Luther Kent (June 23, 1948 – August 16, 2024) was an American blues singer based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Kent was known for a big soulful voice and his big horn-based group, Luther Kent & Trick Bag, that mixed swinging blues with New Orleans R&B. Towards the end, Kent had a show that came on Saturdays on WBRH called Luther's House Party.
Biography
Luther Kent was born as Kent Rowell in New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 23, 1948.[1][2] As a vocalist, he was influenced by artists such as Bobby Bland, Etta James, and Ray Charles.[3]
Kent began to sing professionally when he was 14, and his first record was released by Montel Records.[4] In 1970, he became the lead singer for a group named Cold Grits. The group was subsequently signed to Ode Records, but their record was never released.[4] Kent joined Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1974 and toured with them until the end of that same year. However, he never recorded with the group, as he was still bound by contract with Ode Records at the time.[4]
In 1977, Kent released his first solo album, World Class, on RCS Records, produced by Cy Frost at Abbey Road Studios in St. John's Wood, London, and Applewood Studios in Colorado. In 1978, Kent and ex-Wayne Cochran musical director, Charlie Brent, formed Luther Kent & Trick Bag.[4] The band was active during the 1980s and 1990s, and released three CDs under the name.
Kent released a gospel album in 1996 teaming up with John Lee & the Heralds of Christ. The album also featured Allen Toussaint and Pete Fountain. Kent toured Italy in 2006 with Italian blues guitarist Robi Zonca and his band. The show was recorded and released as album Magic Box that year.[5]
Apart from his solo work, Kent also sang as a guest with the traditional jazz group, The Dukes of Dixieland on selected dates. Kent was also on some of their recordings.
Kent died on August 16, 2024, at the age of 76 due to heart failure.[6]
