Trombone Shorty is releasing his newest album Parking Lot Symphony on the defining jazz label, Blue Note. It’s just another sign that there’s something special about the New Orleans trombonist, Troy Andrews. The young luminary has enjoyed a Grammy nomination in 2010 and recurring role as himself on the critically lauded HBO show, Treme.
Andrews has made a name for himself as a voice for present day New Orleans jazz. With the Trombone Shorty Foundation, he preserves his home town’s century–old music tradition by providing jazz education for local youth and programming concerts around the city.
Likewise, he’s assumed the role of New Orleans jazz’s ambassador to the rock world. He has had a long relationship with Lenny Kravitz, appearing in Kravtiz’s touring band and having Kravitz play some guitar on his albums. Trombone Shorty is also currently touring with his band, Orleans Avenue, as an opener for the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
We talked to Trombone Shorty about his childhood in the Treme neighborhood and the musical spirit that has coursed through his home city for as long as he can remember. It’s a place where everyone has rhythm and everyone’s quick to move their bodies. It’s a place where music is as alive as any person.