“Me Got Fiyo: The Professor Longhair Centennial,” a new exhibit celebrating the life and legacy of piano player extraordinaire Professor Longhair opens on Thursday just in time for visitors to Satchmo Summerfest at the U.S. Mint. This exhibit showcases the life of Henry Roeland Byrd, aka “Fess,” starting with his roots and development to his early hits such as “Tipitina,” “Mardi Gras In New Orleans,” and “Big Chief.”
“We are excited to create this exhibit celebrating Professor Longhair and his contributions to the great musical and cultural legacy of New Orleans,” said Greg Lambousy, Director of the New Orleans Jazz Museum. “We are particularly thrilled to see one special artifact—the electric piano first used by Fess and then by another great New Orleans pianist, Eddie Bo.”
Henry Roeland Byrd was born on December 19, 1918 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, about seventy miles north of New Orleans. Professor Longhair’s influence on New Orleans music is incalculable. His music defines an era in New Orleans music and has influenced virtually every piano player who has ever heard his unique amalgamation of blues, R&B, and Caribbean rhythms. His unconventional lyrics portray unique characters and situations that seem to happen only in New Orleans.
The exhibition opens with a reception at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave. on Thursday from 5–7 PM. It is free and open to the public and will feature complimentary refreshments and a cash bar.
Pianist Tom Worrell and percussionist Uganda Roberts will perform the music of Professor Longhair throughout the evening. Roberts was a longtime collaborator and performed often with the Professor.
The exhibit will be on display through July 1, 2019.
