Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York & Los Angeles

New Orleans Annual Jazz Fest came to a close yesterday. This year Jazz Fest 2006 was more than just about the music. It was about the recovery of New Orleans from Katrina.

Legend Jimmy Buffett opened with “City of New Orleans” and the six day event began. Organizers declined to give an attendance number but in the past, around 500,000 usually show up. This year, like many before it, the streets and lawns were crammed with people waiting to see their favorite performers.

Local musicians and other who performed were Bob Dylan, , Lionel Richie, Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, Etta James and Keith Urban.

The big disappointment of the night but also a highlight was the cancellation of the last day’s headliner, Fats Domino. Although Domino cancelled a couple hours before his performance, he took time to come on stage and greet the crowd. Fats Domino was a recent victim in Katrina, losing his house, gold and platinum records and his piano. He recently had a quadruple bypass in March. Lionel Richie took his place as headliner for the last day.

Jazz Fest was held at New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course. At the height of the flooding, this area was underneath 5 feet of water. I believe this year’s Jazz Fest was so important for the town of New Orleans to rebuild, become a better sense of community and most importantly heal. I wish I personally could’ve been there and I’m glad to hear everything went off without a hitch.