How Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans By Ricky Nelson Introduced Him To Jazz Influences

March 20, 2025

Ricky Nelson was a young man with a dream. Born in 1940, he grew up in a world filled with music, thanks to his famous parents, Ozzie and Harriet Nelson. As a child, Ricky was surrounded by the sounds of early rock and roll, but the moment he first heard “How Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans,” something deep within him stirred. It was a song that spoke of longing, and it struck a chord in Ricky’s heart, connecting him to the vibrant culture of jazz and the lively spirit of New Orleans.

One summer, Ricky took a trip to New Orleans. The moment he arrived, he was enveloped by the sounds of the city: trumpets blaring, saxophones wailing, and the steady beat of drums echoing through the streets. It felt like a different world, one full of life and energy. He wandered through the French Quarter, where musicians played along the sidewalks, and the sweet smell of beignets wafted through the air. It was a pivotal moment for Ricky; he realized that this city, with its rich history and soulful melodies, was calling him. The music he heard there was unlike anything he had ever experienced, and it inspired him to embrace a new sound in his own work.

Returning home, Ricky sat with his guitar, strumming the chords that had accompanied him through sleepless nights. The jazz influences he had absorbed in New Orleans began to seep into his music. He infused his rock and roll tunes with jazzy rhythms and heartfelt lyrics. His audience could feel the change, and they embraced it. Ricky’s new sound not only showcased his versatility as an artist but also highlighted the power of blending genres, proving that music has no boundaries.

As he continued to grow, Ricky faced challenges that would have crushed many artists, including the pressure to conform to the expectations of the music industry. Every time he felt overwhelmed, he would reflect on his experiences in New Orleans, the way the city had intertwined his heart with its music. It reminded him that true artistry comes from the soul. So, he pushed through the hardships, fueled by the passion for the rhythms that swayed him on those New Orleans streets.

With every note he sang and every performance he delivered, Ricky Nelson captured the spirit of not just rock and roll but also the essence of jazz that had so deeply influenced him. His journey taught him that music is a universal language, able to unite people from all walks of life. As he continued to create, he remained grateful for the moment that set him on this path. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, to find your true voice, you have to lose yourself just a little—such as in the soulful melodies of New Orleans.

In the years that followed, Ricky Nelson became a beloved figure in music history, known for his heartfelt ballads and upbeat rock songs. But he never forgot the lessons learned in New Orleans. They molded him into a resilient artist who inspired countless others. His story was a testament to the power of music and the transformative experiences that can shape our lives. Each time he sang “How Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans,” it wasn’t just a song; it was a celebration of the journey that led him to embrace the vibrant heart of jazz and carry it with him wherever he went.