Hundreds gather to pay tribute and honor the legend.
 |
| New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian nations assemble outside Xavier University's Convocation Center, the site of Wild Magnolias Big Chief Theodore "Bo" Dollis' funeral on Saturday, February 31, 2015. |
_______________________________________________________________________________
Writer
Voice as smooth as Sam Cooke, but rough and streetwise with a signature edge that came from the depths of his soul.
XAVIER UNIVERSITY, NEW ORLEANS -- That's what was said in the program obituary of Big Chief Theodore "Bo" Dollis who led the Wild Magnolias Mardi Gras Indian Tribe for 50 years.
His tribe produced such classic carnival hits as "Handa Wanda," "Hey Pocky Way," "Fire Water" and "New Suit."By the mammoth size of his funeral, anyone present could tell that he was a great man: the mayor, U.S. congressman, council and jazz & heritage festival producer attesting to his importance.
Three white doves were released at start of the second-line procession.
Experiencing the feathers is a moving experience.
Indians, all nations, all colors, mourned.
A pink spy boy clearing openings through the crowd, made way for Big Chief's soul to go forth.
Karen Celestan, fellow writer, journalist, communications practitioner, teacher, described it best:
"This is spiritual."
Razzle and dazzle.
The observer is just smitten by the craftsmanship --and then, moved by the chants, tambourine and drums.
Indians are undeniably the most beautiful sight to behold. Long live the tradition; and so, too, the spirit of Big Chief "Bo" Dollis.
Below is a link to some of the great music:
Hi! thanks for the beautiful images and sounds in words & photos! sp
ReplyDelete