Monthly Archives: January 2015

African American NOLA musicians rocked the nation

Posted on January 29, 2015 by

With the onset of African American History Month, I thought it worthwhile to address the role of New Orleans in launching Rock n’ Roll. Cause the very fact that the city’s contribution is relatively unknown is a reflection in part of the broader … Continue reading →

Posted in New Orleans Performers, Songs | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Mardi Gras Indians integral to New Orleans sound

Posted on January 25, 2015 by

You cannot truly understand New Orleans music without having some awareness of the Black Indians of Mardi Gras, or what is more commonly referred to as “Mardi Gras Indians.” This more than century-old tradition of certain African Americans in New Orleans … Continue reading →

Posted in Festivals, GumboYaYa, New Orleans Performers, Songs | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Jazzfest, New Music and Tubaluba

Posted on January 16, 2015 by

I’m stealing an idea from my son, Riley, who uses Fridays to write about various loose ends for his progressive political blog. So below are three items: Jazzfest lineup, great new music at KAOS and a heads up on my … Continue reading →

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James Booker carried the piano tradition forward in his own way

Posted on January 9, 2015 by

If there is justice in the music world, James Booker would be better known for the genius and artistry of his piano playing.  The fact that his music is still played 30 years after his untimely death in New Orleans … Continue reading →

Posted in New Orleans Performers, New Orleans Piano Players | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

New Orleans and the piano – A good team.

Posted on January 4, 2015 by

As part of my ongoing education on New Orleans music, I’ve been reading about the use of the piano in New Orleans music. (Please note: I’m not a real musician but I operate a CD player at home) While the piano … Continue reading →

Posted in New Orleans Performers, New Orleans Piano Players | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments