The Graying of Jazzfest

[chicagomike]

The "ailment thread" has me thinking. This year I really noticed the aging of the fest crowd. I was 26 when I started attending and there seemed to be a lot of people in my age group. With ticket costs skyrocketing, are we going to lose that youthful element that helps keep Jazzfest vibrant ? We know its still the best deal in town but that is alot of money for most young people. I always envisioned Jazzfest as a place that really had a wide age range. Now it seems like the 20-somethings are not attending like they once did. What effect may this have on the future of Jazzfest?

[Moon]

I'm more concerned about my JazzFest budget than the yutes'. I think we can safely expect JF costs to continue climbing. I'm grateful Shell stepped up and based on everything I've read, the Shell guy is a model corporate citizen but the reality is, those folks expect a return on their investment over time. Big Chief, Grand Marshall, and Mighty Cootie Py O packages are going to become more common.

[Staxsun]

I have noticed that all my friends have gotten much older since I've been attending Jazzfest. Whazzupwiddat? I'm older, and it's tough for me to afford to go. I can't imagine being in my twenties and finding enough money to do it. As long as I can hang with the lady dancing in Economy Hall who has been doing it as least as long as I've been festing, I'll be there.

[Frosty]

I saw tons of young people. I think it is all where you hang out. Billy Joel and Sheryl Crow will bring older audiences than Dave Matthews and the Raconteurs. I tend to hang out where the older crowds go but walking the track, there are plenty of young people.

[jazzykeb]

Were you there second weekend Mike? I saw a lot 20 somethings. A lot of grey too, but a lot of mix. Regardless there were plenty of people grey or not.

[swag]

I saw tons of young people. I think it is all where you hang out. Billy Joel and Sheryl Crow will bring older audiences than Dave Matthews and the Raconteurs. I tend to hang out where the older crowds go but walking the track, there are plenty of young people.

When I finally ventured out into the downpour to catch the last 45 minutes of Billy Joel's set, I remember being surprised how young the crowd was.

(Though I suspect that was a factor of the weather, as much as anything else...)

[Moon]

I have noticed that all my friends have gotten much older since I've been attending Jazzfest. Whazzupwiddat? I'm older, and it's tough for me to afford to go. I can't imagine being in my twenties and finding enough money to do it. As long as I can hang with the lady dancing in Economy Hall who has been doing it as least as long as I've been festing, I'll be there.

I hear ya brother. When I started Festing back in the mid-80s, tickets were $10 in advance, $12 at the gate. Beer was $2 and t-shirts were $10. Our $49 a night room was split 4 ways. About the only thing that hasn't gone up astronomically are the CD prices at LMF.

[Frosty]

I hear ya brother. When I started Festing back in the mid-80s, tickets were $10 in advance, $12 at the gate. Beer was $2 and t-shirts were $10. Our $49 a night room was split 4 ways. About the only thing that hasn't gone up astronomically are the CD prices at LMF.

I wonder how airfares compare? That is far more of an expense for many than the actual tickets.

[mwgirlonherown]

I was surprised to see how young the crowd was at John Prine.
I didn't think anyone under the age of 45 knew about our mailman from Maywood. Very cool!

The night shows definitely had a younger feel to them.

[mariena]

My two stepdaughters wanted to come, but costs wouldn't let them. We would have helped them some, but it is not cheap to do Jazzfest. That being said, I did notice a lot of youths there.

[mamaroux]

I think Paul Mitchell and just a good colorist can help with this... at least it's helped me... but then I don't think there's anything wrong at all with going au naturale...

[sophisticated sissy]

Caveat to the guys: Don't use "Just For Beards." That stuff has arsenic in it.

[mwgirlonherown]

I think Paul Mitchell and just a good colorist can help with this... at least it's helped me... but then I don't think there's anything wrong at all with going au naturale...

Ladies,
While on the subject of hair, I highly recommend Mark Kinsell of Salon D'Malta/Decatur Street during your next visit to New Orleans. I got a fab cut and style (went wavey for the summer months) for $45 plus tip.

Sadly, some of you may recall the owner, Robin Malta was beated to death in his own home last year.

[swag]

I wonder how airfares compare? That is far more of an expense for many than the actual tickets.

By most studies, airfares have dropped pertty steadily since the industry was deregulated in the 70's, when adjusted for inflation.

[rosetree]

By most studies, airfares have dropped pertty steadily since the industry was deregulated in the 70's, when adjusted for inflation.

Too bad I can't adjust my prices for inflation! :( :eek:

[saturn]

I hear ya brother. When I started Festing back in the mid-80s, tickets were $10 in advance, $12 at the gate. Beer was $2 and t-shirts were $10. Our $49 a night room was split 4 ways. About the only thing that hasn't gone up astronomically are the CD prices at LMF.

I am not sure that money is the real issue -- the younger generation is used to paying mucho bucks to see their music favourites on tour.

I think you are observing the demographic bubble known as the baby boomers -- it looks like there are more people there that are our age, because there are more people our age than any other age group.

[chicagomike]

I am not sure that money is the real issue -- the younger generation is used to paying mucho bucks to see their music favourites on tour.

I think you are observing the demographic bubble known as the baby boomers -- it looks like there are more people there that are our age, because there are more people our age than any other age group.

Which is exactly my point. If the Baby Boomers are the largest audience at JF then what does the future hold ? I am a Generation X person. We certainly don't have the numbers that you BB's have. One of the things that may draw younger people to see artists that they may not normally catch is by way of another festival, Voodoo. They have been adding more and more Jazzfest favorites to the line-up, thus exposing a new generation to Louisiana music that they may not normally see or even consider seeing.

[mamaroux]

By most studies, airfares have dropped pertty steadily since the industry was deregulated in the 70's, when adjusted for inflation.

this year we paid more than double what we normally paid to fly from PHL to MSY

[mamaroux]

I am not sure that money is the real issue -- the younger generation is used to paying mucho bucks to see their music favourites on tour.

I think you are observing the demographic bubble known as the baby boomers -- it looks like there are more people there that are our age, because there are more people our age than any other age group.

...including a lot of the performers :)

[jazzykeb]

Caveat to the guys: Don't use "Just For Beards." That stuff has arsenic in it.

Interesting, but as long as you don't eat it, does that matter?

[mdfest]

Someone recruit this guy to be a threadhead
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/nation/bal-lottery0509,0,3896539.story

[Frosty]

By most studies, airfares have dropped pertty steadily since the industry was deregulated in the 70's, when adjusted for inflation.

Yup. Just like the phone industry, lousier service and worse conditions, but much cheaper.

[sophisticated sissy]

Interesting, but as long as you don't eat it, does that matter?


Yes. It can be absorbed by the skin.

[pokerchick66]

Someone recruit this guy to be a threadhead
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/nation/bal-lottery0509,0,3896539.story

Good story, md.

[swag]

this year we paid more than double what we normally paid to fly from PHL to MSY

Seat capacity into MSY is about 70% of what it was before the thing. But fest attendance is back near what it was in '04 & '05, and that's with many fewer locals. As New Orleans population returns, flight capacity should grow as well, and fares should drop, at least for those who book early.

Of course, if oil is $200/barrel by this time next year, all bets are off, airfare-wise.

[Blitzzzzz]

but then I don't think there's anything wrong at all with going au naturale...

I'm not sure that would bring in a larger crowd, but it might get me to support booking bands with a younger demographic!:cool:

[Jordan]

Which is exactly my point. If the Baby Boomers are the largest audience at JF then what does the future hold ? I am a Generation X person. We certainly don't have the numbers that you BB's have. One of the things that may draw younger people to see artists that they may not normally catch is by way of another festival, Voodoo. They have been adding more and more Jazzfest favorites to the line-up, thus exposing a new generation to Louisiana music that they may not normally see or even consider seeing.

YYR - if you compare the out of town headliners at Jazzfest (Sheryl Crowe, Billy Joel, Tim McGraw/Al Green, Widespread Panic, Stevie Wonder, Jimmy Buffet, Santana) with the headliners at Voodoo -- (2007 - Rage Against the Machine, Smashing Pumpkins, Wilco - 2008 - Stone Temple Pilots, Nine Inch Nails, REM) you can see why. If I were in my 20's, I'd choose Voodoo over Jazzfest in a second (luckily I'm in my 40's and can choose both).

I think the out of town acts at Jazzfest are getting older and older. Face it -- to the 20 something eye Jazzfest is mostly for middle aged, middle weighted folks, while Voodoo is much more -- how do the kids say it these days -- happening.

I also think when I started going to Jazzfest, it was the only festival of its kind. Now there are a bunch of fests all over the country with slightly different flavors -- Bonnaroo, Wakarusa, Merlefest, ... even Burning Man. I'd bet Jazzfest will continue getting older, grayer, fatter, and whiter as the years go on (just like me).

[jonnygospeltent]

Ladies,
While on the subject of hair, I highly recommend Mark Kinsell of Salon D'Malta/Decatur Street during your next visit to New Orleans. I got a fab cut and style (went wavey for the summer months) for $45 plus tip.

Sadly, some of you may recall the owner, Robin Malta was beated to death in his own home last year.

I just got a 5 dollar special from some Bulgarian woman on Irving Park Road.

[jonnygospeltent]

A haircut that is

[mdfest]

nice clarification

[pokerchick66]

I also think when I started going to Jazzfest, it was the only festival of its kind. Now there are a bunch of fests all over the country with slightly different flavors -- Bonnaroo, Wakarusa, Merlefest, ... even Burning Man. I'd bet Jazzfest will continue getting older, grayer, fatter, and whiter as the years go on (just like me).

I think that's cool.

[Chas_P]

I'm not so sure how grey it is getting. While it is true that there we only have one year to compare it to, I think it may depend a lot on which stage/set you went to see.

I felt rather "old" at Shorty's set and most definitely old at Burning Spear's set. The crowds at the Zydepunks and Zion Trio sets were also younger. Santana brought a big mix as did Bonerama.

It also may depend on whether you're basing your observation on sitting or standing. For standing, I thought overall the mix was about 50/50.

As for the price, I don't think it's the admission to JF that is the problem, but rather the cost of the hotel (unless you stayed at the TH Headquarters).

[LisaRI]

ailments, greying - sounds pathetic! speaking of which:

did anyone ever see or hear from that guy who wanted to sleep in his car and pee in a gatorade bottle?

[PaulC]

speaking of which

did anyone ever see or hear from the guy who wanted to sleep in his car and pee in a gatorade bottle?

thought i saw him buskin' gatorade out of the trunk of his car..... :eek:

nah,.. i didn't see him... i did offer the spare bed in my room to a cool homeless person the 2nd weekend... that worked out real well for him... for me,.. i got one hr. of sleep the last nite due to his denbear like snorin'...

[festbabe]

..
. but then I don't think there's anything wrong at all with going au naturale...

Hey, not too naturale, if you know what I mean.

[Chas_P]

Hey, not too naturale, if you know what I mean.

Depends on what island and how much sunscreen you brought. ;)

[festivalgirl]

A lot of good points here. There are a lot more of us over 40, we tend to have more money, we know it's okay to come back to New Orleans.

I have found something else. Our 20-something & 30-something friends have absolutely no stamina! They don't understand how we can do a week of all day/all night shows. They're spent after one late night. The new virtual world (Ipods, MySpace, text messaging, etc.) is breeding a generation of wimps. We need to get our kids some serious live music, hanging out all day training!

[funkkjunkie]

YYR, festivalgirl! It amazes me that I can go longer and harder than some of my younger friends. Maybe they dont' know what Janis said.
Get it while you can, babeeeeeeee!

[Phatpapa]

My youngest told me about a gray hair he saw on my head once and I told him that blondes dont gray. He laughed

What the h*ll happened to my avatar??

[PaulC]

this don't look all that gray...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu1QEC6D8_8&feature=related

[mightyradgumbo]

I am not sure if Fest is really getting older. I see many young people in relation to the acts being billed. If you look at Bonaroo and Vegoose and other festivals you will see more young people. Drawing the same corrolation, you would have to be worried for those fests as that demographic got older.
I believe for the most part that people's tastes get developed by the music they listen to. I listened to the Dead and got into Coltrane and Miles, listened to Buffett and got into LA swamp pop and New Orleans music, etc because those were the influences of my musical faves.
I think what you see now with some of the younger bands is that they will blossom into the greybeards of our youths "boomer" years. As long as the talent in Louisiana keeps being developed (and you see that to a good extent at Voodoo) we do not have to fear for fest. Next year it hits the big 4-0.

[mamaroux]

Hey, not too naturale, if you know what I mean.

Well bald is better than a combover.... is that what you mean? <she smiles innocently>

[Corona]

I saw tons of young people. I think it is all where you hang out. Billy Joel and Sheryl Crow will bring older audiences than Dave Matthews and the Raconteurs. I tend to hang out where the older crowds go but walking the track, there are plenty of young people.
I was going to say the same Frosty....it was ALL young peeps at a lot of the stages I went to....WSP, John Butler, Michael Franti etc.

Hey Festivalgirl....my kid is 19 and she kicked some serious ass this fest stamina wise...she actually got mouthy with me and told me to "man up" a few times.....until we pulled our last all-nighter and she was a mess all second Sunday lol! I got to tell HER to "man up" at that point!

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

I was going to say the same Frosty....it was ALL young peeps at a lot of the stages I went to....WSP, John Butler, Michael Franti etc.

Hey Festivalgirl....my kid is 19 and she kicked some serious ass this fest stamina wise...she actually got mouthy with me and told me to "man up" a few times.....until we pulled our last all-nighter and she was a mess all second Sunday lol! I got to tell HER to "man up" at that point!

It was not "all young peeps" at John Butler......
I was there. :)

[chicagomike]

I am certainly not insinuating that there are no young people attending. I do stand by my opinion that the majority of the jazzfest audience is getting older. A friend of mine from California noted "I remember when the H20 Boys were Frat guys, now they are getting to be middle aged" (Sorry Boys). Even the acts that Lis mentions like Widespread and Franti are no spring chickens themselves. This thread was more of a personal observation and nothing else.

[Amy Winette]

Heh heh, true Mike, they've now got kids and everything! :)

(Oh yeah, so do we!) ;)

[Phatpapa]

I was going to say the same Frosty....it was ALL young peeps at a lot of the stages I went to....WSP, John Butler, Michael Franti etc.

Hey Festivalgirl....my kid is 19 and she kicked some serious ass this fest stamina wise...she actually got mouthy with me and told me to "man up" a few times.....until we pulled our last all-nighter and she was a mess all second Sunday lol! I got to tell HER to "man up" at that point!

Too funny Lis. I am planning on taking my 19 year old next year and probably have the same thing to look forward to.

[Phatpapa]

Heh heh, true Mike, they've now got kids and everything! :)

(Oh yeah, so do we!) ;)


Are you home yet? We got about 6" last night. Will someone pleas tell ULLR to CUT IT OUT?

[Amy Winette]

No, we're still in NOLA, going home Tuesday we think . . .

MORE SNOW?? Dang, I was hoping it would be all green by the time we got home. Ski hills are all closed in our area, what's the point??

[swag]

Well, you can always hike up...

[Phatpapa]

No, we're still in NOLA, going home Tuesday we think . . .

MORE SNOW?? Dang, I was hoping it would be all green by the time we got home. Ski hills are all closed in our area, what's the point??


Yea, no sh*t. Although Arapahoe Basin is still open

[mfrankkk]

There was a huge group of 18-20 yr olds behind me at the SRO section of the Stevie Wonder set-really grovin' on him.

Also a lot of youngsters at the Jimmy Buffit set.

Billy Joel's set attracted a good mixture of older and younger peeps.

[NeenAtlanta]

I think we can all do our part by bringing our kids, nieces, nephews etc. to experience fest. Seems like quite a few T-heads did that this year.

[Amy Winette]

Yea, no sh*t. Although Arapahoe Basin is still open

You can always hike in too. Me, I prefer a lift ;)

[VWGal]

I think we can all do our part by bringing our kids, nieces, nephews etc. to experience fest. Seems like quite a few T-heads did that this year.

Funny you should mention that -- I am bringing daughter number two with me next year. She's saving already -- I told her she had to be 21 for her first fest so we could do night shows without any issues. And yes, she's already fest training too, although I am not sure she has the stamina to pull a 24 hour marathon just yet. Yeesh! :o

[pokerchick66]

I think we can all do our part by bringing our kids, nieces, nephews etc. to experience fest. Seems like quite a few T-heads did that this year.

I might be bringing Chicklet and my 16 yr. old niece for a day next year. Two fest virgins! :D

[Amy Winette]

I don't think it's the cost of tix to Fest that deters younger folks (ie, those in college w/o incomes yet). I think it's mostly the cost of getting there, and the cost of accommodations (though there are ways to reduce those) -- I know that's why Katie's friends couldn't come, and why I think Sammi's friend couldn't afford to come this year.

[chicagomike]

One thing that keeps the out-of-town college crowd away (which isnt a bad thing) is that jazzfest occurs during finals time. I was mostly referring to the twenty-somethings in my observations.

[Amy Winette]

Very true about finals!

[Mexi]

The "ailment thread" has me thinking. This year I really noticed the aging of the fest crowd. I was 26 when I started attending and there seemed to be a lot of people in my age group. With ticket costs skyrocketing, are we going to lose that youthful element that helps keep Jazzfest vibrant ? We know its still the best deal in town but that is alot of money for most young people. I always envisioned Jazzfest as a place that really had a wide age range. Now it seems like the 20-somethings are not attending like they once did. What effect may this have on the future of Jazzfest?

It seemed to me the 20-ish and younger crowd was MUCH bigger than last year. I was actually surprised to see so many teens & 20's. I'm 30 and the youngest in my fest group. I love that there's an older majority in the crowd. I feel more safe,less drama & rookie behavior... especially when the crowds are thick. I'd be worried if the crowd was getting too young. As for that youthful element that keeps Jazzfest vibrant....some of the most vibrant folks I saw were probably all over 80! Remember, You're never too old to become younger....;)

[pokerchick66]

It seemed to me the 20-ish and younger crowd was MUCH bigger than last year. I was actually surprised to see so many teens & 20's. I'm 30 and the youngest in my fest group. I love that there's an older majority in the crowd. I feel more safe,less drama & rookie behavior... especially when the crowds are thick. As for that youthful element that keeps Jazzfest vibrant....some of the most vibrant folks I saw were probably all over 80! Remember, You're never too old to become younger....;)

Damn good post, Mexi! And I didn't know you were 30! :p

[Mexi]

Damn good post, Mexi! And I didn't know you were 30! :p

LOL! What did you think I was 12??
Why do you live SO FARRRRRR!!!!!!????????:confused:

[Chas_P]

Remember, You're never too old to become younger....;)

Bless you, bless you, bless you.

Do you know how many people I have told that it's the music that keeps me young!!!!

We thanked the guys in Orleans Avenue for that and Mike, the bass player said that was what their energy was intending to do. To infect other people.

[jazzbluesguy]

this don't look all that gray...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu1QEC6D8_8&feature=related

Young white people can't dance.

[pokerchick66]

LOL! What did you think I was 12??
Why do you live SO FARRRRRR!!!!!!????????:confused:

No, I had no idea how old you were. I didn't even think about it, lol. I'm 30 eleven. :D

[Mexi]

Young white people can't dance.

LMAO! I kept seeing the guy in the grey tank top EVERYWHERE during fest. He was always dancing like a maniac.

[Mexi]

No, I had no idea how old you were. I didn't even think about it, lol. I'm 30 eleven. :D

I try not to think about it either! Seriously! I don't even like birthdays. Whatta waste of time. Now, Mother's Day...that's a reason to celebrate!
I miss YOU!!!

[pokerchick66]

I try not to think about it either! Seriously! I don't even like birthdays. Whatta waste of time. Now, Mother's Day...that's a reason to celebrate!
I miss YOU!!!

lol, I miss you, too, Mexi! I can't believe Jazzfest is over already. Now we gotta wait another freakin year.

Hey, don't forget to email me . . . monica7966 at yahoo dot com.

[Theotherone]

By most studies, airfares have dropped pertty steadily since the industry was deregulated in the 70's, when adjusted for inflation.

When we started going to Jazzfest in 1990 I thought that anything about $300 give or take was a good price for a plane ticket. I still think anything about $300 give or take is a good price. I figure we are headed towards regulation again real soon.

[chicagomike]

Heres a little survey. How many posters in the forums are under 30 ?

[chicagomike]

As for travel costs... It used to cost me about 120 bucks to drive round trip to New Orleans from up here. This year it was closer to 400 :eek:

[kt luvs bigsam]

HEY representin the 21 YOs!

I went to my poetry writing class after getting back from my first JF this year and we were asked to bring in a song to show rhythm/poetic elements.
So naturally I bubbled with excitement to play Shamarr's Meet Me at Frenchman St. CD.

I had a hard time picking which song... so I started with a minute and a half of "Yes Sir" and then a minute and a half of "# 10" (no name) and I had 3 people asking me how to spell Shamarr to write his name down b/c, I quote, "This Music makes you feel good!" They loved it! and I think seeing another 'young person' listening to it makes it feel okay to listen to it. Not that I am especially cool or trend-setting (quite the opposite really!) but still... its the monkey see monkey do effect!

So think about it- if a couple of those kids start listening to Jazz music now... then their friends might get into it and so on and so forth... or one can only hope :) .

I don't really know... I was just excited to listen to good music in class! (Especially after 2 sad, depressing 2pac songs!)

I did have a hard time though getting any friends to go w/me b/c of $. Its too bad... but a couple of buddies are aware that they have to start saving now for next year!

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

I was hoping no one notice...... "The Graying of Jazzfest"
;)

[drdennis]

Heres a little survey. How many posters in the forums are under 30 ?

i look like i'm under 30 -does that count?

[ohio]

I wonder how airfares compare? That is far more of an expense for many than the actual tickets.
We always drove to fest in our 20's...never even considered flying even though it was a 14 hr trek. And we stayed at hostels and flea-bag motels. It was still a stretch to just do one weekend.

[Chicago Fest Fan]

This is the first year that we brought our kids to fest. They are 18, 23, and 24.
My wife and I are both in our early 40's and not graying YET. We also brought along 4 of our kids friends in their early 20's. I can say from our experience that it is definately a combination of cost and booking of acts.
The kids only attended 1 day of fest because they thought it was too expensive. They also wanted to see NO and experience the city during the day. They probrably would have went to more fest days if the line up was geared to their tastes more. In fact 2nd weekend would have been more popular with them with bands like The Raconteurs, but we had to make our plans prior to line up announcement. They did enjoy the fest but they were torn between going to the fest and exploring the city.
The kids went on the cheap. I told them they should each bring at least $700 with them. First they drove down, they each had to pay for 1 fill up. We were able to take advantage of the $39 HIFQ rate(2 rooms) thanks to Swag. The RTA Visipass was big money saver. They traveled back and forth to fest and all over the city for $12.
The kids loved the city and the fest. Some qoutes from them were..
"I can't believe how friendly everyone is at the fest, there is such a good will here". They all grew up going to concerts where mosh pits were the center of attention.
" It's all about the drums and that beat" referring to the brass band sound.
" I can't wait to get back home to my bands practice space and try out some new sounds"
" I don't want to go home"
" I'm gonna start saving now for next year"
There was another point made about college finals. My youngest daughter could only attend on 1st weekend because she had finals the following week.

[NeenAtlanta]

We always drove to fest in our 20's...never even considered flying even though it was a 14 hr trek. And we stayed at hostels and flea-bag motels. It was still a stretch to just do one weekend.

Same here, drove down, stayed out in Chalmette or in Gretna at a super-cheap run down place, still had the time of our lives. Of course, gas was probably MUCH cheaper. We'd maybe go to one or two night shows, but just hanging around the street scene in the quarter or uptown was a blast.

[Phatpapa]

Heres a little survey. How many posters in the forums are under 30 ?


30 twelve here. How many in my group????? Inquiring minds want to know.

[funkkjunkie]

Right there with ya, Papa. I'm a 55 model.

[Phatpapa]

Right there with ya, Papa. I'm a 55 model.


Yes you are, Darling:) Yes you are

[Carolina Beadhead]

Right there with ya, Papa. I'm a 55 model. I'm a '54 model which, coincidentally, is my age, too.

[Staxsun]

"Don't Be Cruel" was the #1 song when I was hatched in '56.

[Phatpapa]

Ok, I forgot how to add. Sorry. But I would make a damn good looking 52yo

[BigBopper]

I gotta admit. I'm graying, and it's harder for me to make more days than I used to. But then again, I appreciate them more. This year, I made both Fridays and really made the most of them. My 17 yr old daughter and her friend decided to shop instead of going to the fest because of the cost.

[festivalgirl]

I like playing 45's. ;)

[mamaroux]

HEY representin the 21 YOs!

I went to my poetry writing class after getting back from my first JF this year and we were asked to bring in a song to show rhythm/poetic elements.
So naturally I bubbled with excitement to play Shamarr's Meet Me at Frenchman St. CD.

I had a hard time picking which song... so I started with a minute and a half of "Yes Sir" and then a minute and a half of "# 10" (no name) and I had 3 people asking me how to spell Shamarr to write his name down b/c, I quote, "This Music makes you feel good!" They loved it! and I think seeing another 'young person' listening to it makes it feel okay to listen to it. Not that I am especially cool or trend-setting (quite the opposite really!) but still... its the monkey see monkey do effect!

So think about it- if a couple of those kids start listening to Jazz music now... then their friends might get into it and so on and so forth... or one can only hope :) .

I don't really know... I was just excited to listen to good music in class! (Especially after 2 sad, depressing 2pac songs!)

I did have a hard time though getting any friends to go w/me b/c of $. Its too bad... but a couple of buddies are aware that they have to start saving now for next year!

Can you imagine what they'd think of this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nadle924uYM

[neverleft]

I like playing 45's. ;)

I used to crank the old phonograph.

[mamaroux]

Heck, I'm 56, and proud of it, paparoux is going to be 62 in July.

[revjimk]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
When I first went in 1978, it was $7 at the gate & $4 in advance. The crowd was local & more representative of New Orleans population. When informed I was from Colorado, folks wanted to know how I'd heard of it.
Now its majority tourist & 99% white, strikes me as strange in a majority black city.
I'm 57.
Ohio:
Fleabag hotels? How about the London Lodge, site of Jimmy Swaggart's misadventures with a prostitute... good place
The former Carib, across from Rock'n Bowl? Then it was the Comfort Inn, then some guy bought it who was too cheap or lazy to change the sign, so he painted over the "C" and it was the "Tomfort Inn". nice.....
Sweet's? Rose Motel?
In '78 I came with $300, another $300 check on the way, stayed a month
rev

[ohio]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
When I first went in 1978, it was $7 at the gate & $4 in advance. The crowd was local & more representative of New Orleans population. When informed I was from Colorado, folks wanted to know how I'd heard of it.
Now its majority tourist & 99% white, strikes me as strange in a majority black city.
I'm 57.
Ohio:
Fleabag hotels? How about the London Lodge, site of Jimmy Swaggart's misadventures with a prostitute... good place
The former Carib, across from Rock'n Bowl? Then it was the Comfort Inn, then some guy bought it who was too cheap or lazy to change the sign, so he painted over the "C" and it was the "Tomfort Inn". nice.....
Sweet's? Rose Motel?
In '78 I came with $300, another $300 check on the way, stayed a month
rev
The worst was the Days Inn on Canal at the I-10!

[saturn]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
When I first went in 1978, it was $7 at the gate & $4 in advance. The crowd was local & more representative of New Orleans population. When informed I was from Colorado, folks wanted to know how I'd heard of it.
Now its majority tourist & 99% white, strikes me as strange in a majority black city.
I'm 57.


I have noticed that about Fest since I began attending seven years ago, so that is not a really recent phenomenon. In fact, it seemed to me that the population was more diverse this year than I had seen it on previous years.

[kt luvs bigsam]

Can you imagine what they'd think of this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nadle924uYM

wowza! I love Paul Sanchez's way of telling stories. Lafayette square is really beautiful!

[mendelj2]

I think it really depends where you are at the fest - i felt really old at benjy davis, cowboy mouth, OAR, etc.

One of the things I have always loved since I started going at age 21 was the mix of ages. Great music brings that mix - "hot" music doesn't.

The biggest difference between Jazz fest and other festivals is the variety and non-music aspects which are only going to matter to certain young people. I've always put the music (and food) first which is why I go back where my friends who mostly wanted the party haven't been in years.

[mamaroux]

wowza! I love Paul Sanchez's way of telling stories. Lafayette square is really beautiful!

yup! me too... thought you'd like that, sweetie! I could listen to Sanchez all day, I think!

[Jordan]

I have noticed that about Fest since I began attending seven years ago, so that is not a really recent phenomenon. In fact, it seemed to me that the population was more diverse this year than I had seen it on previous years.

Actually I thought the opposite -- to me, it seems to get whiter and whiter each year.

[Michelino]

Actually I thought the opposite -- to me, it seems to get whiter and whiter each year.

Absolutely, especially in the Gospel Tent where the Kat**** effect on the City's African-American population may be more apparent than anywhere else at fest.

[Rossvegas]

I hear you on that one, Mich. It broke my heart the first time I walked into that tent post-K and saw all of the missing ladies with the Jerri curls and fans. It used to be that you couldn't get within the first 15 rows...just a tent packed full of people who came to praise Jeebus all day long.

I also noticed it with the decline in my peeps outside the gates banging on the pails. This year, there was just a duo...in previous years, there would be 8-10 kids out there. Damn, hope they all come back soon!

[jerseygirl67]

I hear you on that one, Mich. It broke my heart the first time I walked into that tent post-K and saw all of the missing ladies with the Jerri curls and fans. It used to be that you couldn't get within the first 15 rows...just a tent packed full of people who came to praise Jeebus all day long.

I also noticed it with the decline in my peeps outside the gates banging on the pails. This year, there was just a duo...in previous years, there would be 8-10 kids out there. Damn, hope they all come back soon!

LMAO I just noticed your quote...yes, I am that out of it....
And, I loved the tent this year....I was so looking forward to going there...and I saw the Johnson Extension!!!

[breambob]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
In '78 I came with $300, another $300 check on the way, stayed a month
rev

LOL, rev. in '78 I blew through $300 in 3 days. 100 of that was to get my car out of the pound and to pay big time for parking in Pirate's Alley. Good ole times.

[kt luvs bigsam]

yup! me too... thought you'd like that, sweetie! I could listen to Sanchez all day, I think!

me too! he also has quite a fun sense of humor :0)

When I met him (YAY!) and told him that his set at the Threadhead Raffle really touched my heart (as it did everyone there) he replied by saying that it was really good for him also.

Talk about sweet and sincere!

[NeenAtlanta]

"Don't Be Cruel" was the #1 song when I was hatched in '56.

LOL - Mack the Knife was number 1 when I came into the world in '59. Hitting the big 50 next year. Yikes!

[NeenAtlanta]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
When I first went in 1978, it was $7 at the gate & $4 in advance. The crowd was local & more representative of New Orleans population. When informed I was from Colorado, folks wanted to know how I'd heard of it.
Now its majority tourist & 99% white, strikes me as strange in a majority black city.
I'm 57.
Ohio:
Fleabag hotels? How about the London Lodge, site of Jimmy Swaggart's misadventures with a prostitute... good place
The former Carib, across from Rock'n Bowl? Then it was the Comfort Inn, then some guy bought it who was too cheap or lazy to change the sign, so he painted over the "C" and it was the "Tomfort Inn". nice.....
Sweet's? Rose Motel?
In '78 I came with $300, another $300 check on the way, stayed a month
rev

Ask Mr. Moon about the London Lodge, he's stayed there before. Scarey place!

[dank_bass]

Actually I thought the opposite -- to me, it seems to get whiter and whiter each year.

On Second Sunday, I thought that there were as few white people (the most black people) as Ive ever seen at the fairgrounds, and with the return of the Nevilles, I was hoping there was some correlation with local attendance coming back

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Ask Mr. Moon about the London Lodge, he's stayed there before. Scarey place!

Sounds like the kind of place that has "room service"........

[chicagomike]

On Second Sunday, I thought that there were as few white people (the most black people) as Ive ever seen at the fairgrounds, and with the return of the Nevilles, I was hoping there was some correlation with local attendance coming back

There were way more black people at Frankie Beverly and Maize then the Neville's

[i wanna be in NOLA]

"Don't Be Cruel" was the #1 song when I was hatched in '56.

Same year, different song -- "Memories Are Made Of This" by Dean Martin

[swag]

Feeling old? Could be worse...

http://www.thingsyoungerthanmccain.com

[pokerchick66]

:rolleyes:

[rosetree]

I don't know, but it seems to me that everyone seemed ten years younger ten years ago!;)

[Michelino]

I hear you on that one, Mich. It broke my heart the first time I walked into that tent post-K and saw all of the missing ladies with the Jerri curls and fans. It used to be that you couldn't get within the first 15 rows...just a tent packed full of people who came to praise Jeebus all day long.

I also noticed it with the decline in my peeps outside the gates banging on the pails. This year, there was just a duo...in previous years, there would be 8-10 kids out there. Damn, hope they all come back soon!

Yes, I know. When the day returns that the best you can hope in the Gospel tent is to sit in the second section - no matter who is playing, I'll feel like shouting "Praise the Lord and Welcome Back".

[grisgris]

LOL - Mack the Knife was number 1 when I came into the world in '59. Hitting the big 50 next year. Yikes!

Ok Neen, the gridding queen & the birthday queen will celebrate the big 50 next year together, or then again we may just say forget about it.

[Doubledown]

I turn 37 this year, not a bad age ...... for a Man:D

[Moon]

Graying? What about "whitening"?
When I first went in 1978, it was $7 at the gate & $4 in advance. The crowd was local & more representative of New Orleans population. When informed I was from Colorado, folks wanted to know how I'd heard of it.
Now its majority tourist & 99% white, strikes me as strange in a majority black city.
I'm 57.
Ohio:
Fleabag hotels? How about the London Lodge, site of Jimmy Swaggart's misadventures with a prostitute... good place
The former Carib, across from Rock'n Bowl? Then it was the Comfort Inn, then some guy bought it who was too cheap or lazy to change the sign, so he painted over the "C" and it was the "Tomfort Inn". nice.....
Sweet's? Rose Motel?
In '78 I came with $300, another $300 check on the way, stayed a month
rev

I've stayed in all those places. Cool. I knew I wasn't the only truly economical Fester.

Every time I returned to my room at the Rose Motel, I was astonished that my door hadn't been kicked in and my meager belongings weren't stolen. You always knew when check out time was when the Korean dude would bang on your door shouting, "YOU GO NOW!".

[glinda]

At Acura second sunday, we were surrounded by a huge camp of locals (white) - at least 30 of em, 3 generations, they said. It was great to see them at their annual gathering, so happy for the Nevilles return.

[mfrankkk]

There were way more black people at Frankie Beverly and Maize then the Neville's

I think that hold true with the Congo stage all the time. Frankie Beverly/Maze were excellent !!

[Mexi]

I turn 37 this year, not a bad age ...... for a Man:D

Not a bad age-period.

[Moon]

I'm happy to report that most people age like fine wine. We get better as we get older.

[Staxsun]

I'm happy to report that most people age like fine wine. We get better as we get older.

....or we turn to vinegar.

[mamaroux]

ROFLMAO

...oh Stax that is just wayyyyyyy to funny, hunny!:eek: :p :D

[festbabe]

I turn 37 this year, not a bad age ...... for a Man:D

Bite me ;)

37 was a few years ago - seeing the big 4-0 this year :eek:

[mamaroux]

I think my 40's were the best years of my life! I'd never want to be younger if I could... I'd be 42 forever!

[chicagomike]

I think that hold true with the Congo stage all the time. Frankie Beverly/Maze were excellent !!

Absolutely not true. We camped at Congo all day 2nd Saturday. Hands down the number of black people in the audience was a fraction of what it was Sunday.

[revjimk]

RossVegas
Good point about Gospel Tent. Back in the day, it was fairly common to see folks getting "possessed by the Holy Spirit". Haven't seen that in years.
Moon & Chicago Mike (?)
First time I stayed at the London Lodge('80s), it was a terrific deal. I met a guy at Jazzfest with a Che T-shirt, started talking, turns out he was from Chicago, named Mike (Chicago Mike?) and he told me about LL. An East Indian guy was running it, and if you committed for the whole week, he charged something like $23 a day. He preferred Jazzfesters to hookers & johns... good choice. Then he moved to Atlanta for the Olympics, new management was worthless. Clifton Chenier used to stay there regularly.
One year I checked into the good ole Carib, the manager told me, "Two rules: No running women & no running drugs". There are mucho cheap joints on Airport Hiway. I stayed at one (Southern Inn?) and a guy knocks on my door asking if I wanted "A girl". Half hour after I turned down his kind offer, he was back... couldn't conceive anyone would stay there for any other reason...
rev

[chicagomike]

Im not that "Chicago Mike".... There are about a million of us :D

[freebo]

Well,

The number one tune the day I was born (in 1958) was: 'Tequila' !

I'm NOT making that up... :D

As to the aging of Jazz Fest attendees: Yes - but how ya gonna change that? Dude: Even our heroes up on stage are getting older, every year!

Also, I saw a LOT of school kids on Thursday and Second Friday. I don't know how they got in - field trip, Fest 4 Kidz, J&H Foundation tix, whatever... But it's certainly one way to set the hook: Show 'em what it's like, and hope they 'get it'.

I can certainly say this: Having stuck around long enough to get my AARP invitation, I've seen groups fade away because there was a lack of new blood infusing the system. How does one court new blood (younger involvement)? By doing things that appeal to the youngbloods. By booking new and young bands - but I think Jazz Fest is definitely all about the diversity in the acts they book, and all about the Heritage in say the food vendors and the Folklife Village.

As an example of the latter, we wandered through there Second Sunday and chatted up a lot of super cool folks, including the grandson of Irvan Perez, an Isleño who recently passed. (No jokes about being THAT old, please!) Anyway, his grandson is 'taking up the torch' as it were, and I can really draw comfort from that.

Anyone else wander through the Folklife area? There is some amazing stuff in there, and the people are SO happy to discuss their work. I love the downtime I get by strolling around that section... It can be a welcome diversion from the racous celebrations at the stages. And as an aside, if you ever want a taste of what and how the locals are doing - the Folklife Village is a great place to get in touch with that.

PS to swag: Dude, that website (McCain) is a hoot! The area code is younger than McCain! Who'da thunk it...

[revjimk]

freebo
"Having stuck around long enough to get my AARP invitation, I've seen groups fade away because there was a lack of new blood infusing the system. How does one court new blood (younger involvement)? By doing things that appeal to the youngbloods. By booking new and young bands..."
Good point. Trouble is, can you appeal to one group without turning another group off? Many years ago, JF had Run DMC, and a lot of older folks were worried about the fans. Then a few years back, they had rapper Mystikal & Dave Matthews the same day . 160,000 people showed up, not popular either (I was lucky to be in Breaux Bridge that day!)
On the subject of rappers, did anyone check out Cupid? Did he have 10,000 people doing his "Cupid Shuffle"? This line dance is all over the zydeco world, and from what I hear, everywhere else. Would have liked to see a world record line dance krewe, but was in Lafayette or Breaux Bridge
Not a fan of rap, me. But if they had it, I could always go to another stage. Another sad thing is how many legendary performers have passed on. We used to enjoy Prof. Longhair, James Booker, Ernie K-Doe, Earl King, Lightnin' Hopkins, Clifton Chenier, etc. etc. etc. JF ain't the same without 'em...
"Old Fart" rev

[jolie]

I gotta admit. I'm graying, and it's harder for me to make more days than I used to. But then again, I appreciate them more. This year, I made both Fridays and really made the most of them. My 17 yr old daughter and her friend decided to shop instead of going to the fest because of the cost.

BigBopper???? Is this who I think it is??? You need to go over to the introduce yourself thread and give us a proper intro:)

[ohio]

LOL - Mack the Knife was number 1 when I came into the world in '59. Hitting the big 50 next year. Yikes!
Me too, dahlin'. We should have a 5-0 celebration.
Oooops, what am I saying- I hope Griff doesn't see this :eek:

[Staxsun]

You young whipper-snappers!! Make me feel like I'm 100.

[chrisjoseph]

yep, if you're not 50 yet, you're still a puppy...

[saturn]

You young whipper-snappers!! Make me feel like I'm 100.

Me too!
http://www.caddylakgraffix.com/images/favorite_sites/birthday_legends002.jpg

[festbabe]

You young whipper-snappers!! Make me feel like I'm 100.

Let me point this out as one of the whipper-snapper pups: some/most of y'all have TONS more stamina than me - we struggled to stay out late while at JF (and struggled more so in the a.m.). All y'all have my utmost respect! I hope I can grow up to be like you.

[Staxsun]

Let me point this out as one of the whipper-snapper pups: some/most of y'all have TONS more stamina than me - we struggled to stay out late while at JF (and struggled more so in the a.m.). All y'all have my utmost respect! I hope I can grow up to be like you.

We know we don't have much time left. We have to make the best of it.

[ohio]

yep, if you're not 50 yet, you're still a puppy...woof

[NeenAtlanta]

Me too, dahlin'. We should have a 5-0 celebration.
Oooops, what am I saying- I hope Griff doesn't see this :eek:

We definitely should, Bry. When is your birthday? Mine is 2/23.

[NeenAtlanta]

Ok Neen, the gridding queen & the birthday queen will celebrate the big 50 next year together, or then again we may just say forget about it.

Cool! You too? When is your birthday? I'm proud of turning 50 - amazing I've made it this far. :rolleyes:

We should definitely plan a NOLA patry.

[NeenAtlanta]

We know we don't have much time left. We have to make the best of it.

LMAO Stax - perfect response!

[Amy Winette]

Hey Neen, I'll be turning 35 on 2/26 -- can I play too? :)

Bry's birthday is every day :) But in reality it's at the end of January, I wanna say 27 . . .

[Amy Winette]

Mel's is in the summer, July I think?

[Carolina Beadhead]

Mel's is in the summer, July I think?

7/30

[rosetree]

Cool! You too? When is your birthday? I'm proud of turning 50 - amazing I've made it this far. :rolleyes:

We should definitely plan a NOLA patry.

I'm with y'all in that number!;) :D :D

[pokerchick66]

I'm with y'all in that number!;) :D :D

You're turning 50 next year?

[rosetree]

You're turning 50 next year?

The sweat and perspiration keeps my skin young looking!;)
I'm going to be able to tell the kids to "Get off my lawn!!!":D

[funkkjunkie]

well, i'll be glad to have all the company on the half century side of living!

[swag]

The sweat and perspiration keeps my skin young looking!;)
I'm going to be able to tell the kids to "Get off my lawn!!!":D

"Kids"? I believe the term you are looking for is "whippersnappers".

[BigBopper]

Yep. It's me Jolie (if that is your real name). I'm the Big Bopper! Are you back? Where can I read about the trip? Where can I see some pics? I'm still jealous. Damn!!!

As far as "introducing" myself, I don't know what the 'ell I'm doing on this thing. It's my first forum thingy so I'm taking baby steps.

[jolie]

Yep. It's me Jolie (if that is your real name). I'm the Big Bopper! Are you back? Where can I read about the trip? Where can I see some pics? I'm still jealous. Damn!!!

As far as "introducing" myself, I don't know what the 'ell I'm doing on this thing. It's my first forum thingy so I'm taking baby steps.

Back late Friday/early Saturday (thanx Delta). I'm slowly labeling pics and will put them in a file to share soon. Way too much fun and very difficult getting back to regular life. That rocking feeling that you have after being on a boat for a while is slowly fading and I will miss it. Hopefully in 3-4 years will be doing it for good.

If you find your way to the introduce yourself thread you may find some familiar folks around here:)

Woof!

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Stevie Nicks turns 60 today......
I still see her as 30 something

[funkkjunkie]

Can't wait to see pix, jolie. Love the boat feeling.

[jolie]

Can't wait to see pix, jolie. Love the boat feeling.

I think I have land-sickness if there is such a thing?? Have been a lil nauseaus (sp? I should know this I'm a nurse.. f-it) since getting off the boat.

[pokerchick66]

I think I have land-sickness if there is such a thing?? Have been a lil nauseaus (sp? I should know this I'm a nurse.. f-it) since getting off the boat.

Sealegs!