The first time I learned of Dr John, I was flipping through the TV channels and stopped at what was probably Austin City Limits. I was aware of New Orleans-style playing but was awestruck by his technique. It seemed more refined and easier on my teenage suburban ears than what I'd heard before. I had missed the introduction so I had no idea who he was. The internet was not in every household then and I have no recollection of how I figured out his name but I promptly borrowed every album of his I could find at the library.
Prior to this I had developed an affinity for playing ragtime music and emulating the Doctor was a fun adaptation of some of those techniques. Eventually, my interests shifted to other styles but I still pull out "Dr. John Plays Mac Rebennack" or "In the Right Place" every once in a while.