In 1965, George Porter Jr. and three talented friends from New Orleans formed The Meters. They were completely original and became one of the seminal funk bands in history, much sampled and much beloved. The band opened for The Rolling Stones for two years, had a Top 40 hit with “Cissy Strut”, and served as the house band for Allen Toussaint’s record label. 60 years later, Porter is still out there recording and touring. The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner has always been an in-demand session player with an incredible discography that includes many top acts (Dr. John, Paul McCartney, Albert King, Labelle, Robbie Robertson, Solomon Burke, David Byrne, Tori Amos, Robert Palmer, Harry Connick, Jr., Terrance Simien, Taj Mahal). “Lady Marmalade” anyone? In recent years he’s also been a favorite of the jam band scene, having played with Page McConnell of Phish, Voodoo Dead, Warren Haynes, and more.
When asked about the 60th anniversary of The Meters and a potential reunion, Porter said, “It’s really 60 years? I can’t believe that. The existing members that are still alive are barely speaking to each other, so I would think that’s probably far-fetched to think that something like that would happen. When dead presidents speak…you never know what you’re going to hear. So maybe, maybe not.” Porter said there is unreleased Meters music that was recently found in a storage unit, that was recorded at Toussaint’s studio, but they have not figured out a way to release that yet.
Porter doesn’t seem to dwell in the past. He always has an interesting musical project or three going on. He released an enjoyable instrumental album in February, Porter’s Pocket, with his Runnin’ Pardners band (Michael Lemmler, Chris Adkins, Terrence Houston). They set out to make a jazz record and while it has that flavor, the funk of New Orleans permeates many of the songs.
George Porter Jr. and his Runnin' Pardners band will play locally the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on March 29, 2025.
You can SEE Dave Popkin’s entire interview with George Porter Jr. here.
Links: The Meters “Cissy Strut”:
The Meters – Jazz Fest set 1992:
George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners “Don Julio Rides Again”:
George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners “Gangs In Alamosa”:
