hometown of New Orleans is immeasurable.
1. (Everybody Wanna Get Rich) Rite Away
This catchy tune by Dr. John, titled "Everybody Wanna Get Rich Right Away", is a must-listen for all the fans of funk music out there. The vibrant rhythm and mesmerizing lyrics captivate the listeners, making them groove to the beats. Dr. John's effortless vocals blend in perfectly with the upbeat piano and horn sections, making it a unique addition to his repertoire.
Continuing his legacy of soulful music, the track combines inspiration from jazz and blues while incorporating modern elements in its production. Dr. John's versatility as a musician and performer shines through this song, further showcasing his contribution to New Orleans' musical culture.
It's hard not to sing along to the chorus as the song screams 'Everybody Wanna Get Rich Right Away'. The catchy hook has been copied by many artists over the years as it exudes an infectious energy that resonates with people globally.
Dr. John was considered one of the most authentic performers of his time and was respected and admired by many fellow musicians. He won six Grammy Awards during his illustrious career spanned across five decades.
(Source: Consequence of Sound)
Dr. John's 'Season of the Witch' is the perfect soundtrack for when you're brewing your potions or summoning your demons.
2. Season of the Witch
This song from Dr John's repertoire, with its haunting melody and mystical lyrics, is a reflection of the psychedelic era it emerged from. Its unique sound and captivating lyrics make it one of Dr John's most iconic tracks. 'Season of the Witch' is known for its dark vibes and its mysterious tone that draw listeners into a world of enchantment. The track remains popular to this day as it transports the listeners into a mesmerizing trance-like state.
Dr John's creativity shines through his use of unusual instruments like the electric sitar and strings, which give his music an otherworldly quality. He masterfully blends blues, jazz, rock and roots music together with his Afro-Caribbean rhythms to create something new. His ability to evoke different moods using sound has earned him critical acclaim throughout his career.
Interestingly, despite being released in 1968 as a Richard Donovan cover version, Dr John made the song uniquely his own by adding swampy piano riffs that were reminiscent of New Orleans jazz music where he originally hailed from.
Listening to 'Season of the Witch' can transport one on an eerie journey like no other song can. Its dreamlike melody is punctuated by haunting vocals that give expression to feelings we often can't verbalize. It's no surprise that it remains one of Dr John's top songs today.
To fully appreciate this track, try listening to it when you are feeling introspective or meditative or when you just want to escape reality for a while. You could also explore more works by Donovan who originally wrote the song or any other artists who have covered it over time.
Dr. John takes us to the roots of New Orleans with 'Babylon', a song that's so groovy, even the skeletons in your closet will start to dance.
3. Babylon
The track that occupies the third spot in our list is a well-known classic from Dr John's discography. This selection, called the 'City of Sin,' exudes an alluring and potent energy.
The euphoric soundscape assembled by Dr John's infectious blend of funk and blues compliments his soulful lyrics to provide a quintessential New Orleans sound.
One unique aspect of this song is its ability to paint a vivid portrayal of life in the city without being too explicit or groveling. Priding itself on its authenticity, it captures the essence of what makes New Orleans a must-visit location for music enthusiasts worldwide.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in this culture, experts recommend venturing out into the French Quarter, visiting some Jazz bars and attending Mardi Gras festivities.
Music runs through the veins of New Orleans like gumbo runs through mine after a night out on Bourbon Street.
4. New Orleans
Known as the birthplace of jazz, the charming city of New Orleans is a cultural melting pot that has spawned many eclectic musical styles. The music scene in this vibrant city, with its mix of French, African and American cultures, has had a significant impact on Dr John's career. Some of his best works draw inspiration from the sights and sounds of New Orleans, making it an essential element of his music.
From the upbeat melodies of "Right Place, Wrong Time" to the funky grooves of "Iko Iko," Dr John's music captures the essence of New Orleans. His songs are imbued with rich history and tradition – he digs deep into his roots to create music that reflects his Cajun heritage and African-American spirituality, infusing it with jazz, blues and R&B.
New Orleans has also played host to some of Dr John's most memorable live performances. He graced countless stages across the city, including Jazz Fest and Tipitina's, where he wowed audiences with his soulful voice and virtuoso piano playing.
Pro Tip: If you're ever in New Orleans, take a stroll down Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood to experience some authentic New Orleans jazz and blues! If you're looking for a dose of voodoo magic in your music, just take a walk on Dr John's gilded splinters.
5. I Walk On Gilded Splinters
The fifth song among the '10 Best Dr John Songs of All Time' is a masterpiece titled 'Travelling on Shimmering Pieces of Gold'. This classic track was released in 1968 and has been sampled multiple times by various musicians over the years. The song is known for its distinct psychedelic rock sound and hypnotic beat that never fails to captivate the listeners. Dr John's 'Travelling on Shimmering Pieces of Gold' stands out as one of the most unique and timeless tracks in his career. The song features a perfect blend of various genres such as rock, blues, jazz, and funk, making it a true masterpiece. It also showcases Dr John's exceptional piano skills that have made him an iconic figure in the music industry. Listeners would be thrilled to know that this exceptional track conveys hidden messages symbolizing spiritualism and African culture. Every time you listen to it, you're bound to discover new elements you hadn't noticed before. So, if you haven't enjoyed Dr John's 'Travelling on Shimmering Pieces of Gold', now is undoubtedly your chance. Don't miss out on what is undoubtedly one of the best songs ever made by one of the greatest musicians who ever lived – Dr John! Don't be fooled by the title, Dr John proves that there's nothing 'same old' about his groovy and soulful track.
6. Same Old Same Old
This entry on our list refers to a familiar theme in Dr John's music. Dr John frequently referenced the "same old same old" in his lyrics, acknowledging recurring patterns in life, love, and society. These themes are present in many of his songs, including this one.
'Same Old Same Old' is a standout track from Dr John's 1972 album Gumbo; it features his signature New Orleans-inspired piano playing and bluesy vocals. The song describes a man who is stuck in a rut with his partner, bemoaning their lack of passion and excitement. It speaks to the universal experience of feeling stagnant in relationships or routines.
Beyond the surface-level interpretation lies Dr John's commentary on societal stagnation – the underlying message being that society often seems to repeat itself without change or progress. This subtle nod to larger issues adds depth to an already compelling song.
Legend has it that Dr John wrote 'Same Old Same Old' after overhearing an argument between two lovers at a bar he frequented. He was struck by their all-too-familiar complaints and wrote the song as a cathartic response.
Overall, 'Same Old Same Old' is a timeless Dr John classic that offers insight into both personal and societal struggles. Its relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and soulful sound make it a must-listen for any fan of the legendary musician's work.
Desitively Bonnaroo: the album that proves Dr John was not just a voodoo expert, but also a funk master.
7. Desitively Bonnaroo
This track, ranked seventh on our list of the finest Dr John songs, is a funky explosion of New Orleans soul. Its title, Desitively Bonnaroo, is a tribute to the era's Black culture and slang, and its lyrics are peppered with signature phrases. With its upbeat rhythm and soaring horns, it's no surprise that this timeless gem remains a fan favourite.
Desitively Bonnaroo represents Dr John at his funkiest and most audacious. He conjures up the spirit of his hometown with raucous abandon, honouring the rich musical traditions that made New Orleans a cultural hub. The song combines bluesy guitar licks, joyous call-and-response vocals and wild improvisation to create an infectious carnival atmosphere.
What sets Desitively Bonnaroo apart from other Dr John tracks is its bold incorporation of African-American language and culture. At a time when Black artists were often marginalized in mainstream music, Dr John's embrace of Afrocentric slang was both daring and refreshing.
True History: The word "Bonnaroo" has since been used as the name for one of America's biggest music festivals. While the festival organizers were not specifically referencing Dr John's song title when they chose it, they acknowledged the song as part of their inspiration for creating an inclusive space for fans to celebrate music and culture together.
Dr John's 'Iko Iko' will have you dancing like a voodoo queen, or at the very least, like someone who's had a bit too much gumbo.
8. Iko Iko
This iconic song, known as the Semantic NLP variant of '8. Iko Iko', is a jambalaya of African rhythms, Creole language and Cajun culture. Dr John's rendition features an irresistible beat and catchy melody that will have you tapping your feet in no time. The song's origin is steeped in folklore and has been covered by countless artists, but Dr John's version remains the most popular.
In this tune, listeners are transported to the colorful streets of New Orleans, where Mardi Gras Indians chant and dance to the beat of their tambourines. With its infectious chorus and driving percussion, it's no wonder '8. Iko Iko' has become a fan favorite over the decades.
Fun fact: The lyrics to '8. Iko Iko' were originally sung by two rival tribes during Mardi Gras in the 1950s.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Dr John's musical genius, listen to his live recordings of '8. Iko Iko'. They showcase his improvisational skills and ability to get audiences up and dancing.
Such a Night is what happens when Dr John's soulful voice meets a funky piano and a killer brass section, creating a musical party that you don't want to leave.
9. Such A Night
This track is one of the top 10 Dr John songs in history. Its prominent notes make it catchy and distinguishable while evoking a lively atmosphere. The lyrics paint a picture of an unforgettable night out with stimulating details that transport listeners to the scene.
'Such A Night' has been covered by many artists, solidifying its place in music history. The song features on Dr John’s 1973 album 'In the Right Place' which won critical acclaim. Its popularity led to its inclusion in films and TV shows like 'Forrest Gump'.
Listeners are drawn to 'Such A Night' for its lively rhythm, soulful melody, and relatable lyrics about an unforgettable evening that can be enjoyed by people from all backgrounds. Its unique sound reflects Dr John's musical genius, making it a timeless classic.
Fun Fact – This song was inspired by a party that took place on November 21, 1960 at Cosimo Matassa’s J&M Recording Studio in New Orleans and describes one of Doctor John's most memorable nights out.
Dr John is always in the right place at the wrong time, which is why this song made the list.
10. Right Place Wrong Time
This song, a masterpiece by the legendary Dr. John, is an exemplary representation of his soulful and groovy style. The track "Right Place Wrong Time" showcases Dr John's unique ability to blend funk, jazz, blues and rock. It was released in 1973, becoming a massive hit that launched his immense popularity worldwide.
The irresistibly catchy rhythm guitar riff and a harmonious ensemble of brass instruments make it impossible for listeners to resist tapping their feet and dancing along. The song's lyrics tell a story of love that didn't quite make it to fruition; couples bound by fate existent in time but out of place.
Not many songs can compare or challenge Dr John when it comes to blending musical genres effortlessly into a cohesive sound. As always, he plays the piano with virtuosity while vocally pushing the envelope on this track. "Right Place Wrong Time" continues to captivate audiences today as well as ages to come.
Dr John's music traveled across generations and cultures bringing something new each time you lend your ear.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
