NEW ORLEANS, LA. (THECOUNT) — Alton “Big Al” Carson, a staple in the New Orleans blues music scene, died Sunday afternoon. He was 66.

Carson, a well-known area blues singer, died Sunday afternoon, according to multiple reports.

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Carson’s wife told local media outlets that Carson suffered a heart attack two weeks ago before passing today.

Carson performed weekly at New Orleans’ Funky Pirate Blues Club with his band the Blues Masters. The club had been shutted over the Covid-19 lockdown. He also played with several of New Orleans best known artists.

An official cause of death was not provided.

Geo quick facts: New Orleans is a Louisiana city on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico. Nicknamed the “Big Easy,” it’s known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene and spicy, singular cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American cultures. Embodying its festive spirit is Mardi Gras, the late-winter carnival famed for raucous costumed parades and street parties – wikipedia.