R.I.P. Eddie Bo, New Orleans music legend

A special memorial service is set for April 1 for  New Orleans music legend Eddie Bo, who died recently at the age of 79.  Eddie had some hits of his own, most notably “Check Mr. Popeye” in 1962.  Bo, whose real name was Edwin Joseph Bocage, wrote dozens of other songs including “I’m Wise,” which Little Richard cut as “Slippin’ And Slidin’.”

Eddie was not only a great singer and songwriter, he was a master on the piano and a fine showman.  My wife and I saw him at Tipitina’s (the French Quarter version) some years ago at a free “happy hour.”  We walked in off the street – the music was too irresistible – and sat down for two of the finest hours of music I’ve ever seen.  Keep it funky, Eddie.

MP3: “Check Mr. Popeye”

MP3: “Tell It Like It Is”

MP3: “I’m Wise”

MP3: “Hook And Sling”

MP3: “I Love To Rock N’ Roll”

MP3: “Check Your Bucket”

Billboard magazine article on Eddie Bo

Official Eddie Bo website