New Orleans traditions inspire modern genre

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New Orleans traditions inspire modern genre
March 3, 2010
Irish Eyes

From Congo Square in the early 1800’s to present-day Louis Armstrong Park, music has played a major role in the history and tradition of New Orleans.
The city of New Orleans is home to many talented musicians, and jazz music is a popular focus for many of these artists. Some of the most highly acclaimed jazz musicians have come from New Orleans, and many experience fierce loyalty to the city of their birth, naming songs and albums with the city in mind or opening up jazz clubs along Bourbon Street. Such artists include Irma Thomas, the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” and Malcom John Rebennack, Jr., or “Dr. John.” Rebennack’s career was established after he released the album “Dr. John’s Gumbo.”
Thomas, Rebennack and fellow New Orleans native Allen Toussaint performed “Yes We Can” at the Grammy Awards in 2006 in honor of Hurricane Katrina, joined by the Edge and Bonnie Raitt. Toussaint was also nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award for best jazz instrumental album.
Jazz music is described as being “free,” and some attribute that to the laid back attitude of New Orleans. Since its creation, jazz music has influenced other genres of music, in the New Orleans area and around the