The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival was the stage for a memorable collision of politics and music as the legendary Rolling Stones took the spotlight alongside outspoken frontman Mick Jagger. The band’s performance at Jazz Fest marked the end of a five-year journey, delayed first by Mick Jagger’s heart surgery in 2019 and then by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
Despite initial concerns about crowd control at the one-off event on Thursday night, the real standout moment came when Mick Jagger addressed the audience after a rendition of their iconic hit “Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Jagger acknowledged the presence of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry in the crowd and humorously quipped, “We want to include him too, even if he wants to take us back to the Stone Age.”
In response, Jeff Landry took to social media to reply in a good-natured and light-hearted manner, indicating that there was no ill will between the two sides. In fact, Landry even extended an invitation for the Rolling Stones to return to Louisiana in the future.
This playful banter between the rock icon and the politician showcased that it is possible to disagree on politics and policies while still maintaining a cordial and friendly relationship. The exchange added an entertaining and memorable moment to an already historic night at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.