While most BUKU bass-heads frequented Mardi Gras World's carnival grounds this past weekend to hear headliners Migos and Bassnectar, the festival is always rich with local acts and artists. Where Y'at caught up with the home-grown music collectives Upbeat Academy, a non-profit providing under-privileged and at-risk children with opportunities to learn how to produce hip-hop and electronic music, as well as New Orleans' bass-culture showcase Church*; featured Sunday nights at the Dragon's Den on Esplanade Ave, their resident DJs caught up with us back stage in-between sets (hence the deafening back beats). Finally, we sat down with several of this year's graffiti showcase artists to learn how they got started and where locals can catch their art throughout the city.

Upbeat Academy Foundation

Street Art Showcase

Church*