Farewell to Storyville
Black History Month
The Musical Diaspora
The roots of Jazz trace back to African-American communities in New Orleans and the southern states. However, its widespread dissemination across the country was catalyzed by white orchestras gaining press attention and radio airtime, opportunities often denied to black musicians at the time.
In 1915, two significant events prompted a mass exodus of black musicians to the northern states. First, the pervasive discrimination and mistreatment endured by African Americans in the South, which included government-sanctioned violence and the continuation of slavery through unjust incarceration. Second, the Navy’s closure of Storyville in 1917, a vibrant hub of music and entertainment located in New Orleans’ French Quarter.
Storyville was renowned for its prosperity and abundant opportunities for musicians, with legendary pianist Jelly Roll Morton recalling nightly earnings equivalent to $2,000 in today’s currency.
The featured video from the 1947 film “New Orleans” showcases Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday lamenting their departure from their beloved hometown. Even nearly a century later, the emotional ties to New Orleans remain palpable for many.
