Dr. Jazz

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... tell me about the song Mama Roux by Dr John; 

Dr. John's song "Mama Roux" was released in 1968 as part of his debut album "Gris-Gris"  The song features Dr. John performing as the medicine man, with Mama Roux portrayed as a powerful voodoo queen  It combines elements of New Orleans blues, jazz, R&B, and funk, reflecting Dr. John's unique musical style  The lyrics describe Mama Roux as the queen of the little red, white, and blue, and the song includes a chorus and verses that evoke a mystical and spiritual atmosphere 

Mama Roux
She was the queen of the little red, white and blue...

Said, ooh, why cantcha' spy, boy?
Prepare yourself to die, boy
Medicine man got heap strong power
You'd know better than to mess with me

If you see a spy, boy, sittin' in the bush
Mess 'em on his head and give him a push
Get out the dishes, get out the pans
Move, he fast for the medicine man

The Queen is comin', ooh
Queen is coming to way pocky way
You'd better not get in the way
Got the second line fever today
Singin' wham bam hang ham...

### Mama Roux: A Metaphor for the French Quarter's Underbelly

The song "Mama Roux" by Dr. John is often interpreted as a reference to the French Quarter's prostitution scene, with "Mama Roux" being a metaphor for a madam or a procurer. The name "Roux" is a nod to the French Creole cuisine, where roux is a mixture of flour and fat used as a thickening agent in gumbo and other dishes.

However, in the context of the song, "Roux" is also a play on words, referencing the French word "roue," which means "wheel" or "pimp." This double meaning is thought to allude to the prostitution rings that operated in the French Quarter, with Mama Roux being the central figure, or the "wheel," that keeps the operation turning.

### Historical Context

During the 1960s, when Dr. John wrote and recorded "Mama Roux," the French Quarter was known for its vibrant music scene, as well as its seedier underbelly, which included prostitution and other illicit activities. The song is often seen as a commentary on this aspect of the Quarter's culture, with Mama Roux representing the powerful women who controlled the prostitution trade.

### Musical and Cultural Significance

"Mama Roux" is a significant song in Dr. John's discography, as it showcases his unique blend of New Orleans rhythms, jazz, and funk. The song's use of metaphors and coded language adds to its mystique, making it a fascinating example of how music can reflect and comment on the social and cultural context in which it was created.

... the lyrics mention hanging ham which is a hoodoo magical belief; 

### "Mama Roux" and the References to Hoodoo Magic

The lyrics of "Mama Roux" by Dr. John do indeed mention "hanging ham," which is a reference to a traditional hoodoo magical belief. In hoodoo, hanging a ham or a hog's jowl is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and protection from evil spirits.

### Hoodoo and New Orleans Culture

Hoodoo is a form of traditional African American folk magic that originated in the Southern United States, particularly in New Orleans. It is a blend of African, European, and Native American spiritual practices, and is often associated with the city's vibrant cultural heritage.

In hoodoo, various objects and rituals are used to achieve specific goals, such as attracting love, money, or protection. The hanging of a ham or a hog's jowl is one such ritual, believed to bring blessings and positive energy to a person or a place.

### Dr. John's Connection to Hoodoo and New Orleans Culture

Dr. John, whose real name was Malcolm John Rebennack, was deeply rooted in New Orleans culture and was known for his interest in hoodoo and voodoo. He often incorporated elements of these traditions into his music, and "Mama Roux" is a prime example of this.

The song's lyrics, which mention hanging ham, are likely a reference to the hoodoo belief in the power of this ritual to bring good fortune and protection. By invoking this imagery, Dr. John is tapping into the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans and the mystical traditions that have shaped the city's music and spirituality.

Now go run and play, child.


Paintings by Brian Higgins can be viewed at https://sites.google.com/view/artistbrianhiggins/home

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