New Orleans funk band Soul Project NOLA and Bougainvillea Productions launched a series of virtual concerts benefiting members of the entertainment industry in New Orleans whose incomes were affected by COVID-19.

“Fridays From the Funky Uncle” is a weekly virtual funk concert raising money for the Funk Fund, which launched back in April.

As a working New Orleans musician, Soul Project NOLA member Cristian Duque directly experienced the impact the pandemic had on the local music scene, leaving venues closed and musicians and gig employees out of work. “Fridays From the Funky Uncle” was created in response to the crisis in an effort to provide entertainment while fundraising for the entertainment community who have had their incomes disrupted. “Our goal was not only to provide music for the people while helping our musicians keep their spirits alive, but also to support them and all gig workers who have been affected financially during this time,” said Duque. 

In addition to groovy performances, viewers can also bid on one-of-a-kind artwork created from locally cherished artist Frenchy. The livestream also features musician interviews and outreach news to further connect the audience with the current situation and the performing artists. 

The livestream occurs every Friday night at 7 pm CDT and features different New Orleans funk musicians and bands weekly, live from a unique Mardi Gras float housed at the Krewe of Tucks Den. Since the shows began on April 3rd, “Fridays From the Funky Uncle” has raised over $25,000 for their Funk Fund.

Watch “Fridays From the Funky Uncle” on Facebook Live, Youtube, and Twitch.