NICKEL-A-DANCE: Ronell Johnson's New Orleans Jazz Band

Ronell Johnson is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist specializing in Traditional New Orleans Jazz. With trombone as his principal instrument he is also highly proficient on tuba, piano, and organ. Born and raised in New Orleans, Ronell began learning music on trumpet and piano at the age of six. His music career began at the age of 12, performing professionally on organ, piano, trombone, and tuba. International travels began at the age of 15, with several New Orleans bands including his family band Coolbone.

While having learned from many great New Orleans trombonists, Ronell's style of playing is greatly influenced by legendary jazz trombonist James "Trummy" Young of the Louis Armstrong Jazz Band, and incorporates a technique of “tailgate” playing developed by famed New Orleans jazz trombonist Kid Ory. He and his three older brothers, also professional musicians, are the great-nephews of Joseph “Kid Twat” Butler, who was the string bass player with the legendary Kid Thomas Valentine and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. In 2003, Ronell began performing at Preservation Hall and later became a member of the principle touring band in 2012.

In addition to incredible skill, Ronell’s blend of power and energy (and humor) are unforgettable. His latest release entitled That Gentilly Swing, also features a duet with his wife, a classical pianist and composer. Ultimately, Ronell is dedicated to preserving Traditional New Orleans Jazz and sharing its flavor with music lovers worldwide.

NICKEL-A-DANCE is a free series of Sunday afternoon traditional jazz concerts started in 1994 that now take place each spring and fall season, and is a hit with children, families, seniors, and the general dancing public that don’t tend to go to night clubs.  It attracts a diverse group of fans that meet on Frenchmen Street to celebrate jazz as America’s original dance music while listening to the best of today’s classic jazz bands.