New Orleans Celebrates David Bowie

You may have heard of or even seen one of New Orleans' famous jazz funerals. Such an event exists on film in the pre-title sequence of the James Bond film Live and Let Die. It starts off as a solemn and weepy event, then all of a sudden busts into a jazzy strut in full celebration of a life well-lived. The procession, called a "second line," eventually snakes it's way to the gravesite. It's a wonder the bodies stay in the casket, such a joyful noise is made along the way!

Last week, it was announced after his passing David Bowie's family would not have a public service and that his remains had been quickly and quietly cremated ("Ashes To Ashes" indeed.) That did not stop the band Arcade Fire, frequent visitors and fans of Bowie and New Orleans, from teaming up with the city's legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band to give the Thin White Duke the send off he deserves this past Saturday. Never at a loss for a reason to celebrate, THOUSANDS of mourners/partiers showed up. It's a wonder to behold!

Numerous videos were posted of the event. Here's the musicians and the crowd performing "Suffragette City." Wham bam thank you ma'am: