We are deeply saddened to report that legendary Big Chief Theodore “Bo” Dollis of the Wild Magnolias passed away this morning.

Dollis was instrumental in sharing the culture, music, and costuming practices of the Mardi Gras Indians with the outside world through early performances and recordings. After partnering with Quint Davis in 1970 for the landmark recording of “Handa Wanda”, he performed at the very first Jazz Fest. He went on to bring the rich musical traditions of the Indians to audiences around the world with his funk band, the Wild Magnolias.

An exceptional musician, devoted family man, and pillar of our community, he will be greatly missed. Arrangements are incomplete.

A full obituary by John Swenson will appear in OffBeat’s  print edition.

Here’s a video of Dollis performing at Tipitina’s in 2012 with his close friend and musical collaborator, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux of the Golden Eagles.