Cyril Neville
Cyril Garrett Neville, born on October 10, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a renowned American percussionist, vocalist, and cultural icon. He is celebrated as one of the founding fathers of the New Orleans funky soul, rock jazz sound. Cyril first gained prominence as a member of The Meters, a pioneering funk band led by his brother Art Neville. After The Meters disbanded, he joined the Neville Brothers, further solidifying his influence in the music world.
Throughout his illustrious career, Cyril Neville has collaborated with legendary artists such as Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Dr. John. He has been featured in documentaries like "Make It Funky!" and "New Orleans Music in Exile," which highlight the rich musical heritage of New Orleans and the impact of Hurricane Katrina. As an activist, he joined the Voice of the Wetlands Allstars in 2005 to raise awareness about Louisiana's disappearing wetlands.
Cyril's solo discography includes notable albums such as "Soulo" (1998) and "Magic Honey" (2013). His work with the Neville Brothers earned him a Grammy Award in 1989. In 2010, he joined the funk band Galactic, and in 2012, he co-founded the blues-rock supergroup Royal Southern Brotherhood.
Neville's contributions to music and environmental activism have left a lasting legacy, earning him a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He continues to be a vital figure in the New Orleans music scene, influencing countless artists and entertaining millions of fans over his five-decade career.