Reclusive R&B and rock icon FATS DOMINO has been named the honorary grand marshal of a pre-Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The legendary musician won't appear in person at the 3 March (14) event, but his eldest son, Antoine Domino Iii, will attend the Krewe of Orpheus bash on his behalf on a float blasting out his father's hits Blue Monday, Walking to New Orleans and Blueberry Hill, among others.

Domino, 85, was presented with a medallion to mark the honour during a ceremony at his New Orleans home on Friday (20Dec13), and although he admitted he was "happy" with the tribute, he declared there was "no way" he would ride a float.

The parade will take place on the eve of the annual Mardi Gras celebrations and will include performances by veteran rockers Cheap Trick and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and The Party Crashers.