NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Nick Daniels III, renowned bassist and vocalist of the New Orleans-based funk band Dumpstaphunk, has died. He was 68.
Daniels was battling multiple myeloma. The band posted praying hands emojis earlier this week. Daniels was one-half of Dumpstaphunk’s storied two-man bass section alongside co-founder Tony Hall.
The band mentioned his passing on stage during a performance Friday night at the Fillmore.
Dumpstaphunk is scheduled to perform at Jazz Fest on Thursday, May 2 on the Festival Stage from 3-4:30 p.m. They will play at the Maple Leaf Bar on Friday, May3, and at Tipitina’s on Sunday, May 5.
Daniels’ contributions to the music scene, characterized by powerful bass lines and soulful vocals, left an indelible mark on funk music.The New Orleans native played with several notable bands and musicians, including the Neville Brothers, Etta James, Allen Toussaint, The Uptown All-Stars, Dr. Klaw, and countless others.
The New Orleans music scene awoke Saturday to the news and shared their tributes on social media.
Ivan Neville changed his profile and cover photos to pictures of Daniels.
“If you ever saw him play, you know how his voice soared like a soulful eagle and his bass playing rumbled the house,” fellow musician Adam Deitch of Lettuce wrote.
As a core member of Dumpstaphunk, Daniels helped propel the band to international fame with his deep grooves and energetic performances. He was instrumental in creating the group’s unique sound, blending elements of funk, rock, and soul.
“He could do things I could never imagine being able to do. But my favorite part of seeing Nick was his genuine kindness to me for as long as I can remember,” Galactic bassist Robert Mercurio wrote Saturday.
Daniels’ influence extended beyond the stage. He was known for mentoring young musicians and actively participating in the New Orleans community. Friends and fellow musicians remember him as a warm-hearted, dedicated artist who always had time for others.
He is survived by his family, friends, and countless fans.
See a spelling or grammar error in our story? Click Here to report it. Please include the headline.
Subscribe to the Fox 8 YouTube channel.
Copyright 2024 WVUE. All rights reserved.