Bobby Charles, 1938-2010. R.I.P.

Songwriter Bobby Charles, born Robert Charles Guidry, died today in his native Louisiana. The cause of death is unknown. He was 71.

You probably don't know the name. But if you're of a certain age or an aficionado of 1950s music then you'll know his songs. His two most famous songs were "See You Later Alligator" and "Walking to New Orleans" which became big hits for Bill Haley & The Comets and Fats Domino, respectively.

He also was amongst the numerous musicians who appeared in The Band's The Last Waltz. Of course, you can't really see him. But it was probably just as well. He was more interested in writing music than performing it. Yet there's no denying this man had a gift.

Charles did not live to see the release of his new album Timeless which is due out next month.