Photo Credit: Lindsay McCutchan
A GoFundMe page has been established in the wake of funk maestro and esteemed New Orleans bassist Nick Daniels III’s passing. The musician, known for his contributions to Dumpstaphunk, died on Friday, April 26, stemming from complications due to his recent multiple myeloma cancer diagnosis, resulting in the launch of the fundraiser, which will fulfill the cost of the funeral and memorial arrangements, with all proceeds benefiting the Daniels family.
Following the onset of the fundraiser, fellow New Orleans luminaries condensed their memories in an official press release, including childhood friend and bandmate Ivan Neville, “We are still at a loss for words while processing the passing of our brother Nick Daniels III. As a founding member of our band Dumpstaphunk, and as part of the extended Neville family, his musical contributions to the city of New Orleans and beyond are immeasurable. As our lifelong friend since childhood, we will continue to honor his legacy the best way we know how, by playing our hearts out even as our hearts are breaking, because Nick was born to make people happy and he will always be with us in spirit.”
Daniels was a known force on the Big Easy live music scene, sharing the stage with fellow icons, The Neville Brothers, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Boz Scaggs, the Wild Magnolias and Etta James. A member of Dumpstaphunk since the band’s inception in 2003, Daniel cemented his skills across four studio albums, taking the band’s scope from side project status to one of the most revered funk feeders on the global scene.
Sharing in on memories and love for Daniels, Nikki Glaspie offered, “All I can say is that I’m thankful to GOD to have known and spent so much time with this gem of a human. Anyone who interacted with him knew how kind and generous he was. The KINDEST man I’ve ever known. He was a true example of goodness in this world.”
Fellow bassist Oteil Burbridge said, “To be that gifted and equally as nice a person is a rare thing indeed. I LOVED his bass playing. And I ADORED his voice and singing… thank you for inspiring me Nick.”
Daniels is survived by his wife, Marion Daniels, their children, and grandchildren. A public memorial celebrating Daniels’s life will take place tonight, Tuesday, April 30, outside of Tipitina’s in New Orleans at 7:45 p.m. following the Fessy Awards at 7 p.m.
To make a charitable donation to the Daniels family, please visit GoFundMe.com.
