New Orleans is a city with a rich musical heritage, and it is no surprise that it has inspired countless songs over the years. From traditional jazz and blues, to contemporary hip hop and R&B, the sounds of New Orleans have left their mark on the world of music. From classic hits by Fats Domino and Louis Armstrong, to modern gems by Kermit Ruffins and Curren$y, the songs about New Orleans are as diverse as the city itself. Whether paying tribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage, or reflecting on its unique spirit and resilience, these 19 songs capture the essence of New Orleans and its musical legacy. Each song brings its own unique flavor, style, and energy, and together they paint a picture of a city that has long been an important hub of American music. Whether you are a fan of jazz, blues, hip hop, or any other genre, these 19 songs New Orleans are a must-listen for anyone interested in the music.
1. “Way Down Yonder In New Orleans” by Harry Connick, Jr.
“Way Down Yonder in New Orleans” is a classic jazz song written by Henry Creamer and Turner Layton. The song was first recorded in 1922 and has since been covered by many famous musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Bix Beiderbecke, and Harry Connick Jr. The song is known for its upbeat, swinging rhythm and its lyrics, which describe the lively streets of New Orleans and the city’s famous streetcars. The song’s melody is upbeat and lively, featuring a horn section that plays a catchy riff throughout. Connick’s version of the song is particularly noteworthy for his smooth, confident vocals and his pianistic virtuosity. Overall, “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans” is a timeless classic that continues to be a staple of traditional jazz music.
2. “Mardi Gras Mambo” by The Meters
“Mardi Gras Mambo” is a classic funk song by the New Orleans-based band The Meters. The song was first released in 1955 and has since become a staple of Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and around the world. “Mardi Gras Mambo” features a driving, syncopated rhythm played on the drums, bass, and guitar, as well as a catchy melody played on the horns and keyboards. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a perfect party song, ideal for dancing and celebrating. The lyrics of “Mardi Gras Mambo” celebrate the joy and excitement of the Mardi Gras season, with references to the colorful costumes, masks, and parades that are a staple of the festival. Overall, “Mardi Gras Mambo” is a classic example of New Orleans funk and a beloved anthem for Mardi Gras revelers everywhere.
3. “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals
“House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song that has been performed and recorded by many artists, including The Animals. The song is believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century and tells the story of a young man’s descent into a life of gambling and misfortune. The song’s haunting melody and melancholic lyrics have made it a staple of American folk music for generations. The Animals’ version of “House of the Rising Sun” was a major hit in 1964 and is widely considered one of the greatest cover versions of the song. Featuring Eric Burdon’s distinctive vocals and a powerful electric guitar solo, The Animals’ interpretation of “House of the Rising Sun” brought the traditional folk song to a new audience and helped to popularize the genre of folk-rock. Today, the song remains a classic of popular music and is recognized as a cornerstone of American folk and rock music.
4. “Drop Me Off In New Orleans” by Kermit Ruffins
“Drop Me Off in New Orleans” is a song by New Orleans-based trumpeter and bandleader Kermit Ruffins. The song is a lively and upbeat tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich musical heritage. The song features Ruffins’ signature brass sound, with a bright and joyful trumpet melody that is accompanied by a driving rhythm section. The lyrics of “Drop Me Off in New Orleans” celebrate the city’s vibrant culture, including its food, music, and people. The song is a perfect representation of the joyous, upbeat spirit of New Orleans and its music scene. Ruffins’ performance of the song is characterized by his playful and energetic style, making it a standout track in his extensive discography. Overall, “Drop Me Off in New Orleans” is a fun and upbeat celebration of New Orleans and its musical legacy.
5. “Squirrel Nut Zippers” by Axeman Jazz
The Squirrel Nut Zippers are an American band that formed in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in the mid-1990s. They play a style of music that is a fusion of jazz, swing, and blues, and are known for their quirky, whimsical songs and energetic live performances. Some of their most popular songs include “Hell,” “Put a Lid on It,” and “Ghost of Stephen Foster.” The band’s unique style and playful sensibility have made them a favorite of audiences and critics alike, and they continue to tour and perform around the world today. Overall, the Squirrel Nut Zippers are a one-of-a-kind band that has carved out their own unique niche in the world of music.
6. “New Orleans” by PJ Morton
“New Orleans” is a song by American singer and musician PJ Morton. The song is a heartfelt tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Morton’s smooth and soulful voice, backed by a lush arrangement of piano, horns, and percussion. The lyrics of “New Orleans” celebrate the city’s rich history, its vibrant music scene, and its resilient spirit, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and other challenges. The song is a powerful and emotional tribute to the city that has inspired so much great music, and to the people who call it home. PJ Morton’s performance of the song is soulful and passionate, capturing the essence of New Orleans and its music in a way that is both respectful and celebratory. Overall, “New Orleans” is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
7. “I’m Walking To New Orleans” by Fats Domino
“I’m Walking to New Orleans” is a classic rock and roll song by legendary New Orleans musician Fats Domino. The song was released in 1960 and has since become one of Domino’s most enduring hits. The song features Domino’s distinctive, upbeat piano playing, as well as his soulful, bluesy vocal style. The lyrics of “I’m Walking to New Orleans” tell the story of a man who is determined to walk from one end of the country to the other to reach the city of New Orleans, a place where he hopes to find love and happiness. The song is a celebration of the spirit of determination and the joy of travel, and its catchy melody and upbeat tempo have made it a staple of dance floors and parties for decades. Fats Domino’s version of “I’m Walking to New Orleans” remains one of the greatest examples of classic New Orleans rock and roll, and a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the city’s greatest musical legends.
8. “New Orleans State of Mind” by Curren$y
“New Orleans State of Mind” is a song by American rapper Curren$y. The song is a tribute to Curren$y’s hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Curren$y’s laid-back, smooth rap style, backed by a slow and groovy beat. The lyrics of “New Orleans State of Mind” reflect Curren$y’s love for his city, its music, and its people. He raps about the city’s rich history, its distinctive style and flavor, and the resilience of its residents in the face of adversity. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the rapper’s deep connection to his hometown. Curren$y’s performance on “New Orleans State of Mind” is relaxed and confident, showcasing his skill as a rapper and his deep understanding of the city he calls home. Overall, the song is a fitting tribute to New Orleans and its musical legacy.
9. “Sweet Home New Orleans” by Dr. John
“Sweet Home New Orleans” is a song by the legendary New Orleans musician Dr. John. The song is a celebration of the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage, and features Dr. John’s distinctive, bluesy piano playing and soulful vocal style. The lyrics of “Sweet Home New Orleans” paint a picture of the city as a place of warmth, love, and hospitality, with a vibrant music scene and a strong sense of community. The song is a love letter to the city that Dr. John has called home for most of his life, and its upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a staple of New Orleans music. Dr. John’s performance on “Sweet Home New Orleans” is passionate and soulful, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, “Sweet Home New Orleans” is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
10. “My Hometown New Orleans” by Paul Soniat
“My Hometown New Orleans” is a song by American musician Paul Soniat. The song is a nostalgic tribute to the city of New Orleans, and the lyrics of “My Hometown New Orleans” evoke memories of the sights, sounds, and feelings of the city. The song is performed in a traditional jazz style, with a strong melody that evokes the upbeat and celebratory spirit of New Orleans music. The song features Soniat’s signature finger-style guitar playing, and his smooth and soulful vocal performance adds to the song’s emotional impact. The lyrics of “My Hometown New Orleans” are full of vivid images and personal memories, and the song is a moving tribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Overall, “My Hometown New Orleans” is a heartfelt and nostalgic celebration of one of America’s most important and vibrant cities, and is a testament to Paul Soniat’s musical talent and his love of New Orleans.
11. “New Orleans” by Kid Rock
“New Orleans” is a song by American singer and rapper Kid Rock. The song is an upbeat, energetic tribute to the city of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. The song features Kid Rock’s distinctive blend of rock, hip-hop, and country, backed by a driving beat and horns that capture the spirit of New Orleans music. The lyrics of “New Orleans” reflect Kid Rock’s love for the city and its people, and his admiration for their resilience in the face of adversity. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the role that the city has played in shaping American music and culture. Kid Rock’s performance on “New Orleans” is energetic and passionate, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, “New Orleans” is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
12. “I Can’t Wait Much Longer” by Robin Trower
“I Can’t Wait Much Longer” is a song by British guitarist Robin Trower. The song is a blues rock tune with a strong guitar-driven sound, showcasing Trower’s virtuosic playing style. The lyrics of “I Can’t Wait Much Longer” express a sense of impatience and urgency, as the singer longs to be with the person he loves. The song features a soulful vocal performance, and the guitar work is both melodic and powerful. Trower’s performance on “I Can’t Wait Much Longer” is intense and expressive, and his guitar playing is both emotional and technically impressive. The song is a standout example of Trower’s blues rock style, and highlights his mastery of the guitar as well as his ability to craft songs that are both powerful and soulful. Overall, “I Can’t Wait Much Longer” is a fitting tribute to Trower’s musical talent and his contribution to the world of blues rock.
13. “Local New Orleans” by Katey Red
“Local New Orleans” is a song by Katey Red, a rapper and bounce music artist from New Orleans, Louisiana. The song is an energetic tribute to Katey Red’s hometown and the unique musical and cultural heritage of New Orleans. The song features a driving beat and lively, rhythmic flow that are hallmarks of bounce music. The lyrics of “Local New Orleans” reflect Katey Red’s love for the city and its people, and her pride in the cultural heritage of New Orleans. The song is a celebration of the vibrant and diverse music scene of the city, and of the role that New Orleans has played in shaping American music and culture. Katey Red’s performance on “Local New Orleans” is lively and charismatic, capturing the spirit of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and respectful. Overall, “Local New Orleans” is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
14. “Crescent City” by Lucinda Williams
“Crescent City” is a song by American singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams. The song is a slow and soulful tribute to the city of New Orleans, capturing the spirit of the city’s rich musical and cultural heritage. The song features Lucinda Williams’ distinctive blend of roots, country, and blues, backed by a sparse and atmospheric arrangement that highlights her emotional and soulful vocal performance. The lyrics of “Crescent City” reflect Williams’ love for the city and its people, and her admiration for the resilience and determination of New Orleanians. The song is a celebration of the unique spirit of New Orleans, and of the role that the city has played in shaping American music and culture. Lucinda Williams’ performance on “Crescent City” is emotional and moving, capturing the essence of the city and its music in a way that is both respectful and celebratory. Overall, “Crescent City” is a fitting tribute to a city that has had a profound impact on American music and culture.
15. “I’m in New Orleans Trick” by LMFAO
“I’m in New Orleans Trick” is a song by the American electronic dance music duo LMFAO. The song is an upbeat and energetic tribute to the city of New Orleans and its vibrant party scene. The song features a pulsing dance beat and catchy, up-tempo chorus, and the lyrics of “I’m in New Orleans Trick” celebrate the wild and carefree spirit of New Orleans and its music. The song is a party anthem that captures the essence of the city’s music and culture, and invites listeners to join in the fun. LMFAO’s performance on “I’m in New Orleans Trick” is lively and energetic, capturing the spirit of the city and its music in a way that is both celebratory and tongue-in-cheek. Overall, “I’m in New Orleans Trick” is a fun and lighthearted tribute to a city that has played a major role in shaping American music and culture.
16. “John Wayne and Jesus” by Pat Green
“John Wayne and Jesus” is a song by American country singer-songwriter Pat Green. The song is a reflection on faith, family, and the American way of life, and the lyrics of “John Wayne and Jesus” explore the idea of what it means to be a real man in modern America. The song features a straightforward, rootsy arrangement and Pat Green’s distinctive, soulful vocal performance, and the lyrics of the song pay tribute to two of the most iconic and enduring symbols of American masculinity: the cowboy hero John Wayne and Jesus Christ. The song is a meditation on what it means to be a good man, and on the importance of faith, family, and values in American life. Pat Green’s performance on “John Wayne and Jesus” is heartfelt and sincere, capturing the essence of the song’s themes and capturing the hearts of audiences around the world. Overall, “John Wayne and Jesus” is a powerful and moving tribute to American values and culture.
17. “New Orleans” by Elvis Presley
“New Orleans” is a song by the legendary American musician Elvis Presley. The song is a cover of a popular 1950s R&B tune, and features Elvis Presley’s characteristic blend of rock ‘n’ roll energy and R&B soul. The song is a tribute to the city of New Orleans, and the lyrics of “New Orleans” celebrate the city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant culture. Elvis Presley’s performance on the song is energetic and upbeat, capturing the spirit of New Orleans and its music in a way that is both nostalgic and timeless. The song features a driving rock ‘n’ roll beat and Elvis Presley’s distinctive vocal style, and is widely regarded as one of his classic recordings. Overall, “New Orleans” is a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to bring together different musical styles and create a sound that was truly his own.
18. “Witch Queen Of New Orleans” by Redbone
“Witch Queen of New Orleans” is a song by the American rock band Redbone. The song is a celebration of the mystical and supernatural side of New Orleans, and the lyrics of “Witch Queen of New Orleans” paint a vivid picture of the city’s rich and mysterious history. The song features a unique blend of rock, funk, and Latin music styles, and Redbone’s signature use of tribal drums, horns, and Native American flutes creates a distinctive and powerful sound. The song’s vocal performance is passionate and soulful, and the lyrics of “Witch Queen of New Orleans” evoke the mysterious and mystical spirit of New Orleans and its rich cultural heritage. “Witch Queen of New Orleans” is widely regarded as one of Redbone’s signature tunes, and remains a classic of 1970s rock music. Overall, the song is a powerful celebration of the spirit and culture of New Orleans, and a timeless tribute to one of America’s most vibrant and unique cities.
19. “New Orleans Wins the War” by Randy Newman
“New Orleans Wins the War” is a song by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman. The song is a tribute to the resilience and determination of the people of New Orleans, and the lyrics of “New Orleans Wins the War” reflect on the challenges faced by the city and its residents throughout its history. The song is performed in Newman’s signature style, blending elements of folk, blues, and jazz to create a unique and evocative sound. The song’s melody is upbeat and optimistic, and the lyrics of “New Orleans Wins the War” celebrate the spirit and strength of the people of New Orleans. The song is widely regarded as one of Newman’s most powerful and moving pieces, and is a testament to his ability to tell the stories of real people and communities in a way that is both authentic and meaningful. Overall, “New Orleans Wins the War” is a timeless tribute to one of America’s most vibrant and important cities.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
