Help for New Orleans music stars Al ‘Carnival Time’ Johnson and Little Freddie King

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Two beloved musicians are dealing with health struggles, and the Krewe of Red Beans is spearheading assistance.

Moving New Orleans Forward anchor LBJ has the story on how the public can help Al “Carnival Time” Johnson and Little Freddie King.

“Al has been around forever and you know, you can call him at any time and say, ‘Hey Al, how ya doing what time is it?’ and he’ll say, ‘Oh you know what time it is; it’s Carnival Time I say right now,’ he says ‘anytime is Carnival Time,” said Charmaine Neville.

New Orleans drum builder creating custom instruments, giving back

A music star herself, Neville also had kind words for the generosity of Little Freddie King.

“That’s what we’re here for, not to receive but to give,” said Neville.

Both Johnson and King are dealing with significant health challenges in their senior years. In Johnson’s case, he suffered a medical incident that left him debilitated.

“What he wants most of all is to stay in his home, and to stay in his home he really needs nursing care that’s 24/7 and that becomes very expensive. So, the money that we raise will help cover those costs,” said Krewe of Red Beans Founder Devin DeWulf.

The krewe has organized a place we can help both Johnson and King, who suffered an accident on his bike.

“This part went over on the cement, and I had my helmet on, and BAM, and there I was paralyzed again. It was so simple how that happened,” said King.

The accident damaged the nerves in his hand, and he can’t play his beloved guitar. He’s currently under the care of his sister and niece, but the good news is, he’s rehearsed with his band and is scheduled to sing the blues at this year’s Jazz and Heritage Festival.

A gig that will help pay some bills.

Investing In America: New Orleans’ Cafe Reconcile

“God spare life and be able to have my voice, I’ll be right on there again by the help of the good Lord,” said King.

So now, the plea is on to help our culture bearers, who have given our city so much.

“For these two guys in particular it’s important to show them the love. They’ve enriched our city, and our city’s culture, and our city’s music so much, that it’s really important that people pay that back,” said DeWulf.

You can help both King and Johnson by heading to the Krewe of Red Beans website.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.