Recorded on the Ric label, Al Johnson’s “Carnival Time” hit the streets of New Orleans for Mardi Gras of 1960. While it didn’t catch on at first, today it’s a standard. That’s Mac Rebennack (Dr. John) on the piano. Mardi Gras music, like Christmas music, is not so much a style of music as it is an aural milieu comprised of various forms. Among them: orchestral and big-band arrangements played at tableau balls; Mardi Gras-themed rhythm-and-blues numbers that pour out of jukeboxes, “cutting-loose” jazz tunes that drive revelers to “shake booty” and pump umbrellas in the air; Afro-Caribbean chants The Mardi Gras Indians started their journey in the late 1800s and pulled much of their influence from their Native American comrades. Whether they're Wild Tchoupitoulas or Wild Magnolia, the music of the Mardi Gras Indians represents strength and long-rooted tradition and is as vital a part of Mardi Gras music history as the music of brass bands. The traditions of Mardi Gras are a huge part of New Orleans' cultural identity. They've been evolving since the mid-1700s, and for the past century or so, the music of the Crescent City has During Mardi Gras celebrations, you'll hear a whole mish-mash of party music and other genres. For this Mardi Gras playlist, we've focused mainly on brass bands, rhythm and blues, jazz, and zydeco in order to capture the traditional sounds of the Bourbon Street festivities. What kind of music is played at Mardi Gras? And while famous musicians like Louis Armstrong made jazz a popular part of Mardi Gras, it isn’t the most common genre heard during the season. Introduced to parades by the Zulu Club in the 1800s, second line music, along with brass music, rhythm and blues, and zydeco, became leading sounds of Carnival. The enigmatic Mardi Gras Indians, influenced by Native American traditions, left an indelible mark on the season, contributing to musical favorites like “Iko Iko” and “Jock-A-Mo.” The music of the Mardi Gras Indians, representing strength and tradition, became an integral part of Mardi Gras music history. In Southwest Louisiana, Mardi Gras music is underpinned by foot-stomping Cajun and zydeco music, musical forms derived from the region’s French, Acadian and Creole heritages. Especially in the area’s small cities and even smaller towns, the centerpiece of the holiday is a parade of decoratively costumed, possibly inebriated riders that go What kind of music do you play for Mardi Gras? And while famous musicians like Louis Armstrong made jazz a popular part of Mardi Gras, it isn’t the most common genre heard during the season. Introduced to parades by the Zulu Club in the 1800s, second line music, along with brass music, rhythm and blues, and zydeco, became leading sounds of Mardi Gras traditions differ regionally: You’ll find jazz-tinged New Orleans-style parades in the bayou and Cajun-coated chicken runs down south. Celebrations vary, sure, but good music never does: It’s as integral to Louisiana’s culture as the holiday is. Mardi Gras Music. No single sound defines Mardi Gras. Music and Dance: The Soundtrack of Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras is more than just a sight to see—it’s a musical adventure. The sounds of New Orleans come alive, turning streets into concert stages. Traditional mardi gras music creates an atmosphere you won’t forget. Jazz and Zydeco Influences. New Orleans is the heart of mardi gras music. Consider them a Mardi Gras offering. Costumes Are Encouraged (and Sometimes Required) If you’re not in a wig, sequins, or at least a feather boa, are you even doing Mardi Gras right? And on Mardi Gras day wear a heavy coat, shorts, tank top and sneakers because the weather changes from winter wonderland to summer by noon.- Tamsy Kambi What Is the Origin of Mardi Gras Music? Mardi Gras music has its origins in 17th Century Europe, particularly the French tradition celebrating "Fat Tuesday." As you explore its roots, you'll find a blend of African, Caribbean, and European influences that shaped its unique sound. The king of Mardi Gras himself, Arthur Hardy is your go-to guy for information on parade routes, krewes, Mardi Gras royalty, and everything in between. You can find it all in the Arthur Hardy Mardi Gras Guide, which has been published since 1977 and contains 160 pages of facts, photos, and fun. Order your guide here. B - Beads Mardi Gras music is a festive and upbeat genre of music that is often associated with the Mardi Gras celebration. The music is typically characterized by its use of brass instruments, percussion, and lively melodies. While the exact origins of Mardi Gras music are unclear, the genre has become closely associated with the annual Mardi Gras Last, but certainly not least, your Mardi Gras party absolutely needs some live music! Capture the sounds of Bourbon Street (even if your party won't be in New Orleans!) with: Capture the sounds of Bourbon Street (even if your party won't be in New Orleans!) with: But in those days, people knew how to dance several types of dances. They did the Scottish The polka. Big Chief ♪ Professor Longhair made his mark on Mardi Gras music as early as 1949, with While Mardi Gras is celebrated in various forms around the world, it is most famously associated with New Orleans, Louisiana. Over the centuries, Mardi Gras in New Orleans has evolved into a grand and extravagant celebration, deeply rooted in the city’s unique blend of French, African, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. A selection of music to get you in the mood for Mardi Gras and Carnival from the artists of New Orleans' premiere record label, Basin Street Records! Featuring Jon Cleary, Rebirth Brass Band, Dr. Michael White, Henry Butler, Los Hombres Calientes, Kermit Ruffins, Jason Marsalis, Irvin Mayfield and more. Mardi Gras Records is an online shop for all types of New Orleans Music - Zydeco, Cajun, Jazz, Mardi Gras, Gospel and Soul.
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