Gerald French

Gerald French carries the mantle of jazz on his giant shoulders as the leader of the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, arguably the oldest jazz band in the world. The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, was founded in 1910 by cornetist Oscar “Papa” Celestin, and run for many years by Gerald’s grandfather, Albert “Papa” French. Gerald brings his impeccable drumming and jovial personality to many other bands, notably Charmain Neville and the Dixie Cups, and has worked with a Who’s Who of New Orleans talent ranging from Harry Connick Jr. to Dr. John. He can also be heard on WWOZ as DJ Giant and as the Jazz Police.