One of Autin’s most significant contributions to the music scene is as a producer and label owner. In the early 1980s, he co-founded Rabadash Records (in partnership with singer Nora Wixted) as an independent New Orleans label dedicated to preserving the music of New Orleans and southern Louisiana . Rabadash began in 1984 as a labor of love – famously named after a pet cat – and quickly expanded beyond Autin and Wixted’s own projects to record other local artists . Autin’s mission was to create opportunities for regional musicians to make high-quality recordings, at a time when big labels often overlooked local talent.

Over four decades, Rabadash Records became “a cornerstone of the New Orleans music scene,” known for its commitment to quality music and for fostering talent in the community . The label has released over 40 albums (and counting) spanning jazz, blues, zydeco, funk, and more . Autin himself has worked on hundreds of recording projects both at Rabadash’s studios and on location, often helping artists capture that authentic New Orleans sound .

Importantly, Rabadash served as a stepping stone for many artists’ careers. Autin and Wixted gave a recording platform to musicians who might have otherwise remained local secrets. “The list of people Rabadash has helped is [full of] New Orleans favorites who without Rabadash’s help might very well be living in obscurity,” one OffBeat article noted . For example, in the 1980s Autin encouraged George Porter Jr. (bassist of The Meters) to form his own band and produced his early work, helping launch Porter’s successful solo career . Around the same time, a young Anders Osborne handed Autin a demo tape – Rabadash’s support in releasing that material helped kickstart the careers of Osborne and singer Theresa Andersson on the world stage . Autin also produced the first recordings for blues artists like Rockin’ Jake (harmonica) and Big Daddy ‘O’, elevating them from regional bar performers to nationally touring acts . And in an earlier triumph, Rabadash convinced veteran jazz pianist Al Broussard to make his first album in the 1980s – after its release, the 70-something Broussard went from playing a local bar to performing around the globe (even at Buckingham Palace) . These are just a few examples of how Autin’s behind-the-scenes work has nurtured New Orleans music and artists, preserving traditions while enabling newcomers. As Autin proudly stated, “Rabadash has never made a profit, but we have launched many careers of great artists that have made tons of money for themselves, and enriched everyone in New Orleans [music enthusiasts’] lives” .

Beyond the label, John Autin also operates Rabadash Entertainment and Rabadash Studios, a full-service recording studio (now located in Covington, LA) known for its state-of-the-art equipment and relaxed atmosphere . Through these ventures, Autin has worn many hats – studio engineer, arranger, mentor, event producer – all in service of supporting the music he loves. His work earned him respect as a “keyboard ace” and a trusted producer who can capture the best in an artist . In short, Autin’s impact on the New Orleans music scene extends far beyond his piano playing: he has been an enabler of other musicians’ success and a guardian of the city’s musical heritage.

John Autin remains active and highly respected in New Orleans music circles to this day. In 2024, Rabadash Records celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades since Autin founded the label. To commemorate the milestone, Autin organized a big “Rabadash Bash” on September 7, 2024 at the renowned club Chickie Wah Wah . The event featured a lineup of Rabadash artists past and present – including Autin himself at the piano – alongside talents like singer Serabee, bluesman Big Daddy ‘O’, pianist Tom McDermott, jazz vocalist Ingrid Lucia, and many more . “We are thrilled to celebrate 40 years of Rabadash Records… This event is a tribute to our journey, the artists we’ve worked with, and the music that has shaped us,” Autin said of the anniversary, inviting the whole community to share in the celebration . The sold-out show attested to Autin’s enduring influence and the deep affection New Orleans music lovers have for his work.

In terms of recordings, Autin has continued to contribute behind the scenes in recent years. For example, he co-produced the 2023 album Hummingbird Tea by soulful singer-pianist Serabee, recorded at Rabadash Studios . This project exemplifies Autin’s ongoing role in shaping new music: the album’s 14 original songs were polished with Autin’s production expertise and even involved veteran engineers associated with Allen Toussaint and Steely Dan . By lending his studio know-how and musical insight, Autin helped give Serabee’s record that special “New Orleans shimmer.” Such efforts show that even after decades, Autin is still dedicated to fostering emerging artists and new recordings.

On the performance front, Autin continues to gig frequently around the New Orleans area. Whether it’s a weeknight piano bar set, a festival appearance, or a Northshore jazz club booking, audiences can still catch “The New Orleans Piano Man” delivering electrifying live performances well into the 2020s. He often returns to favorite venues and remains a sought-after entertainer for private events. Fellow musicians and local media regard Autin as a venerable figure in the scene – OffBeat Magazine in 2024 referred to Rabadash (and by extension Autin) as “a cornerstone of the New Orleans music scene” . Fans simply consider him a New Orleans treasure, embodying the city’s musical soul.

In sum, John Autin’s career is a testament to New Orleans music: a gifted pianist steeped in tradition, a versatile performer who brings joy to every audience, and a behind-the-curtain catalyst who has amplified the voices of countless other artists. His contributions to jazz, blues, and beyond have earned him a place among the Crescent City’s most respected musical ambassadors. And as Autin himself might say, these are the good ole days – he’s still at it, spreading the spirit of New Orleans one piano tune at a time.