Collection:LPB

Genre: Interview

Place Covered: New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana

Copyright Holder: Louisiana Educational Television Authority

Date Issued: 1998-05-17

Duration: 00:26:04

Subjects: Thomas, Irma | Singers | Rhythm and blues music | Soul music | New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Contributors:

• Weill, Gus Host
• Fowler, Ken Producer
• Eaglin, Carlos Producer
• Casey, Ashley Heyer Producer
• Thomas, Irma Interviewee

This episode of the series “Louisiana Legends” from May 17, 1998, features an interview with Irma Thomas conducted by Gus Weill. Thomas is a Rhythm and Blues singer known as the “Soul Queen of New Orleans.” She discusses: her early career; raising four kids while on the road; her first song, “(You Can Have My Husband But) Don’t Mess With My Man”; her recent New Year’s Eve Show with Bonnie Raitt; the hospitality of Louisiana; her reception in Japan; her move to California after Hurricane Camille; the importance of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival; appealing to a diverse audience; giving back to the community; her husband and manager Emile Jackson; her most memorable performances; her future plans; her recent collaboration with Marcia Ball and Tracy Nelson on “Sing It”; and her advice for young performers.