I had the pleasure of returning to Natchez on May 11 to attend the Bishop Gunn Crawfish Boil.

Unfortunately, the weather was not optimal, but the quality of the bands and the enthusiasm of the crowd more than compensated for it. The event was well-organized, and everyone appeared to have a safe and enjoyable time. Having lived in Natchez for several years, I well recall the city’s ability to throw out the welcome mat for visitors.

The Bishop Gunn Crawfish Boil was no exception. I met attendees from Sweden, the UK, Connecticut and several western states. All remarked on the warm welcome they received everywhere they went in Natchez.

Though now a former Natchezian, the reception given by the locals to the visitors filled me with pride, as though I were still a resident.

Most exceptional of all, though, is the effort the members of Bishop Gunn have made these past two years to spread the word about their hometown. Their pride in where they come from has attracted national and international attention.

Not only have Travis McCready, Burne Sharp, Ben Lewis, and Drew Smithers put Natchez squarely on the rock ’n’ roll map, they are also encouraging an emerging music tourism industry in Natchez. Fourteen million visitors a year visit New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville.

As a legitimate and vital destination within the musical triangle formed by these cities, Natchez can certainly draw a percentage of these visitors to enjoy the city’s musical legacy, its beauty, and its history. The Bishop Gunn Crawfish Boil is already becoming a must-attend event for the band’s rapidly expanding fan base. Bishop Gunn has created an event that can, and will, bring the world to Natchez. The city should be very proud of these sons of Natchez and appreciative of their efforts on behalf of their hometown.

Well done, Natchez! Thank you for a real good time, Bishop Gunn.

Tom Scarborough
St. Francisville