Tommy McLain

Swamp Pop Legend and Louisiana Music Hall of Famer

Funeral Mass for Tommy McLain of Hessmer will take place at the St. Mary’s Assumption Catholic Church of Cottonport on Monday, July 28th, 2025 beginning at 10:00am. Burial will take place at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery #2.

Tommy McLain, the soulful voice of Louisiana swamp pop and a beloved figure in American music, passed away in 2025 at the age of 85 with a career spanning more than six decades, McLain left an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the American South and beyond.

He first began performing in the 1950s with longtime collaborator Clint West. Together, they were members of The Vel-Tones and the iconic Boogie Kings. In 1965, they released the duet “Try to Find Another Man,” showcasing the signature blend of R&B, country, and rock that defined swamp pop.

McLain achieved national fame in 1966 with his stirring cover of “Sweet Dreams,” which climbed to No. 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and No. 49 on the UK Singles Chart. He performed on Dick Clark’s Caravan of Stars tour and served as a DJ at Louisiana’s KREH radio station, becoming a household name in the region.

In addition to his own hits, McLain was a talented songwriter, penning “If You Don’t Love Me Alone (Leave Me Alone)” for Freddy Fender. He also appeared in the 1975 film The Drowning Pool with his band, the Mule Train Band.

In 2007, he was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the state’s rich musical heritage. Never one to rest on past success, McLain continued performing and recording into his later years. In 2011, he contributed two new songs to Larry Lange’s album Wiggle Room, including the post-Katrina ballad “Don’t Make Me Leave New Orleans.”

In 2022, McLain released I Ran Down Every Dream, his first album in over 40 years. The critically acclaimed record featured collaborations with Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, Van Dyke Parks, Ivan Neville, and others—proof of his enduring creative spark. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his children Barry McLain (Phyllis) of Crowley, David McLain (Amie) of Mansura, Felecia Soileau (William) of Cottonport, Chad McLain (Nikki) of Cottonport, Jonathan McLain (Julia) of Pride, and Alyson Lemoine (Guy) of Plaucheville. He is also survived by his 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild; and his significant other, Carol Skaggs. He also leaves behind a legacy of music that touched generations and a voice that will forever echo in the heart of Louisiana.

He was preceded in death by his son, Tommy McLain, Jr.; parents, Glenn & Nellie McLain; brothers, Paul McLain and Albert McLain; sisters, Glendola Mills and Odessa Lewis; and his daughter-in-law, Brenda McLain.

Visitation will be held from 4:00pm until midnight on Sunday, July 27th, 2025 at the Escude Funeral Home of Cottonport and will resume Monday morning at 7:00am. He will be remembered not only for his timeless songs, but for his humility, passion, and devotion to the music he loved.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.escudefuneralhome.com. 

Escude Funeral Home of Cottonport, 552 Front St. Cottonport, LA 71327 (318-964-2324) has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.