Joseph Hilton "Nappy" Lamare, born on June 14, 1905, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a prominent American jazz banjoist, guitarist, and vocalist. Known for his curly hair, which earned him the nickname "Nappy" from his friend Eddie Miller, Lamare began his musical journey on the trumpet before switching to the banjo at the age of thirteen. He quickly became a member of the Midnight Serenaders and worked with notable musicians such as Sharkey Bonano, Monk Hazel, and Johnny Wiggs. In 1925, he toured California with Johnny Bayersdorffer and made his recording debut two years later with the New Orleans Owls.

Lamare moved to New York City, where he transitioned to playing the guitar. He joined the Ben Pollack orchestra, contributing vocals to tracks like "Two Tickets to Georgia" and "Got the Jitters" in 1933. When Bob Crosby took over the orchestra in 1934, Lamare continued with the band until 1942, participating in numerous recordings and films. After the orchestra dissolved, he relocated to California, leading the Louisiana Levee Loungers and the Straw Hat Strutters during the 1940s and 1950s. His group, the Riverboat Dandies, appeared in the film Hollywood Rhythm and on the TV show Dixie Showboat.

In the latter part of his career, Lamare frequently reunited with Bob Crosby, performed at Disneyland, and toured with the World's Greatest Jazz Band. Despite a finger injury that temporarily shifted him to bass guitar, he continued to play guitar, banjo, and sing until his death on May 8, 1988, in Newhall, California. His discography includes leadership on albums like "Hilton 'Nappy' Lamare and His Rendezvous Ballroom Orchestra" and collaborations with artists such as Ray Bauduc. Nappy Lamare remains a celebrated figure in Dixieland jazz circles.