The Wild Magnolias

Functioning chiefly as a ceremonial ensemble rather than a group that performs regularly or tours, the New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Tribe known as the Wild Magnolias released a widely praised album on Polydor in 1974. Bo Dollis, Monk Boudreaux, June Johnson, Jr., Crip Adams, Tobias Johnson, Bubba Scott, and James Smothers captured the intense and soulful spirit of New Orleans on the recording, with instrumental support from Willie Tee's band. Modest sales did not prevent widespread media attention that prompted appearances by the Magnolias at Carnegie Hall and the Capitol Center in Washington D.C. later that same year.