Ernie K-Doe, R&B Emperor

In this 2001 image released by The Historic New Orleans Collection, Ernie K-Doe poses outside of his Mother-In-Law Lounge during Jazz Fest in New Orleans. A new book published by the Historic New Orleans Collection, "Enie K-Doe: The R&B Emperor of New Orleans," by Ben Sandmel, captures the quirks and talent of one of New Orleans' most celebrated and eccentric entertainers, his ups and downs and the era that shaped him. (AP Photo/The Historic New Orleans Collection, Pat Jolly)

K-Doe's first – and only – big hit came in 1961. It was a tongue-in-cheek tribute to, in K-Doe's words, "the worst person I know" – "Mother in Law."

"Mother in Law" rocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts. K-Doe wasn't destined to reach those heights again, but he had a modest hit with "Te-Ta-Te-Ta-Ta," from the same year.

After his musical success in the 1960s, Ernie K-Doe moved on to new frontiers – working as a radio DJ and becoming a favorite eccentric of the New Orleans community. He wore a cape and crown around town, putting on ever more elaborate shows (like the time when he sang "Mother in Law" seven times in a row in front of the Aquarium of the Americas shark tank). He became a local legend for his costumes, catch phrases and energetic dancing, and his talent and antics won him a place in the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

Ernie K-Doe died on July 5, 2001. Given his stature in his hometown community, it's fitting that he was remembered with a traditional jazz funeral – and we can only imagine the dancing he inspired.

Written by Linnea Crowther