“OH, LORD I WANT TO BE IN THAT NUMBER:” IDENTITY & JAZZ TOURISM IN NEW ORLEANS

Abstract

From the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, the city underwent a transformative journey, marked by the birth of jazz, its diaspora post-WWI, and the subsequent National Revival. This study explores the intricate evolution of New Orleans as a cultural and musical epicenter, specifically focusing on the interplay of tourism, jazz, and the identity of New Orleans. The New Orleans Jazz Club (NOJC), along with other local organizations emerged as crucial players in preserving the authenticity of Traditional New Orleans Jazz, fostering a vibrant community, and contributing to the city's global recognition as the "Birthplace of Jazz." As the narrative unfolds, it traces the multifaceted impacts of tourism on New Orleans, examining its role in urban revitalization, employment, and the decline in the city's residential population. The final chapters illuminate the ongoing struggle for place identity, particularly concerning the black population, and the profound consequences of Hurricane Katrina. This study offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex dynamics between cultural heritage, economic development, and resilience, making New Orleans a compelling case study in the enduring interplay between tradition and transformation.