New Orleans Artists Speak: Musicians mourn the state of their city

By Alex Mar for RollingStone.com:

"I live in one of the higher parts of the city, so [my house] could still be there -- but I don't know," alt-country singer Shannon McNally, who sought refuge with family in Mississippi, says through tears. "I didn't talk to many of my friends before we left, so I have no idea where anybody is. I'm just assuming that anybody I haven't talked to is on the road or in the Superdome, but I don't know. I'm a little numb. The best parts of New Orleans are underwater. And all those people that couldn't get out -- they're New Orleans."

The vibrant club scene that defines much of the feel of New Orleans faces an uncertain future, of course -- but is bolstered by a determined community. "As far as rebuilding and getting back to the city, I haven't talked to anybody who has not wanted to go back," says Rio Hackford, owner of one of the French Quarter's most eccentric venues, indie rock/burlesque haven One Eyed Jacks. "It's starting from scratch and building on what's the f**king backbone of the real true music scene of f**king America. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and always will be. It's obviously as bad as it could possibly be, but I'm invested in the city. We'll be the first ones to open for business! I mean, where are these musicians gonna go? It's gonna be a mess for a long time, but it'll be a mess with some good tunes. The spirit of New Orleans, it runs pretty deep."