Ernie-K-Doe had a huge hit with the novelty song “Mother-in-Law” in 1961. He and his wife Antoinette opened their own club in New Orleans in 1994 which was a popular stop for musicians coming through town. Ernie had been through the mill but with help of his wife he regained his dignity and some well-deserved recognition towards the end of his career.

Taj Mahal says, Ernie K-Doe’s music was some of the best New Orleans music I ever heard. What excited me most about him was his vocal style, the way he raised his notes at the end of the line. He always sang positively about what he was singing about. K-Doe and I talked about it and he was surprised that I listened that close. He is a big factor in the way I sing my words today.”

Ernie-K-Doe passed away in 2001. New Orleans gave him the largest funeral parade in years.