Originally a founding member in the 1980's of New Orleans' popular Rebirth Brass Band, with whom he recorded seven lively albums and toured the world. Ruffins branched out on his own in the early 1990's with his own band, a more traditional New Orleans jazz combo, but has also performed with The Kermit Ruffins Big Band.

His style is most reminiscent of great Nawlin's trumpeter Louis Armstrong, He regularly performs with his backing band called the Barbecue Swingers in local New Orleans clubs. Ingeniously, he also shows up with a truck that sells Bar BQ off to the side, easily doubling a night's musician pay, satisfying fans stomach as well as spirit.

He's also guested on many recordings including records from artists like Los Hombres Calientes and Harry Connick JR, and appears as himself regularly on the HBO television series Treme. Selected Discography:Solo albums: Kermit Ruffins & Rebirth Brass Band: Throwback (2005 - Basin Street Records) Putumayo Presents: Kermit Ruffins (2005 - Putumayo World Music) Big Easy (2002 - Basin Street Records) 1533 St.

Philip Street (2001 - Basin Street Records) Swings This! (1999 - Basin Street Records) Barbecue Swingers Live (1998 - Basin Street Records) Hold On Tight (1996 - Justice Records) Big Butter & Egg Man (1994 - Justice Records) World On A String (1992 - Justice Records)with ReBirth Brass Band: ReBirth Brass Band - Ultimate Rebirth Brass Band (2004) ReBirth Brass Band - Do Whatcha Wanna (1997) ReBirth Brass Band - Rollin' (1994) ReBirth Brass Band - Take It To The Street (1992) ReBirth Brass Band - Kickin' It Live (1991) ReBirth Brass Band - Feel Like Funkin' It Up (1989) ReBirth Brass Band - Here To Stay (1984)