Clarence Henry

b. 19 March 1937, Algiers, Louisiana, USA.

Henry began performing during the 50s with a New Orleans-based R&B group led by Bobby Mitchell. The singer later began work with bandleader Paul Gayten who accompanied him on his 1957 smash "Ain't Got No Home". However, it was not until 1961 that "But I Do" provided a follow-up to this novelty song, earning Henry a US number 4 and UK number 3 hit. Co-written by Bobby Charles, the song featured several seasoned New Orleans musicians, including the young Allen Toussaint, and relaunched Henry's career. The same year a further international success, "You Always Hurt The One You Love" - previously a hit for the Mills Brothers in 1944 - echoed the same effortless style. The following single fared better in the UK, with "Lonely Street"/"Why Can't You" narrowly missing the Top 40, but it was the artist's last substantial hit. He continued to record for a variety of companies, and a 1969 collection, Is Alive And Well And Living In New Orleans, was acclaimed as a fine example of the "Crescent City" style. Since then, Henry has remained a popular live attraction in his adopted city.

He could sing like a girl, and he could sing like a frog. That latter trademark croak, utilized to the max on his 1956 debut smash "Ain't Got No Home," earned good-natured Clarence Henry his nickname and jump-started a rewarding career that endures to this day around the Crescent City.

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