Turning 40.

with Ivan Neville at the Maple Leaf

March 25th felt like the right kind of day to slow down before the music started. I spent the afternoon walking through the Botanical Garden surrounded by spring flowers, then took Bowie and Luna for a stroll through Lafreniere Park. It was quiet, simple, and exactly what I needed before heading into the night.

That evening I met up with friends at the Maple Leaf Bar to catch Ivan Neville and Friends for their Shed Sessions. The Leaf has a way of making nights feel both electric and intimate at the same time. You can be standing a few feet away from world-class musicians while the entire room locks into the same groove.

Ivan Neville and Tony Hall led the band through a set that felt loose, soulful, and completely on fire. The crowd was moving from the first notes, soaking in every moment the way New Orleans crowds do when the music is right. Watching musicians of that caliber just having fun on stage is one of the things that makes this city’s music scene so special.

When we finally walked out around 1am, I remember saying, “Damn… that was amazing. One of the best shows I’ve ever seen.” The band had completely set that place on fire.

Turning 40 that night felt surprisingly good. My 30s had their share of chaos — COVID, addiction, and a few chapters I’m more than happy to leave behind. Walking into my 40s felt different. I’m sober, I’ve found a healthy creative outlet through photography, and I feel like I’m starting a new chapter.

And honestly, there’s no better way to start it than with a night of incredible music at the Maple Leaf.