Dumpstaphunk’s Nick Daniels III Has Died
The beloved New Orleans bassist was 68.
By Andy Kahn Apr 29, 2024 • 7:08 am PDT
Nick Daniels III, bassist for New Orleans funk band Dumpstaphunk, has died at age 68. Daniels was recently diagnosed with multiple myeloma cancer.
Dumpstaphunk issued a statement in response to Daniels’ death:
“We are still at a loss for words while processing the passing of our brother in life and music, 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.”
A New Orleans native, Daniels was a childhood friend of Ivan Neville, the son of Aaron Neville and nephew to the members of The Neville Brothers. As NOLA.com noted, in the early 1980s, Ivan Neville and Daniels’ band the Uptown Allstars became The Neville Brothers’ backing band.
Ivan and Daniels lived in Los Angeles for a period that saw Daniels become part of Etta James’ band. Daniels also logged credits performing with Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, Boz Scaggs, The Wild Magnolias and others. Daniels performed with members of Dumpstaphunk and Lettuce in the band Dr. Klaw. In 2022, Daniels was featured on The Groove Krewe’s album Run To Daylight.
Ivan Neville and Daniels formed Dumpstaphunk in the early 2000s. The acclaimed NOLA funk band featured a double bass attack with Daniels joined by fellow bassist Tony Hall. Dumpstaphunk’s lineup also includes Ivan Neville’s cousin, guitarist Ian Neville, as well as trumpeter Ashlin Parker, drummer Deven Trusclair and trombonist Alex Wasily.
Dumpstaphunk has performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival every year since 2001 and will perform on Thursday, May 2, taking the main stage right before The Rolling Stones, whom Dumpstaphunk has opened for in the past.
A public memorial for Daniels will be held on Tuesday, April 30 at 7 p.m. in the Neutral Ground outside Tipitina’s. Donations can be made to a GoFundMe campaign established in Daniels’ honor.
