Go to the Mardi Gras—Professor Longhair “Go to the Mardi Gras,” first recorded in 1949, by Roy “Baldhead” Byrd, also known as Professor Longhair. The definitive version was recorded in 1959 for the Ron label. Some say it’s the most popular Carnival record ever made. Fats Domino recorded it in 1956. We love the whistling. Sample lyric: Here they are, in no special order, the Top Ten Mardi Gras Songs of Louisiana! 10) "My Feet Can't Fail Me Now" The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. 9) Carnival Time Al Johnson. 8) Big Chief Professor Longhair. 5. "Go To The Mardi Gras" - Professor Longhair. With jubilant piano melodies, snazzy horns, and carefree whistling, "Go To The Mardi Gras" is another festive song that will make you want to book a plane ticket to New Orleans. Like other songs on this list, the snappy tune mentions two real New Orleans street names - St. Claude and Dumaire. The Meters, "Hey Pocky A-Way" The strongest of several Mardi Gras classics by these masters of funk during their mid-'70s period. With a microscopically accurate second-line beat, boogie-woogie piano New Orleans style, semi-nonsensical lyrics, and loads of thick funk on top, this sums up the bohemian essence of the celebration. Whether you’re dancing in the streets of the French Quarter or throwing your own Mardi Gras party at home, one thing’s for sure—you need the perfect Mardi Gras playlist to keep the party going. During Mardi Gras celebrations, you'll hear a whole mish-mash of party music and other genres. There are many traditions associated with Mardi Gras, but one of the most popular is to listen to music. There are many songs that can be considered good Mardi Gras songs, but some of the most popular include “Iko Iko” by The Dixie Cups, “Mardi Gras in New Orleans” by Professor Longhair, and “Jock-A-Mo” by James “Sugarboy Here, I compiled 12 of my favorite themed tunes in no particular order that includes a day-after Mardi Gras Day song. To kick this list off is one of my ALL TIME favorite songs: Tipitina by Bo Dollis and the Wild Magnolias. This song, written by Professor Longhair — one of New Orleans' greatest musical treasures — brings together two of Mardi Gras's richest traditions: the Zulu parade and second-lining. Zulu is an all-African-American krewe (actually a "Social Aid and Pleasure Club") whose parade includes the tossing of golden coconuts and is one of the A good playlist is the heartbeat of your celebration, and we’ve compiled 70 songs to capture the spirit of Mardi Gras. From classic brass band bangers to soulful jazz and modern hits, these tunes will keep your party lively and your spirits high. 70 Songs For Your Mardi Gras Playlist. Traditional Mardi Gras Classics. Mardi Gras Mambo by The Popular Mardi Gras Songs Mardi Gras songs pulse with the energy and spirit of celebration, making them essential to the vibrant festivities in New Orleans. Classic tracks like "Go to the Mardi Gras" by Professor Longhair and "Carnival Time" by Al Johnson set the tone for the season. The songs that are played on Mardi Gras floats are often traditional Louisiana songs or popular songs with a Louisiana twist. Here are some of the most popular songs that you might hear on a Mardi Gras float: “Iko Iko” – This traditional Mardi Gras song is often sung by float riders as they pass by spectators. The lyrics are simple but Where is the most famous Mardi Gras celebration held? The most famous Mardi Gras celebration is held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The city is known for its elaborate parades, masquerade balls, and street parties. What are Mardi Gras “throws”? Throws are trinkets, beads, and other small gifts tossed from parade floats to spectators. The #5 “Go to the Mardi Gras” by Professor Longhair “Go to the Mardi Gras” by Professor Longhair is a jubilant anthem celebrating New Orleans’ most famous event—Mardi Gras. The song’s infectious piano riffs and upbeat tempo encapsulate the joyful chaos of the city during carnival season. This unforgettable song, sometimes known as “La Danse de Mardi Gras” or “La Chanson de Mardi Gras,” has been memorably recorded by Beausoleil, Wade Fruge and Cedric Watson, but the best Early on Mardi Gras Day, down in the Ninth Ward occurs one of Mardi Gras's most eclectic events, the appearance of the various Black Native American tribes. Just as the song says, Claiborne and Dumaine is a hot spot for the Mardi Gras Native Americans, who have divided themselves into distinct tribes, based primarily on the closely-knit One of the most popular songs associated with Mardi Gras is “Hey Pocky Way.” “Hey Pocky Way” is a song that was originally recorded by the New Orleans-based band The Meters in 1969. The song quickly became a Mardi Gras standard, and has been performed by many different artists over the years. The influence of the main Mardi Gras song on the celebration's atmosphere and communal spirit is undeniable, permeating every aspect of the festivities with its infectious rhythms and evocative melodies. The main Mardi Gras song serves as the heartbeat of the celebration, infusing energy and excitement into the air. Mardi Gras Songs Playlist. There are many great songs to play during Mardi Gras celebrations. Some of the most popular include “Iko Iko,” “When the Saints Go Marching In,” “Mardi Gras in New Orleans,” and “Jock-A-Mo.” These songs will get everyone in the party mood and help create a great atmosphere for celebrating. The most popular song on Mardi Gras by DJ Cinema is “The Rapper Eater” with a total of 26K page views. 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.
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |