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New Orleans Jazz Fest '07

Don't expect a totally authentic experience at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival this year. The current Mr. Jessica Simpson takes the stage today in what is sure to be a face-contorting comparison of women's bodies to theme parks.

The second segment of the two-weekend event continues until Sunday. Other upcoming headliners include Rod Stewart, Steely Dan, Norah Jones, ZZ Top, John Legend, Brad Paisley, Van Morrison and Ludacris.

Hundreds of local musicians put the jazz back in Jazz Festival. Artists like Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias, JD Hill & the Jammers, and Frankie Ford round out the lineup.

Of course no outdoor gathering is complete without overeating. Attendees can indulge in jambalaya, crawfish, and po-boys from esteemed restaurants throughout the state.

Journalists writing about the kickoff weekend last Friday through Sunday report that despite its glitz and gluttony, Katrina's memory remains at the forefront of the celebration. "Singer John Boutté introduced the magnificent rage and helplessness in his version of the Eurythmics' `Why' by shouting, `America, can you hear me? Can you hear me now?' He wasn't talking about his cell phone or the sound system," says Rolling Stone's David Fricke.

Related Stories:
· New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival [Official Site]