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Walter Nelson Jr.

 


Walter Nelson (far right) playing with Fats Domino | Public Domain/YouTube | tc799

Guitarist Walter Charles “Papoose” Nelson Jr. was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on 26 July 1932. His father was Walter Nelson who played with Smiley Lewis’ band. His brother Lawrence was a songwriter who also sang under the name of Prince La La. By 1949 Papoose Nelson was playing in the band of Professor Longhair, which is when he acquired his heroin addiction. He played on most Fats Domino recordings from 1951 to 1961, and also taught Dr. John (Mac Rebennack) how to play the guitar. Mr Nelson died from an accidental overdose of heroin in New York City on 28 February 1962.

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