by Dominic Massa

Paul Ferrara, a drummer who played with Louis Prima, Frank Sinatra, Pete Fountain, Al Hirt and other greats during a 65-year career, died Wednesday at his home in Kenner. He was 76. Ferrara had been battling cancer for the past year, according to his family. Despite his illness, Ferrara continued to perform, even making an appearance at this year's Gretna Heritage Festival.

Born in the French Quarter to Sicilian immigrant parents, Ferrara began playing drums at the age of 11, according to a video posted for his induction into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

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Source: http://www.wwltv.com/