A New Orleans R&B pianist and songwriter, known for his boogie-woogie style and hits like "Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" and "Don't You Just Know It".
Huey "Piano" Smith, born on January 26, 1934, was an American R&B pianist whose influential sound played a significant role in shaping the development of rock and roll. His unique piano playing style, which blended boogie-woogie, jazz, and R&B elements, became a defining characteristic of New Orleans R&B.
Smith was born in the Central City neighborhood of New Orleans, where he grew up surrounded by the city's vibrant music scene. As a young boy, he was influenced by Professor Longhair, a renowned pianist and singer who was known for his innovative style. Smith's early exposure to Longhair's music had a profound impact on his own playing style, which would eventually become a hallmark of New Orleans R&B.
At the age of eight, Smith wrote his first song, "Robertson Street Boogie," named after the street where he lived. He performed the tune with his friend Percy Anderson, billing themselves as "Slick and Doc." This early start paved the way for a successful music career, which would span over five decades.
In the 1950s, Smith's music career began to take off. He signed with Savoy Records in 1952, releasing his first single, "You Made Me Cry." He then went on to record with Earl King in 1953 and became the piano player for Little Richard's first band in 1955. These early collaborations helped establish Smith as a sought-after session musician in New Orleans.
In 1956, Smith recorded his debut single, "Little Liza Jane," with his Rhythm Aces for Ace Records. The song's success marked the beginning of his solo career, which would yield several hits, including "Rockin' Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu." This iconic song, which Steve Huey of AllMusic described as "infectious and rollicking," became Smith's signature tune and a staple of New Orleans R&B.
Huey "Piano" Smith's contributions to the development of rock and roll and New Orleans R&B are undeniable. His unique piano playing style, which blended different genres, influenced a generation of musicians, including Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and Fats Domino. Smith's music also had a profound impact on the broader music landscape, paving the way for future generations of R&B, rock, and soul musicians.
Throughout his career, Smith received numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy nomination for his album, "I'm Still Rockin'." He was also inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame and the Blues Hall of Fame.
Smith's personal life was marked by several milestones, including his marriage to his wife, Barbara, and the birth of his children, Huey Jr. and Karen. He was known for his kind and humble nature, which earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike.
In his later years, Smith continued to perform and record music, releasing his last album, "Having a Party," in 2008. He passed away on February 13, 2023, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians today.
Huey "Piano" Smith's impact on the music world is immeasurable. His unique sound, which blended the best of New Orleans R&B, rock and roll, and jazz, continues to delight audiences and inspire new generations of musicians. As a testament to his enduring legacy, Smith's music remains an integral part of American musical heritage.
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