Dr. John began making his own idiosyncratic music in the 1960s. Along with Professor Longhair, Dr. John is heir to the rich New Orleans tradition. He is perhaps best known for "Right Place, Wrong Time", an international hit in 1973, reissued and used on soundtracks many times since.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, his professional musical career began as a session musician in New Orleans in the 1950s. Early on he also played guitar and was often known as Mac Rebennack. He switched to the bass ("the lowest time of my life"), and then the piano after his index finger was nearly shot off protecting his bandmate and longtime friend Ronnie Barron. He gained fame beginning in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with music that combined New Orleans-style rhythm and blues with psychedelic rock and stage shows that bordered on voodoo religious ceremonies, including elaborate costumes and headdress. For a time he was billed as Dr. John, The Night Tripper. The name "Dr. John" came from a legendary Louisiana voodoo practitioner from the start of the 19th century.
Dr. John has also done vocals for Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits' "Luv dat chicken..." jingle, as well as the theme song ("My Opinionation") for the early-1990s television sitcom Blossom. His movie credits include Martin Scorsese's documentary The Last Waltz (in which he joins The Band for a performance of his song "Such a Night") and Blues Brothers 2000 (in which he joins the fictional band The Louisiana Gator Boys to perform the song "New Orleans"). In the 2009 Disney film The Princess and the Frog, Dr. John sings the opening tune, "Down in New Orleans".
In January 2008 Mac Rebennack, Dr. John, was inducted into The Louisiana Music Hall Of Fame.
Sweet Home New Orleans
Dr. John Lyrics
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I Can Sho′ Enough Here You Call Me
Feel That Gentle Rain Falling
The lyrics to Dr. John's song "Sweet Home New Orleans" are a love letter to the city of New Orleans. The song speaks to the unique culture, history, and spirit of the city. The verses are filled with vivid imagery that illustrates the beauty, complexity and resilience of New Orleans.
The opening line, "Sweet Home New Orleans," immediately creates a sense of nostalgia for the city. Dr. John is highlighting the strong emotional connection he has to the city, which is an important part of the song's theme. The chorus speaks to the feeling of being at home in New Orleans. The line "I can sho' enough hear you call me" references the city's distinct accent and reflects the sense of community that exists in New Orleans. The final line, "Feel that gentle rain falling," is a nod to the city's unpredictable weather, which is often celebrated by locals.
Throughout the song, Dr. John paints a picture of the city's streets, music, and traditions. He references the Mississippi River, the French Quarter, the Treme neighborhood, and the city's famous second-line parades. The song is a celebration of New Orleans' rich cultural heritage and a tribute to the people who call it home.
Line by Line Meaning
Sweet Home New Orleans
This vibrant city of New Orleans is my sweet home.
I Can Sho′ Enough Here You Call Me
I feel so deeply connected to this place that if you call for me here, I will surely answer.
Feel That Gentle Rain Falling
I am taking in the simple pleasures of life, such as feeling the gentle raindrops fall from the sky.
Writer(s): Mac Rebennack
Contributed by Andrew H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Steve
on Holdin' Pattern
Looking for the Lyrics "Holdin' Pattern" by Dr. John.
Perry
on I Been Hoodood (LP Version)
Not The Correct Lyrics Listed