One of the many thousands who lost their homes and belongings to Hurricane Katrina was New Orleans music legend and lifelong resident "Fats" Domino. Although it's been nearly two years since Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, Domino is still struggling to rebuild. As VOA's Doug Levine tells us, his wait may be over as more than two dozen world-famous performers rush to his aid with a new charity tribute album.
Authorities were so sure that Fats Domino had died in the hurricane, that they painted the message, "Rest in peace Fats, you will be missed," on what remained of his home in the city's hard-hit Lower 9th Ward. Miraculously, reports later surfaced that Domino and his family were rescued by boat and taken to a shelter in nearby Baton Rouge.
Tragedy did not stop 79-year-old "Fats" Domino from returning to the stage. He released an album in 2006, and in May 2007, he performed to a full house at Tipitina's nightclub in New Orleans.
The new album, Goin' Home: A Tribute To Fats Domino, features top names from rock, blues, country, reggae jazz and R&B, who stepped up to thank the R&B veteran for 50 years of great music, as well as his dedication to the restoration of his native New Orleans.
Some of Fats Domino's biggest hits are covered on the tribute album, from Toots and the Maytals' version of "Let The Four Winds Blow" and Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers' "I'm Walkin," to Elton John singing "Blueberry Hill." Also featured are Paul McCartney, Willie Nelson, B.B. King, Neil Young, Robert Plant, Norah Jones, Los Lobos, Bruce Hornsby and Lenny Kravitz, while Irma Thomas, Doctor John, Art Neville and The Preservation Hall Jazz Band give the collection some local flavor.
Proceeds from sales of the album will be donated to New Orleans public school's music programs and the rebuilding of the Domino home.
