Just say NO! No, no, New Orleans....

Walking to New Orleans...
lyrics by: Bobby Charles; inspired by and sung by: Fats Domino

This time I'm walking to New Orleans
I'm walking to New Orleans
I'm walking to New Orleans
I'm gonna need two pairs of shes
when I get through walking me blues
when I get back to New Orleans
I've got my suitcase in my hand
now ain't that a shame.
I'm leaving here today
yes
I'm going back home to stay.
Yes
I'm walking to New Orleans
You used to be my honey
till you spent all my money.
No use for you to cry
I see you buy and buy
'cause I`m walking to New Orleans
I've got no time for talking.
I've got to keep on walking.
New Orleans is my home
that's the reason while I'm gone
yes
I`m walking to New Orleans
I'm walking to New Orleans
I'm walking to New Orleans


Today in the news- it was reported that Antonio "Fats" Domino had been both rescued and evacuated following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the total destruction of New Orleans from the subsequent levy breaks that flooded the "bowl" as predicted by so many doomsayers. I often think of this gifted man as I catch myself humming this little ditty... it will remain poignant even more so now as the great Crescent City will never be the same. And- now- I read these words and reflect on how many of those poor refugees left town (finally) with no shoes and only the shirts on their backs.

I hope that both Fats and the people of New Orleans will be able to look back and also look forward and sing this song proudly. They may also want to sing another of his famous songs: "Blueberry Hill" a catchy tune and clever lyrics that is actually a little town not far from New Orleans. I'm not sure how it fared in the tragedy. It's also coincidental to note that Fats recorded: "Blue Monday" and "Let the Four Winds Blow"... more appropriate words haven't been written in regards to this tragedy.

Regardless-- it's easier to sleep now (almost five days after the beginning of the end) knowing that one of New Orleans' great sons is alive and well.