Woodenhead was founded in 1975 by Jimmy Robinson and Danny Cassin. They were both students at Loyola University’s music department in New Orleans. They were both pursuing classical guitar degrees and cello studies at Cassin University. Both were raised on rock music and played in bands from their earliest days. They were influenced by The Beatles and The Rolling Stones as well as Jimi Hendrix, The Byrds and Cream. In the 1970’s, The Mahavishnu Orchestra was a prominent band. Now, a music that mixed classical, rock, and jazz seemed like a viable path to take. The band performed original songs using an instrumental format. They used odd meters, complex arrangements, and improvised solos. The band performed at New Orleans clubs such as Ford’s Place and the newly opened Tipitina’s. The band performed at the New Contemporary Arts Center, performing multi-style concerts featuring jazz and rock groups.
