New Lucinda Williams album Blessed set for March 1st release

Blessed, the stunning new album from three-time Grammy Award-winner Lucinda Williams is set for release on March 1st by Lost Highway. Considered by many to be one of America's greatest living songwriters, Williams lives up to that and more by delivering 12 new songs that cover an even wider emotional spectrum than her previous work, without moving too far in any one direction.



Blessed opens with the gritty kiss-off "Buttercup" and moves seamlessly into the sultry blues of "Born To Be Loved". Williams delves into a heavier subject as she questions the motives for a suicide on the hard-driving "Seeing Black", which features blistering guitar from Elvis Costello. The thoughtful title track slowly builds to a melodic climax as it gives an eye-opening look at what's right in front of us, but too often unnoticed. The poignant and powerful "Soldier's Song" simultaneously tells a tragic story of the soldier overseas and his wife and child back home. On the gorgeous "Kiss Like Your Kiss", Williams lays down one of the most beautiful and fragile vocals she has ever recorded. The original version of "Kiss Like Your Kiss" appeared on True Blood: Music From The HBO Original Series - Volume 2 and was just nominated for a Grammy for "Best Song Written for Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media."

It's nothing new to see Williams tug at the heartstrings and stimulate the mind in her songs, but there is a vibe throughout Blessed that is unique to this album in particular. It's the sound of the wisdom and experience Williams has gained through her years as an uncompromising talent. Combine that with Grammy Award-winning producer Don Was at the helm, and something special is born. Was co-produced Blessed with Eric Liljestrand and Tom Overby, who co-produced Williams highly-praised Little Honey (2008). Blessed features special guests Rami Jaffe on keyboards, Matthew Sweet on vocals Greg Leisz and Elvis Costello on guitar.

The deluxe edition of Blessed will include a bonus disc titled The Kitchen Tapes. These are the demos Lucinda recorded of the songs that became Blessed right as they were born at her kitchen table, which she does much of her writing.

Blessed will be available in 3 different configurations, each with a slightly different album cover.

- Standard CD/Digital: 12 tracks, single disc/digital release

- Deluxe 2 CD/Digital: 12 tracks + "Kitchen Tapes" (demos)

- LP/CD Combo: includes the 2 CDs + 2 vinyl LPs


For more info, visit www.lucindawilliams.com

Opening Reception for "Tambourine and Fan" Art Exhibit this Saturday

Exhibit celebrating Mardi Gras culture opens Saturday, January 29 at McKenna Museum

Opening Reception with the artists is Saturday, January 29, 2011 from 6-9pm

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Complimentary refreshments and live entertainment by New Orleans artist Greg Banks

FEATURING: New works by artists Jamar Pierre and Gregoryaun Magee-Hunter

LOCATION: The McKenna Museum, 2003 Carondelet Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

The George and Leah McKenna Museum of African American Art presents The Tambourine and Fan, fundraiser and art exhibit celebrating Mardi Gras culture with new works by Jamar Pierre and introducing Gregoryaun Magee-Hunter.

Jamar has worked with the Tambourine and Fan organization for over fifteen years with murals from Hunters Field to the Treme Community Center, along with hundreds of youth in the 6th and 7th wards. Tambourine and Fan organization is devoted to instilling cultural awareness and building self esteem in the Treme community.

A percentage of the proceeds will enable Jamar Pierre to re-create the 80 ft. banners under the Claiborne Ave overpass, as well as murals at Hunter’s Field (St. Bernard and Claiborne), which were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

"Tambourine and Fan" will be on view through carnival season until March 12, 2011.

Aaron Neville Joins Tribute to the Music of Neil Young at Carnegie Hall, February 10th

Even more big names have stepped up to pay tribute to the music of Neil Young at the Feb 10 benefit concert at Carnegie Hall. Jakob Dylan, Glen Hansard (The Swell Season), Aaron Neville, Evan Dando and Juliana Hatfield have now been added to the star-studded lineup.

Curated by music impresario Michael Dorf, the full lineup for "The Music of Neil Young at Carnegie Hall" tribute also includes Patti Smith, The Roots, J Mascis, Living Colour's Vernon Reid, DeVotchKa, Shawn Colvin, Pete Yorn, Nada Surf, Bettye LaVette, Bebel Gilberto, Keller Williams, Larry Campbell, Ben Ottewell (of Gomez), Cowboy Junkies, Mason Jennings, Joan Osborne, and Joe Purdy.

The concert marks the seventh installment of an annual series to raise crucially needed funds for music education programs for underprivileged youth. The total funds raised by the series are on track to exceed $500,000 with this year's concert.

Previous sold-out concerts presented by Dorf have honored the music of such timeless artists as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, R.E.M., and The Who. 100% of the net proceeds from the concert will be given to six music education non-profits: The American Symphony Orchestra Music Notes, Church Street School of Music, Young Audiences, Music Unites All-Youth Choir, The Pinwheel Project, and FIKS (Fixing Instruments for Kids in Schools).

The Music of Neil Young' concert on the Web:

- http://www.neilyoungcarnegie.com

Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton Play the Blues in NYC

Jazz at Lincoln Center announces Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton will perform together in Wynton Marsalis and Eric Clapton Play the Blues, with a special solo performance by blues legend Taj Mahal, in Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center. The special concert events have been added to the season schedule as the organization's 2011 Annual Gala on April 7 and as ticketed concerts open to the public on April 8 and 9.

Clapton, a guitar icon and three-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and Marsalis, Jazz at Lincoln Center Artistic Director and nine-time GRAMMY Award winner, will perform blues classics which may include tunes by Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith and Howling Wolf. For these special concerts, Clapton and Marsalis will be joined by Marcus Printup (trumpet), Chris Crenshaw (trombone), Victor Goines (clarinet), Jonathan Batiste (piano), Carlos Henriquez (bass), Ali Jackson (drums) and Don Vappie (banjo). The concerts will also include a special performance by composer, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Taj Mahal, one of the most prominent and influential figures in late 20th century blues and roots music.

The April 7 performance marks Jazz at Lincoln Center's 2011 Annual Gala evening. A gala dinner will be held at Roseland Ballroom at 239 W. 52nd Street immediately following the concert and will feature entertainment by Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. Proceeds from Jazz at Lincoln Center's 2011 Annual Gala benefit the thousands of performance, education and broadcast events the organization produces each year. Underwriters of this extraordinary event are Diana DiMenna, John Arnhold, and Dick Cashin. Co-Chairmen are Helen and Robert J. Appel, Marlene Hess and James Zirin, Little Johnny Koerber and Kari Gronberg, Chip and Burwell Schorr, and Dr. Agnes Varis. Vice-Chairmen are Shahara Ahmad-Llewellyn, The Jeffrey A. Altman Foundation, Bank of America, Gail and Al Engelberg, Ed and Carolyn Lewis, MasterCard, Louise and Leonard Riggio, Lisa and David T. Schiff, Melanie Shorin and Greg Feldman and Mary Kay and John Strangfeld/Prudential Financial.

Clapton and Marsalis first collaborated for Jazz at Lincoln Center's 2003 gala, and most recently, Marsalis appears on Clapton's 2010 CD, Clapton.

Jazz at Lincoln Center 2011 Annual Gala: Thursday, April 7, 2011, 7pm. Tickets on sale now.

Public Concerts: Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9, 8pm.
Jazz at Lincoln Center subscribers and members advance sale on January 24
MasterCard cardholders advance sale on January 28.
Go to http://jalc.org/advancesale/ for more info.

Tickets for the general public on sale February 12.

Where:
Rose Theater at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center
Broadway at 60th Street, New York, New York

*April 7 gala post-performance dinner party to take place at Roseland Ballroom, 239 W. 52nd Street

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Announces 2011 Performers

Headliners include Robert Plant, Jeff Beck, Wyclef Jean, Keb' Mo', Bon Jovi, John Mellencamp, Tom Jones, John Legend & The Roots, The Decemberists, Wilco, Cyndi Lauper, Lucinda Williams, Arcade Fire, Willie Nelson, Gregg Allman, Jimmy Buffett, The Strokes, Lauryn Hill, Kid Rock, Michael Franti and Sonny Rollins

Tickets for Jazz Fest go on sale at Ticketmaster.com and the New Orleans Arena box office on January 20th

Artist Line-Up By Date:

Friday - April 29, 2011

Robert Plant & the Band of Joy, Jeff Beck, Wyclef Jean, The Avett Brothers, Mumford & Sons, Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, Keb' Mo', Mighty Clouds of Joy, Justin Townes Earle, Ron Carter Trio with Mulgrew Miller and Russell Malone, Donald Harrison, Tab Benoit, Jon Cleary, George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners, John Mooney & Bluesiana, The Subdudes, Mia Borders, Anat Cohen Quartet, Los Hombres Calientes featuring Bill Summers & Irvin Mayfield, The Bahamas Experience, Ti-Coca & Wanga Négès of Haiti, Germaine Bazzle, The Joe Krown Trio featuring Walter "Wolfman" Washington and Russell Batiste Jr., Haitian — New Orleans Connection featuring Emeline Michel, Dr. Jean Montes and Dr. Michael White, Warren Storm - Willie Tee & Cypress, Shades of Praise, Henry Gray & the Cats, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone, Red Stick Ramblers, Coco Robicheaux, Danny Barnes, Otra, New Orleans Nightcrawlers, New Orleans Spiritualettes, Corey Ledet, Derek Douget, Lil Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers, Doreen's Jazz New Orleans, Dave Lemon & the Flow, Mashup feauring Terence Higgins, Ike Stubblefield and Grant Green Jr., Clive Wilson's New Orleans Serenaders with guest Butch Thompson, Happy Talk Band, Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns, Connie Jones & the Crescent City Jazz Band, Hadley J. Castille Family & the Sharecroppers Cajun Band, Comanche Hunters and Semolian Warriors Mardi Gras Indians, Real Untouchables Brass Band, Rocks of Harmony, Morning Star Mass Choir, Chris Clifton, Louis Ford & his New Orleans Flairs, Voices of Peter Claver, Los Astros de America, Tulane Jazz Ensemble, Jonno & Cajun Experience, Mount Zion Pilgrim Baptist Church Choir, Sister Naomi Washington and Group, Smitty Dee's Brass Band, Dillard University Jazz Ensemble, Black Mohawk and Black Foot Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Keep N it Real, We R One, Zulu, and Big Nine Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Louisiana Sketches with Carl LeBlanc presented by Young Audiences, Gray Hawk, Young Cheyenne and Geronimo Hunters Mardi Gras Indians.

Saturday - April 30, 2011

Bon Jovi, Jason Mraz, Fantasia, Irma Thomas, Robert Cray, Amos Lee, Ahmad Jamal, Rance Allen, Ricky Skaggs, John Boutte, The Dixie Cups, Jeremy Davenport, Emeline Michel and DJA-Rara of Haiti, Hot 8 Brass Band, Big Freedia and Sissy Nobby, The Low Anthem, Anat Cohen Quartet, The Bahamas Experience, Alvin Youngblood Hart's Muscle Theory, Ti-Coca & Wanga Négès of Haiti, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Pine Leaf Boys, Rotary Downs, Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots, Shannon McNally & Hot Sauce, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, The Savoy Center of Eunice Saturday Cajun Jam, Panorama Jazz Band, Renard Poche, Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders, Andrew Duhon & the Lonesome Crows, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Orange Kellin's New Orleans Deluxe Orchestra, The Johnson Extension, Ted Winn, Lars Edegran & the New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, Kidd Jordan, Midnite Disturbers, Gospel Soul Children, Jockimo's Groove featuring War Chief Juan, Brice Miller and Mahogany Brass Band, Erica Falls, J. Monque'D Blues Band, Willis Prudhomme & Zydeco Express, Young Tuxedo Brass Band, The Tenor Sax Woodshed featuring Christian Winther and Clarence Slaughter, Tyronne Foster & the Arc Singers, Grupo Sensacion, First Emanuel Gospel Choir, Po' Henry & Tookie, Kid Simmons' Local International Allstars, DJ Bomshell Boogie, UNO Jazz Allstars, Big Chief Walter Cook & the Creole Wild West Mardi Gras Indians, Xavier University Jazz Ensemble, Nine Times Men, Single Men, and Single Ladies Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Les Getrex & Quick Change, Craig Adams & Higher Dimensions of Praise, Pastor Tyrone Jefferson, Lady Jetsetters, Dumaine Gang, Divine Ladies, and Family Ties Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Red, White & Blue and Wild Mohicans Mardi Gras Indians, Highsteppers Brass Band, Mo'Lasses, Miss Claudia & her Biergartners, Curtis Pierre with Samba Kids, River Road African American Museum Drum & Dance, Golden Comanche and Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians.

Sunday - May 1, 2011

John Mellencamp, Tom Jones, John Legend & The Roots, Dr. John, Alejandro Sanz, Arlo Guthrie, Kenny G, The Decemberists, Vickie Winans, Pete Fountain, Terence Blanchard, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Boukman Eksperyans of Haiti, Deacon John, Zachary Richard, Classic New Orleans Revue featuring Frankie Ford, Jean Knight, and the Blue Eyed Soul Band, Glen David Andrews, Partners-N-Crime with 5th Ward Weebie, Honey Island Swamp Band, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, The Wiseguys, The Boogie Men, Astral Project, Red Baraat, DJA-Rara of Haiti, Anders Osborne, John Fohl & Johnny Sansone, Jake Smith, Mitch Woods & His Rocket 88’s, Sherman Washington & the Zion Harmonizers, Lil’ Buck Sinegal Blues Band, Washboard Chaz Blues Trio, Storyville Stompers Brass Band, Fredy Omar con su Banda, Golden Star Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Mark Braud, Lil’ Malcolm & the House Rockers, Los Po-Boy-Citos, The Tommy Sancton New Orleans Quintet, Jo "Cool" Davis with guest James "Sugarboy" Crawford, Kristin Diable, Free Agents Brass Band, Driskill Mountain Boys, Tom McDermott, Michael Ward, Keith Frank, New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra, Traditional Jazz Tribute to Mahalia Jackson, Furious Five, Untouchables, Big Steppers, New Look, The First Division, and Olympia Aid Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Reggie Hall & the Twilighters featuring Lady Bee, Jesse Lege, Joel Savoy & the Cajun Country Revival, St. Joseph the Worker Choir, Jazz & Blues featuring Luther Kent, Phillip Manuel and Big Al Carson, Ninth Ward Navajo, Golden Blade, and Carrollton Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Jeremy Lyons Delta-Silly Music, Val & the Love Alive Fellowship Choir, Voices of Distinction, The Last Straws, Big Chief Kevin Goodman & the Flaming Arrows, LeRoy Thomas, Donnie Bolden, Jr. & the Spirit of Elijah, Delgado Community College Jazz Ensemble, Young Pinstripe Brass Band, Uptown Music Theatre, New Orleans Young Traditional Brass Band with the Heel to Toe Steppers, Ayla Miller Band, Young Guardians of the Flame.

Thursday - May 5, 2011

Wilco, Cyndi Lauper, Lucinda Williams, Galactic, Maceo Parker with special guest Pee Wee Ellis, Ivan Lins, Joseph Zigaboo Modeliste, Ruthie Foster, Michelle Shocked, Charlie Musselwhite, Djakout #1 of Haiti, Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes, Amanda Shaw, The New Orleans Bingo! Show, The Iguanas, Lisa Knowles & the Brown Sisters, Charmaine Neville, Banu Gibson & the Allstars featuring Bob Havens and Randy Reinhart, Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, Christian Scott, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Leroy Jones, Kirk Joseph's Backyard Groove, James Booker Piano Tribute featuring David Reis, Joe Krown, Josh Paxton, Tom Worrell and Tom McDermott, Delfeayo Marsalis' Uptown Orchestra, Gov't Majik Dirty South Afro-Beat Arkestra, Sasha Masakowski, Brice Winston, Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole, Little Freddie King Blues Band, Lino Patruno of Italy, Linnzi Zaorski, Spencer Bohren, Original Royal Players Brass Band, Belton Richard & the Musical Aces, Roots of Music Marching Crusaders Band, Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue, Paul Eason, John Rankin, Flatbed Honeymoon, Robert “Bilbo” Walker, Ovi-G & the Froggies, Dukes of Dixieland, BRW, Paulin Brothers Brass Band, Kumbuka African Dance & Drum Collective, Fi Yi Yi & the Mandingo Warriors, 7th Ward Creole Hunters and Cheyenne Mardi Gras Indians, Young Fellaz Brass Band, Lyle Henderson & Emmanu-EL, Black Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, The Help, McDonogh #35, O. Perry Walker Charter, McMain, and Joseph S. Clark High School Gospel Choirs, Stooges Brass Band, Heavenly Melodies Gospel Singers, Pastor Terry Gullage and the Greater Mt. Calvary Voices of Redemption Choir, Tornado Brass Band, Bon Temp Roulez, VIP Ladies, Men of Class, and Ladies of Unity Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Loyola University Jazz Ensemble, Clearwood Jr. High School Chorale, Adams Middle School Players.

Friday - May 6, 2011

Arcade Fire, Willie Nelson, Lupe Fiasco, Better Than Ezra, Jamey Johnson, Gregg Allman Blues Band, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, Buckwheat Zydeco, Big Sam's Funky Nation, 100th Birthday Celebration for Mahalia Jackson featuring Irma Thomas with guest John Boutté, Edie Brickell, Eric Lindell, Soul Rebels Brass Band, Bonerama, Mingus Big Band, Luther Kent, Bob Wilber & the Crescent City Cats, Bobby Cure & the Summertime Blues with guest Al "Carnival Time" Johnson, James Rivers Movement, Roddie Romero & the Hub City Allstars, Tim Laughlin, The SteelDrivers, Leah Chase, Djakout #1 of Haiti, The New Orleans Klezmer Allstars' 20th Anniversary, Alex McMurray, Kourtney Heart, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, A Centennial Celebration for Lionel Ferbos with the Palm Court Jazz Band, Yvette Landry, We Landed on the Moon!, Sharon Martin, Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band, Jamil Sharif, Jambalaya Cajun Band, Ingrid Lucia, Big Al Carson Blues Band, Topsy Chapman & Solid Harmony, Joseph Torregano, Guitar Slim Jr., Gina Brown & Anutha Level, Andy J. Forest NOtown Band, Blodie's Jazz Jam, Ivoire Spectacle featuring Seguenon Kone, Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Ensemble, Michael Skinkus & Moyuba, Joe Hall & the Louisiana Cane Cutters, Connie & Dwight with the St. Raymond/St. Leo the Great Choir, Kevin Thompson & the Sensational Six, Archdiocese of New Orleans Gospel Choir, Fleur de Ladies Brass Band, Young Magnolias, White Cloud Hunters, and Red Hawk Mardi Gras Indians, Forgotten Souls, The Wimberly Family Gospel Singers, New Wave Brass Band, Original Big Seven, Original Four, Scene Boosters, and Ole N Nu Style Fellas Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, Young Cherokee and Ninth Ward Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Rev. Jermaine Landrum & Abundant Praise Revival Choir, Rose Anne St. Romain, Nineveh Baptist Church Mass Choir, New Orleans Indian Rhythm Section, N.O.C.C.A. Jazz Ensemble, Metropelican Opera, Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue presented by Young Audiences, Bester Singers and Dynamic Smooth Family Gospel Singers.

Saturday - May 7, 2011

Jimmy Buffett, The Strokes, Lauryn Hill, Allen Toussaint, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Mystikal, Bobby Blue Bland, Fourplay, Marcia Ball, Aaron Neville's Gospel Experience, RAM of Haiti, Nicholas Payton, James Andrews & the Crescent City Allstars, Jesse Winchester, MyNameIsJohnMichael, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Voice of the Wetlands All Stars, Shamarr Allen & the Underdawgs, Khris Royal & Dark Matter, Ruby Wilson, New Birth Brass Band, Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band featuring Thais Clark, Vivaz, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Jeff & Vida, Paul Sanchez & the Rolling Road Show, The Jon Batiste Band, Wanda Rouzan's New Orleans R&B Revue, Bill Kirchen, R. Scully's Rough 7, Ernie Vincent & Top Notes, Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie, The Sammy Rimington International Band, D.L. Menard & the Louisiana Aces, Pfister Sisters, David Torkanowsky's Fleur Debris featuring George Porter Jr., 101 Runners, The Revealers, Kora Konnection featuring Morikeba Kouyate of Senegal and Thierno Dioubate of Guinea, AsheSon, New Orleans Cottonmouth Kings, Tribute to Walter Payton and June Gardner, DJ Soul Sister, Watson Memorial Teaching Ministry, Brother Tyrone, Baritone Bliss featuring Roger Lewis and Tony Dagradi, Smithfield Fair, Troy Turner, Kirk Joseph's Tuba Tuba, The Electrifying Crown Seekers, Greater Antioch Full Gospel BC Mass Choir, Jeffery Broussard & the Creole Cowboys, Black Feathers Mardi Gras Indians, Golden Voices Community Choir, Tonia Scott & Anointed Voices, Julliard Jazz Ensemble, N'Fungola Sibo West African Dance Company, Minister Jai Reed, Kinfolk Brass Band, Ashe Cultural Arts Center Kuumba Institute, Stephen Foster's Foster Family Program, Baby Boyz Brass Band, Franklin Avenue Baptist Church Choir, Cherokee Hunters, Wild Red Flame, Trouble Nation, and Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Westbank Steppers, New Generation, Undefeated Divas, Pigeon Town Steppers, and Valley of Silent Men Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs.

Sunday - May 8, 2011

Kid Rock, The Neville Brothers, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Sonny Rollins, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, The Radiators Farewell Show, Cowboy Mouth, Tabou Combo of Haiti, Papa Grows Funk, Rebirth Brass Band, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Sonny Landreth, Ellis Marsalis, Henry Butler, Playing for Change, Anders Osborne, Glen David Andrews, Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile, Rockin' Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters, RAM of Haiti, Fisk Jubilee Singers, Arthur Clayton & Purposely Anointed featuring special guest VaShawn Mitchell, Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias, Treme Brass Band, George French & the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band, The Bluerunners Reunion, Rumba Buena, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Dee-1, Mem Shannon & the Membership, Tommy Malone & Blvd Jr., Bobby Lounge, Feufollet, TBC Brass Band, Leo Jackson & the Melody Clouds, Generationals, DJ Captain Charles, Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Gregg Stafford's Jazz Hounds, Jesse McBride presents The Next Generation, Russell Batiste Jr. & Friends featuring Jason Neville, Tribute to Clyde Kerr, Goldman Thibodeaux & the Lawtell Playboys, Betsy McGovern & the Poor Clares, Julio y Cesar, Robin & the Bluebirds, Da Souljas Brass Band, Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble, Wild Tchoupitoulas and Wild Apaches Mardi Gras Indians, Bamboula 2000, Pinstripe Brass Band, Veal Brothers, Zulu Male Ensemble, Heritage School of Music Band, Jonté Landrum Thomas, Original New Orleans Lady Buckjumpers, Prince of Wales, Nine Times Ladies, Original C.T.C., Lady Rollers, and Secondline Jammers Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, SUBR Jazzy Jags, Johnette Downing, Mt. Hermon BC Mass Choir, Golden Sioux and Apache Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, N'Kafu Traditional African Dance Company, Dragon Master Showcase presented by Young Audiences, Erik McAllister & the N.O.C.C.A. Mime Theater Troupe, Black Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, KIDsmART Student Showcase, Sunpie Barnes with Louisiana Creole Music.

- Stay tuned to Jazz Fest at Satchmo.com for the latest updates.

- See Jazz Fest After Dark for New Orleans concert listings during Jazz Fest.

'Sounds of New Orleans: Frenchmen Street' set for release on Mystery Street Records

New Label Formed to Capture the Music of Louisiana and Help Independent Musicians Get Their Music Heard

Mystery Street Records is celebrating its official launch with the February 1 release of "Sounds of New Orleans: Frenchmen Street," the first in a series of themed CDs that explore the phenomenally eclectic music of New Orleans.

Fresh off an incredibly successful last few years with the fan-funded and volunteer run Threadhead Records label and its sister Foundation, founder Chris Joseph created the new affiliate Mystery Street Records label in part for the purpose of releasing themed albums from the Threadhead Records family of artists, which focuses on Louisiana's rich musical heritage.

Mystery Street Records, which is expected to quickly emerge as a premier label for Louisiana music, just secured national distribution with IODA/Red and has also announced a sponsorship with Zatarain's, a producer of New Orleans-style food products. Future themed releases will focus on the various unique streets and landmarks in the Crescent City, encapsulating the "Sounds of New Orleans."

Formed in 2007, Threadhead Records was created as a way to help New Orleans musicians expose their talents to as many listeners as possible. In less than four years the label has released 25 records and raised more than $300,000 for New Orleans musicians. Not your typical record label, musicians' projects are funded by loans or grants.

"Frenchmen Street" represents the myriad of musical styles heard pouring out of the numerous music clubs and bars on any given night on one of the most unique and exciting streets in the United States. Featured artists on the record include Paul Sanchez, John Boutte, Shamarr Allen, the New Orleans Nightcrawlers, Alex McMurray, Jesse Moore, Glen David Andrews, Margie Perez & the King Cake Babies, Craig Klein, Holley Bandtsen & Amasa Miller and Matt Perrine & Sunflower City. The CD also includes an exclusive live track by John Boutte, "Louisiana 1927," recorded at the 2006 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

Following "Frenchmen Street," the label's next endeavor, scheduled for release just in time for Mardi Gras (March 1), will be "Nine Lives, A Musical Adaptation, (Volume 1)," a 2-CD collection of 24 original songs based on the book "Nine Lives" by Dan Baum. The music was written by New Orleans' own singer/songwriter Paul Sanchez and Los Angeles-based screenwriter Colman deKay and features over 100 of New Orleans' finest musicians and singers, including Irma Thomas, Allen Toussaint, John Boutte, The Dixie Cups, Harry Shearer, Mayor Mitch Landrieu and others. Cast members from HBO's Treme, including Wendell Pierce, and Tony Award-winning Broadway star Michael Cerveris, also perform on the CD. The project was financed with a grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project/Do Good for the Gulf Contest and a host of private investors.

Joseph comments, "Ultimately the goal is to help out as many New Orleans musicians as we can ... to help them earn a living and to help them get their records made. We need to keep the music we love alive."

For more information, visit http://mysterystreetrecords.com/ and http://www.threadheadrecords.com/.

Harry Connick, Jr's. In Concert on Broadway set for CD, DVD and TV

After a critically acclaimed, 15 day sold-out run on Broadway, Columbia Records announced today the DVD and Live CD release of HARRY CONNICK, JR. IN CONCERT ON BROADWAY on March 1, 2011. The show that had critics raving and fans cheering will be available as a DVD, Live CD and Blu-ray disc. The show will also air on PBS on March 2nd as part of the national "Great Performances" series.

Over the past two decades, Harry Connick, Jr. has proven to be among the world's most successful and multi-talented artists. Harry first reached a mass audience as a pianist, singer and bandleader, securing his place as a renaissance man and versatile entertainer. His career has been studded with awards and recognition, including several multi-platinum and gold albums; 25 million albums sold around the world; Grammy and Emmy Awards; and Tony nominations for both his work as a composer and for his lead acting role.

On the heels of a sold out summer tour across the country, Harry Connick, Jr. dazzled audiences with a two-week run on Broadway.

"Dynamite! Easily the most remarkable demonstration of music presently on Broadway." - Variety

"Harry scores a knockout!" – New York Times

"It was like watching Clark Kent turn into Superman." – New York Post



HARRY CONNICK, JR. IN CONCERT ON BROADWAY was filmed in hi-definition on July 30th & 31st, 2010 at the Neil Simon Theatre on Broadway in New York City. The performance will be available in four configurations: DVD, CD, DVD/CD set, and Blu-ray.

Performances include:

1. We Are In Love **
2. The Way You Look Tonight **
3. Besame Mucho **
4. The Other Hours **
5. Nowhere With Love **
6. How Insensitive **
7. Come By Me **
8. My Time Of Day / I've Never Been In Love Before **
9. All The Way **
10. Bayou Maharajah **
11. Recipe For Love
12. Hear Me In The Harmony **
13. Light The Way **
14. Tug Boat
15. St. James Infirmary Blues
16. Take Her To The Mardi Gras **
17. How Come You Do Me Like You Do
18. Oh Didn't He Ramble
19. Bourbon Street Parade **
20. Mardi Gras In New Orleans **


Bonus:
"A Conversation With Harry"

** CD tracks

Directed and Produced by Pierre & Francois Lamoureux

Executive Producer: Ann Marie Wilkins

Music Produced by Tracey Freeman

Photography: Nicole Rivelli

Art Direction & Design: Maria Paula Marulanda & Dave Bett

Running Time: 2 hours, 14 minutes

Harry Connick, Jr. On Broadway will premiere on PBS "Great Performances" on March 2.

French Quarter Fest Adds Thursday to 2011 Festival Schedule

28th Anniversary Celebration – 4 days of music, food, special events and fun

Save the dates for the largest FREE music festival in the South!

April 7 – 10, 2011

Today French Quarter Festivals, Inc. announces the addition of Thursday to the 2011 French Quarter Festival presented by Capital One Bank. 2011 dates are set for Thursday, April 7 through Sunday, April 10.

According to Marci Schramm, Executive Director of French Quarter Festivals, Inc., "We are extremely honored that our festival has been embraced by so many people over the past few years following Hurricane Katrina. Each year, we continue to make operational changes that are designed to greatly improve the quality of the festival experience for everyone. To that end, we are proud to announce the addition of an extra day to the schedule; a little something we like to call 'Local Lagniappe', that we hope will be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike."


The 2011 Schedule is as follows:

Thursday, April 7

Noon – 5 p.m. – Jackson Square site open featuring the Jackson Square music stage and The World's Largest Jazz Brunch

3:00 – 7:00 p.m. – Riverfront site (Woldenberg Riverfront Park) open featuring three music stages and The World's Largest Jazz Brunch

7:00 – 10 p.m. – TGIF 'Thank Goodness it's Festival!' kickoff party

Friday, April 8

10 a.m. – Opening Parade (Bourbon Street to Jackson Square)

11 a.m. – Festival opens (Jackson Square, Riverfront, Old U.S. Mint, French Market, Bourbon Street, Preservation Hall)

Saturday/Sunday

11 a.m. – Full festival and Street stages open on the weekend, as usual


The largest free music festival in the South is proud to showcase the finest music, food and culture that are uniquely New Orleans.

This year's festival will feature over 275 hours of free music across 18 stages throughout the historic French Quarter. With over 800 local musicians, every genre is represented. From traditional and contemporary jazz, to rhythm and blues, New Orleans funk, Zydeco, to brass bands, folk, opera and gospel, there is truly something for everyone.

Festival-goers are also invited to participate in other free activities throughout the three-day weekend and are encouraged to explore all that French Quarter Festival has to offer. Special events within the festival include the opening parade, the World Championship Crawfish Eating Contest, Battle of the Bands, Dancing at Dusk, the International Music Colloquium, family-fun activities at Children's Headquarters, the World's Largest Jazz Brunch, and more. In addition, the kickoff party and fundraiser 'TGIF' (Thank Goodness it's Festival!) takes place the evening of Thursday, April 7 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Attendees can also expect to see more great food and drinks, as there will be over 75 food and beverage booths located in Jackson Square, Woldenberg Riverfront Park and the Louisiana State Museum's Old U.S. Mint. Participants in 'The World's Largest Jazz Brunch' will showcase local cuisine from the area's finest restaurants, some of which have been loyal vendors since the festival’s inception in 1984.

Out-of-town festival goers are encouraged to book their travel accommodations now; as many area hotels have reported that they are nearing capacity. As always, there is no finer time to visit New Orleans as the spring, especially during the weekend of French Quarter Festival – the largest free music festival in the South. April marks the start of the festival season in New Orleans and normally a month of beautiful weather.

Travel Links:

Expedia.com

Hotels.com

Priceline.com

Travelocity

The 2011 French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc., (FQFI) the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest and Christmas New Orleans Style. For more information on French Quarter Festival, call 504-522-5730 or visit online at www.fqfi.org.

New CD Release: Lee Dorsey - "Absolutely The Best"

Of all the great New Orleans R&B artists produced by arranger/composer/piano master Allen Toussaint during the 1960s -- Irma Thomas, Aaron Neville, Ernie K-Doe, Chris Kenner -- he developed a special musical relationship with the perpetually ebullient Lee Dorsey. Toussaint was behind nearly every hit the diminutive Dorsey ever had, usually serving in multiple roles. "We spent a lot of time together, and he had such a unique voice that you could go to subjects and humor that you never would dare try with another type of vocalist or a debonair personality," says Toussaint. "He was just such a high-spirited guy, and such a unique voice that always sounded like it had a smile in it"

This digitally remastered collection features the best tracks from the Dorsey-Toussaint collaboration, a number of these tracks have been unavailable on CD in North America, making their debut on this album.



"Absolutely The Best" Track List:

01. Ya Ya
02. Do-Re-Mi
03. Ixie Dixie Pixie Pie
04. Great Googa Mooga
05. People Gonna Talk
06. Who's Gonna Help Brother Get Further?
07. Give It Up
08. Lonely Ave
09. Eenie Meenie Mini Mo
10. What Am I Living For
11. Yes We Can - Part 1
12. Sneakin' Sally Through the Alley
13. Night People
14. Everything I Do Gohn Be Funky (From Now On)
15. Soul Mine
16. Can I Be The One

Release Date: January 11, 2011.

Buy Absolutely The Best at Amazon.com

More Upcoming Releases:

- Delfeayo Marsalis: Sweet Thunder (Duke & Shak)
- Benjy Davis Project: Sincerely
- Louis Prima: Rarities & Hits 1963-1975 — A Centennial Celebration
- Cowboy Mouth: Mardi Gras
- Supagroup: Hail! Hail!
- Crowbar: Sever The Wicked Hand
- Jeff Beck: Rock 'n' Roll Party Honoring Les Paul (w/ guest Trombone Shorty)
- Suplecs: Mad Oak Redoux
- Harry Connick Jr: In Concert on Broadway (CD & DVD)
- Lucinda Williams: Blessed

Get details here

Offbeat Magazine Celebrates Louisiana Music at 2010 Best of the Beat Awards

Dave Bartholomew and HBO's 'Treme' Among Honorees

Dave Bartholomew, the "architect of New Orleans R&B sound" heads the list of those who'll be honored at OffBeat Magazine's 17th Annual Best of the Beat Awards, which takes place Friday, January 28, 2011 at Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd., New Orleans, from 6 p.m. til 1 a.m.

Bartholomew is a trumpet player, songwriter and recording artist in his own right, and he also produced and arranged some of New Orleans' greatest recordings. He's best known the unforgettable body of work he recorded with Fats Domino, as well as the hits he made with Lloyd Price ("Lawdy Miss Claudy"), Robert Parker ("Barefootin'"), Smiley Lewis ("I Hear You Knockin'"), the Dixie Cups ("Iko Iko"), Shirley and Lee ("Let the Good Times Roll") and many more. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, and it honored him and Fats Domino earlier this year as American Music Masters.

OffBeat will also recognize the efforts of Derrick Tabb and the Roots of Music with its Best of the Beat Award for Music Education. The Rebirth Brass Band drummer was one of CNN's Heroes of the Year in 2009 for his efforts to provide musical education to at-risk students, and in the process help them improve their scholastic efforts. Baton Rouge's Johnny Palazzotto will receive the Best of the Beat Award for Music Business for his efforts to keep the blues alive in Louisiana, starting the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, the Slim Harpo Awards, and serving for years on the Louisiana Music Commission. The Treme television series will be honored with the "Heartbeat" Award for its exposure of New Orleans music worldwide as well its efforts to depict New Orleans' musical culture and community honestly.

OffBeat publisher Jan Ramsey and WWL-TV's Eric Paulsen will recognize this distinguished few as well as the best albums, artists and performers as voted on by the readers of OffBeat, Louisiana's music and culture monthly magazine. Nominees for the awards are based on suggestions solicited from the musicians and music community for achievement in 2010. However, voting for the winners is open not only to musicians but to everyone at OffBeat.com.Voting ends on January 18 online at OffBeat.com.Attendees include musicians, local music fans and visitors from around the globe.

According to OffBeat publisher Jan Ramsey, "This is the 17th year we've had the privilege of honoring local musicians and music businesses. The Best of The Beat has always been a fun party, not just a staid awards show - it's a celebration, which is what we do best here in New Orleans. It allows the fans - the people who love the music-to vote and cheer on their favorites."

This year's nominees for the coveted Artist of the Year are Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Anders Osborne, funk band Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, Cajun band Feufollet and hip-hop artist Curren$y.

The Best of the Beat Awards include the best in Louisiana music with live sets on two stages. Deacon John and his big band will pay tribute to Dave Bartholomew, and we'll celebrate the music of the late, influential Alex Chilton, who passed away last year, with performances by Theresa Andersson, Susan Cowsill, Soul Asylum's Dave Pirner, Alex McMurray, the Iguanas' Rene Coman and Doug Garrison, Davis Rogan, and the Lost Bayou Ramblers' Louis Michot. Also performing are Best Zydeco Artist nominee Chubby Carrier, Best Artist nominee Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, Red Bull Street Kings champion the Stooges Brass Band, Best Hip-Hop Artist nominee Lyrikill and the Soundclash Allstars, Treme writer, songwriter and bandleader Davis Rogan, Best Cover Band nominees the Creole String Beans, Best Country/Folk Band nominees Washboard Rodeo and Best Emerging Artist nominees Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns.

Tickets to the Best of the Beat Awards also include food from a wide range of New Orleans' top restaurants including Whole Foods Market, Jagerhaus, Hubig's Pies, Oceana, The Joint, Galvez Restaurant, Le Citron Bistro, Tee-Eva's, Mr Mudbug's, Fiorella's, Sammy's Deli, The Praline Connection, Willie Mae's Scotch House, Martinique, Southern Candymakers, the Gumbo Shop, and Aurora Catering, among many others.

There is a separate, invitation-only event at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art's Taylor Library for the presentation of Best of the Beat Awards for Music Businesses on January 26.

Tickets for the concert on January 28 are $29 in advance, and $39 at the door for a full night of music, food, fun and the awards show. The Best of the Beat is also a benefit, with the proceeds of VIP balcony passes ($100) going to the New Orleans Musicians' Assistance Foundation. All tickets and passes can be purchased at OffBeat.com.

NEA Announces Live Webcast of 2011 Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert

2011 NEA Jazz Masters are the Marsalis Family (Ellis, Branford, Wynton, Delfeayo and Jason), Hubert Laws, David Liebman, and Johnny Mandel

The National Endowment for the Arts and Jazz at Lincoln Center announced today that the NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert on January 11, 2011, will be video streamed live for those unable to attend in person. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. EST and can be accessed through arts.gov.

In addition, a live audio broadcast will be carried through three outlets: Sirius XM Satellite Radio's Real Jazz Channel 70, WBGO radio on 88.3FM or wbgo.org, and at NPR Music (npr.org/music).

The NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert honors the recipients of the 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Award — the nation's highest honor in this distinctly American music. The 2011 NEA Jazz Masters are Hubert Laws, David Liebman, Johnny Mandel, and the Marsalis Family — Ellis Marsalis, Jr., Branford Marsalis, Wynton Marsalis, Delfeayo Marsalis, and Jason Marsalis. In addition, the 2011 A.B. Spellman NEA Jazz Masters Award for Jazz Advocacy is awarded to Orrin Keepnews.

The Awards Ceremony & Concert will feature the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis in a program dedicated to the honorees' works; honorees Mr. Liebman, Mr. Laws, and the Marsalis Family will perform. The evening also will feature a special performance by Roberta Gambarini and others in honor of the Jazz Masters who have passed away in the last year: Hank Jones, Abbey Lincoln, James Moody, and Dr. Billy Taylor.

The concert is sold out but stand-by tickets will be distributed on January 11, with the line beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Box Office, Broadway at 60th Street, ground floor. Those who do not receive a ticket are invited to watch the concert via simulcast at Frederick P. Rose Hall.

Please see below for a full list of the 2011 NEA Jazz Masters events open to the press:


MONDAY, JANUARY 10, 2011

1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Panel discussion with 2011 NEA Jazz Masters led by A.B. Spellman — This event is free to the public on a first come, first served basis. Doors open at 12:45 pm. Location: The Agnes Varis and Karl Leichtman Studio in the Irene Diamond Education Center, Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60th Street. Please note: This event will also be webcast and can be accessed through arts.gov.


TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2011

6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Photo Opportunity with 2011 NEA Jazz Masters plus more than 30 previously recognized NEA Jazz Masters. Open to press only. Location: The Agnes Varis and Karl Leichtman Studio in the Irene Diamond Education Center, Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60th Street.

7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert. Location: Rose Theater, Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60th Street. Please note: This event will also be webcast and can be accessed through arts.gov.

More info:

National Endowment for the Arts: arts.gov

NEA Jazz Masters: neajazzmasters.org

Jazz at Lincoln Center: jalc.org