Happy Jazz Fest. Enjoy this special issue that highlights the best of the 55th annual Jazz & Heritage Festival with a focus on the first weekend.
This edition includes the daily Jazz Fest schedules (cubes), as well as our picks for each day for who to see, where to eat, and what to shop for. Don’t miss our recommendations of the hottest night concerts, as well as our extensive live music calendar.
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig
Creative Director: Robert Witkowski
Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff
Assistant Editor: Donald Rickert
Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker
Contributing Writers: Brooke Adams, Jeff Boudreaux, Cynthea Corfah, Matt Hanson, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Joel Mandina, Tim McNally, Julie Mitchell, Dean Shapiro
Cover: Lil Wayne by Frenchy
I am grateful to Where Y’at Magazine for giving me the opportunity to represent a NOLA legend on the cover of this year’s Jazz Fest issue, Lil Wayne, who is often regarded as one of the most influential hip hop artists of his generation, as well as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Born and raised in the 17th Ward of New Orleans, he started his career at the age of 11 and is an inspiration to all to dream big, work hard, and never give up. I chose this image from a pic from one of his recent NOLA performances, celebrating his joy as he performs for his home town. We are extremely fortunate to have him headline during Jazz Fest this year. I am looking forward to documenting his amazing talent and energy in a live painting.
Maximum Respect, Frenchy
Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., a.k.a. Lil Wayne, hails from the Hollygrove neighborhood of New Orleans. His beautiful portrait by Frenchy graces this month’s cover. Enjoy our profile of this rap legend.
Other highlights include Sabrina Stone’s preview of this year’s Cultural Exchange Pavilion, Jeff Boudreaux’s profile of the top classic rock stars playing Jazz Fest, and Julie Mitchell’s advice column on how to handle a panic attack while at the Fair Grounds. Enjoy.
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By Cynthea Corfah
LIL WAYNE & THE
ROOTS
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 | FESTIVAL STAGE, 5:30 P.M.
When Lil Wayne’s Super Bowl commercial with Cetaphil debuted on TV screens around the world, New Orleanians and Lil Wayne fans everywhere stopped in their tracks in utter excitement.
After Kendrick Lamar was announced as the 2025 Super Bowl halftime artist, Lil Wayne fans took to social media wondering why Mr. Carter wasn’t selected to perform in his hometown. Lil Wayne supporters brought up how California artists, including Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Kendrick Lamar, took the stage at the 2022 Super Bowl in Inglewood. So why wouldn’t Lil Weezyana perform in the city he was born, raised, and discovered in?
In a clever and respectable clapback, Lil Wayne’s Super Bowl commercial, titled “We’re All a Lil Sensitive,” nodded to his lack of involvement in the Super Bowl. The commercial poked fun at how Tunechi was hurt by not being asked to perform. During one of the scenes, he was offered tickets to the game, which he declined saying he was working on something more “time sensitive,” being the release of Tha Carter VI, his long-awaited album in his Tha Carter album series. The commercial ended with Lil Wayne closing the door of his recording studio with a sign that read “Do not disturb ‘til 6-06-25” with “Carter VI” written on a piece of tape.
Despite not taking the stage at the Super Bowl, Lil Wayne still stole the spotlight in the eyes of his fans. It has been seven years since Tha Carter V was released in 2018, but that doesn’t mean Lil Wayne has been inactive. He has released four additional mixtapes and records since the last part of Tha Carter series and even shared Tha Fix Before Tha VI as an 11-track appetizer to Tha Carter VI in 2023.
Tha Fix Before Tha VI began with the emotional and pianocentric song “Act Up,” with fellow Grammy and Oscar-winning New Orleans music artist and composer Jon Batiste pouring his heart onto the keys. The mixtape features Tunechi’s signature lighter flick and inhale sound bites, expert-level wordplay, and flow switch-ups. It highlights familiar hip hop sounds from Missy Elliott’s “Work It” in the song “Kat Food” and reminds listeners of Lil Wayne’s love for rock music in “Tuxedo.” The mixtape has themes of being undisputable, being the best, and showing his competition no mercy. In a time when artists such Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole have all claimed to be the greatest artists of their time, Weezy F. Baby has been reminding listeners of his greatness for decades.
Tha Carter V, the latest of the album series, is filled with notable features including the late XXXtentacion, Swizz Beatz, Travis Scott, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Sosamann, Snoop Dogg, Nivea, Ashanti, Mack Maine, and his daughter Reginae Carter. The 23-song album includes a tearful introduction from his mother, Jacida Carter, titled “I Love You Dwayne,” displaying the mother and son’s close relationship and her support for her son and his career. Like a rollercoaster, the album takes the listener on an emotional ride consisting of heavy heartstring-pulling hits and playful bangers showing off his poetic pen.
“Let It All Work Out,” the album’s outro, is the big handcrafted bow on top of the gift that is Tha Carter V. The
timeless masterpiece samples Sampha’s 2013 R&B song “Indecision” as Tunechi vulnerably shares a story of when he attempted suicide at 12 years old with his mother’s gun. In the song, he recalls how he shot himself in the chest and woke up surrounded by blood. He said, in an interview with Billboard, he initially used to call the incident an accident but later opened up that it was intentional in response to his mother telling him he could no longer rap. The original version of the song did not include this story, but he later decided to speak his truth in hopes of his story resonating with anyone who may be experiencing some of the same feelings he was.
Near the end of the song, Lil Wayne talks about how he got another chance at life. He says, “I didn’t die, but as I was dying, / God came to my side and we talked about it. / He sold me another life, and He made a profit.”
If Tha Carter V was a testament to Dwayne Carter Jr.’s resilience, innate artistry, and authentic storytelling, one could only imagine what Tha Carter VI has to offer.
Before his new album release, New Orleans will go down memory lane with Lil Wayne and The Roots when he headlines weekend one of Jazz Fest on April 26. With his expansive discography and decades of chart-topping creations, the setlist options are endless. From Hot Boys hits including “I Need a Hot Girl” to “Lollipop” and “A Milli,” the crowd is bound to rap bar-for-bar with the Hollygrove native during his homecoming performance.
Lil Wayne is undoubtedly a musical phenomenon. There is a reason people call him the greatest rapper of all time. At 12 years old, he was signed as the youngest artist at Cash Money Records and has been churning out music nonstop ever since. He has been an example of stardom for young New Orleans artists and carved out his own lane in hip hop. The 42-year-old lyricist has evolved into many versions of himself, including Hot Boys Wayne (wearing a baggy white T-shirt and a camouflage bandana tied on his head), skater Wayne (who rocked skinny jeans and Vans sneakers), and Rebirth rockstar Wayne (making autotune-heavy songs with an electric guitar strapped to his body).
While the setlist for his Jazz Fest performance and what to expect on his highly-anticipated new album may be uncertain, two things are clear: hip hop music wouldn’t be the same without Lil Wayne, and Lil Wayne wouldn’t be who he is without New Orleans. From Hollygrove to Hollywood, Lil Wayne’s journey is a testament to how New Orleans shaped a legend—and how that legend continues to represent the city that made him.
Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. FESTIVAL STAGE | 1:30-2:25 P.M.
Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. carries on his father’s legacy by blending traditional Louisiana rhythms with just a bit more soul. Dubbed the James Brown of zydeco, his high-octane performances fuse New Orleans funk, soul, R&B, and zydeco to create a sound all can enjoy.
Grayhawk presents Native American Lore OCHSNER CHILDREN’S TENT | 1:50-2:35 P.M.
Grayhawk Perkins is a respected storyteller and musician from Louisiana who just published a collection called Grayhawk’s Native American Folktales in March 2025 that reflects his Houma and Choctaw heritage. As part of the United Houma Nation, he is dedicated to Native American music and stories.
LAGNIAPPE STAGE | 2:55-3:45 P.M.
Known for his work with deep soul blues, psychedelic rock, and other genres, Papa Mali will put on a can’t miss show. His Shantytown Underground event features an eight-piece, horn-driven ensemble, connecting New Orleans R&B with the roots of Jamaican ska, rocksteady, and reggae.
Goose SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 5:10-7:00
P.M.
With humble beginnings playing in Connecticut basements, this American jam rock band has become known nationwide for their unique sound, improvisational live performances, and their dedicated fan base. Bringing an electrifying energy everywhere they tour, no live Goose performance is ever the same.
Sam Bush
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
A master mandolinist, Sam Bush is widely considered the father of progressive bluegrass. Inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame as himself and as part of New Grass Revival, Bush continues to push the boundaries of what is considered bluegrass.
Shemekia Copeland
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
This electric blues singer, known for her commanding voice, is ready to perform for Jazz Fest. Shemekia Copeland has earned a Grammy nomination for her blend of blues with gospel, R&B, and electronic elements, which gives her a unique sonic style.
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
Son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Suen Kuti carries on his father’s musical legacy by leading Egypt 80, the group formed by his father, while incorporating his own distinct style. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Suen Kuti released his latest album in 2024.
Bennachins | Congo Square
Made with browned, boneless chicken on a stick, poulet fricassee is an African take on a traditionally French dish, often stewed in a white, cream mushroom sauce. Bennachin’s poulet fricassee has a deliciously rich flavor and is definitely worth experiencing.
United Houma Nation | Louisiana Folklife Village
A traditional Native American dish, fry bread is a flat dough bread typically fried in oil or shortening. While it usually acts as the base for Indian tacos, including the United Houma Nation’s fry bread, it can also be topped with sweet or savory flavors.
Pollack Glass | Contemporary Crafts
Andrew Pollack specializes in hand blown glass, as well as torchworking, enameling, casting, and much more. Most of his glass works are on the smaller side and include everything from beads and marbles to intricate sculptures of different animals and nature.
Ronnie Lamarque
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 11:15 A.M.-12:10 P.M.
Known across NOLA for his trademark cover of “Volare,” which was used to advertise his car dealerships, Ronnie Lamarque’s catchy tunes are GNO staples. Starting as a teen solo artist and vocalist in the Nobles, he was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.
Rosie Ledet
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 12:20-1:20 P.M.
Rosie Ledet is a Creole/zydeco accordion player and singer with a spunky sound and sultry lyrics. Popular for hits such as “Sweet Brown Sugar” and “You Can Eat My Poussiere,” Ledet has opened shows for James Brown, Bob Dylan, and others on global tours.
BLUES TENT | 12:25-1:15 P.M.
A beloved New Orleans educator, entertainer, and singer, Wanda Rouzan exudes the city’s unique flair. With decades of experience, Rouzan has appeared in films and TV such as HBO’s Treme. Her band, A Taste of New Orleans, brings funky, jazzy tunes to the stage.
L.B. Landry Gospel Choir
GOSPEL TENT | 1:00-1:45 P.M.
More than just a high school gospel choir, L.B. Landry showcases uplifting, powerful performances as they blend traditional gospel with contemporary influences. This talented young choir performed at Jazz Fest last year and is ready to take the stage again with their soulful sounds.
Youssou NDOUR
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 2:40-3:55 P.M.
A popular Senegalese singer/songwriter and politician known for popularizing mbalax music globally, Youssou NDOUR is a beloved musical ambassador for Senegal. His genre-blending collaborations with international artists and cultural activism have won him a Grammy Award and international praise.
Kacey Musgraves
FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Since starting her career in the early 2000s, country star Kacey Musgraves has become well known for her unique blend of various musical styles. Her distinct voice and introspective lyrics have won her eight Grammy Awards and a fan base across genres.
life she has transitioned to in the U.S.
James
Michalopoulos
Original Paintings | Bruce Brice Art Village and Poster Art Tent
Michalopoulos paints energetic and vibrant depictions of New Orleans’ culture of celebration with distinctive thick layers and explosive colors. Showcasing the city’s essence, his iconic paintings of shotgun houses, Creole cottages, and local entertainers capture the beauty of New Orleans.
The Zion Harmonizers
GOSPEL TENT | 1:55-2:40 P.M.
Bruce Daigrepont Cajun Band
FAIS DO-DO STAGE | 1:352:30 P.M.
Master accordionist Bruce Daigrepont leads this authentic Cajun ensemble, delivering traditional Louisiana French dance tunes with contemporary energy. Drawing from deep cultural roots, the band’s infectious rhythms and masterful musicianship keep the fais do-do dance floor at Jazz Fest moving all afternoon.
New Orleans’ gospel luminaries the Zion Harmonizers will bring their soul-stirring quartet harmonies back to Jazz Fest. Drawing from century-old a cappella traditions, these legendary curators have anchored the festival’s spiritual core for over four decades, delivering powerful, spirit-moving performances.
James Andrews & the Crescent City All Stars BLUES TENT | 2:50-3:50 P.M.
New Orleans trumpet legend James Andrews, grandson of Jesse Hill and mentor to Trombone Shorty, will be leading his powerhouse ensemble the Crescent City All Stars. Drawing from his Tremé roots and Danny Barker’s tutelage, the “Satchmo of the Ghetto” delivers electrifying brass band performances.
Tribute to Pete Fountain featuring Tim Laughlin
ECONOMY HALL TENT | 3:05-4:05 P.M.
New Orleans clarinet virtuoso Tim Laughlin will be paying tribute to the legendary Pete Fountain, carrying forward the city’s rich traditional jazz legacy. A master of his craft, Laughlin’s soulful interpretations honor Fountain’s iconic style while adding his own contemporary flair.
Lil Wayne & The Roots FESTIVAL STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
Hip hop icon Lil Wayne joins forces with legendary band The Roots for an unprecedented collaboration. Fresh from their “Saturday Night Live 50th Anniversary Special” performance, this groundbreaking fusion promises Wayne’s iconic verses backed by The Roots’ renowned live instrumentation and impeccable groove.
Diana Krall
WWOZ JAZZ TENT | 5:457:00 P.M.
Multiple Grammy-winning jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall brings her sophisticated artistry to this year’s fest. Known for her mesmerizing contralto vocals and masterful piano skills, Krall’s interpretations of jazz standards have earned her worldwide acclaim and over 15 million album sales.
Taj Mahal & the Phantom Blues Band
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
The Phantom Blues Band is reuniting again with blues legend and two-time Grammy-winning artist Taj Mahal, creating a signature blend of Texas blues, Memphis soul, and reggae rhythms. This powerhouse collaboration showcases decades of musical mastery through electrifying performances and dynamic arrangements.
Louisiana Trout Dizzy
Baquet’s Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe | Heritage Square
This dish features Louisiana trout topped with shrimp and crawfish, bringing the flavors of Creole cuisine to life. Lil’ Dizzy’s is known throughout the city for their culinary traditions and seafood dishes that are rich in the Baquet family’s Creole heritage.
Chocolate Beignet
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines | Food Area 2
Founded by the late “Queen of Sweets” Loretta Harrison, Loretta’s Authentic Pralines has perfected much more than her acclaimed pralines. Perfectly airy and just sweet enough, Loretta’s chocolate beignet, a special take on the classic beignet, is a delicacy not to be missed.
Afrodesiac Worldwide | Congo Square African Marketplace Directly from Ghana, Charmelle Dukes designs African clothing with beautifully intricate designs and flowing colorful patterns.
Dukes is the CEO and creative director of Afrodesiac Worldwide, bringing the brilliant patterns and flowing colors
The Smothered Brothers: Paul Sanchez & Alex McMurray RHYTHMPOURIUM | 12:00-12:45 P.M.
This folk songwriter and country singer combo, the Smothered Brothers, is the perfect duo to check out this Jazz Fest. Made up of Paul Sanchez and Alex McMurray, their music is often comedic and irreverent, making them a fun show that should not be missed.
New Orleans Gospel Soul Children ft. Big Freedia
GOSPEL TENT | 1:55-2:40 P.M.
“Queen Diva” Big Freedia is one of the most well-known representatives of New Orleans bounce music. She will be joining the New Orleans Gospel Soul Children, which is a choir of more than 60 children and is adored for their rich sounds and joyful arrangements.
Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & The Golden Eagles
JAZZ & HERITAGE STAGE | 3:00-4:00 P.M.
New Orleans icon Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, who is the leader of the Golden Eagles, is the oldest living Mardi Gras Indian Chief. Experience the conservation of local culture at Jazz Fest through their blend of Native American and Creole music, blues, and jazz.
Burna Boy
CONGO SQUARE STAGE | 5:20-6:50 P.M.
Burna Boy is going to electrify the stage with his blend of Afrobeats, hip hop, and dancehall music. The Nigerian superstar has 11 Grammy nominations and even won the 2021 Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album for Twice as Tall
SHELL GENTILLY STAGE | 5:30-7:00 P.M.
The HAIM sisters, known for their blend of soft rock, pop, and R&B sounds, are ones to watch during the first Sunday of Jazz Fest. The Grammy-nominated sisterly trio will light up the stage with their unique vocal and guitar skills.
Eric Gales
BLUES TENT | 5:45-7:00 P.M.
For three decades, blues rock guitarist Eric Gales’ passion for music has taken the world by storm. The two-time Blues Music Award winner, known for magnetizing audiences since 1991 with his blues and hard rock sounds, will be one not to miss this Jazz Fest.
Branford
This celebrated jazz ensemble is the perfect example of what Jazz Fest is all about with their innovative interpretations of popular classics and jazz. The Grammynominated quartet is led by local saxophonist and composer Brandford Marsalis, who has recorded with many, many other musicians.
Cajun Chicken & Tasso with Creole Rice
TJ Gourmet | Food Area 2
TJ Gourmet’s dish features Cajun chicken and tasso with Creole rice, bringing some of Louisiana’s main culinary traditions together in a uniquely flavorful combination. Tasso is a spicy, smoked pork that is often referred to as “Cajun ham” and is mainly found in southern Louisiana.
Brandi Couvillion
Etched Metal Art Jewelry | Contemporary Crafts
Inspired by historic maps and architectural elements found around New Orleans and Washington, D.C., Brandi Couvillion crafts raw metal into artisanal etched jewelry. Her jewelry depicts riverways and architectural elements, and each one is a unique staple piece to compliment your collection.
Juli Juneau
Blown Glass | Louisiana Marketplace
Through a curious and compassionate approach, Juli Juneau creates unique glass art that reflects geographic and cultural aspects from Africa. Her works have been presented in a variety of collections across the globe, and she has received numerous awards for her unique pieces.
JAZZ FEST SCHEDULE
Thursday 4/24
8pm Tom McDermott & Aurora Nealand
Friday 4/25
6pm Ragtime Hour with Adam Rogers
8pm Jamie Bernstein
Saturday 4/26
8pm The Dirty Rain Revelers
Sunday 4/27
11am Traditional Jazz Brunch with Some Like it Hot!
7pm Lynn Drury
Monday 4/28
7pm David Doucet
Tuesday 4/29
7pm Alex McMurray
Wednesday 4/30
7pm Davis Rogan
Thursday 5/1
8pm Tom McDermott & Aurora Nealand with Dennis Lichtman
Friday 5/2
6pm Ragtime Hour with Adam Rogers
8pm Johnny Sansone
Saturday 5/3
8pm Black Dog
Sunday 5/4
11am Traditional Jazz Brunch with Some Like it Hot!
5pm Pfister Sisters
8pm TBA
Monday 5/5
7pm David Doucet
By Georgie Charette
Here are top picks for night shows around New Orleans to keep the music going over the weekend of April 24-27.
AXIAL TILT - AN ALL-STAR TWO-NIGHT CELEBRATION OF THE GRATEFUL DEAD'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY
Friday, April 25 & Saturday, April 26, 10 p.m. Café Istanbul, Tickets Start at $70
Join members of The Dead, Phil Lesh & Friends, Dark Star Orchestra, Jazz Is Dead, GATORATORS, and more when they kick out live, deep, and soulful Grateful Dead jams in celebration of the band’s 60th anniversary. Featuring one acoustic and two electric sets per five-hour night—with no songs repeated between nights. Comprised almost entirely of Grateful Dead originals, AXIAL TILT is the place to be for the most faithful Grateful Dead experience, presented by folks who are at the highest levels of the extended Grateful Dead family. This year’s lineup includes Joan Osborne, Stu Allen, Rob Eaton, Mitch Stein, Skip Vangelas, Pete Lavezzoli, and Wally Ingram, plus special guests.
THE RETURN OF ACID BATH
Friday, April 25, 8 p.m.
The Fillmore New Orleans, Tickets Start at $220 Acid Bath is reuniting for their first live performance in over 28 years, with an opening performance by local sludge metal band Eyehategod. Formed in 1991 in Houma, Louisiana, Acid Bath, fronted by Dax Riggs, spearheaded a unique blend of death metal, psychedelic rock, and Southern gothic elements that earned them a cult-like following and influential status in the modern metal scene before stopping in 1998. Their highly anticipated reunion tour launches at the Fillmore, promising to revive their surreal lyricism through their famously untamed stage presence. A second show has been announced at the Fillmore on Wednesday, April 30 due to overwhelming demand.
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE’S TREME THREAUXDOWN
Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m.
Saenger Theatre, Tickets Start at $49.50
Back for the ninth installment of the Treme Threauxdown, this lively event hosted by Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue has become a staple to the wider Jazz Fest activities. Trombone Shorty carries the energy through the night with a flow of rock, jazz, funk, and hip hop. After starting his career on the Jazz Fest stage at age four, Trombone Shorty has captured audiences across America with his ability to collaborate with stars across genres such as Zac Brown and the Foo Fighters.
MIKE DILLON’S NEW ORLEANS PUNK ROCK PERCUSSION CONSORTIUM WITH JASON MARSALIS & OTHERS
Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m.
Uptown New Orleans JCC, Tickets $20
Mike Dillon is a world-renowned percussionist and composer known for his experimental blend of jazz and punk music, as well as his radical ability to break down musical boundaries through unconventional vibraphone and percussionist practices. As founder of the New Orleans Punk Rock Percussion Consortium, Dillon leads a 15-piece percussion ensemble that embodies the raw, and often chaotic, energy of live performance with elaborate rhythmic arrangements that challenge conventional music categorizations. This specialty performance at the Uptown JCC will feature Jason Marsalis, Stanton Moore, and Earl Harvin, along with original compositions that offer an innovative perspective on the boundaries of genre and the fluidity of creative expression.
Over the course of its 55-year history, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has witnessed many memorable moments and experienced explosive growth as it assumed its place among the premier festivals staged, not only in the United States but worldwide.
Throughout all of those years, from the festival’s founding in 1970 up to the present, Arthur Quentin “Quint” Davis Jr. has been a constant presence. Spearheading its growth and fulfilling its mission of promoting and showcasing the indigenous music and culture of Louisiana as CEO of Festival Productions Incorporated, the parent organization of what is popularly known as Jazz Fest, Davis has been lauded as a visionary and innovator who helped revolutionize the festival industry.
Many of the most famous and popular musicians in the last half century have performed from the beginning. The event, which began as a relatively small gathering spanning only two days in the Congo Square (formerly Beauregard Square) quadrant of Louis Armstrong Park, now stages its events over two four-day weekends annually in late April and early May and has hosted millions of people over its long existence, contributing roughly $400 million in economic impact to the city of New Orleans.
Davis recounts many of his experiences over the years he has headed up the event and he proudly cited a litany of accomplishments. It all began with the experienced input from the man widely regarded as the father of the music festival concept, George Wein, founder of the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival in the 1950s.
As Davis explained, “When [the New Orleans Hotel Motel Association], who wanted a jazz festival in New Orleans, brought George down, they told him, ‘We want a festival just like the Newport Jazz Festival,’ and George told them, ‘If you do a festival just like Newport, that’s what you’ll always have.’” Davis noted that Wein’s vision was focused on a festival paying tribute to New Orleans’ storied history as the birthplace of jazz, as well as other genres indigenous to Louisiana: gospel, blues, second line brass bands, Cajun, and zydeco music.
For the first few years of the festival,
By Dean M. Shapiro
the team from Newport that Wein brought to New Orleans directed most of the activities, including booking the talent, handling ticket sales, and other related logistics. Davis, a Tulane student who had connections with many local musicians, was brought on board with this group, along with Allison Miner and others. They learned as they went along until they felt confident and skilled enough to produce the festival themselves.
“In those first years, it was all New Orleans acts,” Davis said. “We had Indians, second lines, zydeco, Cajun. We had one little tent with an upright piano in the grass and no P.A. system, and it was for gospel choirs we had there.”
There were also food booths featuring the unique cuisine of the host city and state, as well as booths featuring the work of local artists.
While still in the 1970s, the festival began bringing in musicians from outside of Louisiana. One of the first of whom was Bonnie Raitt.
In 1972, the third year of the festival, the event moved to a larger venue at the Fair Grounds Race Course, where it remains to this day.
In the beginning, the event only covered a portion of the track’s infield
with a few stages set up for the performers. As the years passed, the festival grew and went on to encompass the full area, including the entire grandstand.
Also, over its long history, the festival has grown from its original four days to what will officially become eight days this year with the addition of a second “Local Thursday.” On both of those Thursdays, Louisiana residents, with proper identification, will receive a discount on the admission price.
“People love those Local Thursdays where it’s $50 for the local folks,” Davis said, adding that this year’s Jazz Fest will feature John Fogerty on the first Thursday and Santana on the second Thursday.
As the scheduled days expanded at the Fair Grounds, so did the offerings, including a line of collectable Jazz Fest souvenirs. In 1975, Davis’ former Tulane classmate, Bud Brimberg, created the first Jazz Fest poster, beginning a tradition that continues to this day. Hats and tee shirts are also among the most popular items, Davis noted.
This year’s Jazz Fest poster, Hear and Now: Tank and the Bangas @ Jazz Fest, is designed by renowned New Orleans artist
James Michalopoulos, whose previous posters included Louis Armstrong, Aaron Neville, Allen Toussaint, Fats Domino, and others.
Another recent innovation that Davis proudly cited is the Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion, where the focus each year is on a specific country with its music, art, food, culture, and more. In 2024, it was Colombia. This year, the pavilion celebrates the vibrant musical culture of Mexico.
When asked what some of his most memorable Jazz Fest moments were, Davis recalled, “The comebacks—the years when the festival came back.” He pointed to 2006, when the festival was held while much of the city was still in ruins from Hurricane Katrina, including portions of the festival site. He also cited the 2022 festival that was held a year after it had been canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When Bruce Springsteen sang ‘My City of Ruins’ and ‘with these hands, we will rebuild’ [in 2006], that was probably my most emotional song ever,” Davis said. In that same year, Paul Simon sang “Bridge Over Troubled Waters” with Allen Toussaint on piano and Irma Thomas singing the other part.
“But, overall, regardless of who’s playing, people love going to Jazz Fest. The greatest thing about Jazz Fest is that it’s in New Orleans. There’s a great feeling of being there. They like the food, the arts, the crafts, and especially the music,” Davis said. “You can put together stages, food, and crafts in any other city. But here, when you walk out of the gates, you’re in New Orleans. You can’t do that anywhere else.”
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
Bamboula’s John Saavedra, Giselle Anguizola, Caitie B.
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Jamison Ross
Bourbon O Bar Shawan Rice Trio
Buffa’s Bar David Doucet
Capulet Teena May
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dos Jefes Z2
Gasa Gasa Caroline Rose
Hideout Bar Kid Merv, All That Jazz
Mahogany Jazz Hall Leroy Jones, The Home Team, Big Joe Kennedy
Maison Bourbon Danny Rubio
Marigny Opera House New Orleans Chamber
Players
Rabbit Hole Rebirth
Salon Salon Or Shovaly Plus
Tipitina’s Soul Coughing
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
410 Lounge Amina Figarova
Bamboula’s J.J. And The A-OK’s
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Derek Douget
Bourbon O Bar High Standards, Serabee Quartet
Buffa’s Bar Alex McMurray
Café Degas Double Whisky
Capulet Bruno Elisabetsky
Chickie Wah Wah Jon Cleary
City Park Botanical Gardens Margie Perez
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Lafayette Square Soul Rebels, Motel Radio
Longue Vue House and Gardens Extended Trio
Mahogany Jazz Hall Tom Fischer, Paul Longstreth
Marigny Opera House Geovane Santos, Orkestra
Maria Fumaça
MRB Lynn Drury
New Orleans Botanical Garden Margie Perez
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Bamboula’s Cristina Kaminis, Wolfe Johns Blues
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ashlin Parker
Beanlandia Treme Brass Band
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Woods on Fire Honky Tonk
BK House Amanda Shaw
Blackbird Hotel Craig Klein
BMC French Quarter Pounders, Maurice Cade
Bourbon O Bar Tiffany Hall, Audrey and the CrawZaddies
Buffa’s Bar Joe Krown
Capulet Dylan Decker
Carrollton Station Bright Cloud, Rifles for Lucy, Molly’s Lips
Chickie Wah Wah Drivin N Cryin
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dos Jefes Anna Laura Quinn Band
Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
House of Blues YTB Fatt
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
Mahogany Jazz Hall The New Orleans Catahoulas
MRB Jamey St. Pierre
New Orleans Jazz Museum Sonny Landreth
Orpheum Theater Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
American singer/song writer and bandleader Margie Perez will be performing during “Evenings with Enrique” at the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Perez is best known for her versatile sound of Latin, blues, and contemporary pop. Wednesday, April 16, 5 p.m. Free for LA Residents, thehelisfoundation.org/projects/ evenings-withenrique
Peacock Room Da Lovebirds
Rock n Bowl Chubby Carrier, Bayou Swamp Band
The Maison Danny Rubio, Kid Merv
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bamboula’s The Rug Cutters, Bettis and The 3rd Degree
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Victor Atkins
Bourbon O Bar Ellen and April, Mem Shannon Trio
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Tom McDermott, Adam Rogers
Carrollton Station Sweet Magnolia, Bon Bon
Vivant
Chickie Wah Wah Drivin N Cryin
Constantinople Stage Marc Paradis, Michael
Skinkus
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. Mia Borders
Dew Drop Inn The Heart Attacks
Dos Jefes Vivaz!
Faux Meaux NOLA Marsh Fire
House of Blues Jacquees, Dej Loaf
Kerry Irish Pub Patrick Cooper
Le Bon Temps Roulé The New Orleans Johnnys
Mahogany Jazz Hall Delfeayo Marsalis
MRB Carson Station
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat James Martin, Paradise Jazz Band
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari
Bamboula’s The Jaywalkers, Paggy Prine
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Aurelien Barnes
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Anna Moss, Bruisey Peets
Bourbon O Bar Brian Wingard, Blues Masters
Buffa’s Bar Washboard Chaz Blues Trio
Carrollton Station Kota Dosa, Wolfe John’s
Chickie Wah Wah Henri Herbert, Sally Baby’s
Silver Dollars
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dew Drop Inn The Heart Attacks
Dos Jefes Z2
Fillmore New Orleans Curren$y 420
Hard Rock Cafe Bubbles Brown
Le Bon Temps Roulé Captain Buckles
Mahogany Jazz Hall Gerald French trio, Stephen
Walker N’em
Rabbit Hole ROMMII, Tristine Dufrene
Rock n Bowl The Boogie Men
Siberia Meredith Moon, Miriam Hacksaw
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat James Martin, Panorama Jazz
The Broadside Big In the 90’s, The Broadside
The Howlin Wolf Double Knockout, Atomic Broad
SUNDAY, APRIL 20
Apple Barrel Shwag
Bacchanal Noah Young
Bamboula’s Aaron Levinson, Midnight Brawlers
BJ’s Lounge Bywater James McClaskey, Rhythm
Band
BMC John Lisi, Delta Funk
Boomtown Boomtown Brass Band
Bourbon O Bar Queta Cavalier, Amber Rachelle
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Asylum Chorus
Cafe Negril Earthstrong
Carrollton Station CloudSave, Blue Tongue
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Gazebo Café J Riley Cain, Knockout Gumbo
Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy, Roderick
Paulin
Superior Seafood Johnny Lonesome
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass
MONDAY, APRIL 21
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
Bamboula’s Rug Cutters, Jon Roniger Band
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Dayna Kurts, Robert Mache
Bourbon O Bar Vince Henningfield, Blue Horn
Buffa’s Bar Jon Sheckler
Capulet Nanci Zhang
Carrollton Station Meryl Zimmerman
Chickie Wah Wah Michigan Rattlers
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dos Jefes John Fohl
House of Blues Napalm Death, Melvins
Maison Bourbon Danny Rubio
Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band
MRB Ben Buchbinder
Santos Bar Har Mar Superstar, Lil Lebowsxi
TUESDAY, APRIL 22
Bamboula’s Giselle Anguizola, Wolfe Johns Blues
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Pedro Segundo
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Anna Laura Quinn, Ed Barrett
Bourbon O Bar Dr Zach, Shawan Rice Trio
Buffa’s Bar David Doucet
Capulet Lady O, The Expats
Chickie Wah Wah Luke Winslow-King
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dixon Concert Hall New Orleans Friends of Music
Dos Jefes Kris Tokarski
Hideout Bar Kid Merv, All That Jazz
House of Blues Nothing More
Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy, Gregg
Stafford
No Dice Wormrot, No/Mas
Rabbit Hole Rebirth
The Peristyle at City Park Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23
410 Lounge Roland Guerin
Bamboula’s J.J. and The A-Ok’s
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Miles Berry
Bourbon O Bar High
Standards, Serabee Quartet
Buffa’s Bar Alex McMurray
Café Degas
Double Whisky
Capulet Martin Masakowski, Steve Masakowski
Chickie Wah Wah Helen Gillet, Skerik
City Park Botanical Gardens Cristina Kaminis
City Park Singing Oak Swan Michelle
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dos Jefes Bryce Eastwood, Jeremie Henen
House of Blues Geordie Greep
Jazz Playhouse Big Sam
Lafayette Square George Porter Jr., Mia Borders
Le Bon Temps Roulé Isaac Eady, Third Moon
Longue Vue House and Gardens Paul Sanchez Mahogany Jazz Hall Paul Longstreth, Tom Fischer
MRB Lynn Drury
Siberia La Luz, Color Green
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
Tipitina’s The Broken Bones, Sugadaisy
THURSDAY, APRIL 24
Beanlandia Treme Brass Band
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Jamison Ross
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Sally Baby
Bourbon O Bar Tiffany Hall, Audrey and the CrawZaddies
Buffa’s Bar Tom McDermott, Aurora Nealand
Cafe Istanbul CURRENT FUTURES w/ Robert Walter, Stanton Moore, Will Bernard, Chris Stillwell & Cochemea Gastelum
Capulet Coyote Anderson
Carrollton Station Mahmoud Chouki
Chickie Wah Wah Louisiana Calling, Sonny Landreth
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. Python, Nicholas Payton
Dos Jefes Mark Coleman Band
Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
Fillmore Trampled By Turtles
House of Blues Kyle Gordon, Mac Sabbath
Jazz Playhouse Brass-a-holics
Joy Theater Foie Gras & Crumpuntz
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
Mahogany Jazz Hall The New Orleans Catahoulas
Marigny Opera House Helen Gillet, Terry Scott Jr. Orpheum Theater Esperanza Spalding
Rock n Bowl Geno Delafose, Jeffery Broussard
The Broadside The Coven, Eric Johanson
The Howlin Wolf Brass Queens
The Maison Danny Rubio, Kid Merv
Toulouse Theater Zack Feinberg, Crowe Boys Virgin Hotels GLBLWRMNG, Pell
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
Bacchanal David Sigler, Willie Green
Bamboula’s Les Getrex & Creole Cooking, Rug Cutters
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, John Michael Bradford Biloxi Beach Gavin Adcock
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Little Freddie King
Blue Nile Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Kermit Ruffins
BMC Balcony Jazz Ballers, Smoky Greenwell Blues Band
Bourbon O Bar Ellen Smith, Mem Shannon Trio
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Adam Rogers, Jamie Bernstein
Cafe Istanbul AXIAL TILT Grateful Dead 60th
Anniversary Celebration w/ Joan Osborne and More
Cafe Negril The Honeycreepers, Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Midriff, The Bloomies Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Chickie Wah Wah Money Chicha, Sonny Landreth
Civic Theatre Soul Rebels, The Headhunters
Creole gardens Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. New Orleans Trumpet Mafia
Dos Jefes The Afrodiziac’s Jazz Favela Chic Sugar & The Daddies
Fillmore Acid Bath
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Richard Scott, Sam Friend Jazz Band
Good Measure Cavalier
Holy Diver Filth Abyss, Rik Slave House of Blues The Record Company, Rebirth Brass Jazz Playhouse Trixie Min
FEATURING
FEATURING
American rapper Curren$y will be bringing his “420" Tour to NOLA.
Starting his own record label Jet Life records, he is a pioneer in music with his witty rhymes and cultural influence.
Saturday, April 19, 7
p.m., $44 to $127, livenation.com
Saturn Bar Valparaiso
Men’s Chorus
Seawitch Oyster Bar Richard Rourke
Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat Paradise Jazz Band
The Broadside Jon Cleary, Pimps of Joytime
The Maison Dirty Dozen Brass Band
The Metropolitan Timmy Trumpet
The Press Room Shovaly Plus
Tipitina’s The Dip
Toulouse Theater Trulio
Disgracias, Jason Hann
Touro Synagogue Dirty Doze
Virgin Hotels Anjelika Joseph, LaReezy
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
21st Amendment John Lisi, Delta Funk
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell
Bacchanal Amari Ansari
Bamboula’s Johnny Mastro Blues, Paggy Prine
Bayou Bar Jordan Anderson
Biloxi Beach Cowboy Mouth, Puddle of Mudd
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Washboard Chaz Blues
Blue Nile The Rumble, Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr
BMC Balcony John Lisi, Delta Funk
Bourbon O Bar Brian Wingard, The Blues Masters
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Dirty Rain Revelers
Cafe Istanbul AXIAL TILT Grateful Dead 60th
Anniversary Celebration w/ Joan Osborne and More
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Cortland Burke
Chickie Wah Wah Durand Jones, Grace Bowers
Civic Theatre Samantha Fish, Tab Benoit
Courtyard Brewery Sariyah Idan
Creole Gardens Guest House Mitch Woods Club
88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. Dirty Dozen Brass
Dew Drop Inn Big Freedia
Dos Jefes Betty Shirley
Fillmore Cory Wong, Dumpstaphunk, Better Than Ezra
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Chuck Brackman, Jamil Sharif
Hard Rock Cafe Bubbles Brown
House of Blues The New Mastersounds
JCC Mike Dillon
Le Bon Temps Roulé Smoker’s World, Cardboard
Cowboy
Mahogany Jazz Hall Stephen Walker N’em
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
May Baily’s Place Jerry Dugger
MS Coast Coliseum Bret Michaels, Everclear
Plaquemines Parish Government Andre’ & The Giants, Yeah You Right
Press Room Or Shovaly Plus
Republic NOLA Voodoo Dead, Steve Kimock
Robert E. Smith Library Blue House Music
Rock n Bowl Bonerama, Papa Mali
Saenger Theatre Trombone Shorty's Treme
Thowdown
Santos Bar Dead Boys, Burn Kit
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat Shake’em Up Jazz Band
The Howlin Wolf Organ Fairchild, Marvelous Funkshun
The Maison Nola Axe Men, Smoking Time Jazz Band
The Press Room Or Shovaly Plus
Tipitina’s The Iceman
Special Toulouse Theater Worship
My Organ, Motet
Tropical Isle Bourbon Mark Barrett
Virgin Hotels Dawn Richard, Pell
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
21st Amendment Marty Peters & The Party Meters
Apple Barrel Shwag
Bacchanal Noah Young
Bamboula’s Aaron Levinson, Youse
Bar Redux T Marie, Bayou Juju
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal Biloxi Beach Bret Michaels
BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey, The Rhythm Band
Blue Nile Krasno Moore Project
BMC The Budz
Boomtown Boomtown Brass Band
Bourbon O Bar Amber Rachelle, The Sweet Potatoes
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Lynn Drury
Bullet’s Sports Bar In-Tune Band
Cafe Istanbul Garaj Mahal Featuring Kai Ekhardt, Oz Ezzeldin, Fareed Haque & Hassan Hurd
Cafe Negril Royal Caravan 504, Rue Fiya
Carrollton Station Mike Doussan
Chickie Wah Wah Brian Stoltz, Ghalia Volt
Creole Gardens Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat
Dew Drop Inn Teedra Moses
Dos Jefes Michael Liuzza
Fillmore Delta Blues Explosion, Samantha Fish
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Mike Fulton, Sazerac Jazz Band
Gazebo Café J Riley Cain, Knockout Gumbo
Good Measure Jon Cleary, Pedro Segundo House of Blues New Mastersounds, Bonerama
Jazz Playhouse Richard Scott
Joy Theater Cyril Neville, Soul Rebels
Le Bon Temps Roulé Sput Searight, Bobby Sparks
Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy, Roderick
Paulin
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
Miss River The Silver Lining Serenaders
Plaquemines Parish Government Electric
Ramble, Louisiana Landfall
Rabbit Hole Compersion Quartet
Rock n Bowl Chapel Hart, Zach Edwards
Saenger Theater Trombone Shorty's Treme
Threauxdown
Spotted Cat Jacky Blaire, The Hot Biscuits
Superior Seafood Johnny Lonesome
The Broadside The Motet
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass
The Maison Jenavieve, The Winding Boys
The Rabbit Hole Compersion Quartet
Tipitina’s Greyboy Allstars, North Mississippi Allstars
Toulouse Theater Nate Smith, Kiefer
Virgin Hotels GLBLWRMNG, Pell
MONDAY, APRIL 28
21st Amendment John Lisi, Delta Funk
Apple Barrel Decaturadio
Bamboula’s Jon Roniger, Sugar & The Daddies
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Seth Finch
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Johnny Sansone, Jason Ricci
Blue Nile Red Baraat
Bourbon O Bar Vince Henningfield Duo
Buffa’s Bar David Doucet
Cafe Negril Gumbo Funk, Rue Fiya
Capulet Queen Bonobo
Carrollton Station Meryl Zimmerman
Chickie Wah Wah Giacomo Turra, Eric “Benny”
Bloom
Civic Theatre Fontaine’s DC
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Fillmore The Revivalists
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Richard Scott, Tin Men
Good Measure Kiefer
Holy Diver NOLA Bobcat, Taylon Foyd
House of Blues Chicano Batman
Le Bon Temps Roulé GuitArmy
Mahogany Jazz Hall The Original Tuxedo Jazz
Band
Maple Leaf Bar George Porter Jr., Chris Adkins
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
MRB Ben Buchbinder
Mr Wolf Espresso Camiam , Robert “Sput”
Searight
MS Coast Coliseum Puddle of Mud, Hinder
Preservation Hall Preservation Brass
Saturn Bar BC Coogan
The Howlin Wolf Melanie MacLaren, Todd O’Neil
The Maison Aurora Nealand, Gene’s Music Machine
Three Muses The Rhythm Method
Tipitina’s Trombone Shorty
Toulouse Theater Frequinauts
Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Dave James
TUESDAY, APRIL 29
Bamboula’s Caitie B., Giselle Anguizola Quartet
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Eric “Benny” Bloom
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Tuba Skinny
Blue Nile Wil Blades, Herlin Riley
Bourbon O Bar Shawan Rice Trio
Buffa’s Alex McMurray
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya
Capulet Miss Morning
Chickie Wah Wah Dogs In A Pile, Osborne
Civic Theatre Shakey Graves
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat
Deutsches Haus Morning 40 Federation
Dew Drop Inn Leo Nocentelli
Dos Jefes Tom Hook
Fritzel’s Jamil Sharif, Richard “Piano” Scott
Front Row Art Lounge DJ Poppa
Hideout Bar Kid Merv
Holy Diver The Amazing Henrietta
House of Blues WWOZ Piano Night
Jazz Playhouse Amber Rachelle
Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge Irvin
Mayfield, Kermit Ruffins
Le Bon Temps Roulé Brad Miller, Nir Felder
Mahalia Jackson Theater Umphrey’s McGee, Moe
Mahogany Jazz Hall Big Joe Kennedy, Leroy Jones
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
Rock n Bowl Javier Olondo, Asheson
Salon Salon Read the Sands
The Maison Eight Dice Cloth, Paradise Jazz Band
The Rabbit Hole Rebirth
Tipitina’s Doug Belote, Adam Deitch
Toulouse Theater Daze By Nite
Tropical Isle Original Dave Ferrato, Dave James
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30
Bacchanal Wine Jason Weaver
Bamboula’s J.J and the A-Ok’s, Boardwalker
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Derek Douget
BJ’s Lounge The Iguanas
Blue Nile Big Sam, Corey Henry
Botanical Garden at city park Enrique
Bourbon O Bar Serabee Quartet
Buffa’s Bar Davis Rogan
Café Degas Double Whisky
Cafe Istanbul NOLATET Featuring James Singleton, Brian Haas, Mike Dillon & Johnny Vidacovich
Cafe Negril Jam-ilton, Rue Fiya
MAC
Mac Sabbath, a satirical Black Sabbath tribute band, is coming for a zestful live performance. They are known for their musical parody using lyricism centered on fast food, including “Sweet Beef” and “More Ribs.”
Thursday, April 24, 8 p.m., $32 to $80, houseofblues.com
Capulet Washboard Chaz
Chickie Wah Wah Dan Penn, Patterson Hood City Park Botanical Gardens Asheson
Civic Theatre The Radiators
Constantinople Stage André Bohren
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. New Orleans Jimi Meets Funk
Dew Drop Inn Tarriona ‘Tank’ Ball
Dos Jefes Dale Spalding
Fillmore Acid Bath
Fritzel’s Jazz Pub Bourbon Street Stars, Hunter Burgamy Band
Hideout Bar Jamie Lynn Vessels
House of Blues Andy Frasco, The U.N. Jazz Playhouse Big Sam
JCC Frank London, Eleanor Reissa
Le Bon Temps Roulé Barakat, Sam Fribush
Longue vue House & Gardens Mia Borders, Jesse Morrow
Mahalia Jackson Theater Allman Betts Band, Geoleo
Mahogany Jazz Hall Paul Longstreth, Tom Fischer
Maple Leaf Bar Zach Edwards & The Medicine
Marigny Opera House Maggie Koerner
MRB Lynn Drury
NOPSI hotel Nell Simmons-Bradley
Preservation Hall Branden Lewis
Rock n Bowl Junior Lacrosse, Sumtin Sneaky
Saenger Theatre LCD Soundsystem
Santos SPELLLING
Snug Harbor Delfeayo Marsalis, the Uptown Jazz
Orchestra
Spotted Cat Music Club Shotgun Jazz Band
Spotted Cat Shotgun Jazz Band
Tipitina’s The Daze Between Band
UNO Performing Arts Center Musaica Chamber
Ensemble
Vaughan’s Lounge Glo Worm Trio
THURSDAY, MAY 1
Bacchanal Wine Raphael Bas
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Punkadelic, Crush Diamond
Beanlandia Treme Brass Band
Big Couch NOLA Pallas Players
Blackbird Hotel Craig Klein
Blue Nile The Main Squeeze
Buffa’s Bar Thomas McDermott, Aurora Nealand
Cafe Istanbul Pimps Of Joytime, (late) Wil
Blades & Friends w/ Jeff Coffin, Mike Clark + Bill
Summers
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Capulet Mia Borders
Carrollton Station Grayson Capps
Chickie Wah Wah Jon Cleary, Lost Bayou
Ramblers
Civic Theatre Daniel Donato’s Cosmic NOLA
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
D.B.A. New Orleans Roosevelt Collier
Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge PJ Morton
Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
Farmers Market Sam Kuslan
House of Blues The Alarm
Joy Theater A Dream We Dreamed: Trib. to Phil
Lesh
Le Bon Temps Roulé Soul Rebels
Maple Leaf Bar Eric Johanson
Marigny Opera House Siren Song, Maggie Koerner
Dutch Alley Johnette Downing
Orpheum Theater Lettuce
Pavillion of Two Sisters City Park Patrice Fisher & Arpa
Republic NOLA Anders Osborne, Fred Tackett
Rock n Bowl Chubby Carrier
Saenger Theatre LCD Soundsystem
Siberia Low Cut Connie
Studio Saint Philip James Singleton
The Broadside Dave Jordan & The N.I.A.
The Press Room D’Batiste
Tipitina’s Julien Baker, TORRES
Toulouse Theater Lespecial
Vaughan’s Lounge Corey Henry, The Treme Funktet
Virgin Hotels Marcus Machado, Jaime Woods
FRIDAY, MAY 2
Bacchanal Wine David Sigler, Willie Green
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ed Perkins
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Deslondes
Blue Nile Kermit Ruffins, Marco Benevento
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Adam Rogers, Johnny Sansone
Cafe Istanbul Melvin Seals & JGB
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Andrew Duhon
Celebration Hall Sporty’s Brass Band
Chickie Wah Wah Papa Mali, Terence Blanchard, Michael Mayo
Civic Theatre CimaFunk, Robert Randolph
Creole Gardens Guest House Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Deutsches Haus Ladies Choir, Men’s Choir
Fillmore Joe Russo
Good Measure Nic Payton, Karriem Riggins
House of Blues Tab Benoit
Joy Theater Mike Gordon
Le Bon Temps Roulé Grits & Greens, Colin Davis
Madame Vic’s Ingrid Lucia
Marigny Opera House Siren Song, Maggie Koerner
Metro Galantis
Orpheum Theater Karl Denson
Parc Hardy Park Corey Ledet, Geno Delafose Republic NOLA Eric Krasno, Jennifer Hartswick
Rock n Bowl Bonerama, Sonny Landreth Saenger Theatre JJ Grey, Mofro Seawitch Restaurant The Silver Lining
Serenaders
Siberia Low Cut Connie
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat Music Club Dirty Tuba, Paradise Jazz Band
The Broadside Blues Ghalia Volt, JD Simo, Luther Dickinson
The Rabbit Hole Juan Maclean, Lost Bayou Ramblers
Tipitina’s Galactic, Jelly Joseph
Toulouse Theater Btterfly
Quintet
Virgin Hotels Kirkland Green
SATURDAY, MAY 3
Apple Barrel Smoky Greenwell Band
Bacchanal Wine Amari Ansari, Boma Bango, Miles Berry
Bayou Bar Peter Harris, Ricardo Pascal
BJ’s Lounge Bywater Washboard Chaz Blues
Blue Nile Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Holy Ghost-
Note
Buffa’s Bar Black Dog
Cafe Istanbul Melvin Seals & JGB, (late) The Abbey Roads w/ Reed Mathis, Aron Magner, Nikki Glaspie + Jason Fraticelli
Cafe Negril Rue Fiya Allstars
Carrollton Station Mia Borders
Chickie Wah Wah Eddie 9V, Ghost-Note
Civic Theatre Anders Osborne’s Birthday Bash
Creole Garden Mitch Woods Club 88
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge Big Freedia
Fillmore Joe Russo
House of Blues HEALTH, The Iceman Special
JCC Astral Project
Joy Theater Crescent City Classics
Le Bon Temps Roulé Rick Lollar, Steve Kelly
Ohm Lounge Saturday Nights
Parc Hardy Park Amis Du Teche, Nathan Williams
Rock n Bowl Cowboy Mouth, Amanda Shaw
Saenger Theatre Wilco, Teskey Brothers
Siberia Pynk Beard, Que Beleza
Silk Road Johnny Lonesome
Spotted Cat Music Club Panorama Jazz Band, Soul Brass Band, The Broadside Honey Island Swamp, Son Rompe
Pera
The Howlin Wolf Sara Zamora
The Rabbit Hole Sally Baby
Tipitina’s Neal Francis
Toulouse Theater Boyfriend, The Funk Sessions
Virgin Hotels Victor Campbell
SUNDAY, MAY 4
BJ’s Lounge James McClaskey & The Rhythm Band
Bacchanal Wine Noah Young, Tangiers Combo
Bayou Bar Coda, Peter Harris
BJ’s Lounge Bywater James McClaskey, Rhythm
Band
Blue Nile Big Chief Monk Boudreaux
Boomtown Boomtown Brass Band
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk The Bad Sandys
Buffa’s Bar Pfister Sisters, Some Like it Hot!
Cafe Istanbul Nicholas Payton/Esperanza
Spalding/Karriem Riggins
Chickie Wah Wah Dogs In A Pile, Papa Mali, Wally
Ingram
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dew Drop Inn Hotel & Lounge Craig Robinson & The Nasty Delicious
Fillmore Bill Murray, Joe Russo
Good Measure The Altons
House of Blues Better Than Ezra
Joy Theater Robert Glasper
Le Bon Temps Roulé Billy Iuso, The Quickening
Orpheum Theater Remi Wolf
Parc Hardy Park Cajun Roots, Jeffery Broussard
Rock n Bowl Dale Watson & His Lone Stars
Saenger Theatre Tom Jones
Siberia Bermuda Search Party
The Howlin Wolf Hot 8 Brass Band
Tipitina’s Dumpstaphunk, FiyaPowa!
Toulouse Theater Adam Deitch Quartet
Virgin Hotels Ten Spencer, Danny Abel
MONDAY, MAY 5
Apple Barrel Mark Appleford
BJ’s Lounge Bywater John Boutte, Jon Cleary
Blue Nile The Nth Power
Buffa’s Bar Pfister Sisters
Cafe Istanbul John Boutee
Chickie Wah Wah Ed Volker, Dave Malone
Crescent City Brewhouse New Orleans
Streetbeat Band
Dos Jefes John Fohl
Maple Leaf Bar George Porter Jr., Chris Adkins
NOLA Brewing The Bluegrass Pickin’ Party
St. Roch Tavern Woods on Fire, Liliana Hudgens
Thank You For Your Continued Support!
4/23 10 pm Isaac Eady & Third Moon—FEST KICKOFF EVENT!
4/24 11 pm The Soul Rebels
4/25 10 pm Bo Dollis & The Wild Magnolias 12am Hash Cabbage
4/26 10pm Smoker’s World 12am Cardboard Cowboy
4/27 11pm Sputacular Trio ft. Robert “Sput” Searight, Bobby Sparks, & Jay Mck
4/28 11pm GuitArmy
4/29 8pm TBD 11pm Nir Felder, Mike Clark, Benny Bloom, & Pat Casey
4/30 8 pm Barakat 10 pm Noon 1 am Sam Fribush, Brian Richburg Jr., & Xavier Lynn
5/1 11 pm The Soul Rebels
5/2 10 pm Grits & Greens 12am Colin Davis & Night People
5/3 10 pm Slugger ft. Rick Lollar 12am Steve Kelly ft. Rick Lollar
5/4 10 pm Billy Iuso 1am The Quickening—FEST CLOSEOUT PARTY!
Will the first weekend of Jazz Fest hold
Greetings, rock ‘n’ roll fans and festival lovers. It is time once again for the crown jewel of New Orleans get-togethers—the 54th New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell.
Music devotees from all around the world will arrive in the Crescent City in April and into May to witness history. Whatever type of music gets you going, it is guaranteed to be blasting from one of 14 stages—at any given time— throughout these consecutive weekends. However, if you’ve one of the multitude of classic rock listeners, this is a PSA especially for you.
John Fogerty [Thursday, April 24 | Festival Stage, 5:30 p.m.] is a name that demands respect in the annals of rock music. It’s no wonder, since this living legend has been performing for 66 years. In 1964, John and his brother Tom, along with Stu Cook and Doug Clifford, began releasing records as the Golliwogs. Does that name not sound familiar? Perhaps not, since they really didn’t find success until four years later when they changed their name to Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Their first hit single was a cover of Dale Hawkins’ country-tinged “Susie Q,” a highoctane rocker that cannot be fully appreciated until you check out the nearly nine-minute album version. Many hits followed, all of which
featured John Fogerty’s unmistakable voice and guitar playing front and center. Anyone worth their salt in classic rock fandom has spent countless hours jamming out to “Proud Mary,” “Fortunate Son,” and their Louisiana fans’ favorite anthem “Born on the Bayou.”
Even though CCR split up in 1972, John Fogerty has been recording and performing solo ever since, selling over 100 million records between both eras, racking up eight Grammy nominations and winning Best Rock Album for 1997’s Blue Moon Swamp. Be sure to come out and see “The Old Man Down the Road” while he teaches NOLA how to rock.
You must get prepared to “Surrender” to the music when Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick [Friday, April 25 | Shell Gentilly Stage, 5:45 p.m] hit the stage, having just recently celebrated half a century in rock music. Lead singer Robin Zander and lead guitarist Rick Nielsen—you know, the guy with the Bowery Boys baseball cap—have been leading the charge throughout the band’s entire output. Maybe you prefer their ‘70s hits, such as the iconic “I Want You to Want Me” and “Dream Police,” or perhaps you dig their power ballads of the ‘80s including the #1 hit “The Flame”? Regardless of which era of their fandom you happen to relate to, you can prove yourself to be a fan of the band by coming to see them at the festival of festivals. If you’re
By Jeff Boudreaux By Jeff Boudreaux
lucky, you may even see Nielsen go to town on his historic, five-neck Hamer guitar—eat your heart out, Jimmy Page.
While the next band hasn’t been around as long as the other guys, first weekend headliner Dave Matthews Band [Sunday, April 27 | Festival Stage, 5:30 p.m.] have earned their place at the pinnacle of the festival. You see, Dave Matthews is a Grammy winner with his namesake band with “So Much to Say” and without “Gravedigger.” But who are we kidding? We’ll be lining up to hear ‘90s classics including “What Would You Say,” “Crash into Me,” and “Ants Marching.” After all, our recurring theme is musical nostalgia and “what would you hear” on classic rock radio.
For those of us who fondly remember that magical decade before the turn of the century, 1994’s Dreaming took the nation by storm, oversaturating the airways all the way to a six-time platinum status—much more deservedly so than Hootie and the Blowfish’s you think that was something, Dave Matthews Band outdid themselves with Crash become their best-selling album
to date. In fact, the Dave Matthews Band is the very first rock band to debut at #1 for seven consecutive album releases on Billboard. And, of course, they’re in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, too.
A word to the wise: Experiencing Dave Matthews Band in concert is a completely different animal than listening to their records. If you decide to make it out to the Fair Grounds to see this amazing band in person, you’ll certainly be in for a treat as Matthews and the rest of the guys are renowned for the uniqueness of their live performances.
Before the first weekend comes to a close, if you find yourself with extra time, perhaps pay tribute to some of those allimportant trailblazers of rock ‘n’ roll. Yes, rock aficionados have to remember their roots, so make it a point to also check out The Dixie (“Chapel of Love,” “Iko Iko”), (who will certainly forecast “It’s Raining”), and —sans the Pips—who “Heard it Through the Grapevine” even before Marvin Gaye did. That’s all until the next Jazz Fest weekend, and the second weekend’s rock acts hit the absolute jackpot. See y’all at the Fair Grounds.
Every year since 1996, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has filled its Cultural Exchange Pavilion with musicians connected to a country that shares musical and cultural ties with our fair city. This year, the featured country is Mexico and our lineup will not disappoint. By Sabrina
Stone
As the headliner, we booked one of the most famous Mexican-born American musicians of all time, 10x Grammy Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, guitar legend Santana. Banda MS, who are huge in the Latin world and average a million plus dollar booking fee, are bound to put on a heck of a show, as well. Grammy winner and Tiny Desk Concerts' performer Lila Downs has a stunning voice that she uses to sing in several indigenous Mesoamerican languages such as Mixtec, Zapotec, Mayan, Nahuatl, and Purépecha.
Jazz Fest is stacking the stage with bands from all around Mexico. Enjoy traditional marimba with Marimba Nandayapa from Chiapas, Son Jarocho with Son de Madera from Veracruz, modernized Mixtec village music with Pasatono Orquesta from Oaxaca, mariachi from Guadalajara with Son del Coamil, Guerrero and the Afro-Mexican rhythms with Las Hermanas García and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia from Mexico’s Pacific coast, J M y Sus Norteños from Veracruz, El Conjunto Nueva Ola from Mexico City, Mexican electronica with the Mexican Institute of Sound, and the signature cumbia punk sound of returning band Son Rompe Pera.
U.S.-based Spanish language bands include La Santa Cecilia and Mariachi Los Camperos from Los Angeles; Los Texmaniacs, La Insistencia Norteña, and “El Dusty” from Texas; and, though he doesn’t often sing in Spanish, you can’t miss Tex-Mex punk rock veteran Alejandro Escovedo.
Papo y Son Mandao and the wildly percussive Afro-Cuban jazz piano group Alfredo Rodriguez Trio both hail from Cuba. Quique Escamilla brings you Mexican music by way of Canada. Grupo Fantasma is a nine-piece, Grammy Award-winning Latin funk Cumbia band from Austin, Texas, and La Insistencia Norteña, also from Texas, will be joining local harpist Patrice Fisher & Arpa in an exciting collaborative performance. To add some additional excitement, Matlachines Los Venados from Aguascalientes and Calenda from Oaxaca will be parading through the grounds on both festival weekends, leading a dance line to the cultural tent.
Even when Jazz Fest rolls out of town, you’ll still be able to catch all of these wonderful Spanish-singing bands from around the world who have made their homes in New Orleans.
Mariachi en Nueva Orleans Los Viajeros [Thursday, April 24 | Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavillion Celebrates Mexico, 11:30 a.m.] has a classic mariachi sound and is available for hire and pop up wherever they’re needed: at dinners, parties, weddings, quinceañeras, and, occasionally, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Rumba Buena [Saturday, April 26 | Congo Square Stage, 12:15 p.m.], fronted by Johnny Marcia, is no newbie to Jazz Fest. Born in New Orleans to Honduran parents, Marcia has been playing with his father’s Latin band, Los Sagitarios, since the age of 16. In the early aughts, once Marcia became the new leader, he renamed the band Rumba Buena and added several genres into the band’s repertoire, now known for performing salsa, merengue, and bachata-influenced beats.
Los Güiros [Saturday, April 26 | Jazz & Heritage Stage, 12:25 p.m.] is a female-fronted, psychedelic cumbia band, combines traditional Colombian folkloric rhythms with Peruvian chicha and modern electronic elements, as well as mixing up their arrangements with organ, electric guitar, and sousaphone.
Treces del Sur: “New Orleans Latin Music Band” [Sunday, April 27 | Jazz & Heritage Stage, 11:20 a.m.] is made up of musicians from New Orleans, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Mississippi, and everywhere else. They’ve played major events including French Quarter Fest, Jazz Fests of previous years, the Audubon Zoo’s Latin Celebration, and the Gretna Heritage Festival, but you can also catch them at restaurants and clubs. They just love to play.
Javier Olondo [Sunday, April 27 | Jazz & Heritage Stage, 1:40 p.m.], while local, can be seen performing throughout Europe and both the Americas. The Cuban guitarist received his arts degree from the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria, and has brought his global influences into his sound. He is a professor of guitar at Tulane University and the artistic director of the New Orleans International Guitar Festival, as well as being the host of the popular TV show Que Pasa TV. He even has the keys to the city of Kenner and was awarded as an honorary citizen of the city of New Orleans.
Fermin Ceballos [Sunday, April 27 | Rhythmpourium, 2:20 p.m.] moved here from a small mountain town in the Dominican Republic back in 2012. He is a joy of a human and it reflects beautifully through his music. Through his tenure here, he’s incorporated local sounds such as Zydeco into his repertoire, which makes for a wild mix with merengue, bachata, palos, Latin jazz, and cumbia. Ceballos sings in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, so you really never know what you’ll get, but it will always be fun.
Javier Gutierrez & VIVAZ [Thursday, May 1 | Jazz & Heritage Stage, 12:20 p.m.] are not newcomers to Jazz Fest. Gutierrez hails from Bolivia and moved to New Orleans in the ‘80s. His guitar sound is strongly based in flamenco, Latin jazz, bossa nova, and world music. His first Jazz Fest performance dates all the way back to 1992.
Conjunto Tierra Linda [Thursday, May 1 | Jazz & Heritage Stage, 3:00 p.m.], originally from San Fransisco, specializes in Latin jazz, salsa, són-montuno, and popular Cuban sounds. Their members hail from various places around the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America. Their strongly Afro-Caribbean rhythmic influences make them sought out for events with dance floors.
Cristina Kaminis [Sunday, May 4 | Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavillion Celebrates Mexico, 11:30 a.m.] performs jazz, ranchera llanta, blues, ballads, and songs in French and Portuguese, as well as Spanish. A regular at Bamboula’s, the Mexican American singer has spent her spring in anticipation of Jazz Fest, performing in City Park’s Botanical Gardens and at the Jazz and Heritage Center as part of their Chanteuse Series.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival held in 2025 between April 24 and May 4 is, obviously, an orgy for the senses.
By Joel Mandina
With so much to hear, taste, and see, even the most experienced fester needs a “North Star” to guide them to a safe space. Hence why, the seemingly random placement of flags, or totems, are spread across the panoramic of the Fair Grounds.
Defined as “a spirit being, sacred object, or symbol that serves as an emblem of a group of people,” totem concepts, like Mardi Gras floats, can be taken from current events, local happenings, satire, mythology, or national, ethnic, and religious affiliations.
K&B PURPLE
Regarding purple, whose connotation evokes sumptuousness and royalty, New Orleans, as usual, flipped the script. Any native New Orleanian knows the precursor of drug stores—K&B. Founded in 1905 by Gustave Katz & Sydney Besthoff at 732 Canal St., the iconic chain has inspired collections, recollections, and even exhibits.
“Yellow is the color the eye sees first,” and we all know its role in our Mardi Gras color palette: gold for power, green is faith, while purple is justice. This also rings true with some of the New Orleanian totems.
Lore has it that Mrs. Besthoff, to cut costs, bought the store’s wallpaper during a clearance sale, and little did she know the lasting impact this would have on generations of New Orleanians. When Rite Aid purchased K&B in 1997, some locals boycotted to show solidarity for their beloved brand.
To further demonstrate how a totem can transmute itself into something greater than the sum of its parts, the Bestoffs donated the vacant K&B headquarters and warehouse at 900 Camp St. to form the New Orleans Contemporary Arts Center, as well as the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden adjoining the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Based on the legend of the rougarou, a swampdwelling werewolf, George Rodrigue’s Blue Dog art takes cues from Andy Warhol-style pop art and combines it with a bit of Cajun sensitivity. Rodrigue once said, “The Blue Dog was born out of the need to express a feeling of loneliness. In a way, it is symbolic of myself, and I see it as a reflection of who I am and how I feel.”
The documentary Blue: The Life and Art of George Rodrigue, which won Best Southern Feature Audience Award at the 2024 New Orleans Film Festival, features local luminaries and other totems, such as: Drew Brees, Emeril Lagasse, and James Carville.
WHEN I CHIP, YOU CHIP, WE CHIP
From kettle chips in Boston to kale in California, almost every locale has its go-to “crisp.” In NOLA’s case, it is Zapp’s.
With locally inspired names and flavors such as “Cajun Dill Gator-Tators,” “Spicy Cajun Crawtators,” and “Voodoo Heat,” Zapp’s plays around with Cajun tastes as it rejoices in its own identity with colorful packaging and a proprietary font that was created from an unknown’s handwriting.
“My wife, Anne, thought I’d gone nuts,” Founder Ron Zappe said, according to his obituary in the TimesPicayune. “But I told her, ‘No, not nuts—chips.’”
Zapp’s are now available nationwide, and Southern Living labeled Zapp’s chips “the gold standard of snacking.”
From the coveted coconuts thrown by Zulu riders on Mardi Gras morning to much more, a culture of must-have, Mardi Gras trinkets have created a market of frenzied paradegoers desperate to demonstrate parade prowess, social connections, and hardcore gumption.
Another NOLA totem, which in some opinions summarizes the omnipresent situation of the city’s fickle mood, are the Shakespearean masks of Tragedy & Comedy, which also frequently appear in Mardi Gras materials. Comedy is the realm of the Grecian muse Thalia while Melpomene represents Tragedy, as well as some pretty (in)famous Uptown streets.
FROM THE ASHES
From beignets to Aunt Sally’s Pralines, sweet treats are also an integral part of the New Orleans palate. Their iconic status in the lexicon of NOLA makes them eternally viable. Yet, one brand also synthesizes with New Orleans’ cycle of resiliency and rebirth. While we all know that water can be destructive, sometimes other elements can fan the flames as Hubig’s Pies resurrected itself in 2022 after a devastating fire in 2012.
Parisian-trained artist Lilian Lovich became a “guerilla totem-er” as she developed homemade (not) Hubig’s Pies for family and friends during the holidays. She said, “The pies are comfort food in not just the physical sense but also the creative and connected space that surrounds New Orleans.”
Hubig’s Pies staple flavors are: apple, lemon, peach, pineapple, chocolate, and coconut, while seasonal flavors range between sweet potato, strawberry, banana, cherry, blueberry, and raspberry.
Miniaturization, commodification, gentrification, or modification all contribute to an organic evolution of tastes, colors, identity, and culture. Whether developed from pure originality or simply manifesting what lies within, totems carry more weight than the simple flags that proudly fly them. Like the high-flying totems at Jazz Fest, they rally our kith and kin while grounding us to our home.
From recycling programs to composting efforts, the festival encourages attendees and vendors alike to participate in eco-friendly practices with sustainability initiatives.
By Brooke Adams
Picture this— you’re grooving to your favorite band, a plate of crawfish bread in hand, and soaking up the magic of Jazz Fest.
There is nothing quite like the energy of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell, and it takes a lot of work behind the scenes for festivalgoers to enjoy great music, amazing food, and a vibrant atmosphere. But beyond the music and revelry, did you know Jazz Fest is also working behind the scenes to keep things green?
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Jazz Fest regular, there are many ways you can contribute to making the event more sustainable. Here’s a closer look at the festival’s green initiatives and how you can do your part.
Recycling is a key component of Jazz Fest’s sustainability strategy. The festival provides designated recycling locations where attendees can properly dispose of recyclable materials, such as plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and paper products. Volunteers and staff work to ensure that recycling bins are strategically placed and easily accessible throughout the festival grounds.
In addition to general recycling, the festival has a Battery Recycling Program, which collects used batteries from performers’ audio devices. These batteries are then safely disposed of or recycled, preventing hazardous materials from ending up in landfills. By participating in these recycling efforts, festivalgoers can help reduce waste and support the festival’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Composting is another significant sustainability initiative at Jazz Fest.
The festival collects compostable materials from food vendors, including biodegradable plates, utensils, and leftover food scraps. Additionally, fruit waste from the WWOZ Hospitality Tent is collected and composted rather than thrown away. This effort helps reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills while also contributing to soil enrichment projects in the local area.
If you’re attending Jazz Fest and purchasing food from vendors, look for composting bins and ensure that your waste is disposed of in the proper container when composting options are available.
To reduce single-use plastic waste, Jazz Fest has established water refill stations throughout the festival grounds. These refill stations are marked on festival maps, making it easy for attendees to find a convenient location to refill their bottles.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles or purchase the Jazz Fest stainless tumbler, which is available on-site. By choosing reusable options, attendees can help minimize plastic waste while staying hydrated throughout the day.
Jazz Fest has partnered with local organizations to collect and repurpose used cooking oil from food vendors. Rather than disposing of used oil improperly, vendors contribute to a program that converts the oil into fuel for local shrimping boats. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports the local fishing industry by providing an alternative, sustainable fuel source.
One of the festival’s more interactive sustainability programs is the Shell Recycling Reward Program. This initiative allows attendees to actively participate in keeping festival grounds clean while earning the chance to win exciting prizes.
During the event, Shell provides attendees with bags that can be filled with recyclable materials collected from the festival grounds. For every full bag of recyclables returned, participants increase their chances of winning prizes. Last year’s prizes included VIP Grand Marshal passes for Jazz Fest 2025 or a Shell RIDE SR-38 Electric Bike. This program not only incentivizes festivalgoers to recycle but also fosters a greater sense of environmental stewardship among attendees.
HOW ATTENDEES CAN BE MORE ECO-CONSCIOUS AT JAZZ FEST
While Jazz Fest has taken numerous steps to implement sustainability initiatives, attendees also play a crucial role in making the festival as eco-friendly as possible. Here are a few simple ways you can contribute:
• Bring Your Own Reusable Water Bottle – Take advantage of the water refill stations to reduce plastic waste. Opt for a Jazz Fest tumbler or bring your own reusable bottle.
• Use Public Transportation or Carpool – Reduce your carbon footprint by using public transit, biking, or sharing a ride with friends rather than driving alone.
• Sort Your Waste Properly – Pay attention to designated recycling and compost bins to ensure waste is disposed of correctly.
• Support Vendors with Sustainable Practices – Choose food vendors that use compostable packaging or source ingredients locally.
• Participate in the Shell Recycling Reward Program – Collect recyclables around the festival and exchange them for a chance to win exciting prizes.
• Avoid Single-Use Plastics – Whenever possible, opt for reusable cups, straws, and utensils to minimize plastic waste.
• Respect the Festival Grounds – Keep Jazz Fest clean by disposing of waste responsibly and encouraging others to do the same.
With thousands of attendees each year, Jazz Fest has a significant environmental impact. However, through initiatives like recycling, composting, water refill stations, and used cooking oil collection, the festival is actively working to reduce its footprint. In fact, in 2023, Jazz Fest successfully diverted 82,400 lbs. of recyclable materials from our local landfills. By taking small yet meaningful steps, festivalgoers can support these sustainability efforts and ensure that Jazz Fest remains an eco-conscious event for years to come.
Whether you’re enjoying world-class music, indulging in delicious local cuisine, or dancing the day away, being mindful of your environmental impact can help make Jazz Fest a more sustainable celebration. So grab your reusable water bottle, sort your waste correctly, and be a part of the green movement at Jazz Fest.
By Julie Mitchell
Sometimes a crowded CVS is overwhelming, so a festival that’s gated where you cannot escape the paradoxical boom of soft rock? Sometimes you’re going to have a panic attack and need some tips. We’re here to help. Please peruse this list, or bring it with you.
Often when dealing with anxiety, we tell people to focus on what’s around them—what they can see, hear, smell, and touch. But when that’s the problem, we need to reassess. What if what you see is a sweaty dad from Ohio trying Crawfish Monica for the first time? What if what you hear is a baby crying because its tiny headphones have fallen off and its nap was interrupted by a Steve Miller cover band? What if what you can smell is body odor from the couple enthusiastically making out next to you on a muddy towel? What if, devastatingly, what you can touch is 30 individual ponytails? This might not be calming.
If you’re hyperventilating and feel something coming on, try focusing mostly on the ground. The ground is beautiful when you’re overwhelmed because there’s no new information down there. Nothing to figure out or process—it’s just the ground. Get to a spot where you can see more grass than shoes and know that’s a safe place. If it’s near a small tree, that’s even better.
Once you feel safe with the ground, you can start adding in the other ones until you’re back in your body. Now, we look. Are there teens in love? Breaking up? A mom smoking weed? Can you smell weed and pizza? Can you hear a flute?
You’re going to die one day, but it’s probably not today. Today, you’re just here to witness people living, as well as live it yourself. Life is actually good when we can see at least 10 different examples of tiedye. Start counting.
Jazz Fest is a historic event with legends, locals, art, food, and, of course, music. It attracts around 400,000 people a year. That may be too many for some.
The lines at Jazz Fest are rivaled only by theme parks and polling places about to close. Are you hungry? You should have gotten in line 42 minutes ago because that’s how long it’s going to be before you’re going to receive anything from that line. If you are experiencing hunger or thirst or any other bodily requirements, this is bad. But if you are a person having a panic attack, this is good. In the line, you are not a person panicking anymore. You are more a tree made of flesh, an obstacle to move around, a pillar of stoicism and grace. No one is going to bother you in the line. There are no variables and nothing to perform. You are fulfilling a social contract. The line is there, you are standing on the line, and the line is moving very slowly. If you’re visibly upset, people just think you’re mad the line is taking so long. Sure they’re going to ask something of you once you get to the front, but that’s not for another hour. You might even be hungry
then. Also, once you calm down, you can leave at any time. When you step out of a line, people aren’t disappointed—they’re relieved. You just shortened the amount of time between them and shrimp bread or a turduckin po-boy. They’re going to be overjoyed.
And, finally, the line is something people respect. They see you standing, so they go around. You don’t have to think or be aware of anything but slowing your own breathing. You’re safe there—you’re in line.
PRETEND YOU’RE DANCING
Need to do some EMDR tapping? Have a stim that calms you down? Anxiety yoga poses? Wiggling to combat a freeze response from complex PTSD? Swaying to keep from dissociating? Any weird physical thing you’d be embarrassed to do at a Whole Foods? Guess what? You’re not in Whole Foods. This is Jazz Fest, baby. There’s a 65-year-old man doing something 10x more insane, and he’s lucid. He’s having the time of his life. You could go through an entire EMDR session and people would just think you’re just a big Counting Crows fan. The worry of being perceived or embarrassed is gone because you’ve entered a new social environment where dancing is the norm, and everyone’s doing it. Also, what qualifies as dancing is a spectrum as wide as the ocean. The range of what humans do as dancing is very, very large—anything you would want to do mid-panic attack included. Go for it. Roll around. Trauma is stored in the hips.
HUM
Humming isn’t just something bees do. Legally, humans can do it, too. Humming is calming because the vibration stimulates your vagus nerve, the main nerves in your parasympathetic nervous system— often the thing freaking out when you’re feeling anxious. Humming can also lower your heart rate.
Humming is in general good. It’s just hard to do if you’re at the movies, in a quiet coffee shop, or sitting next to someone on the bus. But Jazz Fest is a place where humming doesn’t even register as one of the sounds happening. Lucky for you. Hum away.
Now you’re prepared to go to Jazz Fest. Whether you’re in a state of bliss listening to Lenny Kravitz or fighting existential dread listening to Lenny Kravitz, you have a tiny toolkit of things to do to get you through if needed. Have fun, and drink some water.
By Matt Hanson
New Orleans has always been a home for loveable eccentrics— especially of the musical variety—and Ernie K-Doe's Mother-In-Law Lounge remains one of the finest examples of this city's historic venues. Kermit Ruffins continues this tradition at Tremé's famous club.
A local NOLA singer Ernest Kador Jr., who went by the stage name Ernie K-Doe, first rose to fame as a young man with the Allen Toussiant-penned “Mother-in-Law,” which went all the way to number one on the Billboard charts in 1961. The bouncy little novelty song ended up bolstering a career that spanned decades, with some fallow years, to be sure, and included some excellent R&B tunes including “A Certain Girl” and “Here Come the Girls,” the former of which was covered by the likes of Warren Zevon, and the latter by NOLA’s own Trombone Shorty and is still featured in Mardi Gras parades to this day.
Unlike other R&B singers of his era, Ernie K-Doe didn’t really do pain and suffering. He was all about having a good time. The fun the band had on “Te-Ta-Te-Ta-Ta,” his other biggest charting single, is palpable. Admittedly, the tune wears its Sam Cooke influence on its sleeve, but there’s no harm in that. At other times, his vocals possessed a James Brown-like funkiness and grit that spices up the groove. There’s nothing wrong with mixing up influences and putting a little spin on them, especially as the product of a city that celebrates that sonic diversity as a matter of pride.
A naturally charismatic showman and a charmingly relentless self-promoter, K-Doe was an exuberant DJ on both WWOZ and WTUL. In fact, “Burn, K-Doe, Burn,” was one of his catchphrases. He even took to making ribald pronouncements such as “I’m cocky, but I’m good” and memorably referred to himself as “The Emperor of the Universe” or of “The World,” depending on who you ask. He proudly sported flowing scarves, the aforementioned shiny suits, and a long green cape.
MOTHER-IN-LAW
K-Doe’s wife, Antoinette, helped to run the Mother-In-Law Lounge at 1500 N. Claiborne Ave. in the Tremé. The club pays tribute to its local eminence with a brightly colored mural that floats across the outside wall. It’s a fun landmark to spot as
you cruise over it on the highway.
This was where the emperor himself held court, exuberantly playing his hits and being a beloved local hero—until he passed on. With typical NOLA tenacity, the lounge kept going even after Hurricane Katrina poured several feet of water into it, though its future remained uncertain after the indefatigable Antoinette passed away in 2009.
In the great NOLA tradition of keeping traditions alive, another musical icon, Kermit Ruffins, entered the story a couple of years later. Ruffins became the new host of the lounge— renaming it Kermit’s Mother-In-Law Lounge—and his skilled band still plays there several nights a week at 6 p.m., playing anything from a sprightly version of Louis Armstrong’s classic “On the Sunny Side of the Street” to a playful version of “If I Only Had a Brain” and more.
The vibe is certainly familial. It has a small, cozy spot, like a living room feel to it. One of Ruffins’ five daughters affably tends bar while another one might spontaneously sit in with the band and play an Alicia Keys cover, only to follow up with Scott Joplin’s ragtime classic “The Entertainer,” impressively done off the top of her head. A high schooler once debuted a lovely version of “Saving All My Love for You” on his flugelhorn. Ruffins’ banters
with the audience, jokes are cracked, and, oddly enough, the All In The Family theme song, “Those Were the Days,” once made an appearance.
There’s always a big pot of his succulent red beans and rice available in the back for a snack, included in the $30 cover charge at the door (local regulars get a discount), which might seem a little steep, but it’s worth it, and it’s necessary to keep a spot with some choice history alive in the modern era. Most places would rather just hire a DJ—because it’s cheaper than having a live band.
Ruffins explained that the lounge “is getting by,” though not by a large margin. “There isn’t as much live jazz in the neighborhood” as he’d like. That said, the plethora of vibrant brass bands playing around town is a great thing.
“It brings tears to my eyes,” Ruffins said, clearly proud to see that the kind of brass band music he helped to pioneer as a youngster is still thriving to this day. Ruffins cut his teeth as a founding member of Rebirth Brass Band in 1983 while attending Clark High School.
At the same time, Ruffins has recently turned 60, and this means that he’s spent his life on the beat. A constantly gigging musician for over 40 years now, he’s been everywhere. The man has certainly earned the right to retire if he wants to. There’s been talk about playing with an orchestra, a longtime dream that will hopefully happen soon. There’s plenty of music already written.
In the meantime, hopefully more tourists and locals alike will take it upon themselves to take a break from the Jazz Fest revelry and drop into a classically authentic New Orleans landmark. It’s never too late to pay tribute to the Emperor of the Universe, as well as one of NOLA’s key horn players, and bask in the fanfare.
By Cynthea Corfah
Chef Serigne Mbaye’s life changed when Dakar NOLA was named the 2024 Best New Restaurant at the James Beard Awards.
He flew his entire staff out to the awards ceremony in Chicago, anticipating the potential win. Wearing traditional African garb, he fell to the ground holding his head in disbelief after the words “Dakar NOLA” rang from the announcer’s microphone and were displayed across a large screen on stage.
It was a moment he will never forget. Judging by the genuine smile on his face and the light in his eyes as he talked about it during our interview, that moment still brings him the same pure joy almost a year later. “I used to be embarrassed to have my clothes out when my mom was cooking because I knew that the smell would get into my clothes,” Mbaye said. “People used to laugh about me going to school and having those aromas on me. For me to cook that food and bring our entire staff to Chicago and win that award—man, it's special. It shows that people are paying attention.”
Since the big win, the Senegalese chef and his restaurant have been flooded with recognition. Mbaye was spotlighted on the TIME 100 Next list in 2024. Dakar NOLA has been featured on national platforms including CBS Mornings, Square’s website, the NFL’s website, and the NFL One
Pass app for the Super Bowl. With its growing fame, business has ramped up at the Magazine Street restaurant, allowing Mbaye to hire more staff and promote existing staff to leadership roles.
Mbaye doesn’t run the restaurant alone. Dr. Afua “Effie” Richardson is the managing director and co-owner of Dakar NOLA. The two met when Mbaye was hosting pop-up events around town. She fell in love with his food and knew more people had to experience what he was creating. Before owning a prestigious restaurant, Mbaye started serving food pop-up style in 2016. At the time, he worked at Commander’s Palace before leaving New Orleans to work at a three-star Michelin restaurant in San Francisco. He continued to host pop-ups in California, gauging customer’s interest in his food. He then moved to New York, where he’s originally from, and eventually made his way back to the Big Easy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Upon his return to New Orleans, he was chef de cuisine at Mosquito Supper Club, where he was named Eater NOLA’s 2021 Chef of the Year.
In 2022, his dreams came to life when he opened his first brick-and-mortar. That year and the year following, he was a semifinalist and finalist for the James Beard Awards Emerging Chef category. Little did he know, 2024 would be his breakthrough year.
Mbaye entering the restaurant industry came as no surprise. Before he was born, his mother also had a restaurant serving traditional Senegalese food. Growing up, his family’s home became a safe space where Senegalese people found community in Harlem and could experience a taste of home. “I always knew that being in the culinary industry is something I wanted to be a part of,” Mbaye admitted. “It means a lot to me and cooking gave me hope. Food allows me to dream, see the world, and stay hungry for education.”
For a restaurant making such big waves in the industry, it’s not as large as you might think. Dakar NOLA is located within a traditional New Orleans-style house with a modernized interior, seating up to 26 people. It has an exclusive and elevated feel, serving seven-course tasting menus that rotate based on seasonal produce and local seafood catches. Guests can opt for a communal table and share a family-style meal with up to six strangers or have a private table experience with their friends or loved ones. Mbaye designed the menu with storytelling in mind. He bridges the worlds of the two coastal cities he loves the most:
Dakar and New Orleans.
“Going to the market and talking to farmers is a crucial part of Dakar and what we do because they help us to create the experience,” Mbaye said. “The farmers are the true storytellers. I'm just adding to the story that the farmers are creating and figuring out how to merge it into the work that we're doing here at Dakar.”
His dishes are inspired by conversations with grandparents, real-life experiences, and comfort food from his upbringing and surroundings.
Some of Dakar NOLA’s most popular dishes include “The Last Meal,” jollof rice, and organic palm oil bread rolls. “The Last Meal” pays homage to the enslaved West Africans who reached the “Door of No Return” of the
African continent on Goree Island during the transatlantic slave trade. While unknowingly awaiting their captivity, the enslaved Africans were fed black eyes peas and palm oil, likely offered to fatten up the enslaved people before enduring harsh traveling conditions, Mbaye explained. Mbaye incorporates blackeyed peas and palm oil into his tasting menu, as they are still Senegalese and Gambian cuisine staples to this day.
Jollof rice, another West African staple, is much like the African equivalent of jambalaya. By serving jollof rice, Dakar NOLA nods at the historic connection between West Africa and Louisiana dating back to the transatlantic slave trade. When enslaved Africans were brought to Louisiana, they brought their traditions, culture, and
cuisine along with them. Dakar NOLA’s jollof rice is served with roff, a vibrant green sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, citrus notes, olive oil, and spices.
For the next chapter of Dakar NOLA, Mbaye wants to think bigger. He plans to launch an educational program that brings young cooks and chefs from New Orleans to Africa, showing them where his inspiration comes from and where certain dishes and cooking styles originate. “I want people to know that West African cuisine has contributed a lot to world cuisine,” Mbaye said. “People need to know that our food has a voice. It could stand amongst all the giant cuisines in the world. It should be respected.”
AMERICAN
Crescent City Steaks is the oldest familyowned steakhouse in New Orleans and has been sizzling steaks since 1934. It is praised throughout the city, and their menu of steaks, seafood, and potatoes shouldn’t be missed. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes offers all-day breakfast and Southern and New Orleans classics. Daisy Dukes guarantees you a quick and tasty meal from the blackened alligator platter to the chicken Philly cheesesteak and classic burger. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Dat Dog is a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide selection of gourmet hot dogs. Try house specialties such as the Bacon Werewolf hot dog topped with bacon, sauerkraut, dill relish, and Creole mustard. Multiple Locations, datdog.com
Jimmy J’s Café is a first come, first serve café where everything is made from scratch. With large portions, Jimmy J’s offers specialty dishes such as the Monte Cristo French Toast and eggs ranchero 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop offers a warm and inviting environment to enjoy tasty steak and innovative dishes. Their specialty dishes, including the Legacy Surf & Turf, are best paired with one of the restaurant’s craft cocktails. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke is a Creole-inspired brasserie highlighting local ingredients and fresh seafood from the Gulf. Don’t miss specialty dishes, including the Louisiana blue crab omelette for breakfast and their ragout of braised oxtails for dinner. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com
New Orleans Vampire Café offers a unique menu catered to the tastes of visitors and vampires. Try one of their “blood type” cocktails or grab a blood bag to sip alongside their Dracula burger. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
NOLA Steak offers a casual steak experience and is popular for their Sunday jazz brunch buffet and their Thursday night all you can eat boiled shrimp deal. Try specialities such as the Magnolia Mushroom Campanelle 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (885) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com
Vampire Apothecary Restaurant and Bar offers a unique experience of decadent cuisine, craft cocktails, and tarot readings in an immersive atmosphere. Try the boudin stuffed quail while sipping a cocktail crafted to your aura. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 7668179, vampireapothecary.com
ASIAN
Asia serves Chinese and Vietnamese
specialty dishes inside of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans. Whether you try the crab rangoon, pork pot stickers, or the lo mein noodles, you’ll be choosing something delicious. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com
Mikimoto Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant with a wide selection of fresh sushi. Try unique sushi including the South Carrollton Roll featuring tuna tataki or the Crescent City Roll with snow crab and spicy crawfish. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai’d Up is an authentic Thai restaurant with dishes such as jalapeño poppers and coconut shrimp as appetizers and a variety of entrées. Don’t miss their famed Thai beignets at this hidden gem in Gentilly. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
Bourbon “O” Bar offers cozy vibes in the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. In addition to upscale bar food and drinks, the bar also hosts live music every day from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. 730 Bourbon St., (855) 771-5214, bourbonorleans.com
JB’s Fuel Dock offers comfort food with service at their dock, bar, and in their dining room. Whether you are craving a cheese pizza or JB’s jalapeno popper pizza, JB’s has what you need. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
Le Bon Temps Roule is a classic New Orleans bar offering typical bar eats alongside live music performances. Try the Texas steak melt, featuring steak, pepper sauce, bacon, grilled onions, and pepper jack. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com
from Chicago-style hot dogs to their specialty Serafino’s spicy crab po-boy, this is the spot for a late night bite. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com
Café Amelie is a romantic restaurant with a beautiful courtyard. Their brunch menu features dishes such as chicken and waffles and cochon de lait served with braised pork, Cajun mayo, and pickles on ciabatta. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie. com
Crack’D Brunch is the perfect spot to grab brunch with friends and family. If you like a sweet breakfast, try their lemon ricotta pancakes or monkey bread with a Mimosa or one of their many coffee options. 1901 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 381-4678, crackdbrunch.com
The Vintage Restaurant serves delicious coffee, beignets, and baked goods. Try the fancy beignet flight to taste some of the best beignets in New Orleans, as well as their crawfish queso and charcuterie boards. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com
Rivershack Tavern is a restaurant on historic River Road, featuring live music and a lively atmosphere. Their beer selection and Louisiana pub grub, such as the roast beef po-boy, make this a Jefferson favorite. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
The Blackbird Hotel offers food and drinks poolside, in their courtyard, and at their lobby bar. Perfect for enjoying morning coffee or sharing cocktails and a few bites with friends, don’t miss the Blackbird Hotel. 1612 Prytania St., (504) 383-7500, theblackbirdnola.com
The Channel features a wide selection of traditional pub food with a taste of Irish and New Orleans culinary traditions. Make sure to try the loaded crispy potato skins or their fried pickles. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 3814680, thechannelneworleans.com
The Jimani is a classic New Orleans sports bar with all your favorites. With everything
Restaurant August is an elevated contemporary restaurant celebrating Creole culinary traditions. Try their dry-aged duck breast from the traditional menu or try Chef Corey Thomas’ tasting menu to experience some of Restaurant August’s specialties. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com
Domenica Restaurant is an elegant and modern Italian restaurant located within the Roosevelt Hotel. Taste their roasted cauliflower with whipped feta or visit during happy hour for a selection of half-priced pizzas and drinks. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Mosca’s Restaurant is a beloved familystyle restaurant serving everything from spaghetti and meatballs to chicken a la grande. Mosca’s continues to serve many of the same dishes as they were served in 1946. 4137 US Highway 90 W., Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Pizza Domenica offers specialty pizzas in a lively atmosphere. Enjoy speciality dishes including the mortadella with ricotta, honey, basil, and Firelli hot sauce or the tutto carne with mozzarella, sausage, salami, and bacon. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
U Pizza serves specialty pizzas, as well as a variety of gluten free, halal, vegan, and vegetarian choices. Try the Streetcar Pizza with Cajun cream sauce, Louisiana crawfish, shrimp, and jalapeños in this family-friendly environment. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com
Willa Jean is a beloved bakery serving dishes such as the Hangover Bowl, filled with pork debris, cheesy grits, and eggs. Don’t miss specials such as the fried chicken and Tabasco honey biscuit. 611 O’Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
CARIBBEAN
Jamaican Jerk House brings Jamaica to New Orleans with their homemade jerk sauce and authentic dishes. From oxtails to jerk chicken, there’s much to choose from and you’ll surely be back for more. 4017 St. Claude Ave., (504) 441-8905, jamaicanjerkhouse.com
FRENCH
King Brasserie and Bar mixes the flavors of the French Riviera and Louisiana in dishes including the sea urchin carbonara and bouillabaisse. This elevated restaurant is perfect for everything from casual drinks to private events. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 3243000, kingbrasserieandbar.com
Venezia is an authentic Italian restaurant offering large portions and a comforting ambiance—perfect for date night. Don’t miss out on house specialties including the Supreme Pasta with shrimp and crawfish in dill cream sauce. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com
34 Restaurant & Bar is a modern restaurant inspired by Chef Emeril Lagasse’s Portuguese heritage. The menu is filled with dishes such as paella with Gulf shrimp and rabbit, as well as duck rice. 710 Baronne St., (504) 4983434, 34restaurantandbar.com
Alma Café is an award-winning restaurant that celebrates Honduran food and culture. Try their signature pollo chuco for dinner, which features a fried chicken thigh with fried guineo and green cabbage. Multiple Locations, eatalmanola.com
Empanola is a cozy eatery serving specialty empanadas such as the Beef Argentina and the Chicken Peruvian. Try the specialty crawfish étouffée empanada and dive into the varied tastes of this go-to comfort spot. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
Lebanon’s Café serves Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes that are both comforting and hearty. Try their traditional or specialty hummus, such as the fried cauliflower and pomegranate sauce hummus or the beetroot hummus. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Shaya is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant that uses ingredients sourced in Louisiana. Enjoy dishes including lamb ragu hummus and cauliflower hummus with homemade pita. Try one of their specialty entrées, namely the Gulf shrimp kebab. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
Cajun Flames features traditional Louisiana dishes and American classics such as Cajun seafood pasta, half a rooster, and Cajun oysters. Cajun Flames gives an authentic taste of local foods alongside their decadent menu of cocktails. 1117 Decatur St., (504) 3541214, cajunflames.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is a bistro and microbrewery featuring local craft beers. Crescent City Brewhouse offers a combination of classic New Orleans and pub dishes such as the Brewhouse Hot Wings and the Brewhouse Ribs. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Evangeline serves Cajun specialties and craft beers for brunch and dinner. Try dishes including the fried alligator and waffles or the Hangover Po-Boy alongside a cold beer. Evangeline’s serves large portions of local delicacies. 329 Decatur St., (504) 3734852, evangelineneworleans.com
Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA is a Cajun/Creole restaurant that seamlessly marries an elevated dining experience with fun live music. Don’t miss out on their specials, including the blueberry drop martini—their signature cocktail. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com
House of Blues New Orleans is known for its entertainment but also features a delicious Southern-style menu. With dishes such as blackened salmon and the Bluesville hot chicken, the menu matches the venue’s lively and bustling energy. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/ neworleans
Lakeview Harbor is a family-owned eatery with a wide selection of steaks, sandwiches, and Southern delicacies, including fried pickles and pork belly burnt ends. End a perfect day with a visit to Lakeview Harbor. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern is a refined restaurant that’s known for their authentic Louisiana cuisine. Try the crawfish and egg beignets for breakfast and stick around to taste the Shrimp Breaux Bridge Pasta for lunch. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com
Lil’ Dizzy’s Café specializes in New Orleans cuisine while celebrating Creole culinary traditions. Check out their daily specials and enjoy dishes such as stuffed bell peppers, smothered okra with rice and fried chicken, and more. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines offers a variety of pralines, beignets, and other classic treats found in New Orleans. Prepared and served fresh, Loretta’s sweet treats are a delicacy to be treasured, especially the praline-filled beignets. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com
Lyons Corner offers an extensive coffee drink selection and a food menu featuring Cajun prawns, a maple fried pork belly, and the Flounder Pontchartrain. Lyons Corner brings the essence of New Orleans to life. 537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com
Mandina’s Restaurant is a home-style seafood restaurant specializing in CreoleItalian cuisine. Start with the turtle soup or the crab claws, but save room for the grilled pork chops with fries and green beans. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Meril is a contemporary American restaurant that specializes in globally inspired dishes such as Vietnamese caramel wings, fried turkey necks, and Mexican street corn. Pair your meal with one of Meril’s signature cocktails. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com
Mother’s Restaurant is known for its legendary baked ham and all-day breakfast menu, which includes crawfish étouffée, po-boys, pancakes, and more. Along with the breakfast menu, Mother’s serves Bloody Marys, mimosas, and other cocktails. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
New Orleans Creole Cookery offers authentic NOLA cuisine such as catfish Decatur and shrimp Creole and classic drinks including the Hurricane. From the food to their stunning courtyard, the restaurant embodies the city’s unique spirit. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow’s Creole Café is a local favorite with specials including charbroiled oysters and gumbo. Don’t miss out on the Pasta on the Bayou with Gulf shrimp and crawfish, which will have your mouth watering. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neworleans.neyows.com
Neyow’s XL offers a variety of quality cut meats and seafood dishes and is particularly known for their extravagant brunch menu. Perfect for a date night or lunch with friends, this restaurant is a must-visit. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Nice Guys NOLA offers New Orleans classics with innovative twists in a welcoming atmosphere. Order the Louisiana seafood potato, which features fried catfish and shrimp in seafood cheese sauce on a baked potato. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro offers a fine dining menu that features delicacies such as the Cajun surf and turf and the Gulf fish amandine. Don’t skip their delicious starters, including the baked brie. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parasol’s Bar & Restaurant has been the hub for St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans since 1952. Their muffulettas, roast beef po-boys,
and smoke-free dining room should not be missed. 2533 Constance St., (504) 3549079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA
Please-U-Restaurant offers breakfast all day and traditional New Orleans dishes. Founded by local Greek entrepreneurs, PleaseU-Restaurant takes on a fusion of Greek and Southern flavors—a unique combination you didn’t know you needed in your life. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Short Stop Poboys offers over 30 different types of po-boys and has been a local favorite for decades. Whether you are looking for something hot, cold, big, or small, Short Stop has something for everyone. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris offers the perfect place for late night eating and drinking with their fried chicken and fruity daiquiris. Whether it be gumbo, jambalaya, or fried seafood, you can find it at Voodoos. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com
Blue Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar serves Louisiana cuisine and Southern classics such as chargrilled oysters and fried alligator bites. Dive into the delicacies of Louisiana
under the swamp-ish ambiance of Spanish moss in their interior. 717 Canal St., (504) 453-9905, bluebayourestaurantnola.com
Bon Temps Boulet’s Seafood specializes in boiled crawfish. Bon Temps Boulet’s menu doesn’t stop there as they also have dishes that include the 24-hour smoked brisket and smoked fried wings, among others. 4701 Airline Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-5003, bontempsboulets.com
Briquette is known for their fine seafood offerings. Visit the restaurant and taste their speckled Gulf trout almandine or the Snapper Pontchartrain. Book a reservation, and don’t miss their 18-foot display of fresh, whole fish. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant specializes in chargrilled oysters and lobster dishes, such as the Lobster Marco, which is stuffed with shrimp, mushrooms, and pasta. You won’t want to miss the crabmeat au gratin. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com
Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox brings the Gulf Coast to shore with their freshly shucked oysters and seafood-studded menu. This is an upscale restaurant that truly embodies Southern hospitality from the comforting food to the welcoming staff. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
It’s no surprise that New Orleans is a long-time respected epicenter of the cocktail world. We’ve known that for 190 years, and we are not just a “flash in the pan.”
Sometimes when there is an abundance of riches, certain items can be overlooked, even forgotten. Such a recipe is the Brandy Crusta. What? You’ve never heard of such a cocktail? You are about to get an education.
We all are aware of the sacred place the Sazerac holds in New Orleans cocktail lore. It’s the first and likely the most famous. It’s a perfect reflection of our heritage, both American and French, and it’s easy to make and so smooth.
Trivia question: Do you know the second mixed alcoholic beverage to be invented in New Orleans in the mid-1800s? If so, and you are among the overwhelming minority, do you know the heritage of this cocktail? And do you know where it is still regularly and properly served?
STICK AROUND FOR THE ANSWERS.
There is a class of cocktails known as “sours.” The reason for the name is obvious. Early cocktails were based on the needs of sailors to fight disease, such as scurvy, on long ocean voyages. Yep, that reason to drink was developed by necessity, not necessarily pleasure, although pleasure was a wonderful side benefit. Sailors were at sea a long time under very unsanitary conditions. Because England ruled the seas and the conquering nation had extensive holdings in the New World, rum, that indigenous Caribbean spirit, became a favorite shipboard beverage. Every sailor had a daily ration of rum.
Rum, as we are all aware, is distilled from sugar and fruit, so it’s sweet. That flavor does not fit well in all situations. Dining, for instance, may pair well with a sweet beverage. Then again, it may not. Around 1850, the issue was addressed, and spirits were also concocted from citrus. So citrus-based spirits were called “sours.”
To be fair, neither sours nor sweets were distilled entirely of either raw product style. Our distillery-owning forefathers realized that a good combination of sugar and citrus yielded a decidedly tasty outcome. But there were/are styles tilted toward one dominant profile. As is known, cocktails are blends of multiple ingredients, many of which are organic, and those ingredients themselves are the result of well-defined products that grow well in certain soils. Then, the resulting “mash” is maneuvered with processes in specific vessels of well defined materials. The fruit falling off the plant is only the beginning and often is the easy part.
Anyway, every cocktail is dependent on the talented hands and mind of a human adding in the correct ingredients in the proper measure at the right time. Seems much simpler when you step up to the bar and give the bartender your order, doesn’t it?
And as many humans have worked behind the bar over the course of hundreds of years, only a few have left their marks. Such an outstanding talent was Joseph Santini, a native of Trieste, Italy, which is in the northeastern part of that wonderful country. Trieste is the governmental seat of the Friuli region, not far from Venice.
Santini loved to create cocktails made from spirits in a region more closely allied with wine and grapes. His wanderlust brought him to America about 1840— more specifically to New Orleans, a major port city and a town that had a large Italian population.
He immediately gravitated to the bar scene in the Vieux Carré and then opened his own place in the American Sector on Gravier Street. He was very good at his chosen profession and created many named cocktails. One of them took the cocktail ingredients from the French side of town, namely brandy, and added some ingredients from his heritage such as cardamom bitters, lemon juice, and orange liqueur.
He then coated the rim of the glass with sugar to excite the palate and tone down the citrus aspects. But Santini himself liked citrus, so he added to the drink about half of the rind from the lemon, rolled and placed along the interior shape of the glass. Brandy Crusta was born in 1854 at Santini’s bar, Jewel of the South, located at 1026 St. Louis St. near Rampart Street.
The drink was an immediate hit and made Santini a very famous bartender. It also made Jewel of the South a must-do destination. Santini was not, however, a one-hit wonder. He also created the frozen egg nog—a very popular drink in semi-tropical New Orleans—and the Pousse Café, a magical stack of various liqueurs that demonstrates the knowledge of the specific gravity of the various ingredients, as well as the steady hand of anyone who attempts to construct the drink.
Joseph Santini passed away in 1874, having assured his adopted city a permanent and treasured position in the cocktail world. He is interred in St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, and his grave is a destination, even today, for professionals and amateurs alike who want to honor a talented and dedicated New Orleans transplant.
To complete the circle, Jewel of the South, not too long ago awarded the designation as one of the Best Bars in the U.S. and a James Beard Award winner, features Santini’s Crusta as a specialty.
Boot Scootin’ Rodeo
522 Bourbon St. 504-552-2510
Bourbon “O” Bar
730 Bourbon St. 504-523-2222
Bourbon Street Honky Tonk
727 Bourbon St. 504-523-1927
Fillmore
6 Canal St.
504-881-1555
Ghost Bar
606 Iberville St.
504-910-2010
Headquarters by Nice Guys
445 S. Rampart St.
504-217-6851
High Grace NOLA
733 St. Peter St.
504-218-5649
House of Blues
225 Decatur St. 504-310-4999
Lots a Luck Tavern
203 Homedale St.
504-483-0978
Martine’s Lounge
2347 Metairie Rd., Metairie
504-831-8637
Pal’s Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. 504-488-7257
Parasol’s Bar & Restaurant
2533 Constance St.
504-354-9079
Rick’s Cabaret
315 Bourbon St. 504-524-4222
Saddle Bar 715 Bienville St. 504-313-1113
Sazerac House 101 Magazine St. 504-910-0100
Swamp Room 5400 Veterans Blvd., Metairie 504-888-5254
The Blackbird Hotel 1612 Prytania St. 504-383-7500
Featuring a full bar, a mechanical bull, and Americana decor, this novelty bar is no joke. Wear your cowboy hat and order the Cowboy Punch, their signature 27 oz. drink.
Bourbon “O” Bar is a break from Bourbon Street. Experience live music while enjoying one of their specialty cocktails including the French Quarter Float or the Leave of Absinthe.
Owned by Tropical Isle, the originators of the (in)famous Hand Grenade drink, this bar specializes in live blues and country performers while serving the Hand Grenade drink you love.
The Fillmore is on the second floor of Caesars New Orleans Hotel & Casino and hosts big and small named musical artists, as well as full-service private productions with custom drink menus and mixologists.
A fun spin on usual bar fare, this “spooky” spot offers plenty of themed cocktails, is open until very early in the morning, and offers plenty of delicious food options including pizza.
Headquarters is a sister establishment of Nice Guys Nola. This trendy spot has DJ nights, wine, beer, and specialty drinks, including a Blueberry Drop Martini.
This elevated cocktail lounge and restaurant offers contemporary Creole cuisine alongside expertly crafted drinks. High Grace features plush seating and mood lighting, perfect for enjoying their signature cocktails and seasonal small plates.
The House of Blues can be enjoyed as both a restaurant and a music venue. Order one of their specialty cocktails including the Beast of Bourbon and Strawberry Fields.
The Boondock Saint 731 St. Peter St. 504-525-4950
The Channel 2604 Magazine St. 504-381-4680
The Jazz Playhouse 300 Bourbon St. 504-553-2299
The Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493
The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702
The Vintage 3121 Magazine St. 504-324-7144
Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927
Lots a Luck Tavern is a true laid-back, locals bar. Go by yourself to catch a game with some fellow fans or bring a group to enjoy affordable drinks and a game of pool.
Martine’s Lounge is a classic neighborhood bar with darts, video poker, and happy hour every day. Wednesdays are for trivia, and order a cocktail from one of their daily specialty cocktails.
Pal’s Lounge is a great hangout spot with creative specialty cocktails, beers, and shots. Order their Honey Lavender Rose Sangria or their “House Salad” drink.
Parasol’s is a neighborhood bar with a selection of NOLA eats, including the best roast beef po-boy in town. Stop by and enjoy their cold, refreshing drinks.
Rick’s Cabaret is one of New Orleans’ finest gentlemen’s clubs. With two floors of entertainment, three bars, and a friendly staff, you can’t go wrong.
The only place in New Orleans where you can find a mechanical, rideable rooster, saddle up to Saddle Bar and order one of their Western-inspired cocktails, including the Ranch Water.
Sazerac House is a distillery and museum honoring the legacy of one of New Orleans’ most famous cocktails—the Sazerac. Guests can experience a special tasting area.
Home of the famous 10 oz. Swamp Burger and many more hearty options including steak and wings, the Swamp Room is a perfect spot to dine, drink, and watch the big game while in Metairie.
The Blackbird Hotel boasts a dramatic interior, including a full-service bar that locals and visitors adore. Their vast drink menu serves draft beer, fine wine, and unique cocktails.
The Boondock Saint is an Irish pub that is all about cool drinks and good times. The bar, located in the heart of the French Quarter, has plenty of beer and other drinks to choose from.
The Channel is a cozy, Irish pub that serves craft beer, wine, and delicious eats—including a decadent cheeseburger. Their New Orleans-style bar food menu and refreshing drinks make it a great place to watch the big game.
The Jazz Playhouse is located in the lobby of Royal Sonesta. Enjoy some local jazz music while ordering a jazz-inspired signature drink, including Ella Fitzgerald’s Pearflower Martini.
Family-owned and opened in 1971, the Jimani has an impressive food menu, over 100 beers, and a door that stays open until 4 a.m. They even have jello shots.
The Metro is a top-notch nightclub with three rooms featuring smoke machines and lighting effects. With 11 bar stations, it’s the ideal place to party all night and enjoy plenty of drinks.
The Vintage is a chic café with coffee, pastries, cocktails, wine, and more. Order their beignets and one of their crafted cocktails, including the Espresso Yourself and Tia’s Can Can.
Home of the Hand Grenade, a drink synonymous with Bourbon Street, Tropical Isle has multiple locations across Bourbon Street. They also have other iconic drinks including the Tropical Itch.
Expires 8/31/2025
By Debbie Lindsey
xactly when I first tuned into WWOZ is an unclear memory. It really should stand out just like the very first time I heard jazz. I remember with great clarity listening to the yellow cased radio in my boyfriend’s kitchen. I was 18 and had grown up viewing and listening to musicals, and when John Coltrane’s rendition of “My Favorite Things,” from The Sound of Music, came over the airwaves, I was awestruck. I was hooked on jazz after this introduction.
Another “first time” that began my devotion and dedication to attending Jazz Fest every single year thereafter was in 1989. That year, I went once. Since then, I pride myself on attending every day possible. I even quit a job once to have time off for the magic.
So I am surprised I can’t recall the first time I tuned in 90.7 FM on my radio dial— it had to be not long after my move here
they are in their “forever home” at Jax Brewery. Please note that within weeks after the storm, OZ created the webcast “WWOZ in Exile” to keep the magic alive. OZ’s call letters, WWOZ, pay tribute to the Wonderful Wizard of Oz and, in particular, to the line “pay no attention to the man behind the curtain” that emphasizes content (music) above the personalities’ of DJs. So while the DJs don’t attempt to “take the stage” and always prioritize the music and guest interviews, there is no mistaking the unique vibe that each show host/DJ possesses.
The founders of WWOZ were brothers Walter and Jerry Brock, who hailed from Texas. The story has it that they felt New Orleans needed a community radio station. Organizing this noble idea began in the mid-1970s with WWOZ debuting December 4, 1980, first broadcasting from a small transmitter building in Bridge City, Louisiana, and then months later from a tiny apartment above Tipitina’s. Live music was broadcast live from Tips by dropping a microphone down a hole in the floor. If permission to air a particular live performance wasn’t available, OZ would use reel-to-reel tapes with pre-recorded music, since the vibrations and noise from Tips’ live music would prevent effective use of the turntables and vinyl.
When folks would tell me of this radio station’s humble and quirky beginnings, like the OZ studio and office above Tips relying on a neighbor’s garden hose run through a window for bathroom necessities, it often sounded like an urban myth. When referencing Wikipedia, I was thrilled to read this and other many elements that make this radio entity magical and beyond the pale.
Eve Troeh’s “History of WWOZ” on the station’s website reads like The Little Engine That Could. I was exhausted just reading about the assembling of the “moving parts,” so to speak, involved in creating a radio station, obtaining permits, negotiating federal licensing, and the sheer boots-onthe-ground efforts of taping programs at home and racing to the transmitter shack to air the music. OZ’s trek from its quirky small time beginnings could fill more space than this column has—what a movie it would make—but a few points of interest along its way are notable. From Tips to the “Tree House” studio in Armstrong Park (1985–2005), Hurricane Katrina evicted OZ just as she did much of the city. They then went to the French Market in December 2005 and now, as of November 28, 2023,
I take great pleasure in tuning in to some of my favorite show hosts. The first OZ DJ that entered my ears and went straight to my heart was K Balewa. I discovered him on the “Morning Set” every Wednesday as dawn broke and until 9 a.m. I couldn’t ever sleep late on a Wednesday, and I had to get up and tune in. His deep, rich voice captivated Philipe and me, and his outstanding presentation of contemporary jazz made our mid-week morning wakeup something we looked forward to. One morning as we listened to his program, unbeknownst to us at the time it was prerecorded from the OZ archive, they broke in to share condolences to his family and friends that K Balewa had passed. We wept. During the pandemic’s lockdown, I befriended Action Jackson via his DJ gig on Thursday’s 2 to 4 p.m. blues show. Being home a lot during COVID’s reign, I wore my radio out with WWOZ. There, Action Jackson gave me the gift of R&B music I had never heard before and am now addicted to—the gift of Johnny Guitar Watson was the best. How I overlooked until then this master guitar and vocalist genius is a puzzle. But the best Jackson gave was his kindness—he would take my calls and speak with such warmth that I felt befriended, and I would gush about how much my husband and I loved his show. He then would shout out to the airwaves “Debbie and Philipe” and all the others he spoke with during those hours. He made us feel special. Furthermore, I am convinced he saved many lives with his gentle reminders over and over about “wear your mask, wash those hands, and get vaccinated.” He cared. I regret never getting to actually meet him in person. Charles “Action” Jackson left us after battling cancer on August 8, 2021. Frankly, how can I play “favorites” when it comes to the amazing assortment of those volunteers who bring me music everyday? I love them all. I’m entertained and kept company by DJ Giant, George Ingmire, Hazel, Father Ron, Breaux Bridges, Bill DeTurk, and the list goes on and on. Bless you all for filling my world with knowledge, music, and good company. WWOZ, you’ve come a long way from dangling a mic from a hole in the floor to taking on the universe.
By Phil LaMancusa
Hatter
“I know we’ve come a long way, we’re changing day to day. But, tell me, where do the children play?” —Cat Stevens
Hey, you. Yes, you. It’s the first week of Jazz Fest. Take a friggin’ break. You’ve had a hell ride of a year so far and it ain’t gonna get any better any time soon. You’ve been on an in-person or perspective survivor or spectator witness or wounded warrior eyewitness to fires, floods, tornadoes, blizzards, crashes, terrorist attacks—shot at and missed, sh*t at, and hit ride.
Here in New Orleans, sometimes—but never to be believed—called the Big Easy, we’ve been beaten to the bone with all the disruptive activity bombarding us since we can’t even remember when. A grotesque level of daily corruption of our psyche beginning with the cosmic debris of sham elections, worldwide mass slaughters of innocents for fun and profit, weather sucker punches, and persecutions of have-not citizens and refugees by the so called “this is for your own good” leaders of the free world. And yes, “freedom’s just another word for nuthin’ left to lose.” We’re tired and need a break from all that secular nonsense designed to impede our spiritual musical evolution. Open the friggin’ gates already. Cosmic debris rains down upon us. That’s why I never miss a day at the track diggin’ the scene at the Jazz Fest. Being there feeds the hunger of my soul. It’s the absence of self, the pilgrim’s wandering from stage to stage, food booth to food booth, and the amnesiac’s cone of silence while drinking in pure joy like a desert marooned reprobate. The sights, sounds, people, and the quail, pheasant, and andouille gumbo put a drunkard’s smile on my sober-as-a-Buddhist face.
Outside of these gates is what people call reality. It’s paved with good intentions and questionable actions that are easy to walk on, where no flowers grow, though. The sidewalks of disillusion that can numb your senses, streets of wondering about our sluggish inspirations, and how you can catch a cab at this hour out of here. I find myself hiding from Mardi Gras madness and French Quarter Fest confusion, waiting until I see those tents start to set up at the Fair Grounds, and I begin, once again, to blossom like a celestial lotus.
I imagine as work begins behind those fences putting up the Gospel Tent, the Blues Tent, the WWOZ Jazz Tent—my personal fave—and the stages, large and small. I salivate imagining the food booths of yesteryear and the anticipation of any new culinary adventures to be found this year. And, yes, I already have my tickets.
In New Orleans and, it seems, the world in general, we go from celebration to celebration all year—so much so that at our house, we leave so-called Christmas lights up year round.
We’re also those folks that have a porch
flagpole that we change with occasions. The Christmas season has a Santa flag, which went up when we took down our Kamala flag, followed by Carnival colors, the famous Sicilian flag, and the Jazz Fest flag. We hang rainbow colors in solidarity and our colored lights are blazing all year round.
We also vie for the most green plants and flowers in our miniscule front, what we like to call, yard and sidewalk. And if you can miss our house now, just look for the ’97 Lincoln Towncar parked out front with the front vanity plate proclaiming her name DUCHESS. Y’all can stop on by, but we’re probably at work or enjoying our perpetually deserved cocooning inside.
We’re New Orleanians through and through. We celebrate life as it goes on here. We gripe about our city infrastructure shortfalls. We mourn our losses and take affront to the term “Big Easy.” We can swap stories and reminiscences going back 60 years and more. That’s what we do—we drink and we know things.
However, nothing floats our boat, puts pep in our step, glides in our slide, and wiggles our wobble (Jon Batiste, featuring Big Freedia) like the days that we spend at the gate of Jazz Fest, patiently waiting for the line to move at its own beautiful pace. At that point, I’ll be shuffling along, grinning like the Cheshire, proud of myself to be doin’ it again, tickets in hand, sporting this year’s fest shirt and comfortable footwear. Not only am I glad to be there at the fest, I am tickled that you made it, also. I love all of you Jazz Fest goons. We’re a tribe, we’re family. So, let’s count down. You’ve made sure that you’re not a Sherpa or pack animal for the duration, right? Nothing clicks our tongue and rolls our eyes more than someone who is hauling enough stuff to last through a power outage and lock down. Also on the eye rolling scale (ERS) of #1 to #10, at about #8, is impractical foot wear like high heels or even flip flops—a pure amateur move.
Rating at about #9 on the scale are folks that seem unaware that it is very possible that they will be unprepared and in the full sun for hours and will look like Lobster Thermidor by early evening and are not pre-prepared with sunscreen and some semblance of sensible head and leg covering.
Rating at #10 is the one rare person that gets incapacitated on alcohol or other substances, as well as someone that snuck a pint (of stupid) and thinking that the fest is a throw down. Tsk tsk.
Here’s a suggestion: Bring a big bottle of water (allowed) in, a towel of medium size, comfortable footwear, a bandana and/ or brimmed hat, a pocket of cash for tips and (now required) credit cards, and no phone. Walk in, relax, cruise, schmooze, and chill out. See you there.
Monte Cristo French Toast
shaved ham, American cheese, bacon & home fries
Cochon Panini
slow-roasted pulled pork, Provolone, bell peppers, bacon jam, fried egg on a pressed panini
Shrimp and Grits
shrimp sautéed in a cream of garlic sauce over grits & served with white toast
Crab Cake Benedict
2 poached eggs, 2 sautéed crab cakes, hollandaise on a toasted English muffin
Steak Burrito
steak, home fries, eggs, Cheddar cheese, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, Chipotle
Southwest sauce wrapped in a spinach tortilla
shrimp, andouille sausage, garlic cream sauce over breakfast potatoes topped with Parmesan cheese
Surf and Turf Burrito
Shrimp, steak, onions, bell peppers, eggs, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, Southwest Sauce & avocado crème
Eggs Ranchero
2 fried eggs, Cheddar cheese, crispy tortilla, black beans, red & green salsa, avocado crème
Cajun Cuban
Slow-roasted pork, onions, bell peppers, pickles, served on Ciabatta
Hangover Po Boy
Fried eggs, bacon, hot sausage, American cheese
Bananas Foster French Toast
Served with bacon or sausage, sprinkled with powdered sugar
Shrimp Po Boy
Pork Chop Benedict
Tomatoes Benedict
Cochon Benedict