The Neville Brothers

The Neville Brothers are a band that needs no introduction. With a career spanning more than four decades, they have become one of the most influential families in music history. The Neville Brothers – Art, Charles, Cyril and Aaron – come from a long line of New Orleans musicians, and their sound is truly unique. In this article, we will take a look at the Neville Brothers' story and explore how they became one of the most successful bands in history.

The Neville Brothers formed in 1977, with Art Neville as the leader and frontman. They quickly gained recognition for their blend of R&B, funk, soul, and New Orleans jazz. Their 1978 debut album, "The Neville Brothers," was a hit among critics and fans alike.

But before they became a band, each Neville brother had already established successful solo careers. Art Neville was known as a keyboardist for The Meters, while Aaron Neville had several hits as a solo R&B singer in the 1960s and 1970s. Cyril Neville was also a member of The Meters, while Charles Neville played saxophone for numerous legendary artists like B.B. King and Al Green.

After years of touring and recording as solo artists, the Neville Brothers came together to form their own band. They became known for their energetic live performances and were a staple at music festivals like Newport Jazz Festival and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

The Neville Brothers found mainstream success with the release of 1989’s “Yellow Moon,” which featured their hit cover of “Fire on the Bayou.” They continued to release critically-acclaimed albums throughout the 1990s, including 1994’s “Brother’s Keeper” and 1997’s “Valley of Silence.”

But it was their contribution to The Neville Brothers' collaboration with fellow New Orleans musicians on the soundtrack for 1994’s “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle” that really put them on the map. Their cover of The Meters’ “Sister Rosa” received a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance, solidifying their place in music history.

In 2012, after 35 years together, the Neville Brothers announced their retirement. They went out with a bang, performing one final show at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival to a sold-out crowd and receiving a standing ovation.

Today, each Neville brother continues to have successful solo careers and are highly respected musicians in the industry. But it is their work as The Neville Brothers that will forever be remembered as a defining piece of American music. Their unique blend of genres and tight familial bonds make The Neville Brothers an unforgettable band in music history.