Jessie Hill
Jessie Hill (December 9, 1932 – September 17, 1996) was an influential American R&B and Louisiana blues singer and songwriter, best known for his iconic hit "Ooh Poo Pah Doo." Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Hill began his musical journey as a drummer in local bands during his teenage years. In 1951, he formed his own group, the House Rockers. He later performed with notable musicians such as Professor Longhair and Huey "Piano" Smith before reestablishing the House Rockers in 1958, allowing him to concentrate on his singing career.
Hill's most famous song, "Ooh Poo Pah Doo," originated from a tune by a local pianist known as Big Four. Hill crafted the lyrics and melody, with an introduction inspired by Dave Bartholomew. The song became a massive hit upon its release in early 1960, selling 800,000 copies and becoming a Mardi Gras favorite. It reached the Top 5 on the US Billboard R&B chart and the Top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart. Over the years, "Ooh Poo Pah Doo" has been covered by more than 100 artists.
Despite the success of "Ooh Poo Pah Doo," Hill's subsequent recordings in New Orleans did not achieve the same level of success. He relocated to California, collaborating with other New Orleans musicians like Harold Battiste and Mac Rebennack. During this time, he penned songs for artists including Ike and Tina Turner, Sonny and Cher, and Willie Nelson. A 1972 solo album failed to garner attention, and Hill faced financial difficulties compounded by personal issues.
Returning to New Orleans in 1977, Hill struggled to revive his career despite several benefit performances. He passed away in New Orleans in 1996 from heart and renal failure at the age of 63 and was buried in Holt Cemetery. His legacy endures through his music and his grandsons, including musicians James and Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, who performed "Ooh Poo Pah Doo" in the HBO series Treme. Another grandson, Travis "Trumpet Black" Hill, was an emerging performer who tragically died in 2015.