Here is an interesting artist that's new to me, and I wanted to share his music.

Treebeard, that music map was quite interesting; why don't you share with us some of your favorite music on the map?

@rok2id:  "Las Vegas is a better destination for sin city, plus it's family friendly."
I'd rather spend a year in NO than a day in Vegas.  Vive la difference.

keegiam:
I think you have that the other way around. 
Cheers

Nope.  I had it right.  I find Vegas detestable.

I second rok's recommendation of Louisiana Scrapbook.  This was probably my first intro to Louisiana music. I traveled to Baton Rouge for work several times between 1987-89 and fell in love with the music and food.

Here are a couple of gems, the second being from the Louisiana Scrapbook CD.

Irma Thomas - Loving Arms - Here's a great intro to her music.  

Dirty Dozen Brass Band - Mardi Gras in New Orleans

I'll post some more when I get a chance.

Regarding the question of why musicians tend to stay around New Orleans more than other places, just a guess, but there seems to be a very strong sense of community in NOLA.  They have their own food and their own style of music (several of each actually).  Very few places can boast both.  I think this enhances the sense of community.