Art Neville: A New Orleans Icon, 10 Essential Tracks

Alright, let's craft a tribute to the legendary Art Neville, focusing on 10 of his best tracks.

Art Neville: A New Orleans Icon, 10 Essential Tracks

Art Neville, a cornerstone of New Orleans music, left an indelible mark on funk, soul, and R&B. From the Meters' groundbreaking grooves to the Neville Brothers' soulful harmonies, his keyboard mastery and distinctive vocals shaped the sound of a city. Here are 10 essential Art Neville songs that showcase his enduring genius:
 

1.  "Cissy Strut" (The Meters, 1969): This instrumental funk masterpiece is the quintessential Meters track. Its infectious groove, anchored by Art's signature organ riff, is instantly recognizable and endlessly sampled. It's a pure distillation of New Orleans funk, a rhythmic powerhouse that never fails to move.
2. "Hey Pocky A-Way" (The Meters, 1974): Another Meters classic, "Hey Pocky A-Way" blends funk with Mardi Gras Indian rhythms. Art's keyboard work is once again front and center, creating a hypnotic, danceable groove. The song's cultural significance and raw energy make it a New Orleans staple.
3. "Fire on the Bayou" (The Meters, 1975): This track showcases the Meters' ability to create a deep, swampy funk sound. Art's organ and the band's tight rhythm section combine to create a simmering, evocative atmosphere. The song's intensity and groove are undeniable.
4. "Just Kissed My Mama" (The Meters, 1974): A more laid-back Meters tune, "Just Kissed My Mama" highlights Art's soulful vocals. It's a smooth, groovy track that showcases the band's versatility and Art's ability to deliver a heartfelt performance.
5. "Hercules" (The Meters, 1969): This song is a monument of funk. The driving beat, the strong bass line, and Art's keyboards create a powerful and unforgettable song. It's a great example of the raw power the Meters possessed.
6. "Brother John/Iko Iko" (The Neville Brothers, 1989): This medley, featured on the "Yellow Moon" album, showcases the Neville Brothers' ability to blend traditional New Orleans sounds with contemporary production. Art's keyboard work and the brothers' vocal harmonies create a magical, uplifting experience.
7. "Yellow Moon" (The Neville Brothers, 1989): The title track from their acclaimed album, "Yellow Moon," is a hauntingly beautiful song. Art's keyboard textures and the brothers' soulful vocals create a deeply moving atmosphere. The song's evocative lyrics and atmospheric soundscapes make it a standout.
8. "Bird on a Wire" (The Neville Brothers, 1989): Leonard Cohen's classic song is given a soulful makeover by the Neville Brothers. Art's keyboard work adds a layer of depth and emotion to the already powerful song. The brothers' vocal harmonies are sublime.
9. "Healing Chant" (The Neville Brothers, 1989): This track is a testament to the spiritual depth of the Neville Brothers' music. Art's keyboard work creates a meditative atmosphere, while the brothers' vocal harmonies invoke a sense of peace and healing.
10. "All These Things" (Art Neville, 1962): Going back to his early solo work, "All These Things" is a great example of early New Orleans R&B. It shows the roots of Art's musical journey, and the smooth vocals he always possessed.

Art Neville's legacy is one of innovation and soulful expression. His music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians. From the funky grooves of the Meters to the spiritual harmonies of the Neville Brothers, his contributions to the world of music are immeasurable.