See You Later, Alligator: Bobby Charles (Louisiana songwriter, performer) has died at 61

Bobby Charles most famously wrote “Walking To New Orleans” and “See You Later Alligator,” which he recorded for Chess, along with “But I Do” (Ernie K-Doe) and “Jealous Kind” (Joe Cocker).  He was also a close friend of the Band, who played (along with Dr. John and others) on his 1972 self-titled solo album.  He was from Abbeville, Louisiana and lived near there, performing rarely.  There’s a nice biographical piece and an interview at Offbeat.  Has me listening to the 1972 album (which is available on iTunes).

Here’s one of his early recordings, “No Use Knocking.”

h/t Offbeat Twitter feed.