This is the Final Chorus column as it ran in the March 2019 print edition. Click on the name or image to be taken to the longer obituary as it originally ran online.
Paul Reid, who died suddenly in mid-February, was a beloved piano player and an all-around entertainer. Over a long career, he played solo piano in bars, performed with big bands and everything in between. He was a member of the Night Blooming Jazzmen from 1988 to 2001, and could more recently be heard at festivals as a member of Cornet Chop Suey.
During a fascinating life, he worked in all aspects of the music industry. He wrote advertising jingles and performed voice-overs for commercials, did music production for cartoons and radio stations, composed songs and lyrics, produced recordings and performed on recordings. He sang radio jingles but also led the Paul Reid Singers, playing everywhere from strip joints to Las Vegas. Over his career, he performed all styles of music from Dixieland to Harry James style swing.
Conrad R. “Connie” Jones III, died in his sleep on February 13th, a month shy of his 85th birthday. He was well known within New Orleans traditional jazz circles, and among serious fans nationwide for his mem
