Jackie Neal Murdered

Jackie Neal, daughter of internationally renowned blues artist Raful Neal and a performer in her own right, was shot and killed in a Baton Rouge, La., beauty shop March 10th, according to police.

Another woman was shot and injured in the incident and then alleged gunman James White shot himself, sustaining critical injuries. It is believed Neal, who was in her late 30s, was previously involved in a romantic relationship with White.

The suspect is expected to be charged with first-degree murder in Neal’s killing and attempted first-degree murder in the shooting of Angela Myers.

Neal, one of 10 musical siblings, was also the sister of musician Kenny Neal. She released three CDs between 1995 and 2002 that veered between blues, funk and pop. She was best known for The Blues Won’t Let You Go, had just finished another CD and was preparing to tour Europe when she died, brother Larry Neal said.

“She was deep into her music. Her goal was to be successful in what she did,” he said.