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 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. 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. Mardi Gras comes to a close on Tuesday night, and soon, those who celebrate will exclaim “Laissez les bons temps rouler,” or “Let the good times roll” for the last time this Carnival season. 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. 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. Everyone in New Orleans knows the essential Mardi Gras songs. The likes of “Carnival Time,” “Mardi Gras Mambo,” “Go To the Mardi Gras,” “Big Chief” and “Second-Line, Pt. 1” are Mardi Gras is a joyous and vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse heritage. During the Mardi Gras festivities, the city streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors and an energizing ambiance. Parades featuring elaborate floats, masked revelers, and marching bands take center stage. 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. 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 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 Mardi Gras is a festive day celebrated in France on Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday), which marks the close of the pre-Lenten season. The French name Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, from the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent. 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 is not just for humans; New Orleans hosts a "Krewe of Barkus" parade, where dogs don costumes and join the fun. The largest Mardi Gras float ever built was over 330 feet long and carried more than 200 riders. Mardi Gras in Popular Culture. Mardi Gras has made its mark in popular culture, appearing in movies, music, and literature. Thanks for watching! Please like and subscribe!1 hour of New Orleans themed ambient music set to New Orleans and Mardi Gras images. A ambient instrumental mi Mardi Gras, known for more elaborate celebrations, is typically celebrated with jubilant music, street celebrations and parades, often occurring for the days leading up to Fat Tuesday, too. The History & Traditions of Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras has been celebrated in Louisiana since the 18th century, brought by French settlers. Today’s traditions stem from European carnival customs mixed with local culture, creating a uniquely New Orleans spectacle. Mardi Gras (UK: / ˌ m ɑːr d i ˈ ɡ r ɑː /, US: / ˈ m ɑːr d i ɡ r ɑː /; [1] [2] also known as Shrove Tuesday) is the final day of Carnival (also known as Shrovetide or Fastelavn); it thus falls on the day before the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. [3]
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