Here is an interesting artist that's new to me, and I wanted to share his music.

I second rok's recommendation of Louisiana Scrapbook.  This was probably my first intro to Louisiana music. I traveled to Baton Rouge for work several times between 1987-89 and fell in love with the music and food.

Here are a couple of gems, the second being from the Louisiana Scrapbook CD.

Irma Thomas - Loving Arms - Here's a great intro to her music.  

Dirty Dozen Brass Band - Mardi Gras in New Orleans

I'll post some more when I get a chance.

Regarding the question of why musicians tend to stay around New Orleans more than other places, just a guess, but there seems to be a very strong sense of community in NOLA.  They have their own food and their own style of music (several of each actually).  Very few places can boast both.  I think this enhances the sense of community. 

***** They have their own food and their own style of music*****

I think that's the answer.  O-10 alluded to that earlier, folks being comfortable in their surroundings.  Wynton went up north, and in spite of his brilliance, he has been under attack by noise-makers ever since he got there.

One of my favorites from Louisiana Scrapbook:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lza3seSrkXg

I hope I didn't post this earlier.

Cheers

I love that one.  I also love the sound Clarence Gatemouth Brown coaxes from his violin on Song for Renee - https://youtu.be/BaF28f4mj_M

Any now for something completely different - https://youtu.be/qE4Z-tq-45Q

Gatemouth Brown:

"Born in Louisiana, raised on the Texas side". :)

Cheers