Lillian Boutte

Lillian Boutte

Lillian Boutte is a New Orleans singer associated with vocal jazz, blues, and related New Orleans styles. She is based in New Orleans and is known for singing New Orleans dixieland standards, New Orleans R&B, swing-era songs, and contemporary originals.

Early career

Boutte sings from childhood and wins a vocal contest at the age of 11. She also performs with her college gospel choir. In 1973, Allen Toussaint hires her as a backing singer for a range of projects recorded in his studio.

Stage work and recordings

She appears as both an actress and singer in One Mo' Time between 1979 and 1984. In 1980, she records a gospel album with the Olympia Brass Band. She makes her first jazz album in 1982.

Work in Europe and collaborations

Over the years, Boutte alternates between living and performing in Europe and New Orleans. She is closely associated with reed player Thomas L'Etienne, who usually leads her backing groups. She also records with Humphrey Lyttelton.

Recordings and associated ensembles

She records for a number of labels, including Herman, Feel The Jazz, High Society, Turning Point, Timeless, Southland, Storyville, GHB, Calligraph, Blues Beacon, and Dinosaur Entertainment, with many of these releases issued in Europe. She is also associated with the Boutté-L'Etienne Jazz-Ensemble.