Ivan Neville
Ivan Neville, born on August 19, 1959, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a multi-instrumentalist musician, singer, and songwriter whose career has spanned several decades and genres. As the son of Aaron Neville and the nephew of the other members of The Neville Brothers, Ivan has inherited a rich musical legacy that he has expanded and enriched through his own unique contributions.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Ivan's solo career took off with the release of his debut album, *If My Ancestors Could See Me Now*, in 1988. The album featured the hit single "Not Just Another Girl," which reached number 26 on the Billboard charts. His second single, "Falling Out of Love," a duet with Bonnie Raitt, also gained significant attention and was featured in the 1989 comedy *Skin Deep*. Ivan's recording of "Why Can't I Fall in Love" was included in the 1990 soundtrack for the film *Pump Up the Volume*, further establishing his presence in the music industry.
Collaborations and Contributions
Throughout his career, Ivan has collaborated with a wide array of artists, showcasing his versatility. He played with Bonnie Raitt's band from 1985 to 1987, contributing the song "All Day, All Night" to her *Nine Lives* album. Ivan also lent his keyboard talents to two Rolling Stones albums, *Dirty Work* (1986) and *Voodoo Lounge* (1994), and was a member of Keith Richards' solo band, the X-Pensive Winos. His contributions to Richards' albums *Talk is Cheap* and *Main Offender* and subsequent tours highlighted his ability to seamlessly blend into different musical styles.
In addition to his work with these legendary artists, Ivan has appeared on records by Don Henley, Robbie Robertson, Rufus, Paula Abdul, and Delbert McClinton. He even stepped in as the lead vocalist for the Spin Doctors during their 1999-2000 tour when Chris Barron lost his voice, recording on their album *Here Comes the Bride*.
Dumpstaphunk and Beyond
In 2003, Ivan formed his own band, Dumpstaphunk, which has become a staple in the funk music scene. The band self-released their full-length studio debut, *Everybody Want Sum*, in 2010, and has since been known for their high-energy performances and deep grooves. Dumpstaphunk's lineup includes talented musicians such as Nick Daniels and Tony Hall on bass, Ian Neville on guitar, and Raymond Weber on drums.
Ivan's involvement in benefit projects has also been notable. After Hurricane Katrina, he joined The New Orleans Social Club and recorded the benefit album *Sing Me Back Home*, with his rendition of John Fogerty's "Fortunate Son" receiving critical acclaim. He also contributed to the tribute album *Goin' Home: A Tribute to Fats Domino* in 2007.
Awards and Recognition
Ivan Neville's contributions to music have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple awards from *OffBeat*'s Best of The Beat Awards, including Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer with Dumpstaphunk and Best Piano/Keyboard. His consistent recognition in these categories underscores his impact and excellence in the music industry.
Recent Work and Legacy
Ivan continues to innovate and contribute to the music world. His solo discography includes albums like *Thanks* (1994), *Saturday Morning Music* (2002), *Scrape* (2004), and *Touch My Soul* (2023). His performances and recordings remain a testament to his enduring talent and versatility.
Ivan Neville's career is a remarkable blend of honoring his family's musical legacy while forging his own path. His ability to adapt and excel across various genres and collaborations has solidified his place as a key figure in the world of music. As he continues to create and perform, Ivan Neville's influence and contributions will undoubtedly inspire future generations of musicians.