Allen Toussaint Death Sparks Social Media Reaction From Musicians

Jazz Musician Remembered For His Soulful Sounds

In this day of American Idol stars, YouTube sensations and jerks like Justin Bieber, you may not know the name of Allen Toussaint.

But true musicians know Toussaint and his passing touches those who knew and respected this blues and jazz musician.

At 77, he died of a heart attack and the reaction was as touching as his songs.

Here’s to the New Orleans soul that will never be lost. #AllenToussaint pic.twitter.com/BC8QeR2h6F

— PledgeMusic (@PledgeMusic) November 10, 2015

Rest well my friend! You will be truly missed! #AllenToussaint #GoneButNotForgotten https://t.co/LbqRiuSsmD — Patti LaBelle (@MsPattiPatti) November 10, 2015

HIs compositions were covered by, among others, the Rolling Stones, The Who, Bonnie Raitt, Boz Scaggs and Phish.

While in the Army, he recorded a song called “Whipped Cream” with Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass that became the theme song for the TV show “The Dating Game.”

The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation and New Orleans Convention Visitors Bureau issued a combined statement. Toussaint was a pioneer in the New Orleans jazz scene and is a major reason music is such an important part of the culture of the city for not just locals but also for visitors.

“On behalf of the New Orleans tourism industry, we send our heartfelt sympathy to the family and close friends of Allen Toussaint and share with the citizens of New Orleans a deep, sad but incredibly appreciative bond on the passing of one of our most revered native sons…… an extraordinary musical genius.

“A musical ambassador, originator, creator, collaborator, Allen Toussaint’s name was synonymous with New Orleans. He will always be remembered as who we are at our essence. As we say goodbye, we are comforted knowing Allen’s spirit will live on forever across the globe with the rhythms of his life and music and with new generations of musicians forever inspired by his gifts to us all.”

Social Media Reaction To Allen Toussaint’s Death

There was, naturally, an outpouring on social media.

RT @Rat_On: #AllenToussaint being awarded the National Medal of Arts by @BarackObama pic.twitter.com/JnjkLMqw5r

— DJ Soul Sister (@djsoulsister) November 10, 2015

#AllenToussaint is the perfect bouncy blend for this Tues morn. #RIP and thank you. #NOLA — John Stamos (@JohnStamos) November 10, 2015

#Regram of the week from @Danny_Clinch. RIP #AllenToussaint, there will never be anyone more gracious & talented. pic.twitter.com/saV1kDTZq9

— Preservation Hall (@PresHall) November 11, 2015

Toussaint, along with Jimmy Buffett, sang at the memorial to CBS reporter Ed Bradley in Washington. This video of “Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans showcases his talent on the keyboard.