“Iko Iko” Social Organization and Sonic Connections Revision #2
Primarily, the most important social organization components are who makes the music, what kinds of training do the musicians have and who listens to the music. The Cresent city is a diverse musical melting pot. “Iko Iko” is a community song and is a personal landmark of New Orleans musical culture. The sweet consonant harmony and vocal call and response are major facets of “Iko Iko”. “Iko Iko” is a playful song and it pays tribute to the spirit of New Orleans.
First of all, Dr. John’s version of “Iko Iko” is simply amazing. He creates a communal musical atmosphere as he masterfully plays his piano in a major key. His vocals mesh well together with the back up chorus singers. For example, it’s perfect call and response synchronization.
The sense of community in this song comes forth in a celebratory and participatory manner! Dr. John described his 1972 album “Dr. John’s Gumbo”: “this album is like a picture of the music New Orleans people listen to, a combination of Dixieland, Rock and Roll, and Funk. (It’s) a basic good-time New Orleans blues and stomp music with a little Dixieland jazz and some Spanish rumba blues” (Pg. 150-151).
In November 1976, Dr. John performed on the Band’s farewell concert “The Last Waltz”. Dr. John joined such musical legends as Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, Ronnie Wood, Van Morrison and Eric Clapton. During that performance, he shared his song “Such a Night” and he played it on the piano!
There is something so unique and casual about Dr. John. He defines the magic of New Orleans musical culture. He is a true legend. His stage presence is truly extraordinary.
Dr. John’s talent transforms “Iko Iko” into a highly energetic piece of New Orleans musical history!
Dr. John grew up with all sorts of influences and he listened to all kinds of different music. According to “Musical Gumbo”, “my aunt Andree showed me how to play the Texas boogie. I used to hear her play stuff like “Everybody Loves My Baby”. Other uncles and aunts, as well as his mother and his sister Bobbie, also played. The first music he could recall hearing were minstrel songs sung by his grandfather, tunes such as “Didn’t He Ramble” and ” I’ve Been Hoodooed” (Lichtenstein, Pg. 144).
In addition, it seems as if Dr. John’s early musical exposure aided his interest later on in his life! His interpretation of “Iko Iko” is participatory and community centered.
In conclusion, one must note the importance of New Orleans community in music. Dr. John is certainly a musical legend and his piano playing is simply amazing. His casual attitude and performance brings forth his dedication to the great city of New Orleans.
Works Cited
Lichtenstein, Grace, and Laura Dankner. Mucho Gumbo: The Music of New Orleans.
New York: W.W. Norton, 1993. Print.
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