James Carroll Booker III, born December 17, 1939, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a piano virtuoso whose eclectic style blended R&B, jazz, blues, and classical music. Raised in a musical family, Booker’s father was a Baptist minister and pianist, and his mother encouraged his early talent. At age six, he began piano lessons, showing prodigious ability. A childhood accident—being hit by a car at nine—left him with a lifelong limp and possibly contributed to his later struggles with addiction, but it didn’t dim his musical passion. He was influenced by local pianists like Professor Longhair and Tuts Washington, whose syncopated New Orleans style shaped his playing.
Booker’s professional start came early. At 12, he performed on WMRY radio’s “Negroes Make Music” program, earning local fame. By 14, he was playing gigs in New Orleans clubs, often sneaking in due to his age. His first recording, “Doin’ the Hambone” (1954), was released under the name “Little Booker” for Imperial Records, arranged through Fats Domino’s producer, Dave Bartholomew. This early exposure led to session work with artists like Smiley Lewis and Lloyd Price.
Booker’s breakthrough as a solo artist came in the 1970s, despite personal challenges. After years of battling drug addiction and legal issues, he recorded Junco Partner (1976) and New Orleans Piano Wizard: Live! (1977), showcasing his dazzling technique and unique blend of styles. His performances at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and European tours gained him a cult following, though mainstream success eluded him. Known as the “Black Liberace” for his flamboyant stage presence, Booker’s genius was often overshadowed by his erratic behavior. He died on November 8, 1983, but his recordings continue to influence pianists like Harry Connick Jr. and Dr. John.
