Lionel Batiste signed 2002 America's Roots Music magazine. 8x11 inches "Uncle" Lionel Batiste (February 11, 1931 July 8, 2012) was a jazz and blues musician and singer from New Orleans. He began his music career at the age of 11 playing bass drum with the Square Deal Social & Pleasure Club. He was the bass drummer, vocalist and assistant leader of the Treme Brass Band; known for his kazoo playing and singing as well, and has recorded a CD as a vocalist.