Cyril Neville

BIOGRAPHY

Don’t Wait Til I’m Gone, the new full length studio record from Cyril “The Uptown Ruler” Neville, is a powerful and deeply personal project that captures the essence of legacy, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of New Orleans music.

Produced by acclaimed trumpeter Shamarr Allen (Galactic), the album was born organically - without a formal plan or budget - driven instead by creative instinct and mutual respect. What began as a simple phone call quickly evolved into one of the most meaningful recording experiences of Neville’s career.

The title track holds special significance, written by Neville’s lifelong mentor and “big brother,” Aaron, who also joins him on the song. The album features an extraordinary lineup of collaborators, including The Hot 8 Brass Band, Leo Nocentelli, Donald Harrison, and Kermit Ruffins, who joins Neville for a standout duet.

In true New Orleans fashion, the project is also a family affair. Neville’s son Omari appears with his band, The Fuel, while his 19-year-old grandson Ari Neville contributes the song “You Hold Me Down.” Producer Shamarr Allen not only co-wrote much of the album and performed extensively throughout, but also brought in his 14-year-old son, Donte, on trumpet, highlighting the generational depth of the music.

The lead single, “Lemonade,” captures the spontaneous magic of the sessions, coming together in just minutes from a spark of inspiration in the studio.

More than just an album, Don’t Wait Til I’m Gone is a celebration of community, resilience, and artistic freedom, marking a defining chapter in Cyril Neville’s storied career.