Collection

"Second line" is a tradition in brass band parades in New Orleans, Louisiana. The "first line" consisted of the people who were an integral part of the ceremony, such as the members of the club or krewe, or family and friends of the deceased at a funeral. To follow such processions because one enjoyed the music came to be known as to "second line" or to be "second lining." As music is traditionally participatory, not something one listens to without moving, uninhibited dancing at processions also came to be called "second lining." Second lining is alive and well today on the streets of New Orleans.