Professor Longhair
Henry Roeland Byrd, known as Professor Longhair or "Fess," was born on December 19, 1918, in Bogalusa, Louisiana. He became a pivotal figure in the development of New Orleans rhythm and blues, renowned for his unique piano style that fused rumba, mambo, and calypso elements. Raised in New Orleans, Byrd taught himself music using a piano missing several keys, which contributed to his distinctive sound.
Byrd began his music career in 1948, earning his nickname from Mike Tessitore, the owner of the Caldonia Club. He recorded his first tracks with the Shuffling Hungarians in 1949, including "Mardi Gras in New Orleans." His only national hit, "Bald Head," was released in 1950 under the name Roy Byrd and His Blues Jumpers. Despite limited commercial success, his influence on musicians like Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, and Dr. John was profound.
In the 1960s, Byrd's career waned, and he worked as a janitor, but he experienced a renaissance in the 1970s, performing at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and recording several albums, including "Crawfish Fiesta." His signature songs, such as "Tipitina" and "Go to the Mardi Gras," remain iconic in New Orleans music culture. Professor Longhair passed away on January 30, 1980, in New Orleans, leaving a lasting legacy that earned him a posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.
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