
19 Songs About New Orleans

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New Orleans is a city with a rich musical heritage, and it is no surprise that it has inspired countless songs over the years. From traditional jazz and blues, to contemporary hip hop and R&B, the sounds of New Orleans have left their mark on the world of music. From classic hits by Fats Domino and Louis Armstrong, to modern gems by Kermit Ruffins and Curren$y, the songs about New Orleans are as diverse as the city itself. Whether paying tribute to the cityâs rich cultural heritage, or reflecting on its unique spirit and resilience, these 19 songs capture the essence of New Orleans and its musical legacy. Each song brings its own unique flavor, style, and energy, and together they paint a picture of a city that has long been an important hub of American music. Whether you are a fan of jazz, blues, hip hop, or any other genre, these 19 songs New Orleans are a must-listen for anyone interested in the music.
1. âWay Down Yonder In New Orleansâ by Harry Connick, Jr.
âWay Down Yonder in New Orleansâ is a classic jazz song written by Henry Creamer and Turner Layton. The song was first recorded in 1922 and has since been covered by many famous musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, and Harry Connick Jr. The song is known for its upbeat, swinging rhythm and its lyrics, which describe the lively streets of New Orleans and the cityâs famous streetcars. The songâs melody is upbeat and lively, featuring a horn section that plays a catchy riff throughout. Connickâs version of the song is particularly noteworthy for his smooth, confident vocals and his pianistic virtuosity. Overall, âWay Down Yonder in New Orleansâ is a timeless classic that continues to be a staple of traditional jazz music.
2. âMardi Gras Mamboâ by The Meters
âMardi Gras Mamboâ is a classic funk song by the New Orleans-based band The Meters. The song was first released in 1955 and has since become a staple of Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and around the world. âMardi Gras Mamboâ features a driving, syncopated rhythm played on the drums, bass, and guitar, as well as a catchy melody played on the horns and keyboards. The songâs upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a perfect party song, ideal for dancing and celebrating. The lyrics of âMardi Gras Mamboâ celebrate the joy and excitement of the Mardi Gras season, with references to the colorful costumes, masks, and parades that are a staple of the festival. Overall, âMardi Gras Mamboâ is a classic example of New Orleans funk and a beloved anthem for Mardi Gras revelers everywhere.
3. âHouse of the Rising Sunâ by The Animals
âHouse of the Rising Sunâ is a traditional folk song that has been performed and recorded by many artists, including The Animals. The song is believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century and tells the story of a young manâs descent into a life of gambling and misfortune. The songâs haunting melody and melancholic lyrics have made it a staple of American folk music for generations. The Animalsâ version of âHouse of the Rising Sunâ was a major hit in 1964 and is widely considered one of the greatest cover versions of the song. Featuring Eric Burdonâs distinctive vocals and a powerful electric guitar solo, The Animalsâ interpretation of âHouse of the Rising Sunâ brought the traditional folk song to a new audience and helped to popularize the genre of folk-rock. Today, the song remains a classic of popular music and is recognized as a cornerstone of American folk and rock music.
4. âDrop Me Off In New Orleansâ by Kermit Ruffins
âDrop Me Off in New Orleansâ is a song by New Orleans-based trumpeter and bandleader Kermit Ruffins. The song is a lively and upbeat tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich musical heritage. The song features Ruffinsâ signature brass sound, with a bright and joyful trumpet melody that is accompanied by a driving rhythm section. The lyrics of âDrop Me Off in New Orleansâ celebrate the cityâs vibrant culture, including its food, music, and people. The song is a perfect representation of the joyous, upbeat spirit of New Orleans and its music scene. Ruffinsâ performance of the song is characterized by his playful and energetic style, making it a standout track in his extensive discography. Overall, âDrop Me Off in New Orleansâ is a fun and upbeat celebration of New Orleans and its musical legacy.
5. âSquirrel Nut Zippersâ by Axeman Jazz
The Squirrel Nut Zippers are an American band that formed in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in the mid-1990s. They play a style of music that is a fusion of jazz, swing, and blues, and are known for their quirky, whimsical songs and energetic live performances. Some of their most popular songs include âHell,â âPut a Lid on It,â and âGhost of Stephen Foster.â The bandâs unique style and playful sensibility have made them a favorite of audiences and critics alike, and they continue to tour and perform around the world today. Overall, the Squirrel Nut Zippers are a one-of-a-kind band that has carved out their own unique niche in the world of music.
6. âNew Orleansâ by PJ Morton
âNew Orleansâ is a song by American singer and musician PJ Morton. The song is a heartfelt tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Mortonâs smooth and soulful voice, backed by a lush arrangement of piano, horns, and percussion. The lyrics of âNew Orleansâ celebrate the cityâs rich history, its vibrant music scene, and its resilient spirit, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and other challenges. The song is a powerful and emotional tribute to the city that has inspired so much great music, and to the people who call it home. PJ Mortonâs performance of the song is soulful and passionate, capturing the essence of New Orleans and its music in a way that is both respectful and celebratory. Overall, âNew Orleansâ is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
7. âIâm Walking To New Orleansâ by Fats Domino
âIâm Walking to New Orleansâ is a classic rock and roll song by legendary New Orleans musician Fats Domino. The song was released in 1960 and has since become one of Dominoâs most enduring hits. The song features Dominoâs distinctive, upbeat piano playing, as well as his soulful, bluesy vocal style. The lyrics of âIâm Walking to New Orleansâ tell the story of a man who is determined to walk from one end of the country to the other to reach the city of New Orleans, a place where he hopes to find love and happiness. The song is a celebration of the spirit of determination and the joy of travel, and its catchy melody and upbeat tempo have made it a staple of dance floors and parties for decades. Fats Dominoâs version of âIâm Walking to New Orleansâ remains one of the greatest examples of classic New Orleans rock and roll, and a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the cityâs greatest musical legends.
8. âNew Orleans State of Mindâ by Curren$y
âNew Orleans State of Mindâ is a song by American rapper Curren$y. The song is a tribute to Curren$yâs hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Curren$yâs laid-back, smooth rap style, backed by a slow and groovy beat. The lyrics of âNew Orleans State of Mindâ reflect Curren$yâs love for his city, its music, and its people. He raps about the cityâs rich history, its distinctive style and flavor, and the resilience of its residents in the face of adversity. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the rapperâs deep connection to his hometown. Curren$yâs performance on âNew Orleans State of Mindâ is relaxed and confident, showcasing his skill as a rapper and his deep understanding of the city he calls home. Overall, the song is a fitting tribute to New Orleans and its musical legacy.
9. âSweet Home New Orleansâ by Dr. John
âSweet Home New Orleansâ is a song by the legendary New Orleans musician Dr. John. The song is a celebration of the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage, and features Dr. Johnâs distinctive, bluesy piano playing and soulful vocal style. The lyrics of âSweet Home New Orleansâ paint a picture of the city as a place of warmth, love, and hospitality, with a vibrant music scene and a strong sense of community. The song is a love letter to the city that Dr. John has called home for most of his life, and its upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a staple of New Orleans music. Dr. Johnâs performance on âSweet Home New Orleansâ is passionate and soulful, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, âSweet Home New Orleansâ is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
10. âMy Hometown New Orleansâ by Paul Soniat
âMy Hometown New Orleansâ is a song by American musician Paul Soniat. The song is a nostalgic tribute to the city of New Orleans, and the lyrics of âMy Hometown New Orleansâ evoke memories of the sights, sounds, and feelings of the city. The song is performed in a traditional jazz style, with a strong melody that evokes the upbeat and celebratory spirit of New Orleans music. The song features Soniatâs signature finger-style guitar playing, and his smooth and soulful vocal performance adds to the songâs emotional impact. The lyrics of âMy Hometown New Orleansâ are full of vivid images and personal memories, and the song is a moving tribute to the cityâs rich cultural heritage. Overall, âMy Hometown New Orleansâ is a heartfelt and nostalgic celebration of one of Americaâs most important and vibrant cities, and is a testament to Paul Soniatâs musical talent and his love of New Orleans.
11. âNew Orleansâ by Kid Rock
âNew Orleansâ is a song by American singer and rapper Kid Rock. The song is an upbeat, energetic tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Kid Rockâs distinctive blend of rock, hip-hop, and country, backed by a driving beat and horns that capture the spirit of New Orleans music. The lyrics of âNew Orleansâ reflect Kid Rockâs love for the city and its people, and his admiration for their resilience in the face of adversity. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the role that the city has played in shaping American music and culture. Kid Rockâs performance on âNew Orleansâ is energetic and passionate, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, âNew Orleansâ is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
12. âI Canât Wait Much Longerâ by Robin Trower
âI Canât Wait Much Longerâ is a song by British guitarist Robin Trower. The song is a blues rock tune with a strong guitar-driven sound, showcasing Trowerâs virtuosic playing style. The lyrics of âI Canât Wait Much Longerâ express a sense of impatience and urgency, as the singer longs to be with the person he loves. The song features a soulful vocal performance, and the guitar work is both melodic and powerful. Trowerâs performance on âI Canât Wait Much Longerâ is intense and expressive, and his guitar playing is both emotional and technically impressive. The song is a standout example of Trowerâs blues rock style, and highlights his mastery of the guitar as well as his ability to craft songs that are both powerful and soulful. Overall, âI Canât Wait Much Longerâ is a fitting tribute to Trowerâs musical talent and his contribution to the world of blues rock.
13. âLocal New Orleansâ by Katey Red
âLocal New Orleansâ is a song by Katey Red, a rapper and bounce music artist from New Orleans, Louisiana. The song is an energetic tribute to Katey Redâs hometown and the unique musical and cultural heritage of New Orleans. The song features a driving beat and lively, rhythmic flow that are hallmarks of bounce music. The lyrics of âLocal New Orleansâ reflect Katey Redâs love for the city and its people, and her pride in the cultural heritage of New Orleans. The song is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse music scene of the city, and of the role that New Orleans has played in shaping American music and culture. Katey Redâs performance on âLocal New Orleansâ is lively and charismatic, capturing the spirit of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, âLocal New Orleansâ is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
14. âCrescent Cityâ by Lucinda Williams
âCrescent Cityâ is a song by American singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams. The song is a slow and soulful tribute to the city of New Orleans, capturing the spirit of the cityâs rich musical and cultural heritage. The song features Lucinda Williamsâ distinctive blend of roots, country, and blues, backed by a sparse and atmospheric arrangement that highlights her emotional and soulful vocal performance. The lyrics of âCrescent Cityâ reflect Williamsâ love for the city and its people, and her admiration for the resilience and determination of New Orleanians. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the role that the city has played in shaping American music and culture. Lucinda Williamsâ performance on âCrescent Cityâ is emotional and moving, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both respectful and celebratory. Overall, âCrescent Cityâ is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
15. âIâm in New Orleans Trickâ by LMFAO
âIâm in New Orleans Trickâ is a song by the American electronic dance music duo LMFAO. The song is an upbeat and energetic tribute to the city of New Orleans and its vibrant party scene. The song features a pulsing dance beat and catchy, up-tempo chorus, and the lyrics of âIâm in New Orleans Trickâ celebrate the wild and carefree spirit of New Orleans and its music. The song is a party anthem that captures the essence of the cityâs music and culture, and invites listeners to join in the fun. LMFAOâs performance on âIâm in New Orleans Trickâ is lively and energetic, capturing the spirit of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and tongue-in-cheek. Overall, âIâm in New Orleans Trickâ is a fun and lighthearted tribute to a city that has played a major role in shaping American music and culture.
16. âJohn Wayne and Jesusâ by Pat Green
âJohn Wayne and Jesusâ is a song by American country singer-songwriter Pat Green. The song is a reflection on faith, family, and the American way of life, and the lyrics of âJohn Wayne and Jesusâ explore the idea of what it means to be a real man in modern America. The song features a straightforward, rootsy arrangement and Pat Greenâs distinctive, soulful vocal performance, and the lyrics of the song pay tribute to two of the most iconic and enduring symbols of American masculinity: the cowboy hero John Wayne and Jesus Christ. The song is a meditation on what it means to be a good man, and on the importance of faith, family, and values in American life. Pat Greenâs performance on âJohn Wayne and Jesusâ is heartfelt and sincere, capturing the essence of the songâs themes and capturing the hearts of audiences around the world. Overall, âJohn Wayne and Jesusâ is a powerful and moving tribute to American values and culture.
17. âNew Orleansâ by Elvis Presley
âNew Orleansâ is a song by the legendary American musician Elvis Presley. The song is a cover of a popular 1950s R&B tune, and features Elvis Presleyâs characteristic blend of rock ânâ roll energy and R&B soul. The song is a tribute to the city of New Orleans, and the lyrics of âNew Orleansâ celebrate the cityâs rich musical heritage and vibrant culture. Elvis Presleyâs performance on the song is energetic and upbeat, capturing the spirit of New Orleans and its music in a way that is both nostalgic and timeless. The song features a driving rock ânâ roll beat and Elvis Presleyâs distinctive vocal style, and is widely regarded as one of his classic recordings. Overall, âNew Orleansâ is a testament to Elvis Presleyâs ability to bring together different musical styles and create a sound that was truly his own.
18. âWitch Queen Of New Orleansâ by Redbone
âWitch Queen of New Orleansâ is a song by the American rock band Redbone. The song is a celebration of the mystical and supernatural side of New Orleans, and the lyrics of âWitch Queen of New Orleansâ paint a vivid picture of the cityâs rich and mysterious history. The song features a unique blend of rock, funk, and Latin music styles, and Redboneâs signature use of tribal drums, horns, and Native American flutes creates a distinctive and powerful sound. The songâs vocal performance is passionate and soulful, and the lyrics of âWitch Queen of New Orleansâ evoke the mysterious and mystical spirit of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. âWitch Queen of New Orleansâ is widely regarded as one of Redboneâs signature tunes, and remains a classic of 1970s rock music. Overall, the song is a powerful celebration of the spirit and culture of New Orleans, and a timeless tribute to one of Americaâs most vibrant and unique cities.
19. âNew Orleans Wins the Warâ by Randy Newman
âNew Orleans Wins the Warâ is a song by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman. The song is a tribute to the resilience and determination of the people of New Orleans, and the lyrics of âNew Orleans Wins the Warâ reflect on the challenges faced by the city and its residents throughout its history. The song is performed in Newmanâs signature style, blending elements of folk, blues, and jazz to create a unique and evocative sound. The songâs melody is upbeat and optimistic, and the lyrics of âNew Orleans Wins the Warâ celebrate the spirit and strength of the people of New Orleans. The song is widely regarded as one of Newmanâs most powerful and moving pieces, and is a testament to his ability to tell the stories of real people and communities in a way that is both authentic and meaningful. Overall, âNew Orleans Wins the Warâ is a timeless tribute to one of Americaâs most vibrant and important cities.