Shannon Powell Quartet Featuring Kevin Louis: "Delta Bound"

Every February during Black History Month and throughout the year, the National Park Service share stories, rich culture, and an invitation for all Americans to reflect on Black history in parks and communities across the country. More than 400 years of Black history and heritage—including achievements, contributions, and historical journeys—are remembered and commemorated in places preserved for current and future generations.

Here, at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, we know that the uniquely American artform of Jazz would never have developed without the contributions and experiences of African Americans. And we treasure the native New Orleanians who keep this musical tradition alive.

Shannon Powell, a highly sought after drummer and percussionist, has achieved international acclaim for his commanding technique and style, rooted in the characteristic funky drum beats of New Orleans. In his early career, Powell toured extensively with Harry Connick, Jr. and released two platinum albums with Connick including, "We Are in Love," and "Blue Light Red Light.” During subsequent years, Powell has toured with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center, Marcus Roberts, Diana Krall, Dr. John, Earl King, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and John Scofield.

Powell is considered a leading force on the traditional jazz circuit and also serves as an educator and clinician. He has been featured at workshops presented at universities and jazz festivals all over the world.

Kevin Louis is a 1995 graduate of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. Kevin received a la Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and a Masters of Arts from the Aaron Copeland’s School of Music at Queens College.

“Rarely does talent come along and ring as true as in the case of Kevin Louis. He is truly a great trumpet player and complete musician. I have become a big fan of this very intelligent and soulful musician.” – Paul Mercer Ellington.