From Guitar World · · 1m 50s
Leo Nocentelli: Motown to Hip-Hop
Leo Nocentelli played for Motown acts like The Temptations and The Supremes before forming The Meters, sampled by hip-hop legends.
In brief
Leo Nocentelli played for Motown acts like The Temptations and The Supremes before forming The Meters, sampled by hip-hop legends. Leo Nocentelli played for Motown acts like The Temptations and The Supremes before forming The Meters, sampled by hip-hop legends. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Leo Nocentelli's early career
As a teen, Leo Nocentelli lent his licks to Motown's biggest stars including The Supremes and The Temptations.
The Meters formed
In his 20s, Nocentelli formed funk legends The Meters after joining the army.
Motown session work
Nocentelli played for The Supremes on their hit Where Did Our Love Go, Baby.
The Temptations and The Supremes
Nocentelli got a call to play behind The Temptations and The Supremes at Motown.
The Meters' hits
Nocentelli wrote hits Sophisticated Cissy and Cissy Strut but took little credit.
Adaptability
Nocentelli adapted to all genres, from jazz to hip-hop, without taking credit.
The Meters' gear
Nocentelli used a Gibson ES-175 for early The Meters recordings.
Paul McCartney connection
Nocentelli played with Paul McCartney at a 1975 boat party in New Orleans.
Hip-hop sampling
Nocentelli was sampled by Snoop Dogg and Naughty by Nature but sued LL Cool J for unpaid royalties.
New music project
Nocentelli released a 2021 solo album with Peter Gabriel and Stanley Clarke.
Current status
Nocentelli no longer plays guitar daily but remains active with The Meters.
Advice for young players
Nocentelli advises learning the business to get paid, not to be broke.
The Meters' legacy
The Meters are revisited with sold-out shows at Jazz Fest and Orpheum Theater.
Adaptable musician
Nocentelli calls himself the Forrest Gump of the music industry for his adaptability.
The headline
Leo Nocentelli played for Motown acts like The Temptations and The Supremes before forming The Meters, sampled by hip-hop legends.
