Legendary funk and soul band David Batiste and The Gladiators was formed back in 1962 by Batiste and his brothers. They became one of the founding groups of New Orleans funk-rock and have built an international cult following. The Gladiators, with David Batiste on keyboards and lead vocals, had a hit record in 1970 with Funky Soul Parts 1 & 2 on the Soulin’ Label and later with Instant Records.
The track has since been featured on compilations and is a fave of crate-digging dance DJs. In 1965, the band was a talent show winner at Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater. Batiste also performed with the Meters as the keyboardist from 1977 to 1980 and performed on Saturday Night Live in 1977.
Today the Gladiators play diverse music and can jam on blues, jazz, country, straight-ahead rock, and just about any style of music. They regularly perform in New Orleans at The House of Blues and Snug Harbor, among other venues. David’s son, the late-great Russell Batiste was the drummer of The Funky Meters. Russell is greatly missed by all who knew him.. David’s nephew is the multi talented superstar and piano Maestro, Jon Batiste.
The Batistes have appeared across the United States as well as in South Africa, Mexico, Europe, and Japan.
David Batiste & The Gladiators will take the stage at 8pm for 2 full sets of funky soul music!
TICKETS are $30 in advance and $40 at the door.
Find tickets under the ‘Tickets’ tab.