NEW ORLEANS NIGHTLIFE & MUSIC - New Orleans Musicians

New Orleans Musicians: Kermit Ruffins

Trumpeter Kermit Ruffins gets ready to celebrate Louis Armstrong's birthday. A founding member of the Rebirth Brass Band and leader of the Barbeque Swingers, Ruffins is one of the city's most popular young jazzmen.

As the city celebrates Louis Armstrong's birthday, what do you remember him for?
He played on the highest technical level ever. No one's gonna play like that again.

Do you have a favorite Armstrong song?
There's a lot but mine is "Strutting with some Barbeque."

You have a reputation for barbequing during set breaks. Do you have a secret to share for barbequing?
Good heat and slow cooking.

What's the best place to catch a brass band?
Tuesday nights at the Maple Leaf. They've got the Rebirth Brass Band.

Do you have a favorite jazz song about New Orleans?
"What is New Orleans."

How do you beat the heat in the summertime?
Get lots of rest. And if it gets hotter, get more rest.

Kermit Ruffins and special guests will play at the Satchmo Summer Fest.