New Orleans, Louisiana, is so proud of their native bluesman Walter"Wolfman" Washington, the city recently celebrated a day in his honor. As VOA's Doug Levine tells us, Washington delivers a tribute of his ownwith a new album of New Orleans R&B, Doin' The Funky Thing.

Walter "Wolfman" Washington

Walter"Wolfman" Washington has been doing the "funky thing" for decades. Heachieved legendary status by playing guitar and singing backup for NewOrleans icons Ernie K-Doe, Lee Dorsey and Johnny Adams. One of hisbiggest fans is fellow Crescent City crooner Doctor John who says,"Since I first heard 'The Wolf,' I thought that he was one of thehippest guitar players and singers." Doctor John should know. Heplays the Hammond B-3 organ on the song "I'm Back."

Walter"Wolfman" Washington marks his return to the studio with "I'm Back." He took time off to write new material, update his band TheRoadmasters, and rebuild his life after Hurricane Katrina tore throughNew Orleans almost three years ago.

Doin' The Funky Thing CD

Washington pays tribute tothe Big Easy and its long history of great Southern soul with suchtracks as "Crescent City Starlights" and "Landslide," as well as "WolfJazz," which puts him to the test as a jazz bandleader and arranger.

NewOrleans is famous for honoring its musical heroes. Proclaiming April30, 2008 as "Walter 'Wolfman' Washington Day," Mayor Ray Nagin bestowedupon Washington, "A special day of honor for a lifetime of amazingmusical performances representing New Orleans throughout the U.S. andaround the world."