The Super Bowl LIX pre-game show is shaping up to be a musical celebration of New Orleans and Louisiana, spotlighting some of the region’s most iconic talent. In a move that honors the rich musical legacy of the state, the NFL has announced that the pre-game telecast will feature an all-Louisiana lineup of artists, set to perform on the world stage ahead of the big game on February 9, 2024.
Jon Batiste: A Hometown Hero Takes the Stage
The show will kick off with Jon Batiste, the Grammy-winning musician who grew up in Kenner, Louisiana. Batiste, a former student of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) and St. Augustine High School, will perform the National Anthem in the Caesars Superdome, the very stadium where he once honed his craft. Known for his dynamic performances and genre-defying music, Batiste’s talent has taken him from his roots in New Orleans to a global stage, including his role as the bandleader for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. His latest project, Beethoven Blues, showcases his classical piano reinterpretations and further cements his versatility as an artist.
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and Lauren Daigle: A Powerful Collaboration
Next, fans will be treated to a performance of “America the Beautiful” by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and Lauren Daigle. Andrews, a native of New Orleans’ Treme neighborhood, is one of the city’s most celebrated musicians, known for his high-energy performances and genre-blending sound, which fuses jazz, funk, and rock. Daigle, who hails from Lafayette, Louisiana, has made a name for herself as a contemporary Christian music star with mainstream pop success. Her album Look Up Child made waves in both the Christian and pop music worlds, with hits like “You Say” earning her the moniker of the “Christian Adele.” The two have collaborated before, and their joint performance promises to be a show-stopping moment, filled with the soulful sounds of Louisiana.
Ledisi: A New Orleans Star Rises
Ledisi, born and raised in New Orleans before moving to California, will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, also known as the Black national anthem. Ledisi, whose powerful voice and musical range have earned her critical acclaim, joins the lineup to honor the history and cultural significance of New Orleans’ music scene. Known for her blend of R&B, jazz, and soul, Ledisi’s performance will add a layer of depth and emotion to the pre-game festivities.
A Legacy of Musical Talent
The NFL’s choice to feature these artists from New Orleans and Louisiana pays homage to the region’s deep musical roots. New Orleans has long been a hub of musical innovation, producing jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and modern-day stars such as Batiste and Andrews. In fact, decades ago, the halftime shows at Super Bowl games in New Orleans often featured local talent, including clarinetist Pete Fountain, trumpeter Al Hirt, and singer Irma Thomas.
This year, however, instead of spotlighting local artists during the halftime show, the NFL has chosen to honor them during the pre-game telecast, giving the region a chance to shine in the global spotlight. The NFL’s head of music, Seth Dudowsky, expressed his excitement about working with this year’s performers, saying, “We’re honored to work with this year’s pregame lineup to celebrate the rich musical legacy of New Orleans and the entire state…This year’s performers will bring the energy, soul and vibrant sounds of the region to a global stage.”
Louisiana’s Musical Influence: Hip, Hot, and Here to Stay
As the NFL embraces Louisiana’s musical tradition, it also highlights the cultural influence that continues to shape modern music. For fans looking to get in the spirit of Super Bowl LIX, the “What is Hip?!” radio show, airing every Friday night, showcases the sounds of New Orleans and beyond. Featuring a mix of jazz, funk, soul, and contemporary Louisiana-style music, the show celebrates the unique blend of genres that make the region’s music so vibrant and diverse.
Looking Ahead: Super Bowl LIX, New Orleans, and Beyond
While the NFL’s decision to feature Kendrick Lamar as the halftime performer sparked some disappointment among fans hoping for a local artist, the pre-game show more than makes up for it by offering a deep dive into the musical soul of New Orleans and Louisiana. Artists like Batiste, Trombone Shorty, Daigle, and Ledisi embody the spirit of a city that has given the world some of its most influential musical contributions.
As the world tunes in to Super Bowl LIX, they will be treated not only to a thrilling game but to a musical showcase that celebrates the heart and soul of New Orleans, Louisiana—reminding us all of the enduring power of music to unite and inspire.
What is Hip?! Radio Show: The Ultimate NOLA Sound Every Friday Night
Every Friday night, New Orleans’ vibrant musical spirit comes alive on the airwaves through the What is Hip?! radio show. For hours, this one-of-a-kind program serves as a love letter to the rich musical heritage of New Orleans, playing only NOLA-style music — a genre-blending mix of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, blues, and everything in between. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of the Crescent City or a listener tuning in from across the world, What is Hip?! offers an immersive experience that celebrates the heart and soul of one of the most musically rich cities on the planet.
A Journey Through the Sounds of New Orleans
Each Friday night, What is Hip?! takes listeners on a musical journey that spans the history of New Orleans music, from its jazz origins to its modern-day interpretations. The show is a deep dive into the diverse sounds that have made New Orleans a global music capital, highlighting everything from classic tracks by legends like Louis Armstrong and Professor Longhair to the cutting-edge beats of today’s artists like Trombone Shorty, Jon Batiste, and Big Freedia.
Expect to hear the smooth rhythms of New Orleans jazz, the funky brass of second-line parades, the soulful ballads that have defined R&B, and the infectious energy of modern Louisiana artists. With its mix of past and present, What is Hip?! not only honors New Orleans’ musical legacy but also showcases the ongoing evolution of its sound. The show serves as a living, breathing testament to a city where music is more than just entertainment—it’s an identity.
All NOLA, All Night Long
Unlike typical radio shows that mix genres or cover broad musical territories, What is Hip?! has one guiding principle: NOLA music, all night long. The show prides itself on curating a playlist that is 100% dedicated to the rich tapestry of sounds that make New Orleans a musical force. No genre is off-limits as long as it’s got that unmistakable NOLA flair. From the timeless grooves of The Meters and Dr. John to the uptempo brass bands like Rebirth Brass Band and The Soul Rebels, to contemporary stars like Lizzo (whose Louisiana roots are reflected in her funky, soulful style) and Tank and the Bangas, the show features a wide spectrum of styles that represent the true diversity of New Orleans music.
Each Friday night feels like a live concert experience, with tracks seamlessly blending together to create a non-stop musical celebration. It’s the kind of show where you’ll hear everything from Fats Domino’s rock ‘n’ roll hits to the modern-day swagger of Mardi Gras Indians and bounce music, all punctuated by the unique rhythms and melodies that can only be found in New Orleans.
Bringing the NOLA Vibe to the World
While What is Hip?! may be based in New Orleans, its reach extends far beyond the city’s borders. Thanks to the magic of the internet and modern broadcasting, listeners from all corners of the globe can tune in to experience the sounds of the city. Whether you’re in New York, London, Tokyo, or Paris, What is Hip?! brings the energy of the Crescent City to your living room, car, or wherever you may be.
For those in New Orleans, What is Hip?! is the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Whether you’re heading to a neighborhood bar, gathering for a house party, or just hanging out with friends, the show provides the perfect soundtrack to start the night. For visitors, it’s an introduction to the deep roots of NOLA’s music scene—one that’s been influencing global music for over a century.
More Than Just Music: A Community Experience
What is Hip?! is more than just a radio show; it’s a celebration of New Orleans’ cultural fabric. Hosted by passionate DJs who know the ins and outs of the city’s music scene, the show is a space where listeners can connect with the history, tradition, and future of New Orleans music. The DJs often share fun facts, stories about the artists, and local trivia that give listeners an even deeper understanding of the songs they’re hearing.
The show also serves as a platform for up-and-coming artists from New Orleans, giving a spotlight to new voices and sounds. Whether it’s a local jazz band, a rising R&B star, or an experimental artist blending genres, What is Hip?! helps to foster the future of NOLA music by keeping it in the public eye.
Listeners are encouraged to interact with the show, request songs, and share their own connections to the music. This sense of community is a big part of what makes What is Hip?! so special—it’s not just a show, but a shared experience for anyone who loves the music and culture of New Orleans.
Why What is Hip?! is Essential Listening
In a city like New Orleans, where music is not just an art form but a way of life, What is Hip?! encapsulates the essence of NOLA. It’s not just about the sound; it’s about the culture, the history, and the people who keep the music alive. The show is a tribute to the rich, layered history of New Orleans music and serves as a reminder of the city’s influence on the world’s soundscape.
So, if you’re ever in need of a musical escape, tune into What is Hip?! every Friday night. Whether you’re familiar with every note or just discovering the beauty of New Orleans’ unique sound, the show promises a deep, immersive dive into the music that defines one of the world’s greatest musical cities.