The Meters

Considered by many to be one of the founding fathers of funk, The Meters created a unique sound that blended funk, blues, and dance grooves with a New Orleans vibe. Formed in 1965 by keyboardist & vocalist Art Neville, bassist George Porter Jr., drummer Joseph 'Zigaboo' Modeliste, and guitarist Leo Nocentelli, they became the house band for Allen Toussaint and his record label. With major R&B chart hits like "Sophisticated Cissy" and "Cissy Strut", The Meters gained recognition in 1969. After disbanding in 1979 due to business problems, they reformed in 1989 and continued performing as The Funky Meters.

The history of this native New Orleans band dates back to 1965 when Art Neville recruited George Porter Jr., Zigaboo Modeliste, and Leo Nocentelli to form The Meters. They became the house band for Allen Toussaint and his record label. In 1969, The Meters released major R&B chart hits like "Sophisticated Cissy" and "Cissy Strut". Cyril Neville joined the band in 1975 as a percussionist and vocalist for three albums.

After twelve years and ten studio albums, The Meters disbanded in 1979 due to business problems. However, they reunited after an informal jam during the 1989 New