RAYNE — The 14th annual KBON Music Festival in Rayne is continuing until Sunday. This is the first year without founder and radio station owner Paul Marx. He died in March at the age of 71.
What started as a one day event 14 years ago is now a three day event.
Todd Ortego, a KBON employee,and long time friend of Marx, says this year isn't the same.
"Whats different this year, is we lost our leader. We lost Paul Marx in the spring," Ortego said.
Marx, founder of KBON wanted a way to give back to the community. That mission continues this year with all proceeds going to the Down Syndrome Association of Acadiana. He was known for highlighting local musicians and packing in hundreds for this festival.
"My dad was here, he would thank God every day, and every time he drove into the little park and see all these campers, he would cry. He would literally cry. He was just so proud," Marx's daughter Paula said.
She added that this weekend is filled with mixed emotions.
"It's really sad. I see the banners with his pictures on it, and I think about him, but then I look at the people and I get so proud. And just I know that he's in heaven, I know this is his dream come true. He would be so proud. Though he isn't here, he's here with us spiritually and it makes us proud whether he is here or gone."
That dream was starting KBON, a radio station that only plays local music, including Zydeco, Cajun, and Swamp Pop.
Paula says her and her sister will keep their father's legacy alive.
Learn more about KBON here.
