David Russell Batiste Jr. (December 12, 1965 – September 30, 2023) was an American drummer based in New Orleans.

Batiste played drums for the bands the funky Meters, Papa Grows Funk, and Vida Blue.

As a solo artist, he led his own band Russell Batiste Jr. and the Orkestra from 'Da Hood and has released two albums under the name.

[3] Batiste performed with a wide range of musicians and bands including Papa Grows Funk,[4] Vida Blue,[5] Harry Connick Jr., Champion Jack Dupree, Robbie Robertson and Maceo Parker.

Batiste died of heart attack at his home in LaPlace, Louisiana, on September 30, 2023, at the age of 57.