Bonus Tracks: Trombone Shorty

My research for Bayou Fire renewed my fondness for traditional jazz. Today’s By Special Request artist is one of New Orleans’ finest players; Trombone Shorty has been a pro since he was a kid. I’m looking forward to seeing him again in August.

Bonus Track: “I Think I Love You”

When Diana told him she had plans to visit Preservation Hall for a late show one evening, Amos insisted on meeting her there. He walked over from his house and joined her in the line that snaked down St. Peter Street. Once inside, they sat on the floor cushions in the very front, listening to traditional jazz played by some of the finest musicians Diana had ever heard. When she whispered that her back was bothering her a little, Amos moved closer so that she could lean against him. He put an arm around her waist and she settled in with a sigh. She was close enough now that Amos could smell her perfume, which was subtle but intoxicating. He recognized it as a signature scent from a French Quarter perfumer on Chartres Street; it was perfect for her. And it made him realize how much he wanted to make love to the woman whose head rested on his shoulder. — Excerpt from Bayou Fire

---

When I was researching this book, I took in a show at Preservation Hall myself.  I’ve seen today’s By  Special Request artist, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, three times since then. Here’s one of my favorite pieces, “I Think I Love You.” Enjoy!

Music Monday: “Evangeline Special”

Today’s By Special Request artist is Motordude Zydeco. They’ve been around for 30 years now, and always put on a great show.

I listened to a lot of Cajun and zydeco music while writing Bayou Fire. You can read a post about zydeco music in general at this link. Enjoy!

Bonus Track: “Jolie Blonde”

Hi, everyone. Today’s By Special Request track covers two artists on my list: Doug Kershaw and Steve Riley. I listened to both of them often while writing Bayou Fire, and was privileged to see them both perform in Lodi. Enjoy!

Bonus Track: “Nonc Lloyd”

Hi, everyone. Today’s entry in the By Special Request series is Cajun Music Hall of Fame member Lee Benoit, performing a two-step called “Nonc Lloyd.” Lee’s music was in heavy rotation while I was writing Bayou Fire, and I was lucky enough to catch one of his shows during my first trip to New Orleans. Enjoy!