His name is Dr. John, known as the Night Tripper, and today is his birthday.

Malcolm “Mac” Rebennack was born at Charity Hospital on November 21, 1940, 74 years ago today.

The iconic New Orleans musician has worn many hats over the years, and they have always been highly fashionable, but his long running stage persona of Dr. John has won him a loyal following and legions of dedicated fans.

With the release of his Louis Armstrong tribute album Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit of Satch earlier this year, Dr. John made it back onto the charts and was able to launch an extended worldwide tour.

He was also exposed to a new, younger, and more rock oriented crowd when Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach produced his 2012 release, Locked Down.

Instantly recognizable as a titan of New Orleans piano, Dr. John actually got his start as a guitar player in the 1950s, scoring his first regional hit with “Storm Warning” in 1959.

So as we wish Mac Rebennack a very happy 74th birthday, let’s take a minute to appreciate his brilliant first hit.

Happy Birthday Dr. John!