I had the pleasure of sitting down with actor, musician, and New Orleans native, Harry Connick, Jr. at the recent Los Angeles press day to talk about his new film, the romantic comedy “P.S. I Love You.’ќ Connick, who is known for his ability to capture the many moods of New Orleans through his music, turns in yet another memorable big screen performance starring opposite Hilary Swank .

Swank plays the central role of Holly Kennedy, a young woman who seems to have it all until life deals her an unexpected hand. Connick plays Daniel, the new bartender at Holly’s mom, Patricia’s (Kathy Bates) pub, who has an ability to say exactly what’s on his mind ‘“ often at inappropriate moments. He forms an instant attraction to Holly at, of all places, her husband Gerry’s (Gerard Butler) wake. Harry Connick, Jr. is among the world’s most successful and multi-talented artists.

Connick’s love of music and performing dates back to his childhood in New Orleans, where he studied piano with such luminaries as James Booker and Ellis Marsalis. He first performed publicly at age five, appeared on his first jazz recording at age ten, and released his self-titled major label debut for Columbia Records at 19, only a year after his high school graduation and his move to New York City.

In the two decades since, he has released more than 20 albums totaling more than $25 million in sales and has received numerous honors, including three Grammy Awards. Connick segued to films in 1989 when director Rob Reiner asked him to perform a number of standards for the romantic comedy smash “When Harry Met Sally.’ќ The film’s soundtrack became Connick’s first multi-platinum album and also brought him his first Grammy for Best Jazz Male Vocal Performance.