Why do some get "it" and some don't....

[Corona]

Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I said on the other thread that of the 6 of us girls who made the first fest together, 3 of us got 'it' and the others didn't. The others actually left fest at 1:00 to go back to Bourbon St. after being there 2 nights in a row. They also left Rock n Bowl- Sonny, Anders, Theresa....to go back to Bourbon St. The other 3 of us girls have gone back every year. But, even out of the 3 of us, 2 of us feel 'it' so deeply and the other enjoys it a lot but doesn't have that same pull or love for the city. (sorry for the run-on sentence...lazy ;)
Thoughts?

[ibjamn]

Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I said on the other thread that of the 6 of us girls who made the first fest together, 3 of us got 'it' and the others didn't. The others actually left fest at 1:00 to go back to Bourbon St. after being there 2 nights in a row. They also left Rock n Bowl- Sonny, Anders, Theresa....to go back to Bourbon St. The other 3 of us girls have gone back every year. But, even out of the 3 of us, 2 of us feel 'it' so deeply and the other enjoys it a lot but doesn't have that same pull or love for the city. (sorry for the run-on sentence...lazy ;)
Thoughts?

missing dna? ;)

[Orleansnj]

YYR about that Ibjamn.....


corona - I dunno.....I think that the way I tell people about it is to describe the fairgrounds. I have some friends who are definitely not good with dirt, mud, dust etc. (we would call these high maintenance - lovingly - but appropriately). I tell them about the Fest and warn them straight up. I had a great friend who flew in from far away a few years ago to join me - she hated it. Not the music- just the accommodations. you need to be laid back and open to new experiences.......

The catty side of me says the following about my girl friends who want to come to the fest "if you need to put on makeup to go to the gym - you're not comin' to the fest". If you do your nails before going to volunteer to build a house - you're really not comin' to Fest.

[NYMAMA]

It's more then just the music I think the people who get it have the soul of a Hippie.

[steffie]

It's more then just the music I think the people who get it have the soul of a Hippie.


I second that. It's the free spirit , the positive energy, and the openess that NOLA, music and JF exudes. It's the sensory intoxication that the get its gotta have.

[mariena]

I second that. It's the free spirit , the positive energy, and the openess that NOLA, music and JF exudes. It's the sensory intoxication that the get its gotta have.

Not sure. I am just thankful that I (and my husband) are some of those the truly do "get it".
Mariena

[pokerchick66]

Well, I didn't really get it the first two times I went but the third time it struck me. I think it's just a love of music. Music is so powerful and emotional. It's big.

When I try to think back and remember what it was exactly about the third time that grabbed me. First, it was the unbelievable music and show that Chaka Kahn and Earth, Wind & Fire put on (Lenny Kravitz made a special appearance). Second, it was the happy, beautiful vibe that was prevalent all throughout the crowd. Everybody was so happy and friendly and easygoing. Strangers were passing joints down the line. Everybody was just dancing and jamming their butts off.

Last, but not least, the crawfish bread. :)

[BigDag]

Different folks have different mindsets, different views of the world, different temperments, different interests. Jazzfest certainly is not for everybody, but most of the friends I have brought in the past have enjoyed the experience, even if they didn't make it an annual priority (like us on the bored).

[chrisjoseph]

My wife likes JF but doesn't love it. But, then, we also have that differerence about music. I'm much more passionate about music than she is. She's more passionate about food and wine. Fortunately, we both love the outdoors and other things about equally, so that makes it better.

[fairy lights]

I've never been and I so get it - it's my husband that I'm worried about. He loves music, but hates to be uncomfortable. Hates hot muggy weather - has a bad back - hates crowds - doesn't drink - you get the picture. He is self employed and works most weekends, so he hasn't committed 100%. I just may ditch him and bring some girlfriends - hee hee.

[pokerchick66]

I've never been and I so get it - it's my husband that I'm worried about. He loves music, but hates to be uncomfortable. Hates hot muggy weather - has a bad back - hates crowds - doesn't drink - you get the picture. He is self employed and works most weekends, so he hasn't committed 100%. I just may ditch him and bring some girlfriends - hee hee.

Do that.

[saturn]

Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

Thoughts?

As one who "gets it", it is sometimes hard to understand why anyone wouldn't. However, I remember 2 years ago, there was a poster to the board from Michigan (can't remember the handle) who was very enthusiastic pre-fest, but admitted after that the crowds and the waiting lines, etc. were just too much and that she wouldn't be coming back again.

[kyfester]

New Orleans is the birthplace of American music, Congo Square and all that. So, baseline is that the feeling some of us get is a connection with the primal nature of music and how it soothes the soul. Some are inclined to feel that, some aren't. People with an abiding sense of music and its place in culture will probably get New Orleans. Even some others not inclined do so. I've been attending JazzFest since '76. It's like nirvana. Finally about 6 years ago, my best friends, a married couple for whom the 70's/ counterculture was just words on a page of the newpaper, invited themselves down with me. I was worried. They weren't major music buffs. Would it be too much? What was I supposed to do if they hated it. Fortunately that's not what happened. They love it and have returned every year, inquiring about our plans as early as November. Their first year down, we hooked up at the end of the day and David asked, "Have you ever heard of Irma Thomas? She's really good." Duh. So some catch the spirit. Why others don't is not that much of a mystery. Some people are disinclined to appreciate the spirit force that is indigenous American music. They breathe New Orleans' air but don't take it all in. The rest of us should simply be grateful we can ride the train, and that we were lead to the station in the first place. It's too late to stop now.

c d kaplan
www.culturemaven.com

[Festvet]

Good question Corona. I am the only surviving (figuratively) member of an all-star cast of idiots from the '89 NOJ&HF. There were 14 of us at the Days Inn on Canal for second weekend (bachelor party at Jazzfest). Since then we would do the whole shebang but have lost 2-3 more people every year. We did introduce several others over the years but repeat response is rare. Actually I've been coming to JF alone for almost 10 years. Every year we would rent huge homes uptown, inna Garden Dist along Esplanade, etc... All that my buds wanted to do was go to Bourbon St all day every day (on the daze between) and were so s**tfaced by 7pm we never did nay nightime shows. Plus, they were all too cheap to rent a car. Started bringin my girl then realized that was kinda stupid too. That's when I started calling my own shots. I remember they'd all start asking around Jan 1 who was interested in going and how we'd split expenses and this & that. Never told them I had already booked my deal. Told em if you wanna hok up here's where I'll be but maybe not. Wasn't going to ruin my time doing the same boring s**t day after day. It may be the reason I'm so opposed to the fairgrounds to this day. Fortunately I have made many friends in greater NO & beyond over the years I keep plenty busy. The only reason I put up with this stinkin job of mine is that I can spend 3-4 weeks year in NOLA for jazzfest, MG, New Years, etc... As IBJamn said, some people are just missing dna.

[bluesmama]

I've never been and I so get it - it's my husband that I'm worried about. He loves music, but hates to be uncomfortable. Hates hot muggy weather - has a bad back - hates crowds - doesn't drink - you get the picture. He is self employed and works most weekends, so he hasn't committed 100%. I just may ditch him and bring some girlfriends - hee hee.

That's exactly what my two friends and I are doing. If you come alone, you are more then welcome to hang with us. It's our first time too. Hopefully we'll find some of the more experienced threadheads to help us out.
Didn't I read that you are in Arkansas?Let me know if you are driving. We are driving in from NW La & staying at the Monteleone.
I get it! I get it! I sooo get it!

[Festvet]

NYMAMA said it best.

[Zbonnie]

It's gotta be the pure passion for incredible, non-stop MUSIC!
I, too, am not big on heat, humidity, dirt, dust or waiting in line in same. BUT, those things would not for a minute make me consider not going back to JF every chance I get!! Of course I love the vibe, the people, the food -- but mostly
THE MUSIC!

[ohio]

It's more then just the music I think the people who get it have the soul of a Hippie.DING DING DING...we have a winner!

[csoul]

Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I said on the other thread that of the 6 of us girls who made the first fest together, 3 of us got 'it' and the others didn't. The others actually left fest at 1:00 to go back to Bourbon St. after being there 2 nights in a row. They also left Rock n Bowl- Sonny, Anders, Theresa....to go back to Bourbon St. The other 3 of us girls have gone back every year. But, even out of the 3 of us, 2 of us feel 'it' so deeply and the other enjoys it a lot but doesn't have that same pull or love for the city. (sorry for the run-on sentence...lazy ;)
Thoughts?

Corona,
Awesome question. And I believe that if anyone could figure out the answer and "fix" the people who don't get it, we could solve most of the world's problems. Think about it. Have you ever seen a fight at fest? (And I'm not talking about someone whining 'cause you stepped on the corner of their blanket. I'm talking about a nock down drag out?) I haven't. It's very peaceful and people are happy. Everyone's doing their own thing with very little judgement going on. How cool if we could translate that to the rest of the world on a daily basis. Just live and let live, ya' know?
That said, one of the folks I went with first year who didn't really "get it" was my baby sister. It kinda' suprises me that she didn't get it, because a bigger hippie has never lived. (She followed the Dead for quite some time in her early 20's and had no problem "getting" them.) She didn't hate fest, but she's never seemed interested in returning. Although, I have to admit, I don't ever push anyone to come with me anymore. I'd just as soon not have to worry about whether or not someone I bring is gonna' get it. But, I'm SOO glad my "Soul Mate" gets it. Without him, it wouldn't be half as much fun.

[mwgirlonherown]

My first fest, 2000, I recruited four other friends from New Jersey. That experience taught me that is is definitely not for everyone. You have to have some passion about music, food, different cultures and perhaps a little tolerance and patience.

I now come by myself but hook up with friends from Chicago. When it comes to Jazzfest, I'm a little selfish. I really want to be on my own schedule.

Fairylights, c'mon down by yourself or with some of the girls.

[joe]

pretty much all 'commercial' pop musics (which seems to be mostly rap of one sort or another, with the CD covers a blur of interchangeable thug posers) and like some of the previous observers, Bourbon Street.

Fats Domino, Mardi Gras Indians, Nevilles somehow just seem so much a mix of wonderful passion and naturally expressed art that
it seems difficult not to catch on.

Noticed some people least expected to 'get it' become repeaters, and some studied 'hipsters' fail to figure it out. Also noticed that all the Euro festers, Dutch, French, German, I've met REALLY seem to get it!

[Rossvegas]

Great thread, Lis!

Well, I recall being at the Fest with my sister Rhonda back in '96, and some act (perhaps the Nevilles?) was doing a kick-ass version of an old Sly and the Family Stone tune. We were grooving our asses off, and then we looked at each other and sang: "Thank you....for letting me....be myself....again".

Those words really sum up the Fest experience for me, and I think it defines who "gets it" and who doesn't. If you're willing to dig deep, to be YOURSELF, to revisit that spirit that resides in you....then you get it. If, on the other hand, you are someone trapped by convention, paralyzed by doing something outside the box or concerned about putting your outer shell above your inner soul...then Jazzfest probably isn't the place for you.

The people I've met who "get it" see things from a very different perspective. They are able to overlay the joy with the pain, the sunshine with the mud and the Blackberries with the totems. They live in the moment, and they would be impressed by Bourbon Street....for about 10 minutes.

I've always believed that I "get it" because I still see the whole city through the prism of a 17 year old naive kid from a small town on the Canadian prairies. Everything was magical, everything was scary...and it was the most alive I've ever felt in my life. Even now, when I'm sipping a cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde, I'm transported back in time to 1978. As I sit there, the date becomes 1878, and then 1778, and I imagine the bustling life outside of the Cabildo back then...it's pure magic.

After many years of Festing, I find that my emotions run more and more deeper each year. In the early years it was pure excitement and adrenaline, mid-day buzzes and peaking WAY too early. Now, it's a little less of that and a lot more "zen"; an almost out of body experience that allows me to soak up more and more of the ambiance that each minute brings...

[NYMAMA]

WELL SAID ROSS

[mangoon]

I fall into that took a few fests to "get it" category. While I already loved N.O from previous trips to Mardi Gras, and really liked the vibe of the crowd at the fest , I was pretty closeminded when it came to music. I liked what I knew and that was it. My first two fests I went to the fairgrounds 4 or 5 of the possible 9 I was there for, and only went to see the bands that i knew.
Fest 3 it all came together . Checked out some bands my roommates raved about from previous trips ,wandered into the gospel tent and various other stages,and the magic " What a dumb**, look at all the great music I've been missing" light came on. Offically "got it" and been an addict ever since.:D

I think the music closedmindedness( is that a word ) lifts with age and expierence. So hopefully those who dont get it now will give it another shot somewhere down the line.

[rosetree]

....as Mr. Armstrong says in my sig...:p

[Montana]

I don't get it.

[pokerchick66]

I fall into that took a few fests to "get it" category. While I already loved N.O from previous trips to Mardi Gras, and really liked the vibe of the crowd at the fest , I was pretty closeminded when it came to music. I liked what I knew and that was it. My first two fests I went to the fairgrounds 4 or 5 of the possible 9 I was there for, and only went to see the bands that i knew.
Fest 3 it all came together . Checked out some bands my roommates raved about from previous trips ,wandered into the gospel tent and various other stages,and the magic " What a dumb**, look at all the great music I've been missing" light came on. Offically "got it" and been an addict ever since.:D

I think the music closedmindedness( is that a word ) lifts with age and expierence. So hopefully those who dont get it now will give it another shot somewhere down the line.The third time's the charm!

Good post. :)

[pokerchick66]

I don't get it.

LMAO! I love you, Mo.

[ohio]

If everyone did get it, Fest would be ruined. It's crowded enough already, the Foundation is making money, why try to get even more people there? If it gets too much more crowded I won't want to go.

[sfnola]

We go with a group of 15+ every year, and what I find most beautiful is that there are different things for everyone in our group to "get". There's a section of our group who may only make it to the fairgrounds one day, for a few hours tops. But they never come home before sunrise and will insist that the best music takes place between 2am and 6am. They'll see a BNA, then chase Stanton around town, eventually landing at the Howlin' Wolf or Maple Leaf for the wee hours. There are others who hit multiple stages at the fairgrounds all day, devouring food constantly, and might make it to one of the earlier night shows. To others the music is mostly a nice bonus, but the fact that there's an event that keeps our group coming together, year after year, from all over the country, is a blessing unto itself.

More or less, even to those of us who get "it", "it" is something different to us all.

[pokerchick66]

Well said, sfnola. :)

[NOLA]

Here's a corollary question - I wonder what percentage of folks at the Fest on any given day "Get it"? You can look around and out among the crowds, and just see blank stares or actual unhappiness on a few faces. You don't want to be harsh, but you want to go up to them and say "If you're not having fun here, try another stage, another part of town, another festival - don't make yourself crazy by staying here!". There is too much great stuff out there to experience that if Jazz Fest ain't doin' it for ya, find something better! There are also always those who come for a specific act, and don't bother to check out the rest of the Fest for whatever reason - they won't get it.

My guess is maybe 50% of the people there are having fun and may return one day, but don't really "get it" like we do. Maybe 20% of attendees on any given day "get it" although probably less than 5% are as dedicated to it as we are - which may explain why we don't "get" that some people don't "get it".

NOLA's psychobabble for the day now turned "off"...

[mariena]

Great thread, Lis!

Well, I recall being at the Fest with my sister Rhonda back in '96, and some act (perhaps the Nevilles?) was doing a kick-ass version of an old Sly and the Family Stone tune. We were grooving our asses off, and then we looked at each other and sang: "Thank you....for letting me....be myself....again".

Those words really sum up the Fest experience for me, and I think it defines who "gets it" and who doesn't. If you're willing to dig deep, to be YOURSELF, to revisit that spirit that resides in you....then you get it. If, on the other hand, you are someone trapped by convention, paralyzed by doing something outside the box or concerned about putting your outer shell above your inner soul...then Jazzfest probably isn't the place for you.

The people I've met who "get it" see things from a very different perspective. They are able to overlay the joy with the pain, the sunshine with the mud and the Blackberries with the totems. They live in the moment, and they would be impressed by Bourbon Street....for about 10 minutes.

I've always believed that I "get it" because I still see the whole city through the prism of a 17 year old naive kid from a small town on the Canadian prairies. Everything was magical, everything was scary...and it was the most alive I've ever felt in my life. Even now, when I'm sipping a cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde, I'm transported back in time to 1978. As I sit there, the date becomes 1878, and then 1778, and I imagine the bustling life outside of the Cabildo back then...it's pure magic.

After many years of Festing, I find that my emotions run more and more deeper each year. In the early years it was pure excitement and adrenaline, mid-day buzzes and peaking WAY too early. Now, it's a little less of that and a lot more "zen"; an almost out of body experience that allows me to soak up more and more of the ambiance that each minute brings...


That is so beautiful. Thanks for that.
Mariena

[NYMAMA]

WOW all this philosophical disscussion about what "IT" is. Please pass the supplemental.

[RitaZero]

I like to think that I have a hippie soul :) I haven't run into anyone who didn't get it! Every newbie I have taken has come back year after year. I agree that a very happy vibe prevails on all smiling faces at JazzFest.

I thought it was all about coming to see music my first JazzFest. But the warmth and charm of the people of New Orleans as well as the food are as big a draw as the music for me now.

[fairy lights]

That's exactly what my two friends and I are doing. If you come alone, you are more then welcome to hang with us. It's our first time too. Hopefully we'll find some of the more experienced threadheads to help us out.
Didn't I read that you are in Arkansas?Let me know if you are driving. We are driving in from NW La & staying at the Monteleone.
I get it! I get it! I sooo get it!

Thanks, Bluesmama. That's a nice gesture and one I just might take you up on. The thing with him is I have to act like I want him to go, you know? If I act like I'd rather go with the girls, he'll bust his ass to go, then be miserable the whole time, lol.

[csoul]

I thought it was all about coming to see music my first JazzFest. But the warmth and charm of the people of New Orleans as well as the food are as big a draw as the music for me now.

Ahhhh, the people. Nobody like 'em anywhere!!!

[MzJoey]

Corona,
Awesome question. And I believe that if anyone could figure out the answer and "fix" the people who don't get it, we could solve most of the world's problems. Think about it. Have you ever seen a fight at fest? (And I'm not talking about someone whining 'cause you stepped on the corner of their blanket. I'm talking about a nock down drag out?) I haven't. It's very peaceful and people are happy. Everyone's doing their own thing with very little judgement going on. How cool if we could translate that to the rest of the world on a daily basis. Just live and let live, ya' know?
That said, one of the folks I went with first year who didn't really "get it" was my baby sister. It kinda' suprises me that she didn't get it, because a bigger hippie has never lived. (She followed the Dead for quite some time in her early 20's and had no problem "getting" them.) She didn't hate fest, but she's never seemed interested in returning. Although, I have to admit, I don't ever push anyone to come with me anymore. I'd just as soon not have to worry about whether or not someone I bring is gonna' get it. But, I'm SOO glad my "Soul Mate" gets it. Without him, it wouldn't be half as much fun.

Oh I've seen two....both involved my ex and drunken frat boys, and as much as i'd like to blame my ex...it was really the drunken frat boys' fault, he was just being reactionary (which isn't good either...yeesch).

I think IT is "non-sexual orgasims derived from musical appreciation"..

[Zbonnie]

[quote=NOLA;29761]Here's a corollary question - I wonder what percentage of folks at the Fest on any given day "Get it"? You can look around and out among the crowds, and just see blank stares or actual unhappiness on a few faces. You don't want to be harsh, but you want to go up to them and say "If you're not having fun here, try another stage, another part of town, another festival - don't make yourself crazy by staying here!". quote]

I actually DO go up to people like that at the fest and say with a huge shit-eating grin, "SMILE, YOU'RE AT JAZZFEST!" Most times they will.:)

[Frosty]

I think the people who leave Fest for Bourbon st. or Sonny for Bourbon St. have a total lack of self esteem. They can only do something if it is the "in" thing to do. As opposed to the attitude here of doing what is fun. Reminds me of the reaction my wife and I got when we got up to leave Acura before Dave Matthews show so we could catch CJ Chenier. So, we sacrificed cool for what was the perfect close to our two days at Fest.

[NYMAMA]

I think the people who leave Fest for Bourbon st. or Sonny for Bourbon St. have a total lack of self esteem. They can only do something if it is the "in" thing to do. As opposed to the attitude here of doing what is fun. Reminds me of the reaction my wife and I got when we got up to leave Acura before Dave Matthews show so we could catch CJ Chenier. So, we sacrificed cool for what was the perfect close to our two days at Fest.

CJ was my choice also.

[festivalgirl]

"Getting It" involves the ability and love of going with the flow. Turning that corner, not finding the restaurant you were looking for and finding something better! Beer and crawfish for breakfast!

Our first Fest was with friends who need a plan. They've never been back - we're on year 8!

Here's to the free spirits of the world!!!! :cool:

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Only smart people are able to get it.

[csoul]

I think the people who leave Fest for Bourbon st. or Sonny for Bourbon St. have a total lack of self esteem. They can only do something if it is the "in" thing to do. As opposed to the attitude here of doing what is fun. Reminds me of the reaction my wife and I got when we got up to leave Acura before Dave Matthews show so we could catch CJ Chenier. So, we sacrificed cool for what was the perfect close to our two days at Fest.

So much for my theory that there's no judgement going on...;}
I know for myself, that Bourbon Street was just where I kinda' ended up before I knew there were other places to go. I was plopped down in the middle of New Orleans with 3 other people who were real buzz kills. I made up my mind to go have fun, and Bourbon Street was the natural place to go.
Since that first trip, I've explored more and found other things I like and other places to go. But I think a lot of folks just end up there because that's what is advertised. Not necessarily because their self esteem is suffering? Although, I can't imagine leaving Sonny to walk up and down Bourbon.......

[GratefulDawg]

Yeah, I'll have to chime in that those of us that "get it" are ones that typically look outside of the mainstream for our music pleasures. I'm so happy to hear about others like myself who would rather go see CJ Chenier, the Hackberry Ramblers, or Snooks Eaglin than some of the major performers. Frankly, I'm not that interested in many of the big acts this year. I plan on having my fun checking out the brass bands, other Louisiana acts that I've heard about but have never seen, and making sure I see each of the African acts and some jazz and gospel. Oh, and let's not forget the damn good food!

We've got a crew of people coming from several cities, and we're all music freaks. We met due to our shared love of the Grateful Dead and some of the jam-oriented bands that they spawned, and we've all introduced each other to some great music outside of that realm. The old Deadhead scene is the only thing that compares to me, along with the current Bonnaroo festival (although Bonnaroo, while great, is not at the level of Jazz Fest). We all have a passion for music that will not die, and we will go to any length to enjoy it. Myself, I'm constantly looking for new music to listen to (thank you internet!). I try to see live music as much as possible and have recently taken up salsa dancing to enjoy that style of music even more!

I had a sad moment when I was looking at the old grids from past festivals I attended, seeing all of these musicians and bands that I love now that I knew nothing about then and didn't see when I had the chance (esp. Celia Cruz!). D'oh!

I'm bringing my father for his first Jazz Fest this year, and he'd better get ready, 'cause we are going to wear him out!

[NOLA]

"Getting It" involves the ability and love of going with the flow. Turning that corner, not finding the restaurant you were looking for and finding something better! Beer and crawfish for breakfast!

Our first Fest was with friends who need a plan. They've never been back - we're on year 8!

Here's to the free spirits of the world!!!! :cool:

A willingness to go with the flow - that may indeed be the key. If you are willing to put your uptightness aside for the day and explore and experience the new and unfamiliar, you are likely to have a great time. My first time, I think I was too interested in sticking with the "plan" and as a result just didn't have all that much fun (although I did love the music :) ). After that, I went with someone who basically forced me to go with the flow, and I've been flowing right back through those gates ever since!

[Priestboy]

Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I said on the other thread that of the 6 of us girls who made the first fest together, 3 of us got 'it' and the others didn't. The others actually left fest at 1:00 to go back to Bourbon St. after being there 2 nights in a row. They also left Rock n Bowl- Sonny, Anders, Theresa....to go back to Bourbon St. The other 3 of us girls have gone back every year. But, even out of the 3 of us, 2 of us feel 'it' so deeply and the other enjoys it a lot but doesn't have that same pull or love for the city. (sorry for the run-on sentence...lazy ;)
Thoughts?

As one who has yet to partake in JF (although that anomaly will be taken care of this year!), but who is a long-time Parrothead and Deadhead, I think that it is the "intangibles" that draw one to an event such as Fest. Definitely the music, but more than that there's a "vibe" that you either get or you don't (not much in-between, i've found!). I feel like I'm being drawn to Fest in the same way that the some people gravitate toward a certain spot for vacation (the beach, mountains, etc.). Its the crowds, the music, the venue...the whole nine yards! Well, enough of my ramblings....:D

[csoul]

As one who has yet to partake in JF (although that anomaly will be taken care of this year!), but who is a long-time Parrothead and Deadhead, I think that it is the "intangibles" that draw one to an event such as Fest. Definitely the music, but more than that there's a "vibe" that you either get or you don't (not much in-between, i've found!). I feel like I'm being drawn to Fest in the same way that the some people gravitate toward a certain spot for vacation (the beach, mountains, etc.). Its the crowds, the music, the venue...the whole nine yards! Well, enough of my ramblings....:D

Oh my, You're gonna' be SOOOO hooked. You haven't even been and you already got it bad.....:}

[pokerchick66]

So much for my theory that there's no judgement going on...;}
I know for myself, that Bourbon Street was just where I kinda' ended up before I knew there were other places to go. I was plopped down in the middle of New Orleans with 3 other people who were real buzz kills. I made up my mind to go have fun, and Bourbon Street was the natural place to go.
Since that first trip, I've explored more and found other things I like and other places to go. But I think a lot of folks just end up there because that's what is advertised. Not necessarily because their self esteem is suffering? Although, I can't imagine leaving Sonny to walk up and down Bourbon.......

I agree. I'm from New Orleans so I've done the Bourbon Street thing to death but I still love it and I love the whole French Quarter. And I absolutely love the Jazzfest and all things New Orleans. I just love them differently. I think it's okay to like it all. Like at fest, I like the BNA's but I also love the local acts, too. And I love that I've discovered new music because of the fest. Yes, it is just total music appreciation.

And food appreciation, too. ;)

[mangoon]

I love N.O. I love the Fest. I love after shows. I love Frenchman St.... drum roll please ... I love Bourbon St. There I said it. Self esteem be damned:D

[pokerchick66]

lol!

[csoul]

pc & mangoon.....As a NOLA virgin said to me in November as we walked around the French Quarter "I like everything I see". I thought to myself "Well, there ya' go. That pretty much sums it up"

[Priestboy]

pc & mangoon.....As a NOLA virgin said to me in November as we walked around the French Quarter "I like everything I see". I thought to myself "Well, there ya' go. That pretty much sums it up"

YYR, csoul. I get the same feeling walking the parking lot of a Buffett show...good times wherever you turn!

[pokerchick66]

YYR, csoul. I get the same feeling walking the parking lot of a Buffett show...good times wherever you turn!

lmao!

[bluesmama]

Thanks, Bluesmama. That's a nice gesture and one I just might take you up on. The thing with him is I have to act like I want him to go, you know? If I act like I'd rather go with the girls, he'll bust his ass to go, then be miserable the whole time, lol.

I wonder if we are married to the same man!

[csoul]

YYR, csoul. I get the same feeling walking the parking lot of a Buffett show...good times wherever you turn!

Oh, yay!!! I'm so glad to have another Buffett fan on board. They are few and far between on this board. I think PC has some fins, though? Dontcha' pc??

[mendelj2]

I think the difference is people think of Jazzfest in three ways:

1. A Concert
2. A Party
3. An Experience

For all of us its an experience - and one that we want to soak in as much as possible. For others its less than that - which is fine.

I used to come with guys who liked the music and loved the party, but for very few it touched their soul. For me - and I think my wife - the key is that it touches our soul and makes us feel more alive than ever. Sometimes that's dancing to Dave Matthews or drinking on Bourbon Street, other times its a small restaurant or someone new on the Fais Do Do.

[UncleFester]

i can see why i get it- i love music and i really like to be with the group of friends i go there with, i don't think i can assume why others don't. there are reasons i want to stay away some days- crowds, drunk people, weather, patchouli etc. i am basically an introverted person and when i am around a lot of people it drains my energy quickly. i've been to fest 15 times so over that time i have found that if i go to the jazztent for 1-2 hours, get a chair and sit with some food i recharge and i'm ready for more. but i meet the crowds with decreasing energy- extroverts get energy from the people and recharge that way. not to say all people at fest are extroverts either. to marvel at why others don't like it seems to also imply that they should which is like saying "i like this so everyone should"- its egocentric.
ok, so i am a buzzkill now. sorry.

[Frosty]

So much for my theory that there's no judgement going on...;}
I know for myself, that Bourbon Street was just where I kinda' ended up before I knew there were other places to go. I was plopped down in the middle of New Orleans with 3 other people who were real buzz kills. I made up my mind to go have fun, and Bourbon Street was the natural place to go.
Since that first trip, I've explored more and found other things I like and other places to go. But I think a lot of folks just end up there because that's what is advertised. Not necessarily because their self esteem is suffering? Although, I can't imagine leaving Sonny to walk up and down Bourbon.......

The whole defining "getting it" vs. "not getting it" is a judgment. But, I was more talking to those when confronted with something OTHER than Bourbon St., could not enjoy themselves. That is a far cry from starting at it as point A and moving outward. Or enjoying it as part of the experience.

[Priestboy]

Oh, yay!!! I'm so glad to have another Buffett fan on board. They are few and far between on this board. I think PC has some fins, though? Dontcha' pc??

as does mightyradgumbo (my big bro')!:D

[csoul]

i can see why i get it- i love music and i really like to be with the group of friends i go there with, i don't think i can assume why others don't. there are reasons i want to stay away some days- crowds, drunk people, weather, patchouli etc. i am basically an introverted person and when i am around a lot of people it drains my energy quickly. i've been to fest 15 times so over that time i have found that if i go to the jazztent for 1-2 hours, get a chair and sit with some food i recharge and i'm ready for more. but i meet the crowds with decreasing energy- extroverts get energy from the people and recharge that way. not to say all people at fest are extroverts either. to marvel at why others don't like it seems to also imply that they should which is like saying "i like this so everyone should"- its egocentric.
ok, so i am a buzzkill now. sorry.

No buzzkill, fester. I totally get that. I'm very introverted as well. But I find the crowds help pull me out of my shell.....(but not the gigantic crowds where ya' can't move like DMB....that drains me totally). And I agree, trying to force someone to get it is wasted time. Weather will keep me away, too. But not drunk people....I like them.;}

[neverleft]

I love New Orleans and especially Jazz Fest for the food, music but mostly the vibe of the people. Everytime I go I have such a great unique experience, and it really has to do with the people who are there. It's not just the people from New Orleans, it's the people from America and all over the world who are there to dig the music with other people who dig music. So for me it seems to be the right atmosphere for a great time. I always meet some fantastic people and musicians that are so approachable, how cool is that. Even if I hear some music I don't like, I move on to somewhere else and find some music that I like. I think it's that simple at Jazz Fest to get it. It's not for everybody the heat, humidity, the crowds, the cost, the portipoties. It's way to much for my wife, but every-year she says to me "you going to Jazz Fest" I say yep.
See ya all there, it's gonna be a good time.

[fairy lights]

Oh, yay!!! I'm so glad to have another Buffett fan on board. They are few and far between on this board. I think PC has some fins, though? Dontcha' pc??

hey, I love Jimmy Buffett - but I love Bourbon Street, too!

[Jaypee]

OMG. My login actually works today!

I learned early on about the "some get it, some don't" thing, and for that reason, I encourage some but not all of my friends to go. Once I brought a large group. Most of them camped at Acura, and went to the food booths, beer tents, and porta potties in packs. No interest in leaving Bourbon Street, where they drank slushees out of plastic toys. They have not been back.

Another time I was in NOLA on business. I knew my co-workers were into shopping and touristy stuff, but I had no idea that the highlight of the non-work hours every night would be T-shirt shopping at the French Market, and listening to disco and top 40 cover bands on Bourbon Street. At one point, I gave up and wandered down to the Kerry (across from the Bienville Hotel) and hung out there chatting up a few locals and Barry Cowsill's ex-wife. The gang actually was pissed at me the next day for leaving them.

This fest, my brother is going (have been bitten by one November visit to the city and one Fest) and a newbie, who's been to NOLA just once and loved it, and is itching to do the fest. I know he "gets it" already, because he wants to register on this Bored and become a Threadhead!

[glinda]

Great thread!!!

I have had only a very few of the 15+ people I've brought to JF NOT get it. It's so fabulous when they do --- like last year my good frind's new beau's response when I asked hm how he liked it - his first day there, maybe 2 hours into it - "Well, I cried in the Gospel Tent." I knew he got it. The few who either didn't like it or liked it a lot less than the rest of us, were just not that into music.

So my conclusions after reading all the responses so far....

1. You must LOVE music above your own comfort, etc.
2. I am grateful to have such cool friends who get it.
3. I think to get it you have to be able to "go with the flow" as others have said, and "have the soul of a hippie."
4. I would add that to get it you have to be able to lose yourself in the moment - supplementals help with this, but are not required.

Puppy scratching and clawing at me to go out... gotta go!!!!

[funkkjunkie]

fairylights, if there's a chance your hubbie will go and be miserable, look for an out for him, but like you said, make it his idea. One year, 2 of my King Biscuit girlfriends decided to take their man to the biscuit instead of hanging with the girls. They were miserable-spent most of their time at thehotel. No fun at all. Never again have those men been invited.

[funkkjunkie]

The jazzfest is such a special fest. Other fests are great too but nowhere else have I experienced the cool vibe that surrounds the fairgrounds..

[Corona]

I've never been and I so get it - it's my husband that I'm worried about. He loves music, but hates to be uncomfortable. Hates hot muggy weather - has a bad back - hates crowds - doesn't drink - you get the picture. He is self employed and works most weekends, so he hasn't committed 100%. I just may ditch him and bring some girlfriends - hee hee.
Fairy, I gotta agree with pokerchip....I know my husband wouldn't like it all that much either. He has no interest coming to fest...too big, too many peeps, not crazy into music and doesn't like the fast pace that I like to have down there. So....we do other stuff together but New Orleans and fest is mine. It works :)

[Corona]

Great thread, Lis!

Well, I recall being at the Fest with my sister Rhonda back in '96, and some act (perhaps the Nevilles?) was doing a kick-ass version of an old Sly and the Family Stone tune. We were grooving our asses off, and then we looked at each other and sang: "Thank you....for letting me....be myself....again".

Those words really sum up the Fest experience for me, and I think it defines who "gets it" and who doesn't. If you're willing to dig deep, to be YOURSELF, to revisit that spirit that resides in you....then you get it. If, on the other hand, you are someone trapped by convention, paralyzed by doing something outside the box or concerned about putting your outer shell above your inner soul...then Jazzfest probably isn't the place for you.

The people I've met who "get it" see things from a very different perspective. They are able to overlay the joy with the pain, the sunshine with the mud and the Blackberries with the totems. They live in the moment, and they would be impressed by Bourbon Street....for about 10 minutes.

I've always believed that I "get it" because I still see the whole city through the prism of a 17 year old naive kid from a small town on the Canadian prairies. Everything was magical, everything was scary...and it was the most alive I've ever felt in my life. Even now, when I'm sipping a cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde, I'm transported back in time to 1978. As I sit there, the date becomes 1878, and then 1778, and I imagine the bustling life outside of the Cabildo back then...it's pure magic.

After many years of Festing, I find that my emotions run more and more deeper each year. In the early years it was pure excitement and adrenaline, mid-day buzzes and peaking WAY too early. Now, it's a little less of that and a lot more "zen"; an almost out of body experience that allows me to soak up more and more of the ambiance that each minute brings...
oh man...right on! I hear ya completely!
You guys are awesome :)

[Corona]

Thanks, Bluesmama. That's a nice gesture and one I just might take you up on. The thing with him is I have to act like I want him to go, you know? If I act like I'd rather go with the girls, he'll bust his ass to go, then be miserable the whole time, lol.
roflmao Fairy! Man, I know where you're coming from.....boyz:p

[Corona]

As one who has yet to partake in JF (although that anomaly will be taken care of this year!), but who is a long-time Parrothead and Deadhead, I think that it is the "intangibles" that draw one to an event such as Fest. Definitely the music, but more than that there's a "vibe" that you either get or you don't (not much in-between, i've found!). I feel like I'm being drawn to Fest in the same way that the some people gravitate toward a certain spot for vacation (the beach, mountains, etc.). Its the crowds, the music, the venue...the whole nine yards! Well, enough of my ramblings....:D
:D

[NeenAtlanta]

I've been lucky that pretty much all of the newbies I've brought certainly "got" it. But I knew beforehand that these are people who love music festivals in general and have a wide open mind to music. They'd been to camping music festivals, so I knew they wouldn't worry about things like getting muddy or using portapotties.

But still you never know. I did bring one girl from work 2 years before that I wasn't quite sure would get it. But on her next to the last day, we were at Tips and saw the Maggies, Rebirth and Dirty Dozen, and I looked at her and she was dancing with total abandoment, with her arms high in the air and a blissful look on her face and I knew she was finally there. She can't make it this year due to getting married, but I expect her back after that.

Of my other friends who get it - they've absolutely loved it and think and talk about it a lot. However, Fest is never a true "NEED" for them like it is for me. They come and go different years and always enjoy it. But they also want to go to Mag Fest and Burning Man, and other fests, so they don't do New Orleans every year.

But for me it goes way beyond that. I truly do feel that I can be 100% myself, with no constraints when I am in NOLA, and especially at Fest. I feel like I am finally the person that the adolescent me hoped to be when she grew up.

Now I just gotta keep working on keeping that vibe with me the other 50 weeks of the year.

(either that or move down to New Orleans - I wish!!)

[Corona]

I think the difference is people think of Jazzfest in three ways:

1. A Concert
2. A Party
3. An Experience

For all of us its an experience - and one that we want to soak in as much as possible. For others its less than that - which is fine.

I used to come with guys who liked the music and loved the party, but for very few it touched their soul. For me - and I think my wife - the key is that it touches our soul and makes us feel more alive than ever. Sometimes that's dancing to Dave Matthews or drinking on Bourbon Street, other times its a small restaurant or someone new on the Fais Do Do.
amen Mendel...that was great and I agree. It's a feeling....and that feeling has hit me in numerous places in New Orleans, not just at fest....it's that same rush of beautiful, happy emotions.....I say that my "heart is smiling" when I feel like that :)

[fairy lights]

I know I would definitely have more fun with 'fun-lovin' people, but I'll just have to wait and see how it plays out. He has a construction business and it's impossible to make plans ahead of time. He may be swamped during that week and not be able to get loose. Then again, I tend to over indulge just a tad (ok, a lot) when I'm having a good time, and he does take care of me. Either way, I'm gonna have a ball!

The funny thing about it is, he's 20 years younger than I am, so you'd think it would be the other way around!

[Corona]

i can see why i get it- i love music and i really like to be with the group of friends i go there with, i don't think i can assume why others don't. there are reasons i want to stay away some days- crowds, drunk people, weather, patchouli etc. i am basically an introverted person and when i am around a lot of people it drains my energy quickly. i've been to fest 15 times so over that time i have found that if i go to the jazztent for 1-2 hours, get a chair and sit with some food i recharge and i'm ready for more. but i meet the crowds with decreasing energy- extroverts get energy from the people and recharge that way. not to say all people at fest are extroverts either. to marvel at why others don't like it seems to also imply that they should which is like saying "i like this so everyone should"- its egocentric.
ok, so i am a buzzkill now. sorry.
Hey Uncle, that wasn't my intention with my question. Like I said, I'm a social worker and I was curious about why some are drawn with such force and others aren't. What makes them different. Nothing egotistical about that at all....that's what the social science of Sociology is based on no? The study of people, culture, their behavior in society etc.....

[brooklyngal]

I have tried to bring someone new every year, a tradition I'm told that is "required." :) Almost everyone has gotten "it" so far. I think it has something to do with being okay with losing inhibition (not the Mardi Gras way but more along the lines of not caring if you get dirty, making friends, and yes partying) but especially giving over to the community aspect. I think getting "it" is understanding what it means to have all of those people come together and love on each other like we all do and enjoying the moment together. JF is definitely understanding how to live in the moment.

[Corona]

Hey Uncle, that wasn't my intention with my question. Like I said, I'm a social worker and I was curious about why some are drawn with such force and others aren't. What makes them different. Nothing egotistical about that at all....that's what the social science of Sociology is based on no? The study of people, culture, their behavior in society etc.....
I feel like I am finally the person that the adolescent me hoped to be when she grew up.

Now I just gotta keep working on keeping that vibe with me the other 50 weeks of the year.

(either that or move down to New Orleans - I wish!!)

Oh Neen, that was beautiful!!!

[csoul]

I know I would definitely have more fun with 'fun-lovin' people, but I'll just have to wait and see how it plays out. He has a construction business and it's impossible to make plans ahead of time. He may be swamped during that week and not be able to get loose. Then again, I tend to over indulge just a tad (ok, a lot) when I'm having a good time, and he does take care of me. Either way, I'm gonna have a ball!

The funny thing about it is, he's 20 years younger than I am, so you'd think it would be the other way around!

I have to say, Fairy, I've been reading your posts and wondering how this is gonna' go for you. My experience with my husband was exactly the opposite of how I thought it would be. I talked about JF for 3 years before I took him. I really wasn't sure if he would enjoy it at all. He's not a big drinker. I can NEVER get him to dance with me. He does not enjoy crowds and I was really kind of terrified that we would get down there and he would be a total putz. But he too, takes care of me when I have over indulged; and he genuinely tries to do things that make me happy, so I thought, let's give it a try. I learned on that trip that he is more of a music lover than I knew. He just enjoys it differently than I do. I also saw him loosen up more than I had ever seen him do so up to that point in our relationship. I learned alot about him that I wouldn't have know had I not taken the chance and drug him along.
BUT HEY, there was always that chance that he would hate it. It's a tough call, girl. Good luck!!

[NeenAtlanta]

I feel like I am finally the person that the adolescent me hoped to be when she grew up.

Now I just gotta keep working on keeping that vibe with me the other 50 weeks of the year.

(either that or move down to New Orleans - I wish!!)

Oh Neen, that was beautiful!!!

It's funny - but having nieces and nephews in their teens and twenties has had me thinking a lot of who I was at that age, and what I'd hoped to make of my life. I swore I wouldn't have a boring corporate job (but I do). And that I wouldn't sit in an office all day (but I have been for 25 years). Unfortunately the reality of money just can't be ignored.

BUT - I have managed to keep a great group of friends, and I support my husband who is a full time musician, so those are on the plus side. My life is filled with music.

[mariena]

I have tried to bring someone new every year, a tradition I'm told that is "required." :) Almost everyone has gotten "it" so far. I think it has something to do with being okay with losing inhibition (not the Mardi Gras way but more along the lines of not caring if you get dirty, making friends, and yes partying) but especially giving over to the community aspect. I think getting "it" is understanding what it means to have all of those people come together and love on each other like we all do and enjoying the moment together. JF is definitely understanding how to live in the moment.

I never knew that it was considered a "requirement", but I can say that each year I try to talk someone into going with us to Fest. I guess that I just want to share the awesome experience with someone. So far, I haven't been successful in converting anyone to a Fester other than myself. I even have an identical twin sister that just doesn't get it. Which I don't understand, because we like so much of the same things.

[fairy lights]

I have to say, Fairy, I've been reading your posts and wondering how this is gonna' go for you. My experience with my husband was exactly the opposite of how I thought it would be. I talked about JF for 3 years before I took him. I really wasn't sure if he would enjoy it at all. He's not a big drinker. I can NEVER get him to dance with me. He does not enjoy crowds and I was really kind of terrified that we would get down there and he would be a total putz. But he too, takes care of me when I have over indulged; and he genuinely tries to do things that make me happy, so I thought, let's give it a try. I learned on that trip that he is more of a music lover than I knew. He just enjoys it differently than I do. I also saw him loosen up more than I had ever seen him do so up to that point in our relationship. I learned alot about him that I wouldn't have know had I not taken the chance and drug him along.
BUT HEY, there was always that chance that he would hate it. It's a tough call, girl. Good luck!!


Glad to hear it worked out for you, csoul. Like I said, I'm gonna have a blast no matter what. If he can't go, I have some friends who will be glad to step in and take his place. If he does go, then I can let loose and feel safe. I'll just have to listen to him bitch and moan. I can't wait!!!

[brooklyngal]

I completely agree, Mendel. Jazz Fest does touch your soul.

[ohio]

I think the people who leave Fest for Bourbon st. or Sonny for Bourbon St. have a total lack of self esteem. They can only do something if it is the "in" thing to do. As opposed to the attitude here of doing what is fun. Reminds me of the reaction my wife and I got when we got up to leave Acura before Dave Matthews show so we could catch CJ Chenier. So, we sacrificed cool for what was the perfect close to our two days at Fest.And that is what 'getting it' is all about!

[ohio]

I love New Orleans and especially Jazz Fest for the food, music but mostly the vibe of the people. Everytime I go I have such a great unique experience, and it really has to do with the people who are there. It's not just the people from New Orleans, it's the people from America and all over the world who are there to dig the music with other people who dig music. So for me it seems to be the right atmosphere for a great time. I always meet some fantastic people and musicians that are so approachable, how cool is that. Even if I hear some music I don't like, I move on to somewhere else and find some music that I like. I think it's that simple at Jazz Fest to get it. It's not for everybody the heat, humidity, the crowds, the cost, the portipoties. It's way to much for my wife, but every-year she says to me "you going to Jazz Fest" I say yep.
See ya all there, it's gonna be a good time.The wonderful friends I have made are more of a driving force that the music now...

[UncleFester]

corona, i wasn't really directing my comments to the question of why people get it so much as i was trying to illustrate that some of the comments that were made headed into the direction of judging others because they don't get it- some comments implied people don't get it because they want to go to bourbon st. or would rather see DMB - who is to judge that and does that mean they don't get it? cuz that gets into the music one-up-manship stuff and really is just a choice that many people make.
the point about personality types was written to let people know that we all have a variety of stuff that turns us on- which is really why i like the variiety of fest.

[Zydekitten]

This is a tremendously excellent thread, Miss Lis!!!

I think that one's ability to get it is in relation to their ability to let their freak flag fly and "get on the bus" . . . and some of those folks aren't necessarily hippies. I have a strong hippie chick personality (one of my multiples), but my ex-husband didn't and my most recent ex-partner, Mark didn't - however they both really loved Fest and New Orleans, although to a slightly lesser extent than I did (the bastids didn't want to go out EVERY night like me).

I went solo last year after my breakup with Mark, as I wasn't going to let anything stop me from being at Fest - especially after the storm - and I had a great time. I am excited this year to be with my Cajun lovah (Denbear), who gets it just as much (if not more, being from NOLA) as I do.

Personally, I don't really get Bourbon St. and that whole frat/alcohol poisoning festival that seems to go on there . . .

As usual, I end up at "to each - his/her peach."

;)

[steeleye]

I love New Orleans and especially Jazz Fest for the food, music but mostly the vibe of the people. Everytime I go I have such a great unique experience, and it really has to do with the people who are there. It's not just the people from New Orleans, it's the people from America and all over the world who are there to dig the music with other people who dig music. So for me it seems to be the right atmosphere for a great time. I always meet some fantastic people and musicians that are so approachable, how cool is that. Even if I hear some music I don't like, I move on to somewhere else and find some music that I like. I think it's that simple at Jazz Fest to get it. It's not for everybody the heat, humidity, the crowds, the cost, the portipoties. It's way to much for my wife, but every-year she says to me "you going to Jazz Fest" I say yep.
See ya all there, it's gonna be a good time.

Yes, for me it's the vibe of the people and the overall vibe of the Fairgrounds itself. My first fest last year, I remember standing by the Congo Square vendors early on the last Sunday as my wife shopped. I wondered over to the stage to see who was putting out this killer reggae beat and saw three ladies dressed all in white singing some great harmonies (Zion Trinity). At that point...with three Liuzza's Bloody Mary's in me and the whole rest of the day ahead...I felt like my feet weren't even touching the ground. I had such a happy feeling that I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else in the world.

I think that everyone has experienced that feeling. It may be in response to books, art, theater, sports or whatever; for us, it's New Orleans and Jazz Fest that kindles our inner spirit.

[Corona]

corona, i wasn't really directing my comments to the question of why people get it so much as i was trying to illustrate that some of the comments that were made headed into the direction of judging others because they don't get it- some comments implied people don't get it because they want to go to bourbon st. or would rather see DMB - who is to judge that and does that mean they don't get it? cuz that gets into the music one-up-manship stuff and really is just a choice that many people make.
the point about personality types was written to let people know that we all have a variety of stuff that turns us on- which is really why i like the variiety of fest.
gotcha Fester and I hear ya. I sometimes feel self-conscious cuz I love Dave Matthews and Widespread Panic...I know that those bands are not held in too high regard here as compared to the other bands at fest. BUT, they make me smile, I love them and my heart sings when I'm shaking my ass at their concerts. To each his own right? Thanks for clarifying :)

[mightyradgumbo]

Late in posting this but great question, Corona. Having been to literally thousands of shows (saw the Dead almost 400 times alone) I have to say that it is the vibe that attracts you to fest. This will be my 6th fest since 1986. 6 times in 21 years, decent amount-although my association to this bored (and more importantly the peeps) makes me think that I will be back every weekend of every year ;) , I get it for sure but whos to say people that only have been once do not "get it". I had a buddy that never toured with me when I followed the dead, but when they hit Boston or relative proximity to the city, there he was groovin his thang. So analytically, i have to disqualify amount of times as getting it.
Next I turn to people who leave midway through the day and go to Bourbon St., etc., well I think maybe they get it but are just not as diehard as those I am with or know. sooo, do they get it or not? who knows, none of us are them. Maybe they go for 1/2 day every day, every weekend, every year, then go to the titty bar and get blasted.
So I am left after this analysis to bring it down to this-If you "get" it, it is due to the fact, no matter how much you take in or how many times you take it in, that you take it in and it sticks with you. Those years that I missed fest, I always plotted it in the back of my mind if I could do it or not-life got in the way. Life happens.
Just like earlier Corona was mentioning in another post that she would not pout that she was missing St. Patrick's day in NOLA-I told her that I pout everytime I miss anything in NOLA-FQF, JF, MG, StPats Day, because I miss the vibes. Believe me, I have fun wherever I go-life is too short to drink bad wine or listen to shitty music. I think it is all about the vibe.
The great thing is that we all get it and we have the opportunity to turn others on to it-if they so choose to groove to that vibe. Just my .02 (or maybe .06 cents) Thanks for listening.

[mangoon]

"BUT, they make me smile, I love them and my heart sings when I'm shaking my ass at their concerts."



Nice Corona! That has to be the main core of " getting it " . It shouldn't matter who the band is. As long as you hold that band in high regard you definately should never feel self - conscious about it. imho

[pokerchick66]

Oh, yay!!! I'm so glad to have another Buffett fan on board. They are few and far between on this board. I think PC has some fins, though? Dontcha' pc??

Deed I do!

[mightyradgumbo]

Deed I do!

We was waving our fins at Buffett last year, right chipchopchick. Thanks to the invite from the H2O boys via Amy Winette :D

[pokerchick66]

We was waving our fins at Buffett last year, right chipchopchick. Thanks to the invite from the H2O boys via Amy Winette :D

Yes, Buffett makes my heart smile. :)

He's an overgrown adolescent himself. :D

[Leni]

I think you have to really be a hard core music fan to "get" the Fest and the entire fest-related scene that goes down at night and the daze between. You also can't have a problem with heat and humidity. I think it's just that simple.

Then there are the people who simply don't "get" New Orleans in general which is another interesting topic.

[mauibreeze]

There can be know explanation(yes,know!!!) to the whys or the hows....it just is...and for some that means everything and for others it has NO meaning...COME ON FEST GIVE IT TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AGAIN AND AGIAN AND AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 'cause I know what it means to me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[jhjpotter]

We was waving our fins at Buffett last year, right chipchopchick. Thanks to the invite from the H2O boys via Amy Winette :D Gotta love high quality H2O!!!

http://hoopy50.tripod.com//sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/h2o.jpg

High Quality H2O recipe

ScaleRecipe
Scale ingredients to servings
2 oz Captain Morgan's® Parrot Bay passion fruit rum (http://www.drinksmixer.com/desc2278.html)
2 oz UV® blue raspberry vodka (http://www.drinksmixer.com/desc803.html)
4 oz Minute Maid® lemonade (http://www.drinksmixer.com/desc2277.html)


http://www.drinksmixer.com/i/h/12.gif
Add ingredients in a collins glass over ice.


http://www.drinksmixer.com/i/g/6.gifServe in:
Collins Glass (http://www.drinksmixer.com/glasses/6/)

[Cleophus]

If I were new to this site/board and saw this thread, I'd find it elitist, divisive, arrogant.
Like I have to "qualify" in order to attend or enjoy the Fest.

[Corona]

I think you have to really be a hard core music fan to "get" the Fest and the entire fest-related scene that goes down at night and the daze between. You also can't have a problem with heat and humidity. I think it's just that simple.

Then there are the people who simply don't "get" New Orleans in general which is another interesting topic.
That was kinda the second part of my question :)
My sis-in-law went a few times, for conventions and then cuz of a guy. She describes it as dirty and old......she doesn't get why people love it so much...she just can't "see" what we see I guess....

[NYMAMA]

That was kinda the second part of my question :)
My sis-in-law went a few times, for conventions and then cuz of a guy. She describes it as dirty and old......she doesn't get why people love it so much...she just can't "see" what we see I guess....

I hear ya Corona. I deal with alot of manufacture reps and buyers at work they are always going to NOLA for some kinda of convention and all they know is Burbon St. (some have been there over 25 times and never heard of Frenchman St.)I always tell them to try and expand their horizons next time they vist . Yes Burbon St is one part of the city but there is so much more.

[Orleansnj]

I hear ya Corona. I deal with alot of manufacture reps and buyers at work they are always going to NOLA for some kinda of convention and all they know is Burbon St. (some have been there over 25 times and never heard of Frenchman St.)I always tell them to try and expand their horizons next time they vist . Yes Burbon St is one part of the city but there is so much more.

I know exactly what you mean - some people just think about Bourbon St. and there are gorgeous places right outside the city - some within the city - and so so so much to see !!

[Frosty]

gotcha Fester and I hear ya. I sometimes feel self-conscious cuz I love Dave Matthews and Widespread Panic...I know that those bands are not held in too high regard here as compared to the other bands at fest. BUT, they make me smile, I love them and my heart sings when I'm shaking my ass at their concerts. To each his own right? Thanks for clarifying :)

There is nothing wrong with loving DMB or WP, but I think the key is that you'd have been shaking your ()() just as much at Rebirth or CJ Chenier. The point is that you and others here can enjoy the whole experience and not just the BNA's and beer lines.

[NOLA]

That was kinda the second part of my question :)
My sis-in-law went a few times, for conventions and then cuz of a guy. She describes it as dirty and old......she doesn't get why people love it so much...she just can't "see" what we see I guess....

With the new garbage contract, even the Quarter isn't nearly as dirty as it was just a few months ago...did you notice that while you were here for Mardi Gras?

I went to lunch at Galatoire's on Bourbon St. a couple weeks ago and saw a guy with a broom and dust pan walking down the sidewalk sweeping up stray cigarette butts, for cryin' out loud! This may be one of the few success stories in New Orleans since Katrina. I hope the Jazz Fest visitors notice we've cleaned up the Quarter for them!

[Frosty]

If I were new to this site/board and saw this thread, I'd find it elitist, divisive, arrogant.
Like I have to "qualify" in order to attend or enjoy the Fest.

If you reread the thread you will see it is exactly the opposite. It is full of people who encourage others to attend Fest in the hopes of showing them an amazing experience and are dumbstruck as to why some just don't enjoy themselves or allow themselves to enjoy it. It is actually a populist, inclusive thread wondering why more people don't want to be a part of something we all love so much.

[Festvet]

If everyone did get it, Fest would be ruined. It's crowded enough already, the Foundation is making money, why try to get even more people there? If it gets too much more crowded I won't want to go.
...which is why I rarely show up at the FG's. It has to be a phenomenal line-up (at least 4 or 5 can't miss acts) to get my butt out of bed before 1pm!

[Priestboy]

If you reread the thread you will see it is exactly the opposite. It is full of people who encourage others to attend Fest in the hopes of showing them an amazing experience and are dumbstruck as to why some just don't enjoy themselves or allow themselves to enjoy it. It is actually a populist, inclusive thread wondering why more people don't want to be a part of something we all love so much.

I was at a Buffet show a few years ago, and the people in back of us were yelling for us to "sit down!". After hearing this twice, I invited them to "stand up", as the entire crowd (as I saw it) was standing. Those were folks who didn't "get it". I sense (from viewing posts) that JF is the same way. I've been to NOLA for MG and feel I saw the "heart and soul" of NOLA: I saw the "soul" during MG celebrations up and down Bourbon St.; I saw the "heart" the next morning as people were on their way to church for Ash Wed., getting coffee and beignets at the Cafe du Monde, as well as getting back to their daily routines. I'm hoping in that same way to see the H&S of NOLA at JF!

[McGregor]

If I were new to this site/board and saw this thread, I'd find it elitist, divisive, arrogant.
Like I have to "qualify" in order to attend or enjoy the Fest.

yea it was rubbing me the wrong way as well

[pokerchick66]

I was at a Buffet show a few years ago, and the people in back of us were yelling for us to "sit down!". After hearing this twice, I invited them to "stand up", as the entire crowd (as I saw it) was standing. Those were folks who didn't "get it". I sense (from viewing posts) that JF is the same way. I've been to NOLA for MG and feel I saw the "heart and soul" of NOLA: I saw the "soul" during MG celebrations up and down Bourbon St.; I saw the "heart" the next morning as people were on their way to church for Ash Wed., getting coffee and beignets at the Cafe du Monde, as well as getting back to their daily routines. I'm hoping in that same way to see the H&S of NOLA at JF!

How on earth can one sit at a Buffett concert?

[Priestboy]

How on earth can one sit at a Buffett concert?

to quote JB, "I don't know...I don't know..." Seriously, though, unless you've had one too many suplements:eek: , I can't see how one can sit!

[Azeater]

Different strokes. Some like the Arizona Desert and some like the rain in Seattle. Some like Bach and some like Buffet. Everyone is different. It isn’t missing DNA or not getting it. It is different tastes and different comfort levels. I love the fact that I get it but getting it sounds like you are trying to teach the kid in the back of the room to do long division and making him feel a little slow because he doesn’t “get it “. It doesn’t have anything to do with the quality of the NOLA experience you feel, it has to do with different perspectives developed during years of mental growth. I would hate to think everyone should enjoy the same things. What if they all did what I don’t like and no one did what I do like. How boring that would be.

[csoul]

How on earth can one sit at a Buffett concert?

FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????

[csoul]

Different strokes. Some like the Arizona Desert and some like the rain in Seattle. Some like Bach and some like Buffet. Everyone is different. It isn’t missing DNA or not getting it. It is different tastes and different comfort levels. I love the fact that I get it but getting it sounds like you are trying to teach the kind in the back of the room to do long division and making him feel a little slow because he doesn’t “get it “. It doesn’t have anything to do with the quality of the NOLA experience you feel, it has to do with different perspectives developed during years of mental growth. I would hate to think everyone should enjoy the same things. What if they all did what I don’t like and no one did what I do like. How boring that would be.

Well said, Az. I think some of the thoughts are just being mis-interpreted. Most of the folks I've encountered on this board are very inclusive and anything but elitist. I think we all just get carried away with our enthusiasm for JF.

[pokerchick66]

((FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????))

Buffett just makes me HAPPY.

[rosetree]

((FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????))

Buffett just makes me HAPPY.

Chinese, Mexican, Italian...all make me happy too (sorry, that was too easy...):p

[Priestboy]

((FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????))

Buffett just makes me HAPPY.

YYR, PC!:D

[pokerchick66]

Chinese, Mexican, Italian...all make me happy too (sorry, that was too easy...):p

You're a funny guy, Jeff.

[csoul]

((FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????))

Buffett just makes me HAPPY.

Tickets for his local Northern Virginia show go on sale tomorrow. I'm NOT smiling at the thought of trying to get tix tomorrow on Ticket bastard.

[Priestboy]

FALL DOWN, maybe. But SIT DOWN????

LOL!:D

[Corona]

With the new garbage contract, even the Quarter isn't nearly as dirty as it was just a few months ago...did you notice that while you were here for Mardi Gras?

I went to lunch at Galatoire's on Bourbon St. a couple weeks ago and saw a guy with a broom and dust pan walking down the sidewalk sweeping up stray cigarette butts, for cryin' out loud! This may be one of the few success stories in New Orleans since Katrina. I hope the Jazz Fest visitors notice we've cleaned up the Quarter for them!
Frank, it was absolutely beautiful and yes I did notice. I was amazed actually and very proud of the efforts :)

[Corona]

If I were new to this site/board and saw this thread, I'd find it elitist, divisive, arrogant.
Like I have to "qualify" in order to attend or enjoy the Fest.
oh lord...I surrender for chrissakes...

[Frosty]

Different strokes. Some like the Arizona Desert and some like the rain in Seattle. Some like Bach and some like Buffet. Everyone is different. It isn’t missing DNA or not getting it. It is different tastes and different comfort levels. I love the fact that I get it but getting it sounds like you are trying to teach the kid in the back of the room to do long division and making him feel a little slow because he doesn’t “get it “. It doesn’t have anything to do with the quality of the NOLA experience you feel, it has to do with different perspectives developed during years of mental growth. I would hate to think everyone should enjoy the same things. What if they all did what I don’t like and no one did what I do like. How boring that would be.

Which is exactly what "getting it" is. Enjoying something different for the sake of what it is and not for the sake of it being what everyone else does. Getting it is about choosing what you like and not having the choice made for you. It's about going with your own flow and not the crowds. A band doesn't have to have a "name" to be fun, food doesn't have to come with a plastic toy to taste good, bodies don't have to have silicone to be sexy.

[Azeater]

oh lord...I surrender for chrissakes...


ROFLMAO. IJDM Gal.

[Frosty]

oh lord...I surrender for chrissakes...


See what happens when you don't just shut up and go with the masses......

[Corona]

oh lord...I surrender for chrissakes...
how about if the question is put this way....so as not to sound elitist, arrogant, snobby, judgemental etc....the purpose of this thread was to consider what makes someone fall in love with NOLA or not....I could have made it about the carribean, africa, australia etc...since this is the JF bored..I picked Nola....I know I'm being bitchy but I hate when things get twisted :(

[csoul]

Which is exactly what "getting it" is. Enjoying something different for the sake of what it is and not for the sake of it being what everyone else does. Getting it is about choosing what you like and not having the choice made for you. It's about going with your own flow and not the crowds. A band doesn't have to have a "name" to be fun, food doesn't have to come with a plastic toy to taste good, bodies don't have to have silicone to be sexy.

But SOMETIMES, a band WITH a "name" is fun. I have some friends who will hate a musician or group simply because they are popular. Like they HAVE to disagree with the masses. They drive me insane, because they have also closed their minds, just in the opposite way. Make sense??? I'm ramblin' I know. Reverse snobbery, if you will.

[Corona]

See what happens when you don't just shut up and go with the masses......
what?
I can't surrender because I don't want to argue about it? Everyone is entitled to their opinion right? Why am I not entitled to respond when I feel criticized? It goes both ways brother...

[Corona]

ROFLMAO. IJDM Gal.
lol Az.... :)

[NeenAtlanta]

The wonderful friends I have made are more of a driving force that the music now...

YYR - I think it was CBH who said last year, that it used to be

1. Music
2. Food
3. Friends

And now it is

1. Friends
2. Music-Food (tied)

(great Doo-Dah avatar!)

[csoul]

how about if the question is put this way....so as not to sound elitist, arrogant, snobby, judgemental etc....the purpose of this thread was to consider what makes someone fall in love with NOLA or not....I could have made it about the carribean, africa, australia etc...since this is the JF bored..I picked Nola....I know I'm being bitchy but I hate when things get twisted :(

It really did get twisted, hunh, Corona. Everyone here knows you're anything but elitist, snobby or judgemental. Hell, I've never even met you, but anyone who reads your posts gets that. Again, I think everyone's just a little "over-enthusiastic".....

[NOLA]

But SOMETIMES, a band WITH a "name" is fun. I have some friends who will hate a musician or group simply because they are popular. Like they HAVE to disagree with the masses. They drive me insane, because they have also closed their minds, just in the opposite way. Make sense??? I'm ramblin' I know. Reverse snobbery, if you will.

YYR CSoul. Some days I am a chair potato at the big stages cuz that's just what I feel like hearing those days, and other days I am a maniac running around catching everything I can at the smaller stages all over the FG. Gotta have a little Gospel Tent salvation each weekend though!

[Frosty]

what?
I can't surrender because I don't want to argue about it? Everyone is entitled to their opinion right? Why am I not entitled to respond when I feel criticized? It goes both ways brother...

Uhm, I was on your side in this. I'm not sure how it came across that I wasn't.

[pokerchick66]

how about if the question is put this way....so as not to sound elitist, arrogant, snobby, judgemental etc....the purpose of this thread was to consider what makes someone fall in love with NOLA or not....I could have made it about the carribean, africa, australia etc...since this is the JF bored..I picked Nola....I know I'm being bitchy but I hate when things get twisted :(

Snob.

;)

[Jordan]

corona, i wasn't really directing my comments to the question of why people get it so much as i was trying to illustrate that some of the comments that were made headed into the direction of judging others because they don't get it- some comments implied people don't get it because they want to go to bourbon st. or would rather see DMB - who is to judge that and does that mean they don't get it? cuz that gets into the music one-up-manship stuff and really is just a choice that many people make.
the point about personality types was written to let people know that we all have a variety of stuff that turns us on- which is really why i like the variiety of fest.

I agree with you Uncle -- there is an edge to this thread that smells like "if you get it you are cool and if you don't you are not". I'm sure that is not intended, but that is what some of it sounds like to me.

I have friends who don't get fest for reasons other than not being able to break out of their shell or being insecure. One thought that fest was too commercial, conformist, mainstream and spiritually confining; another didn't feel that it was too welcoming a place for African Americans (except for the Gospel Tent and at times Congo square); another wanted to go shopping for "better than airport crap" for her 2 neices. Lastly, my most honest and least diplomatic friend offered, "Why would I want to hang out with a bunch of middle-aged overweight folks who want to re-live their real or imagined hippy existence, listening to bands that are 5 years from being broadcasted in elevators". I took a gulp of beer, sucked in my gut and smiled.

I guess it bothers me because of a profound and embarrasing lesson I just learned about judging other people last month at a Galactic show at Irving Plaza. It was towards the end of the last set and some young woman grabbed my shoulders and said "loosen up, you need to dance and have fun". I explained to her that I just had my spine fused and was dancing as much as my body allowed so close to surgery. It reminded me that I had seen other people at shows in the past who I thought were "stiffs" and judged them as sticks in the mud for not getting into the music. I never considered what was going on in their head or body. Now, I try to worry about myself and let each person enjoy music, life, fest in their own way.

I guess I'm rambling, but I care about jazzfest and the openness threadhead community, and hate when we sometimes seem cliqueish and closeminded.

[Frosty]

But SOMETIMES, a band WITH a "name" is fun. I have some friends who will hate a musician or group simply because they are popular. Like they HAVE to disagree with the masses. They drive me insane, because they have also closed their minds, just in the opposite way. Make sense??? I'm ramblin' I know. Reverse snobbery, if you will.

You don't have to tell me. I actually liked Hootie and the Blowfish. So did a lot of critics at first who changed their tune quickly when they became huge. Nowhere have I attacked BNA. I've only said that those who can't have fun at anything but are the ones who won't get much out of a thing like Jazz Fest.

[csoul]

I agree with you Uncle -- there is an edge to this thread that smells like "if you get it you are cool and if you don't you are not". I'm sure that is not intended, but that is what some of it sounds like to me..

In some of the posts it does smell like that....but I'll be the first to admit, I'm the LEAST cool person I know. Look for me dancin' at one of the Funky shows and I'm sure you'll agree.....I just don't think the people who are coming across that way are doing it intentionally.

[Corona]

Uhm, I was on your side in this. I'm not sure how it came across that I wasn't.
I don't know either...I don't mean to be bitchy...I think I need a smoke..it's freezing rain outside and I'm jonesin'. I'm sure that's part of it. I just hate when my intentions are misconstrued and get defensive as a result. Sorry Frosty....I still love Hootie :)

[pokerchick66]

((Quote: Originally Posted by Frosty View Post
See what happens when you don't just shut up and go with the masses......))

((what?
I can't surrender because I don't want to argue about it? Everyone is entitled to their opinion right? Why am I not entitled to respond when I feel criticized? It goes both ways brother...))

I think he was meaning that tongue-in-cheek.

[McGregor]

My comment about it rubbing me the wrong way was more in regard to only 5% of the people getting the music as one post stated.

I would say most people attending jazz fest are music lovers. It's sort of a pain in the ass to attend if you aren't really into it.

although probably less than 5% are as dedicated to it as we are

But perhaps I didn't word that very well. It didn't rub me the wrong way, I just sort of disagee which is different I suppose

I haven't been as excited as I am now about seeing music at JF as I've been in forever and I'm a show-going fool! WHOOT!

[Frosty]

It's interesting how a thread about why people's efforts to be inclusive have had mixed results has been turned around so rapdily by twisting the words of those original posts. If being unafraid of straying from the crowd and enjoying something new is so elitist so be it. If trying to get your friends to hear or taste something different is exclusive, so be it. If sharing something you love with others makes you too cool, so be it. If letting yourself dance in the moment and not caring who is watching is snobbish, then so be it. I guess we are a bunch of exclusive, elitist, too cool, snobs then.

[Jordan]

Wow! yo start writing a response to a thread, go to a meeting or two finish the point and in between so much happens. Sorry, with all of the discussion, my post just looks like piling on. Others, like Az, said it better than I did anyway.

[Frosty]

I don't know either...I don't mean to be bitchy...I think I need a smoke..it's freezing rain outside and I'm jonesin'. I'm sure that's part of it. I just hate when my intentions are misconstrued and get defensive as a result. Sorry Frosty....I still love Hootie :)

I just felt your post and this entire thread were really right on until people started twisting what we were saying. We had about 6 or 7 pages of feel good discussion about what people love about fest and the mixed results of introducing others. It was a thread about inclusiveness and it didn't need to be derailed.

[pokerchick66]

Down the rabbit hole, Alice.

[funkkjunkie]

Don't you dare surrender, Corona. It's all good and this is a beautiful thread. It's peeps telling about their experiences and their interpretations of this thing we love so very much.

[Corona]

I just felt your post and this entire thread were really right on until people started twisting what we were saying. We had about 6 or 7 pages of feel good discussion about what people love about fest and the mixed results of introducing others. It was a thread about inclusiveness and it didn't need to be derailed.
yeah, that's why I got a bit pissy too...I'm really sorry Frosty...and thanks for your previous post before this one. It made me smile :)
(I also went for a smoke in the pouring rain but feel MUCH better :)

[Corona]

Don't you dare surrender, Corona. It's all good and this is a beautiful thread. It's peeps telling about their experiences and their interpretations of this thing we love so very much.
Thanks funkk :)

[Zydekitten]

Wow, Lis - you elitist beyotch!!! I never knew you were such a "us, not them" snob ;) ;)

I've been following this whole thread (and even made a post with my response to the original question) . . . and it sure has mutated (WAY beyond just the usual drift).

What I'm observing is a couple of things:

1. Sometimes it is very easy to read in to written electronic communication (e-mails, IMs, forum posts) intents, attitudes, feelings that aren't actually there - it appears that this may be happening on this thread. This is where the goofy emoticons can be very helpful. :)

2. Sometimes newer Bored members (or members that seem newer because they may have less posts) can interpret the more veteran Bored members' "lingo" as exclusive, elitist and snobby - I've observed it before on the Bored - lingo just represents shortcuts from previous communications on the Bored (that's lingo right there), it's not meant to keep anyone out. Just do what I do, when I'm out of the loop on our abbreviations, etc. - ask what the hell folks mean by acronyms, funky misspellings and such, don't just lurk and stew. I've found that folks are more than happy to tell you and help you join the insanity and silliness, if you want to do so.

3. It seems like some here are getting caught up in semantics (e.g., "get it") - look past the words to the feelings behind them y'all - I have never known any of the folks on here to be anything but welcoming, loving, inclusive. So, again - just ask what someone meant, as Felix Unger famously said, "Don't assume . . . (I'm sure y'all know the rest of that)"

Okay, that there's my further two cents (or whatever it's worth).

:D

[pokerchick66]

Wow, Lis - you elitist beyotch!!! I never knew you were such a "us, not them" snob ;) ;)
:D

lol I know! I had to call her a snob, too.

And I think your observations about the drift are at least worth $1.25. Hell, let's go ahead and make it $4.00 so someone can at least buy you a beer at fest! :D

[Zydekitten]

LOL!

Well, you know me - I'll gladly take a beer on Festday (or anyday that ends in "Y" for that matter)! :D

[Cleophus]

I've read the board often enough to see that Corona and others seem like cool, inclusive folks. My post was not meant to suggest otherwise.

My point remains, if I were new to the board, and saw a thread consisting of a bunch of people saying "I 'get it'" and going on to speculate as to why others don't, I'd be way turned off. It may be a question of semantics, but a reasonable reading nonetheless, and I stand by it.

[ozzie]

For me, 'getting it' has little to do with what music I'm listening to (God, strike me down now) or where I'm hearing it and everything to do with how we feel when we're in NOLA. Hell, half the time I wouldn't even be able to distinguish between a name band and a cool band; I just enjoy it if I enjoy it. We are Mr and Mrs conservative (well, it has to be said... not so much the Mrs) who have never been to any other music festival. We go a little further afield each trip and soak up all the info and suggestions from the bored but at the end of the day it's all the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes, the people... the elusive 'something' that is New Orleans that makes me weep when we leave and long to be there again.

I'll always love Bourbon Street 'cos it's where the older one danced in the street on the first night of our first visit, when we were so filled with joy at finally being there.

[Carolina Beadhead]

Wow, Lis - you elitist beyotch!!! I never knew you were such a "us, not them" snob ;) ;)

I've been following this whole thread (and even made a post with my response to the original question) . . . and it sure has mutated (WAY beyond just the usual drift).

What I'm observing is a couple of things:

1. Sometimes it is very easy to read in to written electronic communication (e-mails, IMs, forum posts) intents, attitudes, feelings that aren't actually there - it appears that this may be happening on this thread. This is where the goofy emoticons can be very helpful. :)

2. Sometimes newer Bored members (or members that seem newer because they may have less posts) can interpret the more veteran Bored members' "lingo" as exclusive, elitist and snobby - I've observed it before on the Bored - lingo just represents shortcuts from previous communications on the Bored (that's lingo right there), it's not meant to keep anyone out. Just do what I do, when I'm out of the loop on our abbreviations, etc. - ask what the hell folks mean by acronyms, funky misspellings and such, don't just lurk and stew. I've found that folks are more than happy to tell you and help you join the insanity and silliness, if you want to do so.

3. It seems like some here are getting caught up in semantics (e.g., "get it") - look past the words to the feelings behind them y'all - I have never known any of the folks on here to be anything but welcoming, loving, inclusive. So, again - just ask what someone meant, as Felix Unger famously said, "Don't assume . . . (I'm sure y'all know the rest of that)"

Okay, that there's my further two cents (or whatever it's worth).

:D

Exactly.

As far as emoticons go, they're silly and sometimes annoying but sometimes using them is the ONLY way to communicate CLEARLY when you are speaking with tongue-in-cheek or kidding or not entirely serious. The written word CAN get feelings and emotions across but it takes a lot more thought and time than we chatters are (understandably) willing to give it. Otherwise, the reader is left to try to interpret the writer's intention... and that's where it almost always goes awry.

[pokerchick66]

For me, 'getting it' has little to do with what music I'm listening to (God, strike me down now) or where I'm hearing it and everything to do with how we feel when we're in NOLA. Hell, half the time I wouldn't even be able to distinguish between a name band and a cool band; I just enjoy it if I enjoy it. We are Mr and Mrs conservative (well, it has to be said... not so much the Mrs) who have never been to any other music festival. We go a little further afield each trip and soak up all the info and suggestions from the bored but at the end of the day it's all the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes, the people... the elusive 'something' that is New Orleans that makes me weep when we leave and long to be there again.

I'll always love Bourbon Street 'cos it's where the older one danced in the street on the first night of our first visit, when we were so filled with joy at finally being there.Aww Ozzie, that was beautiful. You have a good soul.

[Frosty]

yeah, that's why I got a bit pissy too...I'm really sorry Frosty...and thanks for your previous post before this one. It made me smile :)
(I also went for a smoke in the pouring rain but feel MUCH better :)

No problem. I just sure as Hell didn't want to piss off the very person I was totally "getting". I understand your feelings about Fest and NO. I understand how your soul feels at home when you arrive here and the sadness of leaving. I understand the ability to totally be yourself here. I understand feeling at one with the place. I came to this board after 8/29 happened because I needed a community of people who hurt as deeply as I did. This has been a wonderful place to share in something that means a lot to so many of us but so little to our friends and neighbors. I've been so grateful for having this board and for the people on it. It is nice to have others who know and share the feelings I have for New Orleans. In other words, other people who "get it". "Get it" not so much meaning having fun or seeing lesser known acts or trying new foods as much as "getting" why I feel so drawn to NO.

[Zydekitten]

I've read the board often enough to see that Corona and others seem like cool, inclusive folks. My post was not meant to suggest otherwise.

My point remains, if I were new to the board, and saw a thread consisting of a bunch of people saying "I 'get it'" and going on to speculate as to why others don't, I'd be way turned off. It may be a question of semantics, but a reasonable reading nonetheless, and I stand by it.

Thanks for the clarification, Cleo (as I took your post to be bit "flameish") and I can see your point - but perhaps those new members would read more of the posts and then would see that this discussion isn't about "Us vs. Them" at all, but a much more thoughtful discussion. As I would (and did after this drift) if I weren't sure WTF these people meant - but then, I often err by thinking folks would think/respond I do . . .

:o

[Frosty]

For me, 'getting it' has little to do with what music I'm listening to (God, strike me down now) or where I'm hearing it and everything to do with how we feel when we're in NOLA. Hell, half the time I wouldn't even be able to distinguish between a name band and a cool band; I just enjoy it if I enjoy it. We are Mr and Mrs conservative (well, it has to be said... not so much the Mrs) who have never been to any other music festival. We go a little further afield each trip and soak up all the info and suggestions from the bored but at the end of the day it's all the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes, the people... the elusive 'something' that is New Orleans that makes me weep when we leave and long to be there again.

I'll always love Bourbon Street 'cos it's where the older one danced in the street on the first night of our first visit, when we were so filled with joy at finally being there.


Damn, you summed it up for me perfectly.

[Cleophus]

Word. Sorry if I caused any hurt feelings.

[Zydekitten]

No worries, Cleo - you, like the lovely Miss Corona, are just trying to keep things lively . . . ;)

As long as we can all talk about this stuff - it'll work out! :D

[Azeater]

Word. Sorry if I caused any hurt feelings.



I'm thinking anybody with that avatar doesn't need to apologize for anything...;>)

[NOLA]

Word. Sorry if I caused any hurt feelings.

Wow, me too - I didn't mean anything other than to observe that people come to Jazz Fest for all sorts of reasons, and I couldn't be happier for them to do so.

[McGregor]

Group Hug time!
http://www.umb.edu/students/leadership/images/group_hug.jpg
:D

those aren't pillows....

[Lostcajun]

For me it has everything to do with romance!!! I have always had a romance with New Orleans and South Louisiana. I don't love it because it's perfect or easy. This sounds overstated, but it's true nevertheless. I'm in love with the connection with the city, the culture and the friends that those things bring together. Some people have a romance with NASCAR. I don't get it at all, but I understand it somewhat, because I know people who think I'm nuts for being so enthusiastic about NOLA and South Louisiana. I don't think people tend to "learn" to get it. They either have a love thing going, or not. If it's a love thing then you really don't care if fest gets dusty or muddy or windy or whatever. There have been more "perfect" days that not, but either way I am there because of that romance with the culture. I know I am sappy, so sue me!?!?!?

[Zydekitten]

Group Hug time!
http://www.umb.edu/students/leadership/images/group_hug.jpg
:D

those aren't pillows....
LMAO!!! "Can't we all just get along?" :D

[pokerchick66]

I sure hope I get it soon cuz I haven't had it in a long time.

[socaleric]

If I end up going, I'll try to explain what I feel afterwards. :D

[vlorini]

or maybe, it's Zachary Richard!

[rosetree]

I sure hope I get it soon cuz I haven't had it in a long time.

....poor baby.....

[Azeater]

I always feel a certain sense of serenity in the blue rooms. I can’t explain it. I don’t seem to find such inner peace anywhere else. Perhaps it is some sort of chemical reaction.

[Rossvegas]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)

[dank_bass]

[quote=NOLA;29761]Here's a corollary question - I wonder what percentage of folks at the Fest on any given day "Get it"? You can look around and out among the crowds, and just see blank stares or actual unhappiness on a few faces. You don't want to be harsh, but you want to go up to them and say "If you're not having fun here, try another stage, another part of town, another festival - don't make yourself crazy by staying here!". quote]

I actually DO go up to people like that at the fest and say with a huge shit-eating grin, "SMILE, YOU'RE AT JAZZFEST!" Most times they will.:)

And its people like you that make "it" what it is. you're that magic to someone else who maybe wasnt having the bestest time ...

[Zydekitten]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)

Okay, Ross - I just have one question for you then . . .

WTF is a "loogan???" :confused: :D

[dank_bass]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)


Ross ... couldnt have said it better myself.

Having brought many friends throughout the years, I have found people to have different tendencies, but yet when we bring people to fest we have that feeling of 'if people arent doing what Im doing, then theyre not having as good of a time' ... RIDICULOUS!! Its this very concept that has helped me not worry about FOMS, WHATEVER I decide to do will be cool, and let whatever Im missing not be worried about. LIVE IN THE MOMENT! I found it on my own, most of you found it on your own, so let others do the same. Sure some people might rely on our experience to help them along, and thats great, but dont forgot "half the fun is getting there" mantra. Things that Ive discovered for myself taste/sound better than those things that someone else discovered for you, and you were just following them.

[Frosty]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)

But, what you describe is people who do "get it". They threw themselves right into what called them and discovered the city and surrounding area. That is the opposite of those who confine themselves. "Getting it" is not narrowing down the experience, but broadening it. That is exactly what they did.

[Dr. A.]

i tend to agree that to simply ask the question reveals some sort of elitism we all fall into at some level. it took me many years to learn that the greatest music in the world is whatever you happen to like at that given moment. journey and 50 cent and whatever crap is on MTV right now is great stuff if you dig it. i had my musical snobbery moment as recently as ten seconds ago when i heard another doctor in the office mention that he loved widespread panic. i am thinking-"yeah, but with them, why dont they get to the point?" and immediately realizing that was the point. for him. i cant stand the aimless stuff and literally fell asleep from boredom the two times i saw the (aptly named) dead, but you know, he couldnt care less for klezmer music, sonny boy williamson, iry lejeune, conway twitty, and hundreds of others i derive great pleasure from.

i was bewildered last year when i took a relative of my wife to the fest and she was ready to leave at 1. i guess she doesnt get it. but that doesnt make her a bad person. btw, she isnt going this year and now lives in mandeville.

ya dig what ya dig, and thats great.

[dank_bass]

Here's a corollary question - I wonder what percentage of folks at the Fest on any given day "Get it"? You can look around and out among the crowds, and just see blank stares or actual unhappiness on a few faces. You don't want to be harsh, but you want to go up to them and say "If you're not having fun here, try another stage, another part of town, another festival - don't make yourself crazy by staying here!". There is too much great stuff out there to experience that if Jazz Fest ain't doin' it for ya, find something better! There are also always those who come for a specific act, and don't bother to check out the rest of the Fest for whatever reason - they won't get it.

My guess is maybe 50% of the people there are having fun and may return one day, but don't really "get it" like we do. Maybe 20% of attendees on any given day "get it" although probably less than 5% are as dedicated to it as we are - which may explain why we don't "get" that some people don't "get it".

NOLA's psychobabble for the day now turned "off"...

I prefer to look at it like 100% of the people at the fairgrounds had the good sense to not work today, and enjoy life in their own way, and thats enough to make me smile

[ozzie]

I shouldn't speak for Peteup, but I keep thinking about how he gets it and he hasn't even got there yet!

[ohio]

...which is why I rarely show up at the FG's. It has to be a phenomenal line-up (at least 4 or 5 can't miss acts) to get my butt out of bed before 1pm!I'm going to adopt your strategy if it gets much more crowded, really.

[ohio]

Different strokes. Some like the Arizona Desert and some like the rain in Seattle. Some like Bach and some like Buffet. Everyone is different. It isn’t missing DNA or not getting it. It is different tastes and different comfort levels. I love the fact that I get it but getting it sounds like you are trying to teach the kid in the back of the room to do long division and making him feel a little slow because he doesn’t “get it “. It doesn’t have anything to do with the quality of the NOLA experience you feel, it has to do with different perspectives developed during years of mental growth. I would hate to think everyone should enjoy the same things. What if they all did what I don’t like and no one did what I do like. How boring that would be.or vice versa....
yyr though I doubt anything like that was intended by the post(s)

[Corona]

lol I know! I had to call her a snob, too.

And I think your observations about the drift are at least worth $1.25. Hell, let's go ahead and make it $4.00 so someone can at least buy you a beer at fest! :D
;-p~~~~

Are beers going up to $4 each?????

[ohio]

how about if the question is put this way....so as not to sound elitist, arrogant, snobby, judgemental etc....the purpose of this thread was to consider what makes someone fall in love with NOLA or not....I could have made it about the carribean, africa, australia etc...since this is the JF bored..I picked Nola....I know I'm being bitchy but I hate when things get twisted :(mo betta! I wanted to let everyone know that you are anything but elitist, snobby, or judgemental, but since you gave in, nevermind ;)

[Zydekitten]

I like your new Mr. Natural avatar, Bry!

All of this further discussion just brings me back to my basic speed rule - "To Each His/Her Peach . . ."

As Dr. A said above - whatever plucks his chicken may not pluck mine at any given listening moment and that's totally fine, to quote another modern sage, The Donald - "That's why restaurants have menus."

:D

[ohio]

Exactly.

As far as emoticons go, they're silly and sometimes annoying but sometimes using them is the ONLY way to communicate CLEARLY when you are speaking with tongue-in-cheek or kidding or not entirely serious. The written word CAN get feelings and emotions across but it takes a lot more thought and time than we chatters are (understandably) willing to give it. Otherwise, the reader is left to try to interpret the writer's intention... and that's where it almost always goes awry.agree! I used to think they were silliness exemplified, but they really are handy little guys.

[ohio]

I like your new Mr. Natural avatar, Bry!

All of this further discussion just brings me back to my basic speed rule - "To Each His/Her Peach . . ."

As Dr. A said above - whatever plucks his chicken may not pluck mine at any given listening moment and that's totally fine, to quote another modern sage, The Donald - "That's why restaurants have menus."

:D
YYR
Sounds like something Mr. Natural might say....
tanx!

[Zbonnie]

I always feel a certain sense of serenity in the blue rooms. I can’t explain it. I don’t seem to find such inner peace anywhere else. Perhaps it is some sort of chemical reaction.LOL. In response to an earlier question, I think a "loogan" is Canadian for a jerk. :-)

[Rossvegas]

Well, not a jerk per se...

Think drunken frat boy who does incedibly stupid things because it seems like a really good idea at the time.

Gee, now that you mention it...yeah, it's pretty much a jerk!

[Belle]

I am coming to get it!!!!

[Zydekitten]

LOL. In response to an earlier question, I think a "loogan" is Canadian for a jerk. :-)

Phew, thanks for the clarification!

It sounded like something one might expectorate on Bourbon St. ;)

[Corona]

For me, 'getting it' has little to do with what music I'm listening to (God, strike me down now) or where I'm hearing it and everything to do with how we feel when we're in NOLA. Hell, half the time I wouldn't even be able to distinguish between a name band and a cool band; I just enjoy it if I enjoy it. We are Mr and Mrs conservative (well, it has to be said... not so much the Mrs) who have never been to any other music festival. We go a little further afield each trip and soak up all the info and suggestions from the bored but at the end of the day it's all the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes, the people... the elusive 'something' that is New Orleans that makes me weep when we leave and long to be there again.

I'll always love Bourbon Street 'cos it's where the older one danced in the street on the first night of our first visit, when we were so filled with joy at finally being there.
oh man, you made my eyes leak with that one girl! xoxoxo

[Zydekitten]

I am coming to get it!!!!

Sweetie, don't you know you can get it on eBay??? ;) :D

[Corona]

No problem. I just sure as Hell didn't want to piss off the very person I was totally "getting". I understand your feelings about Fest and NO. I understand how your soul feels at home when you arrive here and the sadness of leaving. I understand the ability to totally be yourself here. I understand feeling at one with the place. I came to this board after 8/29 happened because I needed a community of people who hurt as deeply as I did. This has been a wonderful place to share in something that means a lot to so many of us but so little to our friends and neighbors. I've been so grateful for having this board and for the people on it. It is nice to have others who know and share the feelings I have for New Orleans. In other words, other people who "get it". "Get it" not so much meaning having fun or seeing lesser known acts or trying new foods as much as "getting" why I feel so drawn to NO.
Yes, exactly!! :)
Thanks Frosty.

[GratefulDawg]

;-p~~~~

Are beers going up to $4 each?????

Speaking of beers, what beers do they have there? It's been a while for me...

I'll definitely pay $4 for a good beer, but if they're just going to have the usual tasteless suspects, I might be less willing to fork over the dough.

Of course, in NY, you can pay $7+ for a single domestic beer at some places. Makes me want to relive those $3 pitchers I used to get in Starkville, Mississippi!

[Corona]

Word. Sorry if I caused any hurt feelings.
nah, we're cool.....we've been through way worse than this on this bored. Thanks cleo.

[dank_bass]

Uhm, I was on your side in this. I'm not sure how it came across that I wasn't.


Umm ... when your sarcasm was interpreted as not sarcasm

[Zydekitten]

We'll just have to set up a mud wrestling pit at the Patry ;)

[Corona]

I always feel a certain sense of serenity in the blue rooms. I can’t explain it. I don’t seem to find such inner peace anywhere else. Perhaps it is some sort of chemical reaction.
roflmao!!!

[McGregor]

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f181/slick_rick3001/ari.jpg
Let's hug it out bitch!

[Cleophus]

nah, we're cool.....we've been through way worse than this on this bored. Thanks cleo.

Thanks Corona.

[Corona]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)
nope I agree with you completely....my girls were 'getting it' on Bourbon St. instead of fest....I didn't understand it but they had a blast. They enjoyed Nola their own way BUT it never kissed their soul like it did Trish and me..she was the only one out of all the peeps who have been down there with me to truly feel the pain that I felt 8/29/05...that's when I felt the difference and when I started to get really curious as to why there was a difference...

[Corona]

Umm ... when your sarcasm was interpreted as not sarcasm
lol...dank

[rosetree]

We'll just have to set up a mud wrestling pit at the Patry ;)

I think fudge 'rasslin is mo betta!;)
(note to self: stay at Threadhead functions until they are over...)

[mightyradgumbo]

I've read the board often enough to see that Corona and others seem like cool, inclusive folks. My post was not meant to suggest otherwise.

My point remains, if I were new to the board, and saw a thread consisting of a bunch of people saying "I 'get it'" and going on to speculate as to why others don't, I'd be way turned off. It may be a question of semantics, but a reasonable reading nonetheless, and I stand by it.

Cleophus...If I were new to this bored, I might hit this post first. Being of the curious, addictive-natured type I may feel that this is the thread that I would first stop. I would love to see why others get it. I got it before I posted on the bored. I had been to fest a few times prior to my introduction to the boreds, but just like doing something you love to do is better with others who love it also than it is alone, fest is better with people that are into it. I have been asked to go to Opera with my friend who keeps telling me how great it is because we have awesome times together otherwise , but the one time I went I hated it so rather than go and hate it and ruin thier time I just dont go. I don't think she is an elitist for going, she doesn't think I am an elitist for blowing it off.
Rock on Corona you elitist snob, great thead hunni :p

[Zydekitten]

I think fudge 'rasslin is mo betta!;)
(note to self: stay at Threadhead functions until they are over...)

LMAO!

Jello works well too! :D

[Frosty]

Umm ... when your sarcasm was interpreted as not sarcasm

Except it wasn't sarcasm. It was a defense of the initial post and the whole group of people here who dare step outside of the Disneyfication of this country.

[mightyradgumbo]

I think fudge 'rasslin is mo betta!;)
(note to self: stay at Threadhead functions until they are over...)

Hot girl-on-girl-on-fudge action. Hey there is an idea for a fundraiser :p Yep, RT, shudda stayed to the end LOL

[csoul]

I just read that "W" has been in our beloved city today. Bet he didn't "get it";} (Sorry pc)

[Frosty]

Yes, exactly!! :)
Thanks Frosty.

:)

[Bill/KC]

[QUOTE=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I've had a couple of friends, that after hearing us rave about the Fest, decided to attend. They promised not to follow us around (which I didn't care if they did), we gave them some pointers and suggestions. But....they didn't really care for it and haven't been back. I remember them talking about how hot and dusty it was, how the lines were long and you had to walk too much. So maybe their expectations were too high, or they're just not the Fest type.
I remember a guy some years ago at the Sheraton, that was complaining about standing in line for the bus. He angrily told the people he was with that they were going to catch a cab, because "I don't stand in lines!!". Some how, I don't think they stayed long at the Fest. :-)

[neverleft]

[quote=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I feel like I 'get' fest but I don't get malls. I don't know what it is, but don't take me to the mall for a good time OK. Take me to fest any-day for a good time.

[Corona]

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f181/slick_rick3001/ari.jpg
Let's hug it out bitch!
OMG, I friggin love Ari :)

[Corona]

Cleophus...If I were new to this bored, I might hit this post first. Being of the curious, addictive-natured type I may feel that this is the thread that I would first stop. I would love to see why others get it. I got it before I posted on the bored. I had been to fest a few times prior to my introduction to the boreds, but just like doing something you love to do is better with others who love it also than it is alone, fest is better with people that are into it. I have been asked to go to Opera with my friend who keeps telling me how great it is because we have awesome times together otherwise , but the one time I went I hated it so rather than go and hate it and ruin thier time I just dont go. I don't think she is an elitist for going, she doesn't think I am an elitist for blowing it off.
Rock on Corona you elitist snob, great thead hunni :p
oh jeez....roflmao!

[rosetree]

[QUOTE=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

QUOTE]

This is the same person who asks me "why are you still living in New Orleans?" They don't get it. You can't make them "get it". You can try to explain "it", but there are just too many intangibles that can't be put in to words. Living here sucks at times, but today as I was closing up the shop, I could hear the calliope playing on the river. I thought to myself, "this is why I am here" A lot of people would not get that!

[Corona]

[QUOTE=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I've had a couple of friends, that after hearing us rave about the Fest, decided to attend. They promised not to follow us around (which I didn't care if they did), we gave them some pointers and suggestions. But....they didn't really care for it and haven't been back. I remember them talking about how hot and dusty it was, how the lines were long and you had to walk too much. So maybe their expectations were too high, or they're just not the Fest type.
I remember a guy some years ago at the Sheraton, that was complaining about standing in line for the bus. He angrily told the people he was with that they were going to catch a cab, because "I don't stand in lines!!". Some how, I don't think they stayed long at the Fest. :-)
holy crap Bill....we haven't seen you in a LONG time. How are you????

Neverleft, you crack me up!

[Corona]

[QUOTE=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

QUOTE]

This is the same person who asks me "why are you still living in New Orleans?" They don't get it. You can't make them "get it". You can try to explain "it", but there are just too many intangibles that can't be put in to words. Living here sucks at times, but today as I was closing up the shop, I could hear the calliope playing on the river. I thought to myself, "this is why I am here" A lot of people would not get that!
I think I luv you Rosetree... ;)

[rosetree]

[QUOTE=rosetree;30586]
I think I luv you Rosetree... ;)

By jove, I think she got it!!!

Luv you too babee...I shudder to think what we would be like down here w/o people like y'all and your support.

I think that the bored is my cheap therapy. Although Mrs. Rosetree thinks I spend WAYYYY too much time here, it really does me good to be with people who are so positive and nurturing about our city and those of us here....

[Rossvegas]

[quote=Corona;29703]Question:
What is it about a person that makes them 'get' fest and New Orleans in general? What do you think it is that makes the others not get it?

I've had a couple of friends, that after hearing us rave about the Fest, decided to attend. They promised not to follow us around (which I didn't care if they did), we gave them some pointers and suggestions. But....they didn't really care for it and haven't been back. I remember them talking about how hot and dusty it was, how the lines were long and you had to walk too much. So maybe their expectations were too high, or they're just not the Fest type.
I remember a guy some years ago at the Sheraton, that was complaining about standing in line for the bus. He angrily told the people he was with that they were going to catch a cab, because "I don't stand in lines!!". Some how, I don't think they stayed long at the Fest. :-)

Bill!!!! Wherethehellhaveyoubeenman???

[pokerchick66]

Okay, well just to play Devil's Advocate...

What if those people who don't "get it" are simply "getting" something else?

Here's an example: A few years ago I attended the Fest with a music journalist friend of mine and his wife, but they ended up skipping two days of the Fest to do swamp tours, museums, walking tours, etc. I recall thinking (and maybe even saying): "Are you out of your freaking mind??? You're in the midst of one of the greatest musical celebrations in the world and you want to go see alligators???

The fact is, they had an amazing time. They immersed themselves in history, fine dining, folklore and amazing people...and what's wrong with that? They left NOLA with a great appreciation and romance for the city, and in my books...that qualifies as "getting it", you know?

I felt like a bit of an elitest jerk at the end of it all, and I'm ashamed to say, I've behaved that way with one or two other people I've dragged with me to the Fest.

The flip side of those that "get it", are those who attend the Fest every year as if it were some type of convention. I rarely see them smile, they seem more fixated on "grid management" rather than just following their asses, and they seem to overthink the whole thing. Given those type of people, I really have no problem with those who find their thrills up on Blueberry Hill...or on Bourbon Street. At least they're getting the thrill, right?

Lis, you mentioned looking at this question as if were the Caribbean, etc. I happen to be one of those people who thinks that they "get" the Caribbean because I embrace the people, the sand under my feet and the azure waters kissing my toes...but do I "get it" any more than the loogan who chooses to spend his entire week beside the pool pounding down his weight in cervesas and drooling over the gals? If that's his experience and he embraces it as the thing that makes him feel alive, who am I to judge?

Regardless, I totally get the Jazzfest "getting it" question. I just wanted to stir up a little sh*t so that Lis can confess to being a beeyotch again! :>)
That post was most excellent, Ross. I feel the same way. Maybe those who get it (whatever it may be) just have a love and appreciation for life.

[pokerchick66]

Well, not a jerk per se...

Think drunken frat boy who does incedibly stupid things because it seems like a really good idea at the time.

Gee, now that you mention it...yeah, it's pretty much a jerk!

Kinda a like a hooligan, right?

[pokerchick66]

nah, we're cool.....we've been through way worse than this on this bored. Thanks cleo.

You're such a rabblerouser, Corona.

[Corona]

You're such a rabblerouser, Corona.
WTF is a rabblerouser freak-girl?? ;)

Aww Jim, that was so sweet. This bored has been great therapy for all of us over the years. So glad you made your way here :)

[pokerchick66]

ROFLMAO! I like that, Freakgirl.

Rabblerouser = Somebody who starts chit; troublemaker. You rabblerouser, you. ;)

[Corona]

ROFLMAO! I like that, Freakgirl.

Rabblerouser = Somebody who starts chit; troublemaker. You rabblerouser, you. ;)
awww, I get it now....duhhhh!

[pokerchick66]

lol, I love you Corona. :D

[chicagomike]

This discussion reminds me of a quote by Jerry Garcia when asked about the deadhead phenomenom... " It's like licorice...Not everyone likes licorice but those who like licorice REALLY like licorice".

Get all this pontificating out of your systems now... Come April, all deep-thinking will be temporarily suspended.

[Bill/KC]

holy crap Bill....we haven't seen you in a LONG time. How are you????

Neverleft, you crack me up!

Been missing in action the last couple if years (after 12 straight years of Festin'). Will be back again this year- 1st weekend. I haven't been hanging around the Fest Forums.....kinda painful since I wasn't attending and all.

[Bill/KC]

Bill!!!! Wherethehellhaveyoubeenman???

Been chillin' in KC. You Festin' this year my fine Canadian friend??

[Zydekitten]

ROFLMAO! I like that, Freakgirl.

Rabblerouser = Somebody who starts chit; troublemaker. You rabblerouser, you. ;)

Another term we use in my family is "sh*t disturber" . . . my stepdad's an expert one of dose! ;)

And you can disturb my s**t anytime, Miss Lis!!! :)

[Zydekitten]

This discussion reminds me of a quote by Jerry Garcia when asked about the deadhead phenomenom... " It's like licorice...Not everyone likes licorice but those who like licorice REALLY like licorice".

Get all this pontificating out of your systems now... Come April, all deep-thinking will be temporarily suspended.

You know Jerry (the namesake of my car) didn't say much, but when he did say something - it was often just right on! :)

YYR, Mike - we need to vent this all now . . . ;)

[MzJoey]

If I were new to this site/board and saw this thread, I'd find it elitist, divisive, arrogant.
Like I have to "qualify" in order to attend or enjoy the Fest.

C~
What if we were discussing politics or sports....instead of music? Often the sports babble is riddled w/"qualifiers" of ..."those fans of that team are dumb to root for their guy...when ours is better?"
or
"that politician has to be out of his mind to not endorse that legislation"
Do you think it's the same??? Different?...how so? I am intrigued...

[Corona]

Been missing in action the last couple if years (after 12 straight years of Festin'). Will be back again this year- 1st weekend. I haven't been hanging around the Fest Forums.....kinda painful since I wasn't attending and all.
Yayyyyyyy!!!! Good for you Bill :) We'll be looking for ya brother!

[Corona]

Another term we use in my family is "sh*t disturber" . . . my stepdad's an expert one of dose! ;)

And you can disturb my s**t anytime, Miss Lis!!! :)
awww, I love you girls! You're both a couple of big freaks :)

[electric_lady]

Well, it's definitely not just a love for non-stop music that will make people "get" the fest. I went down last year with a group of five (myself, boyfriend, and a few of his friends), myself being the only one who had previously been to NOLA, but we were all fest virgins.
The group was made up of self-proclaimed music addicts - but I hadn't even realized that it was possible to love any type of music, and not love New Orleans music. I was painfully surprised. One of the guys actually started to say that he was sick of all the circus music (meaning zydeco) ... yeah, I know. Very lame.
We went to the second weekend. My boyfriend and I fell in love with Fest immediately (as if there was any doubt in my mind). The other three chose to spend their entire time in New Orleans sobering up in my friend's apartment during the day and hanging out on Bourbon Street every night.
They only attended Fest one day, and for about 3 hours - spending much of their time shopping the crafts at Congo Square. I had little to do with them throughout the entire trip, which they complained about to others upon our return. But there was nothing I could do about it. I tried. I went to hang out with them on Bourbon Street one night, and that was it. I invited them to come to various night shows (on Frenchmen, at Le Bon Temps, Rock n' Bowl, etc.) but they chose to do things like eat at House of Blues and watch bands playing Whitesnake and AC/DC covers in the Quarter.
I had the time of my life - they had a "pretty good" time. It was the weirdest thing ever.
This is why I think some people don't get it, and this channels back to a post from someone right after last year's fest, I don't recall who it was ...
Jazz Fest is by no means "hip". Don't get me wrong, it's the coolest thing in the entire world ... but it's not "hip." The things that make New Orleans amazing, also work against it in some ways. New Orleans is its own place. It's like no other place in the world, it doesn't go out of its way to be something its not, and if you don't like it, well we'll be just fine without ya, NOLA doesn't need anyone that doesn't love her. Jazz Fest is the same way. The people that get it, love it. And they keep coming back. The people who don't get it don't come back, and it's better that way.
Jazz fest isn't trendy. It's full of people that don't give a flying f*** what anyone else thinks about them, the way they are dressed or how they're dancing. They are there for one overall reason - to love life, something that Jazz Fest celebrates. The most beautiful thing about Jazz Fest, to me, is that here you have a 100,000 people from so many different backgrounds: different tastes, different jobs, different skin colors, different ages, different everything, all together having the time of their lives. Jazz Fest is the only place this happens. It renews one's faith in the human spirit, the whole "we really can all get along" attitude. Only one city could have an event like this, and only one event could ever be anything like this. It's the best thing in the world, and I think we should all count ourselves very lucky for being some of the ones who "get it," because it honestly just makes life better.

[Corona]

Well, it's definitely not just a love for non-stop music that will make people "get" the fest. I went down last year with a group of five (myself, boyfriend, and a few of his friends), myself being the only one who had previously been to NOLA, but we were all fest virgins.
The group was made up of self-proclaimed music addicts - but I hadn't even realized that it was possible to love any type of music, and not love New Orleans music. I was painfully surprised. One of the guys actually started to say that he was sick of all the circus music (meaning zydeco) ... yeah, I know. Very lame.
We went to the second weekend. My boyfriend and I fell in love with Fest immediately (as if there was any doubt in my mind). The other three chose to spend their entire time in New Orleans sobering up in my friend's apartment during the day and hanging out on Bourbon Street every night.
They only attended Fest one day, and for about 3 hours - spending much of their time shopping the crafts at Congo Square. I had little to do with them throughout the entire trip, which they complained about to others upon our return. But there was nothing I could do about it. I tried. I went to hang out with them on Bourbon Street one night, and that was it. I invited them to come to various night shows (on Frenchmen, at Le Bon Temps, Rock n' Bowl, etc.) but they chose to do things like eat at House of Blues and watch bands playing Whitesnake and AC/DC covers in the Quarter.
I had the time of my life - they had a "pretty good" time. It was the weirdest thing ever.
This is why I think some people don't get it, and this channels back to a post from someone right after last year's fest, I don't recall who it was ...
Jazz Fest is by no means "hip". Don't get me wrong, it's the coolest thing in the entire world ... but it's not "hip." The things that make New Orleans amazing, also work against it in some ways. New Orleans is its own place. It's like no other place in the world, it doesn't go out of its way to be something its not, and if you don't like it, well we'll be just fine without ya, NOLA doesn't need anyone that doesn't love her. Jazz Fest is the same way. The people that get it, love it. And they keep coming back. The people who don't get it don't come back, and it's better that way.
Jazz fest isn't trendy. It's full of people that don't give a flying f*** what anyone else thinks about them, the way they are dressed or how they're dancing. They are there for one overall reason - to love life, something that Jazz Fest celebrates. The most beautiful thing about Jazz Fest, to me, is that here you have a 100,000 people from so many different backgrounds: different tastes, different jobs, different skin colors, different ages, different everything, all together having the time of their lives. Jazz Fest is the only place this happens. It renews one's faith in the human spirit, the whole "we really can all get along" attitude. Only one city could have an event like this, and only one event could ever be anything like this. It's the best thing in the world, and I think we should all count ourselves very lucky for being some of the ones who "get it," because it honestly just makes life better.
applause....that was FANTASTIC! Thanks so much girl.

Hey, you going to see John Boutte this week? His last night is tomorrow at the Detroit Music Hall Jazz Cafe. We're going, general admission tix for about $20...

[Amy Winette]

Hmm, well I get it, but it IS different for everyone, for me it's as much BNAs and camping at Acura and Bourbon Street and hurricanes as it is the smaller acts and the smaller stages, though I have developed a definite appreciation for those over the years as well. I can even tolerate some music without words now -- haha! But Jeff is definitely more music savvy than me, if you will.

We've brought a lot of newbies over the years, some have gone back, but no one has "gotten it" as much as we have. The experience can really be anything, there's so much going on in NOLA at that time, whatever you fall in love with is just fine . . . But if you don't like crowds or anthing less than Four Seasons conditions, I can see how it wouldn't be for you.

[electric_lady]

the john boutte show sounds awesome, but alas i have to work at one of the many fine ski "hills" in the metro detroit area.
have fun for me though!!!!!!!

[electric_lady]

amy i agree, it's definitely not for everyone ... and it's not such a bad thing if it's not... but it was like the people i came with that i was talking about thought they were too good for it or something. that's kind of what i was getting at.

[Amy Winette]

Right on e lady, there's a place and an experience for everyone, eh? :)

One of my very dearest friends came twice, but she's a gucci girl, and she'd much rather spend her vacas some place like Hawaii. Her loss ;)

Your post was great, I hope you didn't think I was saying it wasn't! Just wanted to express another point of view, you can enjoy the "cheesey" side of fest (like I do), and still have an amazing experience (and, IMO, get it!)

[electric_lady]

i didn't take it that way at all, but i appreciate it. :)

[Amy Winette]

Good! Seems like this thread was destined for miscommunication for some reason!

[KeyWest Bruce]

Thanks Corona for starting this wonderful thread. I have enjoyed reading everyone's posts, and again, it feels so good to be among others who "get it"! The fest to me is pure joy....as good as it gets....an uplifting of the spirit and of all the senses. The music is what brings everyone together....an incredible mix of the best music around (in my opinion). How awesome it is to be hearing jazz in the birthplace of jazz.....cajun and zydeco in Louisiana....gospel from fantastic New Orleans choirs...and other kinds of music that all sound extra special because you are at Jazz Fest.

But to me, it's not just the music. It goes beyond that...it's the incredible and easy-going nature and vibe of the people....those who 'get it' and come back year after year; newcomers whose lives will change with their first fest; and locals who have that special something that so many of us are drawn to, and love New Orleans because of it. There's something so relaxing and so uplifting about the fest.....when I'm there, I'm just very grateful that I made it another year; and wouldn't want to be anyplace else but. When fest is over, my spirit is renewed....I feel so damn good. That's one of the main things that gets me through work....knowing that I have a trip to New Orleans planned.....any trip there renews my soul....doesn't have to be fest. I sometimes wonder if co-workers who know how much I love it in N.O. wonder if I ever go anyplace else...(which I do, I love to travel). But I don't really care, because I know I am someone who GETS it.....and wish that others would heed my suggestions and make the trip. But, what can you do? Those who make it to fest and N.O. are destined to be there I guess. I feel SO lucky that I'm one of the fortunate ones!

[Zydekitten]

Thanks Corona for starting this wonderful thread. I have enjoyed reading everyone's posts, and again, it feels so good to be among others who "get it"! The fest to me is pure joy....as good as it gets....an uplifting of the spirit and of all the senses. The music is what brings everyone together....an incredible mix of the best music around (in my opinion). How awesome it is to be hearing jazz in the birthplace of jazz.....cajun and zydeco in Louisiana....gospel from fantastic New Orleans choirs...and other kinds of music that all sound extra special because you are at Jazz Fest.

But to me, it's not just the music. It goes beyond that...it's the incredible and easy-going nature and vibe of the people....those who 'get it' and come back year after year; newcomers whose lives will change with their first fest; and locals who have that special something that so many of us are drawn to, and love New Orleans because of it. There's something so relaxing and so uplifting about the fest.....when I'm there, I'm just very grateful that I made it another year; and wouldn't want to be anyplace else but. When fest is over, my spirit is renewed....I feel so damn good. That's one of the main things that gets me through work....knowing that I have a trip to New Orleans planned.....any trip there renews my soul....doesn't have to be fest. I sometimes wonder if co-workers who know how much I love it in N.O. wonder if I ever go anyplace else...(which I do, I love to travel). But I don't really care, because I know I am someone who GETS it.....and wish that others would heed my suggestions and make the trip. But, what can you do? Those who make it to fest and N.O. are destined to be there I guess. I feel SO lucky that I'm one of the fortunate ones!
It's why I call New Orleans the city where my heart is . . . well, most of it - I did leave a wee chunk in San Francisco. :)

[Corona]

Beautiful Bruce! After reading these posts for the last couple of days, I think I have the answers to my questions. It amazes me that there are so many of us who have had our souls kissed by New Orleans and Fest in such similar ways. What a beautiful way to re-fuel for the rat-race of life. I consider myself very fortunate to have found my happy place as it makes the rest of my life bearable when the going gets rough. I also consider myself extremely fortunate that I found this board and got to meet and love such an amazing, wonderful group of people. To me, that's the biggest bonus of all. Thanks! :)

[glinda]

and thanks to you, Corona, for raising the question and being one of the central hosts and facilitators that bring this bored to life!

Been thinking about another take on this....

New Orleans is a strongly "feminine" city - sensual, colorful, multi-sensory----arts, music, food, architecture, pleasures, slow paced, hot, sticky, joyful, go with the flow, expressive, etc. As compared, say, with NYC & Chicago, which are much more "masculine" cities - focused, directional, goal-oriented, high-rises, fast paced, controlled, concrete & steel, "get important things done" kinda places.

In some ways I think our prevailing American culture values the masculine much more and tends to de-value the feminine. (I know I've personally had to "work" to value, embrace and fully come into my feminine.)

So one of the reasons NewOrleans brings me to life is that when I am there, I fully relax into my feminine and it feels so freeing - like coming to my soul's home. It brings me right back to earth, to the now, to the joy of life that I sometimes lose in the busy, to-do-list focus of everyday life elsewhere.

So does that say anything about those of us who really love New Orleans and the fest (which is sort of a compressed/concentrated best-of-neworleans experience)????

[NeenAtlanta]

Jazz fest isn't trendy. It's full of people that don't give a flying f*** what anyone else thinks about them, the way they are dressed or how they're dancing. They are there for one overall reason - to love life, something that Jazz Fest celebrates.

That's it exactly for me - when I am in NOLA (jazz fest or not), it seems like all of the daily masks I have to wear fall away, and I no longer give a flying f*** what anyone thinks. I wear what I like, dance like a fool, and lose my inhabitions. I can me my true wild self. That's why NOLA is such an addiction for me.

[csoul]

That's it exactly for me - when I am in NOLA (jazz fest or not), it seems like all of the daily masks I have to wear fall away, and I no longer give a flying f*** what anyone thinks. I wear what I like, dance like a fool, and lose my inhabitions. I can me my true wild self. That's why NOLA is such an addiction for me.

ding...ding....ding.....we have a winner......l LOVE the "I don't give a f*** attitude, no just at Fest, but NOLA in general. Kinda' take me as I am,....or don't....

[NeenAtlanta]

ding...ding....ding.....we have a winner......l LOVE the "I don't give a f*** attitude, no just at Fest, but NOLA in general. Kinda' take me as I am,....or don't....

Yeah, the city CELEBRATES wierdness!

[funkkjunkie]

As I've read this thread, I keep remembering last year when I had a jazzfest moment. AFter the thing, the usual work pool was not available to the foundation so many of the folks working were new to it. As I stood at the Congo stage one day, taking in a brass band, I noticed not only was the crowd grooving to the music, so were the security folks. No staid serious faces here; just happy dancing grooves.

[Moon]

We find New Orleans and JF so joyous that it's inconceivable that anyone else wouldn't. Over the years I've pondered this riddle and come up with a few ideas.

It's not enough to be a music lover. You have to have an open mind and be willing to listen to new things from people you've never heard of and give them a chance. If you can't do that then you're not going to get it.

If you don't like crowds and shared experiences(many don't)you're not going to get it.

If you're not ready to suck heads and pinch tails, you're not going to get it,

If looking good is more important to you than feeling good, you're not going to get it.

If you're there to be seen instead of seeing for yourself, you're not going to get it.

My JazzFest Krewe has a saying,"Live it or live with it." If you can't do that, you're not going to get it.

[Frosty]

amy i agree, it's definitely not for everyone ... and it's not such a bad thing if it's not... but it was like the people i came with that i was talking about thought they were too good for it or something. that's kind of what i was getting at.

And those were the types I was saying had a low self esteem. They couldn't LOWER themselves to something that isn't "in". God forbid they return home and say that they listened to jazz on Frenchman. And also the point of my post to Corona about stepping outside of the box. This board is full of people who do what they choose to do for the enjoyment and experience, not for what everyone else thinks is cool. Being true to yourself is not elitist.

[Frosty]

That's it exactly for me - when I am in NOLA (jazz fest or not), it seems like all of the daily masks I have to wear fall away, and I no longer give a flying f*** what anyone thinks. I wear what I like, dance like a fool, and lose my inhabitions. I can me my true wild self. That's why NOLA is such an addiction for me.

That's it! I'm wearing my bright red Crocs this year!

[dank_bass]

That's it exactly for me - when I am in NOLA (jazz fest or not), it seems like all of the daily masks I have to wear fall away, and I no longer give a flying f*** what anyone thinks. I wear what I like, dance like a fool, and lose my inhabitions. I can me my true wild self. That's why NOLA is such an addiction for me.

Somehow these lyrics seem fitting here ... from the rad's Death of The Blues ...


We cant play anymore
Like kids right after school
All the self-important people
got important things to do
better watch your smile
who your giving it to
if you have some fun
might catch the death of the blues

We cant love anymore
with a love thats strong and true
all the real important people
think that we're all crazy fools
better watch your heart
who your giving it to
If you love somebody
might catch the death of the blues

I put myself in the shoes of the "crazy fools" from the lyrics above, and nothing makes me happier

[MormonMatthew]

Hey Now Dank--- Death of the Blues is one of my favorite "newer" Radiators tunes; the lyrics are inspired, and Camilles' jam at the end of the song is always a hoodoo throwdown. Look forward to hearing it played live at a Rads show during Fest!!! Matthew--- By the way we must have similar tastes in music, as the line from "Black Throated Wind" is (I think) one of Barlow/Weirs' best compositions.

[Corona]

That's it! I'm wearing my bright red Crocs this year!
Let your freak flag fly babeeeee :)