Dr. John

Fresh Air went national in 1987, and we're celebrating that 20th anniversary by revisiting some classic broadcasts. In this segment: A song from New Orleans musician Dr. John, aka Mac Rebennack. Rebroadcast from May 1987.

Songwriter, pianist and singer Dr. John. Known in his native New Orleans as Mac Rebennack, his music has evolved from the psychedelic voodoo-rock he played in the 1960's to the classic piano he plays today. (REBROADCAST from 09/23/86)

Songwriter, performer, and session musician Malcom Rebennack adopted the name Dr. John when he developed his New Orleans-based, theatrical stage show. He worked largely as a guitar player until a stray bullet injured his hand. A multi-instrumentalist, Dr. John continued to record and perform as a bass guitarist, drummer, and, most prominently, keyboard player. (Rebroadcast of 9/23/86)