Led by Paula Rangell — a multi-instrumentalist singer who wails on the alto saxophone and harmonica while fronting the band — Paula & The Pontiacs carry a hefty repertoire of post-war blues, R&B and soulful originals. She formed the first iteration of the band in 1978, and after a stint in Austin, Texas, brought it to New Orleans in 1984, where it became a fixture of the local scene.
Rangell was born and raised in Colorado, studying clarinet as a young girl and picking up the harmonica as a teenager after hearing blues artists like Janis Joplin and Muddy Waters. She added the saxophone to her arsenal after being inspired by Charlie Parker, carving out her own Americana-inflected style. Living Blues says “Rangell is a fine instrumentalist and, more importantly, an effective vocalist who has her timing and delivery down.”
For years the Pontiacs were staples at the fabled after-hours joint Benny's Bar, where they earned an enthusiastic following. They have performed with legends like Earl King, Deacon John and John Mooney, and are regulars at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. In 2016 Rangell received the annual Slim Harpo Music Award in the Pioneers category.
