Alton “Big Al” Carson, a fixture on Bourbon Street died on Sunday, two weeks after having a heart attack. Born in New Orleans, an Xavier graduate, Carson started as a tuba player in brass bands. He became a proficient vocalist and founded the Blues Masters.

The Funky Pirate and Tropical Isle posted the news on Facebook calling today a “sad day.”

“Today is a sad day. We lost Big Al only a few hours ago. It is with a heavy heart that we extend our warmest condolences to his wife, Corina, & family, his friends and all that knew him, appreciated him – not only for his talents, but for who he was, his strength, his kind soul, his infectious smile, his sense of humor and, of course, his music.

We were so fortunate to have him share his brilliance with us for over 25 years at the Bourbon St. Honky Tonky (Funky Pirate)

Al Carson was 66 years old.

Our May 2020 digital issue will have more on “Big Al” Carson.