Songwriters Hall of Fame Allen Toussaint – HuffPost 12.30.11

Mike Ragogna: It’s nice to acknowledge new and fresh songwriting talent, huh.

Allen Toussaint: It’s so easy in this industry to live your whole life and never be noticed.

MR: What’s it like when you hear your songs being performed today?

AT: Well, when I hear my songs performed on TV or anywhere, it’s a joy. It’s like seeing your children doing well. It’s wonderful.

MR: What do you think about the state of New Orleans music today? Is it coming back greater than ever?

AT: Oh, yes indeed. New Orleans is doing great because Katrina wasn’t a drowning, it was a baptismal. Believe me, New Orleans is moving along at a very good pace. We’ve always been a little slow, but we’re strong.

MR: What advice do you have for new artists?

AT: If you love what you do, do it every day. And learn that there’s no such thing as defeat. Any report you get, whether favorable or unfavorable, is a part of this process. Just stick with it and it will work. Your day will come.