Last night, news broke that former Galactic lead vocalist, Theryl DeClouet, affectionately known as The Houseman, has died. DeClouet was admitted into hospice on Friday and passed away on Sunday evening at the age of 66.
The singer had long faced medical issues, forcing him to quit the band in 2004 given Galactic’s heavy touring schedule. The Houseman met Robert Mercurio and Jeff Raines in 1990 before the duo had started Galactic. The trio’s longstanding friendship continued throughout Galactic’s early career, with DeClouet serving as the band’s primary vocalist.
He appeared on the New Orleans funk outfit’s first four studio albums—Coolin’ Off (1996), Crazyhorse Mongoose (1998), Late For The Future (2000), and Ruckus (2003). He also appeared on the band’s 2001 live album We Love ‘Em Tonight: Live At Tipitina’s and 2003 compilation album Vintage Reserve. He also joined Galactic for guest appearances on various occasions in recent years.
Galactic w/ Houseman – “Something’s Wrong With This Picture” – 4/10/10
In addition to his work with Galactic, DeClouet also had a fruitful solo career with his side project, Theryl & the Housewreckas, and as a special guest on various projects. DeClouet released his debut solo album, The Houseman Cometh! in 2001, later self-releasing his 2007 sophomore solo album, The Truth Iz Out, after amicably leaving Galactic in 2004. He also collaborated with a number of far-reaching acts, including the Charlie Hunter Quintet.
You can read heartfelt remembrances of the Houseman from his former bandmates below:
Rest in peace, Houseman. Thank you for sharing your music with us. You will be missed.