The Photo Pit -Captures From The 2019 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

July 24, 2019 by Kyra Kverno

: Aaron Neville / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Ani DeFranco / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Al Green / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Chaka Kahn /photo by Kyra Kverno

: Big Freedia / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Trombone Shorty and Mavis Staples / photo by Kyra Kverno

Editor’s Note:

Brooklyn Roads Magazine’s Contributing Photogapher Kyra Kverno shares her thoughts and some magical images of the 2019 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival :

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival or “Jazz Fest”, as it is known to festival goers, celebrated its 50th year on April 26, 2019. The Festival started at Congo Square in 1969 and cost just three dollars to attend, with mostly local acts and only four stages. It has grown significantly and now has 12 stages, many national acts and is set in a much larger venue. The price of admission has gone up since its’ beginnings a half century ago, but the Festival still provides attendees with a unique musical experience.

Jazz Fest has always celebrated the indigenous music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana. A wide array of musical genres is represented, including Blues, Cajun, Jazz, Gospel, Zydeco, Bluegrass, Country, R&B, Folk, Latin, Rock, Rap and Afro-Caribbean. I can’t think of a festival that offers the same variety of musical genres in one event. Oh! And let us not forget the food. The food choices could create a festival in and of itself! Crawfish Monica, Cochon de Lait Po-Boy, Ya Ka Mein, Cracklins, Redfish Baquet. Oh My!

There are lots of choices to be made while attending the festival. What acts to see, what tasty treats to try but no matter what you choose, it will be the best experience. There are no bad choices to be made.
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Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

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