There’s a unique magic in New Orleans music, a blend of rhythm, culture, spirit, storytelling, and exceptional musicianship that captivates the listener while making it impossible not to tap their toes. Meet De Boys on the Battlefront by The Wild Tchoupitoulas is a perfect example of this. Released in 1976 on the group’s only album, this song captures the energy of the Mardi Gras Indian tradition, where rival groups, known as “tribes,” parade through the streets in elaborate hand-sewn suits while chanting and singing in a rhythmic back and forth style. It’s not just music; it’s history, lifestyle, and identity woven into a groove that just won’t quit.
The Wild Tchoupitoulas wasn’t a typical band. It was the creation of George “Big Chief Jolly” Landry, leader of the Tchoupitoulas Mardi Gras Indian tribe. With the help of his nephews, the Neville brothers, he brought the traditional street chants into a recording studio, mixing them with instrumentation by members of the iconic funk band, The Meters. The result was a unique album that bridged the old world of New Orleans street culture with the hip new upcoming funk scene.
Fun Fact: “Meet De Boys on the Battlefront” is based on the melody and rhythm of Rum and Coca Cola, a 1943 song by Trinidadian calypso artist Lord Invader (cool name huh). That song became widely known in the U.S. after the Andrews Sisters popularized it in 1944.
Fun Fact II: The experience of recording this album solidified the Neville brothers as a musical team. Art, Aaron, Charles, and Cyril all played a role in this album, and soon after, they officially formed The Neville Brothers band.
Meet De Boys on the Battlefront is simply a good time. It’s a song that turns any room into a second-line parade. At least it does for me and my kids. 🙂 Hope you enjoy!
Song: “Meet De Boys On The Battlefront”
Artist: The Wild Tchoupitoulas
Album: The Wild Tchoupitoulas
Year: 1976
Meet de boys on the Battlefront
Meet de boys on the Battlefront
Meet de boys on the Battlefront
Yeah the Wild Tchoupitoulas gonna stomp some rump!
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My name is Michael Sanchez and I’m an avid record collector and obscure song searcher. My goal is to post (hopefully) one song a day that’s been on my stereo/turntable frequently. If you don’t like the song… too bad 🙂 You can just wait for the next one. I do use A.I. here and there to help with writing and grammar. All the info I find is from wikipedia/youtube/interviews/news articles/personal stories I’ve heard/random googling. If you notice any mistakes, let me know or just keep it inside and be mad. Thanks!
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