The fourth season opens with New Orleans' optimism following the election of Barack Obama as president in November 2008, but Nelson is ready to give up on the city after the economy starts to go south. Meanwhile, Janette prepares to open a new restaurant; Antoine finds himself being more than just a music teacher; LaDonna gets busy rebuilding Gigi's; Annie clashes with Marvin over the direction of her music; and Davis is blown away by a new sound.
Beginning three months after Hurricane Katrina, the residents of New Orleans, including musicians, chefs, Mardi Gras Indians, and other New Orleanians struggle to rebuild their lives, their homes and their unique culture.