NEW ORLEANS NIGHTLIFE & MUSIC - New Orleans Musicians
New Orleans Musicians: Charmaine Neville
Charmaine Neville gets vocal about New Orleans.
What is the first word that comes to mind to describe New Orleans?
Bourbon Street Parade. It's a traditional jazz tune that says it all.
What is your secret weapon for thriving in New Orleans?
Coffee. And it's strong so I take it with lots of cream and lots of sugar.
Why do you live here?
Because this is the place to be. There's no place like it. But if I didn't live here I'd have to be in Brazil or Italy, because there they like life and they eat, eat, eat.
What is your best habit?
I can't even think of a best one. It must be getting up and going to church.
What is your worst habit?
Hanging out all night after shows.
What's the most unusual thing you've ever eaten?
Alligator sausage.
What experience of yours best explains New Orleans?
Going to the French Quarter Festival. You see little bits of New Orleans all in the same spot. You get a good taste of everything.
What's the most underrated thing about this city?
Our teachers and our police. They're working hard and doing a good job.
What's the most romantic place in the city?
The Moonwalk, down by the river.
What have you always wanted to do on Mardi Gras but haven't dared?
Throw all care to the wind. But I've always got something to do or someone to watch over. It'd be fun to finally miss a parade.
What is one thing you would never change about this city?
The fact that the city is always open. There's always some place open to eat, drink, hear music or even make groceries.
Who is your favorite local performer?
Ernie K. Doe. He's been hanging in there a long time. He's a showman.
Who is your favorite local personality?
Angela Hill, the news anchor. She loves this city so much she is New Orleans.
What do you do with your old Mardi Gras beads?
I have so many grandbabies that I get a lot. But I give them to the schools, which recycle them for fundraisers.
What is your favorite song about New Orleans
Louis Armstrong's "Christmas Time in New Orleans."
What is your favorite Jazz Fest memory?
I saw Stevie Wonder and Ella Fitzgerald get together and do a gospel tune.
What is your favorite New Orleans cliché?
"Going-by-mymomenem."