The influence of "black Indian" culture

Post-Katrina, it has become commonplace to lament the decline of New Orleans' distinctive character. But nothing cuts closer to the soul of this city's culture—or the origins of American music—than the endangered art and ceremony of the Mardi Gras Indians.

Though little-known to the public at large, because it operates mostly outside New Orleans' official arts and entertainment districts, black Indian culture has helped shape the course of American music.