Elation Podcast

Leslie Cooper is the Music Mama of Pass It On NOLA, an initiative dedicated to getting instruments into the hands of young musicians who need them. She shares how her journey growing up with a jazz musician stepfather shaped her love for music and why she’s passionate about ensuring kids have access to their own instruments. Through Pass It On NOLA, Leslie has helped countless children receive donated instruments, giving them the opportunity to learn, practice, and grow as musicians—keeping the spirit of New Orleans music alive.

We talk about New Orleans' deep brass band culture, the importance of music education, and the role band directors play in shaping young musicians. Leslie shares touching stories of kids who received instruments through Pass It On NOLA and how music changes lives. Her commitment to keeping the city’s musical legacy alive is inspiring, and we dive into how others can help support the cause.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Vincent Berry is a Grammy-nominated songwriter who understands the power of ownership, creativity, and legacy in the music industry. He shares insights on why artists should protect their intellectual property, how to leverage music catalogs like real estate, and the importance of never selling publishing rights. Vincent also reflects on his journey, from honing his craft in the studio to collaborating with major artists, and how faith and financial intelligence have shaped his career.

We get into the realities of the business, the need for artists to embrace content creation, and how today’s industry rewards those who market themselves effectively. Vincent also opens up about fatherhood, personal growth, and his upcoming projects, including a new streaming platform and a 52-week song release plan. This conversation is packed with wisdom for artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to turn their talent into a lasting legacy.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Gene Meneray is a co-founder of The Ella Project, a nonprofit providing legal and business resources to artists and musicians in Louisiana. We sat down with Gene to discuss the realities of the music industry, from the importance of artists understanding copyright and licensing to the challenges of monetizing music in the streaming era. He shares how The Ella Project offers free legal services, helping musicians protect their work, negotiate contracts, and navigate an industry that often leaves creatives vulnerable.

We also dive into Gene’s role in securing copyright protections for Mardi Gras Indian suits, his insights on how New Orleans compares to other music cities, and why the future of music business requires innovative revenue models. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or someone who loves New Orleans culture, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Lance Morello is the team captain of PigLit, one of the standout teams at Hogs for the Cause, a festival and fundraiser dedicated to fighting pediatric brain cancer. We sit down with Lance to talk about how PigLit got started, the impact of the fundraiser, and the deep camaraderie among team members. From their signature pulled pork egg rolls to their legendary Friday night party, PigLit has made a name for itself both in competition and in raising funds for a cause that hits close to home.

We also dive into the friendly rivalries, the high-energy atmosphere of Hogs for the Cause, and what it takes to throw one of the best parties of the weekend. Plus, Lance gives us a sneak peek at this year’s event, including PigLit's music lineup and fundraising goals. If you're heading to Hogs for the Cause or just love a good story about food, community, and giving back, this one's for you!

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Murf Reeves is the Music Director at WWOZ and a passionate advocate for the power of music and radio. We sit down with Murf to talk about his journey into music, his love for radio, and how breathwork and self-discovery have shaped his perspective. He shares how growing up with Columbia Records, discovering artists like The Doors and Led Zeppelin, and immersing himself in New Orleans' music scene led him to a career in radio. We also dive into the role of music as a healing tool, the influence of psychedelics on creative expression, and the struggles musicians face in today’s industry.

We discuss the challenges of the modern music business, the lack of infrastructure in New Orleans for artists, and why radio is more important than ever in the streaming era. Murf gives us an inside look at WWOZ, how the station has expanded its global audience, and his experience interviewing legends like Aaron Neville. We also explore the need to reconnect music with tangible experiences and how artists can navigate an industry that often prioritizes algorithms over authenticity. Tune in for a deep conversation about music, passion, and personal transformation.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Nick LaCour is a co-chair of YLC Wednesday at the Square, an eight-week live music series that brings the best of New Orleans’ music, food, and art to Lafayette Square. We dive into what it takes to organize this iconic event, from booking top local acts like Soul Rebels and George Porter Jr. to managing vendors and logistics. Nick shares how the Young Leadership Council (YLC) fosters leadership development and community engagement for young professionals, along with insights on growing New Orleans' creative and entrepreneurial scene.

We also talk about the challenges of event planning, the role of rain insurance, and how Wednesday at the Square fits into the city’s festival culture. Nick opens up about his passion for giving back, why retaining young talent in New Orleans is crucial, and his goal of making YLC even stronger for the future. If you love local music, community events, and behind-the-scenes stories, this one’s for you!

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Nate Cameron is the co-founder of glbl wrmng, an artist collective dedicated to developing and elevating New Orleans’ music scene. We talk about the challenges local artists face, the lack of industry infrastructure in the city, and how mainstream media often appropriates New Orleans culture without reinvesting in it. Nate shares his journey from working in LA, Nashville, and Atlanta to returning home to create opportunities for emerging talent.

We also discuss how New Orleans musicians can treat their craft as a business, why the city lacks major music and comedy industry hubs, and what needs to change for artists to thrive nationally. Nate breaks down the work being done through glbl wrmng and the Trombone Shorty Foundation. This conversation is all about pushing the culture forward while preserving its roots.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Mary Ryan Brown is a comedian from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, who brings humor and heart to her craft. We sat down with Mary to talk about her journey from studying English literature at USM to connecting with stand-up comedy during a challenging postpartum period. She shared how analyzing comedy specials helped her hone her skills and how she balances authenticity and humor in her routines. From her early open mic experiences to building a career in comedy, Mary gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process.

We also explored the therapeutic power of laughter, the evolving landscape of comedy, and the art of crafting relatable stories for audiences. Mary shared her influences, her favorite jokes, and her approach to navigating crowd interactions. If you love comedy and the stories behind it, this conversation with Mary Ryan Brown will leave you inspired and entertained.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Kia Robinson Hatfield is the Director of Programs, Marketing, and Communications at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation. We sit down with Kia to explore her passion for music and culture and the foundation's incredible work in supporting local artists and fostering community. From free music education programs that connect young musicians with world-renowned artists to cultural initiatives that celebrate Louisiana’s rich heritage, Kia shares the transformative impact of the foundation’s efforts.

We also discuss the power of music to inspire and heal, Kia’s favorite moments from her work, and the importance of preserving and expanding music education in New Orleans. Whether it’s creating opportunities for musicians or supporting community events, Kia’s dedication to keeping New Orleans’ cultural traditions alive is truly inspiring.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com

Raj Smoove is a renowned DJ from New Orleans who has shaped the city's music scene and beyond with his talent and innovation. We sit down with Raj to discuss his roots in a musical household, his early experiences performing at Jazz Fest, and the pivotal moments that defined his career, including touring with Cash Money Records and becoming the official game day DJ for the New Orleans Saints. From his first DJ setup to becoming a key figure in New Orleans' vibrant music culture, Raj shares how his passion for music and dedication to his craft have guided his journey.

We also explore how technology has transformed the music industry, the importance of connecting with audiences, and Raj's insights on mentoring the next generation of creatives. Join us as we uncover how Raj uses his platform to bring joy, preserve New Orleans' musical heritage, and inspire others to follow their creative paths.

Our show's host, David Adams, founded Elation Entertainment, a New Orleans-based multi-media entertainment company. With a solid foundation of 8 years working in the Los Angeles music scene conducting multiple music camps with Grammy Associates, Musicians, and Producers, David brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons, encouraging him to bring the entertainment industry standards and creative spaces to New Orleans, a place he calls home. 

Follow Elation Entertainment

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elationent/

Website: https://www.elationent.com