404 - Dr. John - Dr. John's Gumbo - Harry Shearer
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EPISODE SUMMARY:
Music history is full of unusual and outlandish characters. But when you scratch below the surface, it becomes clear that these are often just affectations put on by people just trying to stand out in a crowd. Few actually have as storied a life and career as Mac Rebennack, a.k.a. Dr. John, who truly embodied the cultural flavor and mysticism, as well as the blues, jazz and funk of the city that birthed him: New Orleans. Dr. John’s 1972 album Dr. John’s Gumbo pays respectful homage to his heritage, as actor, comedian and musician Harry Shearer dutifully notes through his own encyclopedic knowledge of the man’s work. After all, Harry has derived plenty of inspiration from Dr. John’s amalgamation of themes and playing styles in his own diverse oeuvre, including Spinal Tap, SNL and The Simpsons.
SHOW NOTES:
00:30 - Intro
10:45 - After the flood
13:15 - Can’t get high to save your life
19:45 - Mac and Me
25:00 - The Mardi Gras Indians
29:45 - An unpitchable idea
41:00 - The many moods of a madman
47:00 - Starting on a path few would follow
59:15 - Making funny voices
1:11:45 - Revisiting familiar faces
1:17:00 - The Big Easy’s big secret
1:22:00 - Too topical humor
1:31:30 - Life is too short not to work hard
1:38:00 - Facts!
1:40:30 - Regrettable roles
1:42:45 - The endearing nature of Derek Smalls
1:45:00 - Outro/New music