In our "Yeah, You Right!" interview series, we toss 20 rapid-fire questions at some of the New Orleans music scene's brightest stars. Some of their answers will surprise you, so sit back and enjoy the ride!
This week's guest, sousaphonist extraordinaire Kirk Joseph, is one of the most influential musicians in New Orleans — a vertitable living legend. Born and raised in the Crescent City's 7th Ward, Kirk was playing professionally by the age of 15. In the late 1970s, he co-founded the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, and along with Anthony "Tuba Fats" Lacen, he helped establish the modern brass band sound in New Orleans.
Kirk also played in the Tremé Brass Band, the Forgotten Souls Brass Band, and now leads his own powerhouse — Backyard Groove — at clubs around town.
Go hear him play at the upcoming benefit concert for New Orleans Blues Queen Marva Wright at Tipitina's on August 22.
Q: Crystal or Louisiana Hot Sauce?
A: Crystal.
Q: Zapp’s or Tater Tots? A: With a meal, Tater Tots. But for a snack, gimme Zapp's.
Q: Mint Julep or Hurricane?
A: Hurricane.
Q: Beach or pool? A: Beach! Growing up in New Orleans, we don't have many here...
Q: Concert hall or nightclub? A: Nightclub.
Q: Congo Square Stage or Acura Stage? A: Congo Square — they have more local acts.
Q: iTunes or Louisiana Music Factory?
A: Louisiana Music Factory.
Q: Wynton Marsalis or Lil’ Wayne?
A: Gotta go with the horns. Wynton.
Q: Aretha or Mahalia? A: Mahalia.
Q: Samuel L. Jackson or Will Smith?
A: Will Smith.
Q: Lost or the Food Network?
A: Lost. I like sci-fi stuff.
Q: The Daily Show or CNN?
A: The Daily Show.
Q: Facebook or MySpace?
A: MySpace.
Q: TV or radio?
A: Neither... I never turn on the radio or TV. Except 'OZ of course!
Q: Books or magazines?
A: Magazines.
Q: SUV or hybrid?
A: Hybrid, but I don't have one. Maybe if I get in a car commercial...
Q: 1970s or 80s?
A: 1970s.
Q: NBA or NFL?
A: NFL.
Q: The Godfather or the Godfather of Soul?
A: Godfather of Soul.
Q: French Quarter or Uptown?
A: French Quarter... Downtown, really. I grew up in the 7th Ward.
