Alison Fensterstock
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No single lineage can contain New Orleans music. But one central thread is the legacy of queer performers and tastemakers — from Bobby Marchan to Big Freedia — who steered the sounds and the scenes. -
The city has recovered from its fair share of disasters and displacements, but the situation it currently finds itself in is unprecedented. -
Clarksdale, Miss. is home to both the crossroads where Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul and the site of Bessie Smith's death. But in the legend of the genre, not every tale gets the same care. -
The Louisiana native became a mentor to Fats Domino, transitioning from well-regarded horn player to producer and arranger of some of rock and roll's bedrock artists.
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Over a career stretching back to the 1950s, Malcolm John Rebennack came to be a living symbol of the city of New Orleans and its bottomless musical character. -
New Orleans has a fairly spotty track record when it comes to preserving cultural landmarks, but Buddy Bolden's blighted former residence may avoid being lost to time, as he nearly was. -
Big Freedia has always repped New Orleans, becoming famous by insisting on being her sui generis self. How could you see someone who loves herself so much and not follow her to the dance floor? -
The Southern soul survivor has made an album about strength: a holistic shot in the arm to help you find the fortitude to fight. -
Low Cut Connie still makes full-bodied, red-blooded rock and roll, but offers a bit more nuance to its wild boogie. -
Across several decades (and despite widespread sexism) women workers, supporters and associates shaped the story of America's most weird, colorful, sui generis rock and roll band.
