I was just informed that Kermit Ruffins and the Rebirth Brass Band will perform “Drop Me Off in New Orleans” from Kermit Ruffins’ Big Easy CD, and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews will join the Rebirth Brass Band for a performance of “Do Whatcha Wanna” which Kermit co-wrote and has recorded with both Rebirth and on his own, The Barbecue Swingers Live, during the player introductions of the NBA All Star Game.

Stephanie Jordan will join Branford Marsalis for the National Anthem. I also know that Ellis Marsalis is part of the half time show in a New Orleans piano extravaganza led by Harry Connick, Jr. Irvin Mayfield and Ellis Marsalis are releasing a new CD, Love Songs, Ballads and Standards on April 1st.

The NBA All Star Game will be broadcast in over 200 countries to approximately 500 million people and in over 40 languages. Music, though, is the international language.

Thank you to Branford Marsalis and Harry Connick, Jr. for all of their great music, and for all of their help in rebuilding New Orleans.