Professor Longhair of New Orleans

New Orleans is a city that is steeped in musical history. From the early jazz pioneers of the early 20th century to the funk and soul sounds of the 1970s, the city has been home to a diverse range of musical styles that have influenced musicians from around the world. One of the most iconic figures of New Orleans music is Professor Longhair, and his song "Go to the Mardi Gras" is a perfect example of the city's musical legacy.

Professor Longhair, born Henry Roeland Byrd, was a pianist, singer, and songwriter who was born in Bogalusa, Louisiana, in 1918. He moved to New Orleans in the 1940s and began playing in the city's vibrant music scene. His music was a unique blend of blues, R&B, and boogie-woogie, and his distinctive piano style set him apart from other musicians of his era.

"Go to the Mardi Gras" is one of Professor Longhair's most famous songs. It was recorded in 1959 and was originally released as a single on the Watch Records label. The song is a celebration of the annual Mardi Gras festival, which takes place in New Orleans every year. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, with the chorus consisting of the lines "Go to the Mardi Gras, oh my darling / Everybody's gonna be there."

Despite its simplicity, "Go to the Mardi Gras" is a quintessential New Orleans song. The rhythm is infectious, with a driving beat that is guaranteed to get people dancing. The song's lyrics are also a testament to the city's unique cultural heritage. Mardi Gras is an event that is deeply ingrained in New Orleans culture, and the song captures the excitement and joy that people feel during the festival.

"Go to the Mardi Gras" has become a staple of New Orleans music, and it has been covered by countless artists over the years. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Professor Longhair's talent as a musician and his ability to capture the spirit of his hometown in his music.

As a company that celebrates the rich musical heritage of cities we are proud to offer our New Orleans cork turntable mat. It offers a detailed map of the city of New Orleans, providing music lovers with a unique and stylish way to pay homage to the birthplace of jazz and the home of Mardi Gras. With the cork construction providing a natural, non-slip grip, and the map providing a stylish visual backdrop, our turntable mat is the perfect addition to any vinyl lover's setup. So, whether you're spinning Professor Longhair or any other iconic New Orleans musician, our cork turntable mat is the perfect way to celebrate NOLA's incredible musical legacy.