Lionel Batiste(1931-2012)
- Actor
Began his music career at the age of 11 playing bass drum with the
Square Deal Social & Pleasure Club. He was the bass drummer, vocalist
and assistant leader of the Treme Brass Band; known for his kazoo
playing and singing as well, and has recorded a cd as a vocalist.
Besides inspiring younger musicians with his playing, he served as a
role model to many of them: trumpeter Kermit Ruffins calls Batiste his
"total influence," saying that Batiste "taught [him] how to act, how to
dress, how to feel about life." Internationally, Batiste has served as
leader of the daily Moldejazz parade since 2000. He was king of the
Krewe du Vieux for 2003.