Wardell Quezergue

September 12, 2011 -- NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Wardell Quezergue (kuh-ZEHR), the composer and teacher known as the "Creole Beethoven," has died. He was 81. He died Tuesday. Songwriter and pianist Allen Toussaint (too-SAHN') gave Quezergue his nickname. He describes Quezergue as a superb musician and band leader who raised the bar in rhythm and blues and rock 'n' roll, and who always inspired people to their best performances.