New Orleans Honors Art "Poppa Funk" Neville with Street Renaming

In a heartfelt tribute to one of New Orleans' most iconic musicians, the New Orleans City Council has approved the renaming of two blocks of Valence Street, between Camp and Coliseum Streets, to Neville Way. This honorary renaming celebrates the late Art "Poppa Funk" Neville, a founding member of both The Meters and the Neville Brothers, whose contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the city's cultural heritage.

A Storied Legacy

Art Neville, along with his brothers Aaron, Charles, and Cyril, formed the Neville Brothers in the 1970s, creating a unique sound that blended funk, soul, and New Orleans rhythm and blues. Before that, Art had already made significant strides in defining the funk genre with The Meters in the 1960s. The Neville Brothers' music not only entertained but also encapsulated the essence of New Orleans, making the city proud of its rich musical heritage.

The Renaming Ceremony

The decision to rename the two blocks of Valence Street was met with enthusiasm and support from the community. During the renaming ceremony, members of the Neville family shared stories about their time living on Valence Street, reminiscing about the days that shaped their musical journey. The event was marked by a traditional New Orleans second line parade, a festive procession with music and dancing, which wound through the newly named Neville Way, celebrating the legacy of Art Neville and his brothers.

Community and Cultural Impact

The renaming of Valence Street to Neville Way is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a recognition of the Neville family's profound impact on New Orleans' music scene. Councilmember Lesli Harris, who authored the ordinance, emphasized the significance of this tribute, noting that the brothers' exposure to gospel music in their youth on Valence Street ignited their passion for music. This passion led to a career that garnered over 15 Grammy nominations and numerous accolades.

 A Lasting Tribute

The honorary street name signs will be installed upon payment of the related fees and will remain in place for ten years. This temporary but meaningful tribute ensures that the legacy of the Neville family is visibly celebrated in the neighborhood that played a crucial role in their upbringing. The renaming also serves as a reminder of the cultural and musical contributions of the Neville Brothers, whose influence extends beyond New Orleans to the global music stage.

Continuing the Legacy

The Neville family's musical legacy continues through the next generation. Art's son Ian and Aaron's son Ivan have been performing with the band Dumpstaphunk since 2003. Other family members, including Jason Neville, Charmaine Neville, and Cyril's children Omari and Imani, have also made significant contributions to the music industry. Aaron and Cyril Neville, the surviving members of the original Neville Brothers lineup, continue to inspire and influence musicians worldwide.