The Folk Alliance International Conference is coming to New Orleans this year and WWOZ is partnering with the good people at the conference to give a special shoutout to the Louisiana-based Official Showcase artists and the work they’re doing to strengthen the arts community in Louisiana. This week's Louisiana Artist Spotlight shines on Helen Rose. 

Helen Rose is a multi-talented, unforgettable artist with inspirations ranging from the New Orleans bayou to Nashville to Woodstock. Her blend of inspirations culminate in her passionate, flavorful sound. She can seduce you with her voice one minute and set fire to your soul with a saxophone solo the next. Helen Rose is a powerhouse of fresh sound–intimate and turbulent all at once.

She was selected as one of NPR Tiny Desk’s favorite California entries. And she recently toured as an opening act for Patrick Sweany (Dan Auerbach, The Black Keys), and in Europe with her dear friend Jonah Tolchin (Thousand Mile Night, Clover Lane) and across the US.

Watch Helen’s official music video for her song 'Just Before It Gets Dark:'