It’s that time of year again. We work hard year-round to bring you the best in New Orleans music, and we’re asking for your support to help us earn a Grammy (or more!) for our amazing and extremely talented artists. Take a listen to all of our Grammy-eligible releases at the playlists below on Spotify or Apple Music. More info on these releases below!
Bonerama – “Empty World (feat. Michael McDonald)”
Best American Roots Song
Best American Roots Performance
“A heartfelt tribute to New Orleans musical legend, Allen Toussaint. “By blending the world’s finest trombone section with the deeply soulful vocals of Michael McDonald, Bonerama has cooked up a brilliant jambalaya that will be savored for a long time to come!”
— Don Was – President, Blue Note Records / Founder, Was (Not Was)
Jason Marsalis – Jason Marsalis Live
Best Jazz Instrumental Album
The first live album from Jason Marsalis! “Jason Marsalis has developed into an irrepressible force since taking up vibes. … The album bristles with clever surprises, riding the rim of our expectations. … Alternating between ringing and muted tones, Marsalis creates joyous 3D effects with his four-mallet mastery. Perhaps inspired by Lionel Hampton, he’s after a bigger and harder-edged, but still fluid, sound. While the bandleader’s playing and composing reflects a deep knowledge of jazz history, they hop and skip past familiar solutions. There’s something genuinely new going on here.” – Lloyd Sachs, Downbeat Magazine
Dr. Michael White – Dr. Michael White Live
Best Jazz Instrumental Album
“On this set from May 5, 2017, White performs five spirited numbers with trumpeter Gregory Stafford, banjoist Seva Venet, bassist Mark Brooks, and drummer Jason Marsalis. Starting with a rollicking “Canal Street Blues” and including an emotional “Summertime” along with three originals that are very much in the tradition, White and his musicians show the audience a great time.” – Scott Yanow, The Syncopated Times
The Lena Prima Big Band – Live in Concert
Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album
“Daughter of well-known songwriter and bandleader Louis Prima, Lena Prima has carried on his infectious energy and transplanted it into her live show with her own 14 piece big band. Recorded in Las Vegas last year, Prima and her band give us the full big show experience. … She has a great rapport with the audience and her big voice is well supported by her superb band.” – David Blue, Blues Blues