The Soul of New Orleans
On February 22, the Krewe of Freret will commemorate their 11th annual parade at 3:30 p.m. on Napoleon Avenue with a delightful surprise. The Krewe of Freret has decided to unveil their latest float for the 2025 Mardi Gras season honoring and celebrating Irma Thomas, the legendary Soul Queen of New Orleans, and her contributions to the art of music.
Starting her love for music in a Baptist church choir, Irma Thomas has become known for her timeless hits such as "Wish Someone Would Care," "It's Raining," "Time is on My Side." She has earned a Grammy Award and global renown for her work, which has made her a cornerstone of New Orleans music and culture.
"I am delighted to have worked with the Krewe of Freret to craft this beautiful float," said Irma Thomas in a press release. "It has been a joy to see it come to life and I can't wait for my fans to see it parading down St. Charles Avenue alongside other local musical legends. This is truly a special moment for me and for the city of New Orleans."
The new float, crafted by Kern Studios, has been adorned with a crown for the iconic Soul Queen, alongside her hit records, a giant microphone, piano keys, and a prop of Irma Thomas singing for the crowds on Napoleon Avenue. Fans and onlookers of the upcoming parade can look forward to catching a limited edition throw: custom glass beads with a wooden medallion crafted in Irma Thomas' likeness, crafted by local company Copperhead Studios. This tribute to the Soul Queen is both unique and eco-friendly, making it a momentous homage to her musical career and her contributions to New Orleans' culture.
"The Krewe of Freret celebrates our musical legends while they are thriving. We are incredibly touched that Irma Thomas has agreed to be memorialized in the 2025 Freret parade," said Krewe of Freret Captain Bobby Hjortsberg in a press release. "Freret is a celebration of local music—featuring floats in the likeness of icons such as Trombone Shorty, Juvenile, Big Freedia, Boyfriend, Dr. John, Louis Armstrong, Buddy Bolden, Ellis Marsalis, Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, and now Irma Thomas—making our parade a vibrant and dynamic tribute to the rich musical heritage of New Orleans."
