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 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 “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. 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. 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. 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 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. By the 1730’s, shortly after New Orleans’ founding, Mardi Gras was regularly celebrated in the city. Iconic music that defines Mardi Gras. New Orleans is brimming with music at all times of the year, but especially during Mardi Gras. The sort of music you’re most likely to hear during Mardi Gras is played by krewes marching in parades. Mardi Gras Music History The nexus between Carnival and music reflects the festive, let-the-good-times-roll culture of the Crescent City, where parading and dancing have long been obsessions. The seasonal spirit and its accompanying soundtrack conspire to prompt revelers to shed inhibitions 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 Mardi Gras History and Tradition. Now a cultural phenomenon, Mardi Gras began as a Christian practice — particularly a Roman Catholic one. On the Tuesday before Lent, which marks a period of penance and fasting, revelers would enjoy liberal amounts of rich, savory foods. This tradition became known as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday.” 8. This classic Mardi Gras R&B song mentions a type of dance. What is it? A. “Carnival Bossa Nova” B. “Mardi Gras Mambo” C. “Rex Rhumba” D. “Gemini Glide” 9. Since he plans to start his own tribe your friend figures he should learn Mardi Gras Indian songs. Which of the following is not one A. “Iko-Iko” B. “Spirits of the Mardi Gras is a Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon that dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. It's most famously celebrated with parades in New Orleans The Cajun Mardi Gras Festival is located in the heart of downtown Eunice, Louisiana, bringing vibrant culture and festivities to the area. For the best reference to the event's location, use 300 South 2nd Street, Eunice, LA 70535 as your destination. 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 Mardi Gras Indians may be one of the most mysterious aspects of New Orleans Mardi Gras, particularly for visitors to the city. Tribes were formed by African American communities who were excluded from traditional parades and krewes, and they typically poke fun at krewe royalty and governing structures. 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: The energy and excitement of Mardi Gras provide a welcome break from the routines of everyday life, allowing people to experience a sense of freedom and spontaneity. Conclusion. Mardi Gras is much more than just a party; it is a celebration with deep historical, cultural, and spiritual roots. The VooDUDES are the dudes you want to know on Mardi Gras. New Jersey's premier New Orleans-inspired band will play two sets on Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Saint on Main Street to cap this year's
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
![]() | ![]() |