Legendary drummer and founding member of The Meters, known for his innovative, funky drumming style that heavily influenced New Orleans jazz and rock music.
Ziggy Modeliste, also known as Zigaboo Modeliste, is an American drummer extraordinaire, celebrated as a founding member of the iconic funk band, the Meters. With his revolutionary drumming style, he played a pivotal role in shaping the funk genre and New Orleans-style drumming, leaving an indelible mark on the music world.
Born on December 28, 1948, in the 13th Ward of New Orleans, Modeliste grew up surrounded by the vibrant musical heritage of his hometown. The eldest of six siblings, he was raised in part by his grandmother, Lula Blouin, who supported his early interest in drumming by purchasing his first three-piece drum set. Nicknamed "Zigaboo" at the tender age of ten, Modeliste would go on to hone his craft by watching and learning from New Orleans drum greats, including Smokey Johnson and Bob French.
In the mid-1960s, Modeliste co-founded the Meters, a band that would become synonymous with New Orleans funk. Alongside Leo Nocentelli, George Porter Jr., and Art Neville, the Meters pioneered a unique sound that blended funk, rock, and R&B, setting the tone for a new era of music. Their infectious grooves and innovative drumming style, characterized by complex polyrhythms and syncopated beats, redefined the funk genre and influenced generations of musicians to come.
As a songwriter and session musician, Modeliste's work can be heard on numerous albums by various artists. His drum grooves have been extensively sampled in hip-hop, television, and film, cementing his status as a rhythmic trailblazer. He has released four solo albums, showcasing his versatility and creativity as a drummer and composer.
Ziggy Modeliste's contributions to funk and New Orleans-style drumming have had a profound impact on modern music. His influence can be heard in the work of artists such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beastie Boys, and Galactic, among many others. As a cultural ambassador, Modeliste has helped to perpetuate the rich musical heritage of New Orleans, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.
"Your biggest teachers were those two things you got on the side of your head. ... It's got nothing to do with rudiments, nothing to do with time signatures, but it's got a lot to do with what you hear."
Today, Ziggy Modeliste resides in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he continues to perform, tour, and inspire with his infectious rhythms and unparalleled drumming skills. As a living legend, his legacy extends far beyond his work with the Meters, cementing his place as one of the most significant and influential drummers in the history of funk music.
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