NEW ORLEANS NIGHTLIFE & MUSIC - New Orleans Musicians

New Orleans Musicians: Jeremy Davenport

Trumpeter Jeremy Davenport was named one of the nation's most eligible bachelors just before he was scooped up by Emeril Lagasse as a sidekick for his new television show. Visitor caught up with him at his weekly show at the Ritz-Carlton's FQB lounge.

What is the first word that comes to mind to describe New Orleans?
Unique.

Why do you live here?
There is no place like this in the world. What's kept me here though is all the great musicians.

What is your best habit?
I'm diligent about practicing and working out. I like the food here so I have to workout twice as much.

What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten here?
It's not unusual but crawfish still freak me out. I grew up in St. Louis and no-one ate that. Down here people treat them like tiny lobsters.

Do you have a favorite local character?
Kermit Ruffins. He is Mr. New Orleans.

What is the most romantic place in the city?
Up by the Riverfront in Woldenberg Park.

What would you like to change about the New Orleans?
We need to shorten the summer.

Do you have a favorite song about New Orleans?
Hoagy Carmichael's "New Orleans." I play it every night.

Do you have a favorite Jazz Fest memory?
My first one. I had just come here from New York and didn't know what it was. Ellis [Marsalis] hired me to play with him. He was there in a straw hat and a Hawaiian shirt and there were thousands of people. I was blown away.

How did you land a spot on Emeril's show?
Actually, I sang at his wedding. He became a fan and he always said we were going to colaborate together someday.

How do you like doing tv?
It's great. Emeril actually cooks during the show. The first show he did a leg of lamb.