Beyond the Music

Our fourth episode is with one of New Orleans' biggest personalities - Kermit Ruffins. From starting Rebirth Brass Band to performing on stages all over the world, we get all the stories from Ruffins ahead of his performance at this year's Jazz Fest.

Vaucresson Sausage is a multi-generational business in the 7th Ward of New Orleans that has been a part of Jazz Fest since its inception in 1970. Not only does that make Vaucresson Sausage the longest running food vendor at Jazz Fest, but it also lends a hand to third generation Vance Vaucresson's mission of upholding cuisine, community and culture in the city we love so much. This week, Vaucresson talks about his family, his business and the love of Jazz Fest.

Nan Parati is the art director for the New Orleans jazz and heritage festival. For decades, however, she might be most well known as the official sign maker for the artists at each of the festival’s stages, as well as other signs throughout the grounds. We ask the Nan how she began making her signature mark and how thousands of signs and designs make it to the festival each year.

Our very first episode features local artist and six-time New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival poster artist Terrance Osborne. Osborne's signature style and vibrant colors have always been a perfect match for New Orleans and the iconic signature image of Jazz Fest each year. Osborne shares his journey with Jazz Fest, where to see him this year and the festival food item that has a special place in his heart.