Pierre Dewey LaFontaine Jr., known professionally as Pete Fountain, was a master of the clarinet and a beacon of New Orleans jazz. Born in New Orleans on July 3, 1930, Pete grew up deeply immersed in the rich musical culture of the city. He began playing clarinet as a child, quickly demonstrating a prodigious talent that would lead him to become one of the most beloved jazz musicians of his generation.

Pete Fountain's music is synonymous with the sound of New Orleans. His virtuosity on the clarinet, paired with a deep understanding of the Dixieland jazz tradition, allowed him to perform with a joyous swing and soulful expression that captured the essence of the genre. Throughout his career, he released numerous albums that showcased his talent and the spirit of New Orleans music. Some of his standout releases include "Mood Indigo," "When The Saints Go Marchin' In," and "Creole Dixieland Jazz." Fountain also made notable television appearances, including a performance of "Tiger Rag" live on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1961. Fountain's influence on jazz went beyond his recordings; he was a regular fixture at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and led his own nightclub in the French Quarter, where he performed regularly until his retirement. Pete's legacy lives on through his music, exemplified in collections like "Pete Fountain Ultimate Collection" and "Big Bands Of The Swingin' Years: Pete Fountain (Digitally Remastered)," which affirm his standing as an icon of New Orleans jazz. Pete Fountain passed away on August 6, 2016, but his music continues to resonate with fans around the world.

Genres

Dixieland

Jazz Clarinet

New Orleans Jazz

Latest Release

Pete Fountain Ultimate Collection

Pete Fountain

Album - 10 Tracks - Released January 9, 2023