Allen Richard Toussaint was an American musician, songwriter, arranger, and record producer. He was an influential figure in New Orleans rhythm and blues from the 1950s to the end of the century, described as "one of popular music's great backroom figures." Many musicians recorded Toussaint's compositions. He was a producer for hundreds of recordings: the best known are "Right Place, Wrong Time", by longtime friend Dr. John, and "Lady Marmalade" by Labelle.
Toussaint at the Freret Street Festival, New Orleans, 2009
Toussaint performing in Stockholm in 2009
Toussaint with the Dalai Lama in 2013
Toussaint receiving the National Medal of Arts in 2013
New Orleans rhythm and blues
New Orleans rhythm and blues is a style of rhythm and blues that originated in New Orleans. It was a direct precursor to rock and roll and strongly influenced ska. Instrumentation typically includes drums, bass, piano, horns, electric guitar, and vocals. The style is characterized by syncopated "second line" rhythms, a strong backbeat, and soulful vocals. Artists such as Roy Brown, Dave Bartholomew, and Fats Domino are representative of the New Orleans R&B sound.
Allen Toussaint, noted New Orleans rhythm and blues artist, at a festival in New Orleans, 2009
Roy Brown
Dave Bartholomew
Fats Domino