BATON ROUGE — Blues musician Kenny Neal received the Key to the City on Saturday during the inaugural Capital City Music Festival at L’Auberge Casino & Hotel.

Presented by Mayor-President Sid Edwards, the honor marks the 10th Key to the City awarded during Edwards' administration and recognizes Neal’s global musical career and lifelong dedication to Baton Rouge’s cultural heritage.

"Kenny Neal is a Baton Rouge legend," Mayor-President Edwards said during the presentation. "I’ve known Kenny and his family for years, and I had the privilege of coaching his nephews. So, this one means a lot to me personally... He’s taken his God-given talent all over the world and made our city proud every step of the way."

Neal, 69, was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2026 and holds a Grammy nomination. Raised by legendary blues harpist Raful Neal, he has spent decades touring internationally while investing in local youth music programs, community events and charity drives.

"Baton Rouge has always been home," Neal said. "To receive this recognition from a mayor who has known me and my family for years makes it even more special."