[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 99 (Thursday, June 13, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E774]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. MALCOLM JOHN REBENNACK, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 13, 2019

  Mr. RICHMOND. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of 
musical icon Mr. Malcolm John Rebennack, Jr., universally known as Dr. 
John. Mr. Rebennack passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2019 at the age of 
77.
  During his iconic career, Dr. John won several Grammy awards, 
released more than 30 albums, and was highly regarded not only as a 
performer, but also as a songwriter, composer, and producer. His sound 
played a pivotal role in shaping New Orleans culture and the music that 
makes it so distinctive.
  Dr. John was born on November 20, 1941 in New Orleans' 3rd Ward. A 
precocious young talent, he honed his God-given gifts at Jesuit High 
School where he grew immensely at his craft. His time spent with older 
musical peers helped Dr. John lay the foundation for the success he 
would enjoy later in his career.
  After serving time in the 1960's, Dr. John spent some time in Los 
Angeles, California before releasing his debut album, ``Gris-Gris'' in 
the beginning of 1968. The album, which could be described as an 
eclectic mixture of rock and traditional New Orleans-themed music, 
included ``I Walk on Guilded Splinters,'' which is widely considered 
one of his most recognizable songs.
  Four years later, Dr. John released ``Dr. John's Gumbo'' followed by 
``In the Right Place'' in 1973, and ``Desitively Bonnaroo'' in 1974.
  Dr. John performed at several large platforms during his career, 
including the White House and the 2006 National Football League Super 
Bowl in Detroit where he performed the national anthem with Aretha 
Franklin and Aaron Neville as part of a tribute to New Orleans in the 
aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
  Dr. John was a Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer who proudly spread New 
Orleans culture through his music. He embodied New Orleans and 
personified its bold character. While he will be sorely missed, his 
imprint and legacy in New Orleans history will remain present for a 
lifetime to come.
  Madam Speaker, I celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Malcolm John 
Rebennack, Jr.

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