About
Aaron Neville, born on January 24, 1941, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a legendary vocalist known for his soulful voice and distinctive falsetto. With a career spanning over six decades, Neville has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique blend of R&B, soul, gospel, and pop music, earning him a place among the most iconic singers of all time.
Neville first gained national recognition with his 1966 single “Tell It Like It Is,” a heartfelt ballad that topped the R&B charts and showcased his extraordinary vocal range and emotional depth. The song became a timeless classic and set the stage for his illustrious career.
In addition to his solo success, Neville is a founding member of The Neville Brothers, the legendary New Orleans group formed with his siblings Art, Charles, and Cyril. The band became cultural ambassadors of their hometown, blending funk, jazz, and soul in albums like Yellow Moon (1989) and Fiyo on the Bayou (1981).
Neville experienced a resurgence in popularity in the late 1980s and 1990s through collaborations with artists like Linda Ronstadt, with whom he recorded Grammy-winning duets “Don’t Know Much” and “All My Life.” These crossover hits introduced his music to a broader audience and solidified his place in both pop and R&B history.
Throughout his career, Neville has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including gospel collections like Devotion (2000) and explorations of American standards in Nature Boy: The Standards Album (2003). His ability to interpret a wide range of genres with authenticity and grace has made him a beloved figure in music.
In 2021, Neville announced his retirement from touring, though his influence and legacy endure. His voice, rich with the spirit of New Orleans, continues to inspire generations of listeners and artists.
