Happy Birthday, Mr. Gabriel!

Mr. Charlie Gabriel, of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, celebrated his 84th birthday on July 11, 2016. Charlie Gabriel, who was born in New Orleans, has an extensive family history comprised of notable New Orleans jazz musicians. Mr. Gabriel moved to Detroit, MI at the age of 15 and stayed there until the age of 77, when Preservation Hall Jazz Band first contacted him. Throughout Mr. Gabriel’s extensive career as a professional musician, he oversaw a diverse range of projects. These include playing with numerous noteworthy musicians such as Charles Mingus, Ray Fox, and Aretha Franklin, working as a bandleader in clubs playing music for exotic dancers, and traveling the world touring with various bands and continues to do so today with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Not only does Charlie bring extensive knowledge and exceptional musicianship to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, but his incredible spirit and positivity feeds the soul of the band. Thank you, Charlie, for touching our lives. Happy 84th year; here is to many more. Photo courtesy of Shannon Brinkman.