Social Aid

African American social aid and pleasure clubs, such as the century-plus-old Zulu club, grew out of organizations called benevolent societies, which would help dues-paying members defray health care costs, funeral expenses, and financial hardships. These clubs still carry on many traditions including jazz funerals and second line parades.

Jazz Funerals

Renowned New Orleans jazzman Sidney Bechet once said of New Orleans, "Music here is as much a part of death as it is of life." Jazz funerals are what he most certainly had in mind. As the brass band became increasingly popular during the early 18th century, they were frequently called on to play processional music. On the way to the cemetery they would typically play a dirge or a spiritual such as “Nearer My God to Thee.” On the return trip from the cemetery, the band would strike up something more rousing like “When the Saints Go Marching In” or “Didn't He Ramble.” The members of the procession dance joyously, celebrating the life of the deceased.

Second Line Parades

The second line tradition goes hand in hand with brass band parades. The band and sponsoring organization — or the family in the case of a jazz funeral — form the main line. Everyone else marching and dancing in the procession makes up the second line. The tradition has evolved into it’s own form of umbrella-twirling, hanky-waving dance that you can see at festivals and parties around New Orleans.